Aircraft Simulation Yoke Linkage Mechanism for Realistic Motion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flight simulation systems fail to accurately simulate the 'feel' of aircraft control yokes, requiring large and complex systems to replicate the pitch and roll motions, which detract from effective ground training and are cumbersome for transportation and use.
Innovation Solution
A compact flight simulation system with a yoke handle coupled to an anchoring device that uses interlinked bars and actuators to simulate the pivoting motion of a real aircraft yoke, allowing for realistic tilting and translation, and can be easily disassembled and transported.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If large and complex systems are used to simulate yoke motion, then simulation accuracy is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a simplified mechanical linkage system that copies the essential pivoting motion characteristics of a real aircraft yoke without requiring a full-scale replica. The linkage mechanism replicates the arc-shaped movement path and haptic feedback properties, achieving accurate simulation with reduced complexity by copying only the critical motion parameters rather than the entire system.
Solution Approach 2:
The yoke simulation system is divided into separate functional components: the yoke handle, the anchoring device with linkage mechanism, and the base structure. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently, with the linkage mechanism specifically designed to handle the pivoting motion simulation, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining simulation accuracy.
2Measurement precision
If large and complex systems are used to simulate yoke motion, then simulation accuracy is improved, but ease of transportation and setup deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system is designed with modular components that can be easily assembled and disassembled. The anchoring device with its linkage mechanism can be detached from the base and yoke handle, allowing the system to be broken down into manageable pieces for transportation and quick reassembly at training locations without compromising simulation accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The linkage mechanism components are designed to nest within each other or attach to the base structure when not in use, minimizing the space required for storage and transportation while maintaining the full functionality of the simulation system when assembled.
3Measurement precision
If traditional anchoring mechanisms are used, then yoke motion simulation is achieved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The linkage mechanism is designed to passively follow the arc-shaped movement path defined by the anchoring points, utilizing the geometric constraints of the mechanism itself rather than requiring active energy input from motors or actuators. The system self-regulates the motion path through its mechanical design, achieving energy-efficient operation while maintaining accurate yoke motion simulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The yoke handle naturally follows a periodic arc-shaped motion path during normal operation, and the linkage mechanism is designed to accommodate this periodic movement pattern, allowing the system to operate efficiently within the natural ranges of motion without requiring continuous energy input to maintain position or overcome resistance.
Data Source
AI summary
Aircraft simulation yokes, and associated systems and methods are disclosed herein. A representative system includes a yoke handle, and an anchoring device operably connected to the yoke handle. The anchoring device includes a first linkage pivotably coupled to a first section of the yoke handle, a second linkage pivotably coupled to a second section of the yoke handle, and a connector coupled to the first linkage and the second linkage. When the yoke handle is pushed or pulled, a translational movement of one of the linkages is greater than a translational movement of the other linkage such that the yoke handle tilts about a rotation axis offset from the yoke handle.