Yoke Interface Mount for Aircraft Digital Map Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current paper map holders in aircraft cockpits are unsafe as they can fall during maneuvers, obstruct pilot visibility, and require frequent updates, leading to safety concerns and cost inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A semi-permanent interface mount system that securely attaches a mobile computer protective case to the aircraft yoke using an AMPS hole pattern, maintaining visibility and allowing for digital map usage, with a T-shaped member and retaining device for stability and quick attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a paper map holder is used in the aircraft cockpit, then the pilot can access navigation information, but the map holder can fall during maneuvers and obstruct pilot visibility
Solution Approach 1:
The interface mount divides the mounting system into separate functional components: a yoke interface portion that attaches to the aircraft yoke, a protective case for the mobile computer, and an AMPS hole pattern interface. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while working together as an integrated system that prevents falling and maintains visibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The interface mount utilizes the vertical space between the yoke and dashboard by extending upward, positioning the mobile computer in a three-dimensional space that does not interfere with the pilot's forward visibility. This dimensional placement resolves the contradiction between providing map access and maintaining visibility.
2Reliability
If paper maps are used in the aircraft cockpit, then navigation information is available, but frequent updates are required leading to cost inefficiencies
Solution Approach 1:
The interface mount enables the use of a mobile computer that displays digital copies of navigation maps and information. These digital copies can be updated remotely and frequently without physical replacement, eliminating the cost of repeatedly purchasing and installing new paper map holders while maintaining current navigation data.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces the mechanical paper map holder with an electronic display system. The mobile computer with touchscreen interface substitutes for physical maps, allowing for software-based updates instead of physical map replacements, thereby reducing ongoing costs while maintaining navigation information availability.
3Reliability
If a semi-permanent interface mount system is used to attach the mobile computer protective case to the yoke, then safety and visibility are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The interface mount incorporates universal AMPS hole patterns that are standard in aircraft cockpits, allowing the same mounting system to be used across different aircraft types without modification. This multi-functionality reduces the need for aircraft-specific custom components, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining secure attachment and safety.
Data Source
AI summary
The embodiments are directed to an interface mount between a vehicle steering/control device and a mobile computer protective case. The interface mount has two sides. One side of the interface mount is attached to the vehicle steering/control device. The other side of the interface mount is attached to an AMPS hole pattern plate.