Wing Debris Detection Probe With Optical Sensor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for detecting wing fouling on aircraft, such as ice and debris, are inadequate for smaller planes, which rely on inflatable rubber boots and lack efficient detection systems, potentially leading to reduced aerodynamic performance and safety risks due to undetected debris accumulation.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a probe deployed on the wing leading edge with sensors to detect debris by measuring angular displacement, proximity, torque, or load cell changes, indicating debris presence when probe motion is limited, and a control mechanism for deployment and notification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a probe deployment system with sensors is installed on smaller aircraft, then debris detection capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical sensor systems with a simple optical detection method. A light source illuminates the probe area, and a photodetector senses changes in light intensity caused by debris presence. This optical substitution eliminates the need for complex mechanical sensors while maintaining reliable debris detection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs inexpensive, simple components for the detection system. The probe is a basic mechanical element that can be easily replaced, and the optical sensors used are simple, low-cost devices. This approach prioritizes functional reliability over long-term durability, allowing easy replacement of worn or contaminated components.
2Measurement precision
If the probe is deployed into the area where debris formation can impact wing aerodynamic performance, then measurement precision is improved, but the risk of probe damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The probe is deployed in advance into the critical area on the wing leading edge where debris most likely forms and where it would most impact aerodynamic performance. By positioning the probe beforehand in this high-risk zone, the system achieves maximum measurement precision for detecting debris that would affect flight safety, while the probe's strategic placement allows it to detect threats before they become critical.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an optical field as an intermediary between the probe and the debris detection process. Instead of the probe directly contacting or exposing itself to harsh environmental conditions, light serves as a mediator that can penetrate and sense debris presence from a protected position, reducing the probe's exposure to damaging factors while maintaining detection accuracy.
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
The system effectively detects debris as small as 5 millimeters, allowing for timely removal and maintaining aerodynamic performance by signaling debris presence to pilots or ground crew, enabling appropriate action to clear the wing.
Implementation Method 1
a spring for limiting probe motion that is coupled to the probe and the deployment mechanism
Implementation Method 2
After deployment, probe travel is sensed by one or more sensors (e.g., angular displacement, proximity, torque, load cell on spring, and the like)
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4~6
AI summary
An apparatus and method for wind debris detection comprises a spring loaded probe (102) that is deployed on the leading edge (118) of an aircraft wing into an area where debris formation might impact wing aerodynamic performance. The probe travel (132) is sensed by sensors (angular displacement, linear displacement, proximity, torque, load cell on spring, and the like), and if the sensor(s) detect that probe travel is limited then presence of debris is indicated.