Abstract:
Embodiments of this disclosure provide a system and method for cutting composite materials. The system includes a material supporting surface, an oscillating saw suspended from a rotatable head on an arm, a two-axis gimbal coupled to the rotatable head for adjusting a cutting angle of the oscillating saw, and a material clamp for clasping the composite material to prevent the composite material from slipping while being cut with the oscillating saw. An automated embodiment of the system further includes a controller for instructing the oscillating saw to cut the composite material by guiding the saw via coordinated movement of the rotatable head, the arm, and the gimbal. A method of cutting a woven composite material includes feeding the material on a support surface, providing an oscillating saw blade on a guiding mechanism, and cutting the material by moving the saw blade in a direction based on the guiding mechanism.
Abstract:
Systems, methods and computer-storage media are provided for use of navigational aids. Three-dimensional graphical representations of flight plans, flight paths, waypoints, etc., may be displayed to improve situational awareness. Additionally, dynamic monitoring of airports, waypoints, traffic, etc., may be performed so that real-time updates are available to users. The real-time updates will not only include updated location information and any relevant navigational markers (e.g., updated waypoints, new traffic, etc.) but will also include detailed information related to the navigational markers such as a distance from the marker, an airspeed of the marker (if applicable), and the like.
Abstract:
Disclosed are systems and methods for grounding insulated P-clamps used to secure fuel conduits. To do so, one end of the device is adapted to be secured between the flanges of the P-clamp, and a second end is adapted to extend into the clamp to make electrical contact with the conduit. The device creates an electrical path to the grounded structure to which the clamp is secured.
Abstract:
A global network is described for accessing aircraft remotely via a wide area network. Aircraft flight and operational data stored on the aircraft may be directly accessed via remote workstation or downloaded by centralized automatic processes for later analysis and diagnosis.
Abstract:
An apparatus for controlling positioning of flaps in an aircraft includes a shift lever movable to each of a plurality of shift lever positions to control positioning of the flaps of the aircraft to each of a respective plurality of associated flap positions. A shift lever indexing plate includes a plurality of engagement positions associated with the plurality of shift lever positions, respectively, the shift lever being coupled to an engagement member, the engagement member moving with the shift lever and being biased to selectively engage a selected one of the plurality of the engagement positions associated with a selected one of the shift lever positions to command the aircraft flaps to the flap position associated with the selected one of the shift lever positions. The shift lever indexing plate includes a web portion which separates the engagement positions of the shift lever indexing plate, the web portion and the shift lever being shaped and the shift lever being biased such that when the shift lever is at rest and only the shift lever bias is applied to the shift lever, the engagement member must be engaged with one of the plurality of engagement positions of the shift lever indexing plate.
Abstract:
A global network is described for accessing aircraft remotely via a wide area network. Aircraft flight and operational data stored on the aircraft may be directly accessed via remote workstation or downloaded by centralized automatic processes for later analysis and diagnosis.
Abstract:
Systems, methods and computer-storage media are provided for enhancing awareness in an aircraft using a touch-screen instrument panel. In one aspect, a warning is displayed peripherally in the panel in a way that attracts attention without interfering with the use of the panel for other purposes. In another aspect, a crew member is directed by highlighting through menus to a screen that enables the problem causing the warning to be corrected. In another aspect, parameters (e.g., temperatures, pressures) are displayed along with oriented graphical representations of system components. In yet another aspect, aircraft parameters are displayed in a historical context so that the user has a time-line context for a value at issue.
Abstract:
A system for quickly attaching and detaching a coat rod or cargo restraint system to the interior surfaces of an aircraft to optimize the limited space aboard an aircraft.
Abstract:
Disclosed is a method for controlling the flammability of fuel vapors in an aircraft main fuel tank that is located in whole or in part in the fuselage contour. The method comprises a fuel system architecture and fuel consumption sequencing maintaining liquid fuel in said main tanks during all normal operations. Ceasing the withdrawal of fuel from the main tank when the fuel reaches a predetermined level thereby limiting the volume and flammability exposure time of the fuel vapor ullage. Once the predetermined level is met the fuel is supplied from wing tanks throughout the remainder of the mission. The predetermined main tank fuel level at which wing tank fuel begins to be consumed is determined by the aircraft flight reserves fuel volume stored in the main tank as well as the amount necessary to continuously submerge the main tank fuel pumps during the entire mission.
Abstract:
A structure for use with an electrothermal heating element is disclosed comprising a heating element contained in a mat and heater supports attached to one surface of the mat. The heating element is disposed between the skin and internal structure of an aircraft with the heater supports disposed toward the internal structure thereof. The heater supports maintain an insulating layer of air between the mat and the internal structure of the aircraft.