JP2011507755A - Aircraft command and control system - Google Patents

Abstract

  The ship command and control system (100) includes a delivery control system that uses bi-directional optical fibers to connect the control computer to various control devices including valves, pumps, and lights. The touch screen (102) allows the operator to see signals from the various cameras (120, 130) while simultaneously monitoring other systems and control equipment.

Description

  The present invention relates generally to delivery command and control systems for transportation systems such as spacecraft and aircraft including ships. The present invention has a specific utility associated with the command and control system of the aerial refueling system and will be described in connection with the utility, although other utilities are possible.

  An aircraft in flight is generally refueled from a refueling machine. A refueling machine is usually provided with a boom mechanism or a flexible hose that runs behind the refueling machine and physically connects to the refueled aircraft. A typical fueling machine has a plurality of blade fuel tanks and a central blade tank. Auxiliary fuel tanks can also be provided inside the aircraft fuselage or in close proximity to the aircraft fuselage. Fuel is generally transferred via pipes to a boom or hose, which can be separated by one or more closing valves. A typical refueling system includes a pump for pressurizing and transferring fuel from one or more tanks and a simple on / off switch that is usually located on the refueling system panel and manually selected by a trained refueling operator It includes a valve whose open / close state is controlled by.

  A typical refueling system requires a refueling operator in the refueling machine to visually monitor flow and pressure gauges and an operator / pilot to communicate with a receiving machine that can monitor fuel tank levels. The refueling operator is responsible for manually starting and stopping the fuel inflow. Thus, if an excessive number of fuel transfer pumps are operating or if a pressure surge occurs, the refueling boom or hose will be inadvertently disconnected before the receiver receives full fuel. there is a possibility. Some systems have the ability to automatically remove a refueling boom or hose when a predetermined fuel pressure overload condition occurs. Because of the use of manual monitoring and manual stoppage of fuel inflow, the operation of these refueling systems can also lead to overfilling of the fuel tank of the receiver and subsequent fuel spillage from the safety valve.

  A standard aircraft aerial refueling system includes a fuel tank located on at least one aircraft wing for storing fuel. At least two fuel pumps operate to transfer fuel to the fuel connection far away from the tank. At least one electrically controlled valve provides an open position allowing fuel flow and a closed position separating the fuel flow between the tank and the fuel connection. The computer system automatically changes the operation of any number of fuel pumps to control an electrically controlled valve between the open and closed positions during the transfer of fuel to the refueling connection. The structure and operation of the prior art aerial refueling system is complex. The multiple skins of these structures and excess wiring conduits occupy a great deal of space and increase the payload that could be used to carry additional fuel. Other disadvantages include the need for multiple operators and reduced space to provide system maintenance and upgrades.

  In one aspect of the invention, a transportation refueling system is provided that has improved command and control functions. Improved functionality includes a delivery control system using bi-directional optical fibers to connect the control computer to various control devices including valves, pumps, and lights. The distribution control system includes a plurality of cameras for confirming the positions of the boom, the drag, and the oil receiver. The touch screen allows the operator to monitor other systems and control equipment while viewing signals from various cameras. By using bi-directional optical fibers, the weight of the control system is reduced over prior art structures. Furthermore, the present invention allows one operator to complete the refueling procedure.

  In another aspect of the present invention, a control system for an oil supply system for supplying oil to a refueling ship is provided. The refueling system includes a computer system, a plurality of fuel tanks containing fuel, one or a plurality of fuel pumps, a plurality of electric valves, a plurality of sensors, and at least one refueling connection. The control system comprises a centralized control station having at least one touch screen, which allows the operator to monitor and control the air refueling system. The central control station is connected to the computer system, fuel pump, motorized valve, and sensor using an optical fiber transmission system.

  In yet another aspect of the present invention, a refueling system for refueling a ship is provided, the refueling system comprising: at least one fuel tank that can be used to store a predetermined amount of fuel; Refueling connection located far from one fuel tank; at least two fuel pumps usable to transfer fuel from at least one fuel tank to a refueling connection located remotely; at least one remote control valve; optional A computer system that can be used to automatically change the operation of any number of fuel pumps to control a remote control valve between any of the open and closed positions during the transfer of fuel to the refueling connection A centralized control station with a touch screen; the centralized control station uses a bi-directional fiber optic cable It is connected to the system and the computer system.

  In yet another aspect of the present invention, a ship refueling system, a refueling system having a computer system, at least one fuel tank containing fuel, a plurality of fuel pumps, a plurality of electric valves, a plurality of sensors, and at least one refueling connection. And a method of operating a centralized control station having at least one touch screen. The method uses a centralized control station to monitor the refueling connection, sensor, and receiver, and use at least one pump to initiate fuel flow to the at least one refueling connection. including.

  The described features, functions, and advantages can be achieved in different embodiments of the present invention separately, or with further embodiments that can be understood in more detail by reference to the following description and drawings. The same number indicates the same part.

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an aerial refueling system according to the prior art. FIG. 2 is a diagram of a conventional fueling machine. FIG. 3 is a diagram of a conventional fueling machine. 4A and 4B are a side view and a top view, respectively, showing the field of view of a second camera system according to the prior art. FIG. 5 is a diagram of a remote air refueling operator (RARO) station according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating the operation of the command and control interface according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7A is a diagram of an operator display showing the display of the first camera system. FIG. 7B is a diagram of an operator display showing the display of the second camera system. FIG. 8A is a diagram of various screenshots of the operator display. FIG. 8B is a diagram of various screenshots of the operator display. FIG. 8C is a diagram of various screenshots of the operator display. FIG. 8D is a diagram of various screenshots of the operator display. FIG. 9 is a diagram of a head mounted display according to an embodiment of the present invention.

  In the following description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings that form a part hereof, and which are shown by way of illustration of various embodiments of the present invention. Of course, other embodiments can be used and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the invention.

  The illustrated embodiment comprises an aerial refueling system having a distribution control system (DCS). An aerial refueling system typically includes a plurality of fuel tanks, sensors, electrically controlled valves, pumps and lights, a predetermined length of pipe, a boom, at least one drogue, an electronic control device, and an operator station.

  The DCS connects electrically controlled valves, pumps, sensors, and lights to a control system provided at the operator station. The DCS further comprises at least one camera that provides an image of the fuel dispenser. Images from the camera can be viewed on the touch screen, which allows the operator to view the fuel dispenser simultaneously while monitoring the fuel system and operating the control equipment. The camera and touch screen are connected using optical fiber. The optical fiber enhances the signal from various input points while minimizing the weight of the system. Alternatively, sensors and other instrument control devices are also connected to the delivery control system using bi-directional optical fibers.

  The present invention is better understood by first taking the prior art. Referring to FIG. 1 taken from US 2006/0278761, an aerial refueling system 10 is included on an aircraft 12 having a fuselage 14 and a left wing 16 and a right wing 18. The aerial refueling system generally includes a central fuel tank 26; a left wing tank 34 and a right wing tank 36; a left refueling pod 42 and a right refueling pod 44 having a wing drogue; a boom 38 having a central drogue; It consists of an optional front auxiliary fuel tank 24 and rear auxiliary fuel tank 30 separated by a spar 32; a storage vessel 20; a manifold 22; a hose assembly 40; a pump 21; a valve 35; The computer system 46 manually monitors the fuel flow and pressure and manually adjusts the number of pumps running to automatically control the selection and operation of any number of aerial refueling pumps during fuel transfer. There is no need. A motorized valve 35 that is automatically controlled by the computer system is also provided to automatically isolate or open one or more flow paths. The ability to manually control the transfer of fuel from tank to tank using a fuel load or pump is also an advantageous feature of an air refueling system. The fuel can be sent to / from any tank individually or simultaneously.

  Referring also to FIGS. 2, 3, 4A, and 4B, a typical aerial refueling system also includes a remote vision system (RVS) comprised of two camera systems, a boom aerial refueling camera system (BARCS), and situational awareness. A camera system (SACS) is also provided. FIG. 2 shows the positions of the BARCS camera 120 and the SACS camera 130. The RVS further includes a video processing system (VPS), a head mounted display (HMD), and a pilot mission display (all not shown).

  BARCS is a two-camera hyper-stereo system that is configured to allow stereoscopic viewing of the entire boom aerial refueling area for both day and night aerial refueling operations. The cameras are preferably located approximately 19 inches from each other. The BARCS is installed inside the fairing of the low rear aircraft. The lens is protected by the observation door when not in use. The room air can be circulated for ventilation and cooling. As shown in FIG. 3, each BARC camera has a 40 ° horizontal and vertical field of view. The visible image region is limited to a 30 ° field of view, which is referred to as the region of interest 160. The area of interest is established during the qualification of the receiver. This is automatically recalled for each receiver type and cannot be changed by the operator.

  A Situation Aware Camera System (SACS) allows an aircraft crew to see the approaching side and rear of the drone and any hose extension drogue approaching. Typically, three SACS video cameras (left, center, right) are installed inside the fairing on the low rear aircraft and have a double panoramic view. The fairing is ventilated to prevent fogging. In horizontal flight, the left and right SACS provide a vertical field of view from 14 ° above the horizontal line to 34 ° below the horizontal line, and the rear SACS provides a vertical field of view from 11 ° above the horizontal line to 37 ° below the horizontal line ( 4A) is obtained. As shown in FIG. 4B, the camera continuously covers the azimuth at a minimum distance of 100 feet from the camera. The horizontal range is 66 ° per camera to cover from the hose outlet to the hose outlet. Video images from the SACS are displayed on the refueling operator control and display (AROCDU), HMD and pilot mission display. SACS can use digital pan and zoom on AROCDU. The rear display presents a graphic overlay on the full color screen of refueling data.

  These prior art systems are hardwired with significant weight, cost and complexity. Also, such hardwired prior art systems could not be easily changed when updated components became available.

  The present invention provides a DCS that uses bi-directional optical fibers to interface with computer systems and multiple centralized controllers located throughout the aircraft. The DCS system facilitates detection and control of aerial refueling / mission facilities and addresses distribution power load limitations of aerial refueling facilities. DCS interfaces with pumps, valves, flow sensors, pressure sensors, leak detectors, engine displays and crew warning systems, remote vision systems (RVS), drag devices, air refueling booms, and remote air refueling operator (RARO) stations Connected.

  A video processing system (VPS) receives video images over an optical fiber link and runs on the AROCDU with camera control.

  Referring to FIG. 5, RARO station 100 is a central location for controlling and monitoring the aerial refueling system. The RARO station includes an aerial refueling operator control and display unit (AROCDU) 102, a boom control stick 106, and a manual control panel 104.

  A remote vision system (RVS) is configured to allow an operator to see a fuel dispenser engaged in a boom or drag refueling operation. RVS is essential to the implementation of the aerial refueling procedure and is necessary for the operator to reach the boom to the refueling machine.

  AROCDU is the basic device for display (status, video and image) and control of the aerial refueling system. AROCDU is composed of a flat panel, a color display unit with touch screen input, and an integrated electronic device. AROCDU provides an image display of the status of the refueling subsystem and a video display from the camera system and other data sources.

  The touch panel overlay and display function buttons are the basic input interface of the operator for configuring and controlling the aerial refueling system. The touch screen responds to a gloved hand, bare hand, or touch pen. An AROCDU screen is defined by a system that uses page and window selection buttons, or “soft keys”, and four quadrant display windows, or zones, on the AROCDU screen.

  The page is selected by a button in the vertical area (right bezel) on the right side of the screen. The window is selected with a button in the vertical area (left bezel) on the left side of the screen. AROCDU displays a default page and window when the select button is first selected. When next selected, AROCDU displays the last selected window in the page.

  FIG. 6 is a flow diagram illustrating an AROCDU page navigation scheme of an exemplary embodiment. This scheme allows one operator to successfully monitor and control all aerial refueling systems during all flight phases. From the start screen 201 (also shown in FIG. 8A), the operator can access the preflight screen 211 and execute a preflight command using the preflight key 210. The preflight screen allows access to the aerial refueling setting screen 225. Further, from the start screen 201, the operator uses the flight key 220 to change the refueling control screen during the flight including the boom control screen 221 (see FIG. 8D), the wing dragging screen 222, and the central dragging screen 223 (see FIG. 8C). It can also be accessed. Any one of these screens enables access to the preflight screen 211, the aerial refueling screen 225, the situation recognition screen 224 (see FIG. 8B), or between screens. The start screen 201 also allows the operator to access the maintenance screen 232, the defect log 231, and the post flight screen 230.

  When the computer detects a situation that needs to be notified to the operator, an alert, caution, and / or advisory overlay is displayed in the floating window. While refueling with a boom, a window display below the visible area of the AROCDU allows the operator to see them while wearing a head mounted display (HMD) 162 (shown in FIG. 9). While refueling with a drogue, it is a window display of the upper quadrant of the AROCDU screen. 8A-8D show some of the available AROCDU pages. FIG. 8A is the default page. FIG. 8B is a situation recognition page showing a situation recognition window 150 and several RVS displays 152. FIG. 8C shows a central drogue page where the drogue and drogue lights are controlled by windows 154 and 155. FIG. 8D is a boom management page, where the boom is controlled using windows 156 and 157. Note that the operator can view the situation awareness window 150 and RVS display 152 at the same time as the system is monitored and control inputs are made.

  Remote vision system (RVS) video is digitally transmitted to the RARO station via fiber optic lines for video processing and display 160 on the HMD 162 (shown in FIG. 9). The display module provides BARCS, high resolution, stereoscopic video images to AROs and instructors. Referring to FIGS. 7A and 7B, the HMD can also display images from any of the five video cameras (BARCS and SACS) in a mono display. The graphic overlay on the refueling data screen is seen in full color. The operator can see the lower part of the AROCDU while wearing a head-mounted display (HMD). HMD is compatible with audio headsets and oxygen masks.

  It should be emphasized that the above-described embodiments of the apparatus and process are merely possible examples of implementation and are merely set forth for a solid understanding of the principles of the invention. Many different embodiments of the air refueling system commands and controls described herein may be configured and / or manufactured without departing from the spirit and scope of the foregoing invention. For example, an infrared device can be provided in the camera system for refueling in dark lighting situations. The delivery command and control system can also be used for spacecraft and ships. All of these and other modifications and variations described above are included herein within the scope of the present invention and protected by the following claims. Accordingly, the scope of the invention is not limited except as indicated in the appended claims.

Claims (15)

  At least one fuel tank 24, 26, 30, 34, 36 that can be used to store a predetermined amount of fuel; a refueling connection 38 that is located away from at least one fuel tank; away from at least one fuel tank At least two fuel pumps 21 that can be used to transfer fuel to a located refueling connection; at least one remote control valve 35; automatically changing the operation of any number of fuel pumps to direct fuel to the refueling connection A centralized control station 100 including a computer system 46; a camera system 120, 130; and a monitor 102 that can be used to control a remote control valve between any of an open position and a closed position during transfer. A refueling system for refueling vessels, wherein the central control station uses a bi-directional optical fiber Fueling system connected to and to the computer system system.   The refueling system of claim 1, wherein the central control station is further connected to at least two fuel pumps and at least one remote control valve using bi-directional fiber optic lines.   The refueling system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the at least one remote control valve is an electrically controlled valve.   The oil supply system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the monitor 102 includes a touch screen.   The refueling system according to claim 1, wherein the refueling ship is an aircraft or a ship 12. A delivery command and control system for a ship having a plurality of fuel pumps 21, a plurality of motorized valves 35, a plurality of sensors 25, and at least one refueling connection 38, the operator monitoring the refueling system Centralized control station 100 including a monitor 102 that can be controlled
With
A delivery command and control system in which a central control station is connected to the computer system 100, fuel pump 21, motorized valve 35, and sensor 25 using a fiber optic transmission system.   The control system of claim 6, wherein the fiber optic transmission system comprises a bi-directional fiber optic line.   The control system according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the centralized control station (100) includes a head mounted display (162).   The control system according to any one of claims 6 to 8, wherein the refueling system further comprises a plurality of cameras 120, 130 for viewing the position of the refueling connection and the relative position of the oil receiver.   The control system of claim 9, wherein the monitor is configured to display an image of any of a plurality of cameras overlying at least one data display and at least one control point.   The control system according to claim 6, wherein the monitor includes a touch screen.   The control system according to claim 6, wherein the ship is an aircraft or a ship 12. A method of operating the aircraft refueling system of claim 1 comprising:
Monitor the fuel connection 38, fuel tanks 24, 26, 30, 34, 36, fuel pump 21, and remote control valves from the central control station 100;
Using the camera system 120 to monitor the receiving machine for its position;
Using a central control station to position the boom and / or drogue;
Communicate with the receiver to dock with the boom and / or drogue;
Operate the remote control valve to start the fuel flow into the receiver
Use a central control station to monitor fuel inflow and stop alarms;
Ending the inflow of fuel to the fuel receiver as directed by the central control station.   The method of claim 13, wherein the central control station 100 comprises a head mounted display.   14. The method of claim 13, wherein the central control station monitor 102 comprises a touch screen.

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