WIG Ground-Effect Elevation Control Using Distributed Surface Sensors
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current technologies are inadequate for determining and maintaining the optimal elevation of Wing In Ground Effect (WIG) craft or vessels within the ground effect region, leading to inefficiencies in lift and drag, particularly due to inadequate altitude measurement instruments and varying terrain conditions.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising surface distance sensors distributed around the WIG craft, which measure terrain surface distance in real time and a control system that automatically adjusts the flight elevation to maintain the craft within the ground effect, using a combination of active and passive sensors to accurately determine the ground effect ceiling and smooth sailing ceiling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If typical altitude measurement instruments are used, then altitude can be measured relative to sea level, but they are inadequate for determining WIG elevation relative to terrain surface
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the measurement system into multiple surface distance sensors distributed around the WIG craft (front, rear, left, right sides). Each sensor measures distance to the terrain surface independently, and the control system processes these segmented measurements to determine overall elevation and ground effect status. This segmentation allows precise adaptation to varying terrain conditions under different parts of the craft.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary control system that acts as a mediator between the surface distance sensors and the flight control mechanisms. The control system receives sensor data, processes it to determine elevation relative to terrain surface, and automatically adjusts flight elevation to maintain optimal ground effect. This intermediary layer enables precise adaptation to varying terrain by translating raw sensor measurements into actionable flight adjustments.
2Use of energy by moving object
If WIG operates at low altitude to take advantage of ground effect, then lift increases and drag reduces, but elevation control becomes critical to avoid too high (above ground effect) or too low (on surface)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a closed-loop feedback system where surface distance sensors continuously measure the distance between the WIG craft and the terrain surface. These measurements are fed to the control system, which automatically adjusts flight elevation to maintain the craft within the optimal ground effect region. This feedback mechanism ensures reliable elevation control by constantly monitoring and correcting position, preventing the craft from rising too high or descending too low, thus maintaining fuel efficiency and operational safety.
3Measurement precision
If multiple sensors and control systems are added to maintain precise elevation control, then measurement precision and control accuracy improve, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs surface distance sensors that serve multiple functions: measuring distance to terrain surface, determining elevation relative to ground, detecting ground effect ceiling, and providing data for automatic flight control. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized devices, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity while maintaining high measurement precision for ground effect determination.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables precise real-time measurement and maintenance of WIG elevation within the ground effect, reducing fuel consumption and drag, and ensuring efficient operation over varying terrains and weather conditions.
Implementation Method 1
A system comprising surface distance sensors distributed around the WIG craft, which measure terrain surface distance in real time
Implementation Method 2
Ground effect occurs at a relatively low altitude where the distance between the wings of a craft and the terrain surface beneath it causes an aerodynamic interaction between the wings and the surface. That aerodynamic interaction creates a cushion of high-pressure air beneath the craft that advantageously increases lift and reduces drag
Data Source
AI summary
A measuring device, method of measuring, and transport vessel including the measuring device measuring the ground effect region for the vessel in real time and controlling the transport vessel, e.g., a Wing In Ground Effect (WIG) vessel, to remain in ground effect based on those measurements. Distance measurement sensors are distributed about the bottom surface of the vessel and communicating sensor signals with a controller during flight. The controller determines the ground effect region for said WIG in real time from the sensor signals and determines WIG transit elevation.