Windshield Washer Pressure Control for Consistent Aircraft Spray
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing windshield wash systems for aircraft perform inconsistently due to speed, altitude, and maneuvering changes, leading to potential clogging of hydraulic lines.
Innovation Solution
A windshield wash system with a closed-loop pressure and flow control system, featuring a pump, fluid reservoir, pressure sensor, and electronic control unit, which adjusts the pump speed to maintain desired pressure and flow rates regardless of aircraft conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a typical windshield wash system is used without closed-loop control, then the system is simpler in structure, but the performance becomes inconsistent due to speed, altitude, and maneuvering changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements closed-loop feedback control by using pressure sensors to continuously monitor fluid pressure in the delivery lines and sending signals to an electronic control unit, which adjusts pump operation to maintain desired pressure levels. This feedback mechanism ensures consistent performance despite variations in aircraft speed, altitude, and maneuvering.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical pressure regulation mechanisms with an electronic control system that uses sensors and electronic signals to control the pump. This substitution of mechanical systems with electronic control achieves more precise and reliable pressure management while adapting to changing flight conditions.
2Reliability
If pump speed is not regulated, then the system is easier to operate, but fluid pressure and flow rate become inconsistent leading to clogging
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-regulation of pump speed through automatic feedback control. The pressure sensors continuously monitor fluid pressure and the electronic control unit automatically adjusts pump speed to maintain desired pressure levels without requiring pilot intervention. This self-service capability ensures consistent pressure while simplifying operation.
Solution Approach 2:
Closed-loop feedback control automatically regulates pump speed by using pressure sensor signals to adjust pump operation. This feedback mechanism maintains consistent fluid pressure and flow rate, preventing clogging without requiring manual operation adjustments.
3Reliability
If high fluid pressure is maintained at all times, then clogging is prevented, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic pressure regulation where the pump speed and fluid pressure are continuously adjusted based on real-time feedback from pressure sensors. The system maintains high pressure only when necessary to prevent clogging, while reducing pressure when conditions allow, thereby optimizing energy consumption while ensuring reliable operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A windshield wash system includes a pump with an inlet and an outlet, and a fluid reservoir fluidically connected to the inlet of the pump. A fluid delivery line is fluidically connected to the outlet of the pump and at least one nozzle is fluidically connected to the fluid delivery line. An electronic control unit is in controlling communication with the pump. A pressure sensor is in the fluid delivery line and is in communication with the electronic control unit.