초록 ▼

Methods and apparatus are disclosed for three-dimensional flight control based generally upon measuring and comparing actual air pressures at or near various surfaces of an aircraft during flight. Sensors are provided for measuring air pressure acting on an aircraft surface. The methods and apparatu

Methods and apparatus are disclosed for three-dimensional flight control based generally upon measuring and comparing actual air pressures at or near various surfaces of an aircraft during flight. Sensors are provided for measuring air pressure acting on an aircraft surface. The methods and apparatus include those for measuring air pressure differentials between two or more sensors to evaluate certain critical flight parameters, such as the actual lift being produced, the air direction and speed relative to the aircraft, the air density, and the aircraft position and trajectory. The actual and comparative data provide information about the present flight conditions and performance of the aircraft, such as whether there is ice formed or forming on the wings, the direction and approach of wind shear, whether a stall is approaching, etc. The information can be evaluated by a computer, the aircraft's automatic flight control system ("AFCS"), or flight crew so that appropriate flight control measures can be taken.

대표청구항 ▼

[ I claim:] [1.]1. Apparatus for measuring air pressure acting on a surface of an aircraft during operation comprising:a port in a skin of the aircraft;a cover positioned over the port, the cover having a plurality of small openings, the openings each sized large enough to permit air flow but small

[ I claim:] [1.]1. Apparatus for measuring air pressure acting on a surface of an aircraft during operation comprising:a port in a skin of the aircraft;a cover positioned over the port, the cover having a plurality of small openings, the openings each sized large enough to permit air flow but small enough to deter water and Type II fluids from passing through the openings;a sensing means for sensing a pressure and providing a signal related to the pressure;a port connecting means for connecting the port to the means for sensing so that an air pressure acting on the port is substantially communicated to the means for sensing a pressure; anda housing with a sump chamber for collecting contaminants which enter through the port, the housing having an open end connected to the port in sealing relation therewith and permitting air flow into the sump chamber, an air outlet in the sump chamber, the air outlet connecting the sump chamber to the port connecting means and the air outlet being positioned in the sump chamber such that contaminants from the air entering the port are trapped by the sump chamber while air pressure can still be communicated from the port through the outlet.