METHOD OF CHECKING THE PRESSURE OF AN AIRCRAFT TIRE

A method of checking the pressure of a tire of an aircraft. A pressure reading is taken from the tire with a pressure sensor and wirelessly transmitted to a hand-held device. The hand-held device receives the pressure reading, an aircraft ID which uniquely identifies the aircraft, and a tire ID. The device then retrieves from a memory a reference pressure level associated in the memory with the aircraft ID and the tire ID; compares either the pressure reading, or an adjusted pressure based on the pressure reading, with the reference pressure level; and displays a warning if the pressure reading, or the adjusted pressure based on the pressure reading, is below the reference pressure level.

AIRCRAFT TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING SYSTEM

A monitoring system, having a processor, provides pressure warnings associated with a tire of an aircraft When the aircraft is stationary, the processor operates in a maintenance mode and receives a first pressure measurement indicating a pressure of the tire; compares the first pressure measurement with a maintenance mode low pressure threshold, and causes the flight deck display to display a low pressure warning associated if the first pressure measurement is below the maintenance mode low pressure threshold. When the aircraft is in motion, the processor operates in a flight mode and receives a second pressure measurement indicating a pressure of the tire, compares the second pressure measurement with an abnormal pressure threshold which is lower than the maintenance mode low pressure threshold, and causes the flight deck display to display an abnormal pressure warning if the second pressure measurement is below the abnormal pressure threshold. 1. A method of operating a monitoring system to provide pressure warnings associated with a tire of an aircraft , the monitoring system comprising a flight deck display on a flight deck of the aircraft and a processor , the method comprising:when the aircraft is stationary, operating the processor in a maintenance mode in which the processor receives a first pressure measurement indicating a pressure of the tire; compares the first pressure measurement with a maintenance mode low pressure threshold, and causes the flight deck display to display a low pressure warning associated with the tire if the first pressure measurement is below the maintenance mode low pressure threshold; andwhen the aircraft is in motion, operating the processor in a flight mode in which the processor receives a second pressure measurement indicating a pressure of the tire, compares the second pressure measurement with an abnormal pressure threshold which is lower than the maintenance mode low pressure threshold, and causes the flight deck display to ...

METHOD OF MONITORING THE PRESSURE OF AN AIRCRAFT TIRE

A method of monitoring the pressure of a tire of an aircraft, the method including: taking two or more pressure readings from the tire at different times; calculating an estimated deflation rate based on the pressure readings; and calculating a time for the tire to deflate to a reference pressure level based on the estimated deflation rate. Two or more temperature readings are each associated with one of the pressure readings, and the estimated deflation rate is calculated by normalising each pressure reading based on its associated temperature reading and a common reference temperature to obtain a temperature-normalised pressure reading, and calculating the estimated deflation rate based on the temperature-normalised pressure readings. The estimated deflation rate is compared with a threshold, and a warning provided if the estimated deflation rate exceeds the threshold. 1. A method of monitoring the pressure of a tire of an aircraft , the method comprising:taking two or more pressure readings from the tire at different times; andcalculating an estimated deflation rate of the tire based on the two or more pressure readings.2. The method of further comprising comparing the estimated deflation rate with a threshold and providing a warning if the estimated deflation rate exceeds the threshold.3. The method of further comprising calculating a time for the tire to deflate to a reference pressure level based on the estimated deflation rate.4. The method of further comprising displaying the time for the tire to deflate to the reference pressure level.5. The method of claim 3 , wherein the time for the tire to deflate to the reference pressure level is calculated by reducing a selected one of the pressure readings with respect to a lower temperature to obtain a temperature-adjusted pressure level claim 3 , and calculating a time for the tire to deflate from the temperature-adjusted pressure level to the reference pressure level based on the estimated deflation rate.6. The ...

MULTIPLATFORM MANAGEMENT SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MOBILE DEVICES

Systems and methods for managing multiple wireless devices are disclosed. An exemplary system includes multiple domains each having a particular type of wireless device management system and respective (application programming interface) APIs. API call modules corresponding to each domain enable accessing of the APIs exposed by each of the respective domains. A management console enables compiling of a consolidated list of devices and users from each of the device management systems into a single view. An exemplary method includes querying multiple domains to obtain user information, compiling a consolidated list of users, displaying the consolidated list in a user interface, selecting a user from the consolidated list, and submitting a command to either all or a specific domain for the selected user. 1. A system for managing multiple wireless devices comprising:multiple domains each having a particular type of wireless device management system and respective application programming interfaces (APIs);API call modules corresponding to each domain for accessing the APIs exposed by each of the respective domains; anda management console for compiling a consolidated list of devices and users from each of the systems requested via the API call modules.2. The system of claim 1 , the domains managing different wireless devices.3. The system of claim 1 , the domains having respective different operating systems devices.4. The system of claim 1 , the domains including identifiers for identifying entities managed by the domain.5. The system of claim 4 , the identifier being a user account on the domain.6. The system of claim 4 , the management console using the identifier to compile the consolidated list.7. The system of claim 6 , the management console associating the identifier to a list of devices for a user.8. The system of claim 4 , the management console grouping similar identifiers for display on a user interface.9. The system of claim 8 , wherein the API call modules ...

TIRE PRESSURE SENSOR DEVICE

A tire pressure sensor device () for a wheel () of an aircraft () including a pressure sensor () for measuring the internal pressure of a tire, a temperature sensor () for measuring a temperature local to the tire (), a memory unit () local to the tire for storing data, and a control unit () local to the tire arranged to record in the memory unit () data of the readings taken at intervals of time. The data recorded for each reading includes an indication of the time of the reading, the tire pressure and the temperature local to the tire. Measurements may be taken and recorded over time, both when the aircraft is on the ground and when the aircraft is in flight. Data may be uploaded to a portable handheld device () for analysis when maintaining the tires in their correctly inflated state. 1. A tire pressure sensor device for a wheel of an aircraft , wherein the tire pressure sensor device comprises:a housing,a pressure sensor configured to measure an internal pressure of a tire,a temperature sensor configured to measure a temperature local to the tire,a memory unit local to the tire configured to store data, anda control unit local to the tire arranged to record in the memory unit data in respect of multiple readings over time,wherein the housing accommodates at least the control unit and the memory unit, andthe data so recorded for each such reading includes an indication of a time of the reading, a pressure as measured by the pressure sensor, and a temperature as measured by the temperature sensor.2. The tire pressure sensor device according to further including a communication module facilitating secure wireless communication with a reader device external to the aircraft.3. The tire pressure sensor device according to claim 1 , wherein the tire pressure sensor device includes a motion sensor and wherein the control unit is configured to detect with the use of the motion sensor at least one of (a) whether the aircraft is in flight claim 1 , and (b) whether the ...

TYRE MONITORING DEVICE AND METHOD

A tyre monitoring device configured to be mounted on a wheel is described. The device includes a pressure sensor for sensing an inflation pressure of a tyre on the wheel; a wireless communication interface configured to receive data indicative of a command to indicate tyre pressure; a storage storing a predetermined pressure value; an indicator configured to provide a first indication and a second indication, wherein the first indication is different from the second indication; and a processing system configured to operate the indicator to provide the first indication or the second indication responsive to receipt of the command to indicate tyre pressure, and based at least in part on the inflation pressure and the predetermined pressure value. 1. A tire monitoring device configured to be mounted on a wheel and comprising:a pressure sensor configured to sense an inflation pressure of a tire on the wheel;a wireless communication interface configured to receive data indicative of a command to indicate tire pressure;a non-transitory storage configured to store a predetermined pressure value;an indicator configured to provide a first indication and a second indication, wherein the first indication is different from the second indication; anda processing system configured to operate the indicator to provide the first indication or the second indication responsive to receipt of the command to indicate tire pressure, and based at least in part on the inflation pressure and the predetermined pressure value.2. The tire monitoring device according to claim 1 , wherein the wireless communication interface is configured to communicate with at least one other tire monitoring device.3. The tire monitoring device according to claim 2 , wherein the wireless communication interface is configured to communicate with:the at least one other tire monitoring device over a first network; anda control device over a second network;wherein the first network and second network are separate.4. ...

TIRE MONITORING DEVICE CONFIGURATION

A method of configuring a tire monitoring device is disclosed. The method includes, at the tire monitoring device: entering a configuration mode; responsive to entering the configuration mode, transmitting a first message to a second device, the message indicating that the second device should transmit configuration data to the tire monitoring device; receiving configuration data from the second device in response to the first message; and configuring the tire monitoring device based on the configuration data. 1. A method of configuring a tire monitoring device , the method comprising , at the tire monitoring device:entering a configuration mode;responsive to entering the configuration mode, transmitting a first message to a second device, the message indicating that the second device should transmit configuration data to the tire monitoring device;receiving configuration data from the second device in response to the first message; andconfiguring the tire monitoring device based on the configuration data.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising transmitting a second message to the second device after receiving the configuration data claim 1 , the second message indicating that the second device should stop sending configuration data.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein the second message comprises data indicating that the configuration data has been received.4. The method of claim 2 , wherein the second message comprises data indicating that the tire monitoring device is no longer in a configuration mode.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the entering a configuration mode is responsive to receipt of an instruction.6. The method of claim 5 , wherein the instruction is received from a third device which is separate device from the second device.7. The method of claim 5 , wherein the instruction is received using a different wireless communication protocol than is used for the configuration data.8. The method of claim 1 , wherein the configuration data comprises at ...

INITIALISATION OF TYRE MONITORING DEVICES

A method for initialising a tyre monitoring device including a wireless communication interface and tyre monitoring devices and systems using the method are disclosed. The method includes operating the tyre monitoring device in a first mode, in the first mode the tyre monitoring device is only responsive to an initialisation instruction received over the wireless communication interface from the second device; receiving an initialisation instruction over the wireless communication interface while operating in the first mode; and, responsive to the initialisation instruction, operating the tyre monitoring device in a second mode in which the tyre monitoring device is responsive to instructions received over the wireless communication interface. The first mode draws lower power than the second mode so power draw prior to initialisation, for example while storage awaiting use, is reduced. 1. A method for initialising a tyre monitoring device comprising a wireless communication interface , the method comprising:operating the tyre monitoring device in a first mode, wherein in the first mode the tyre monitoring device is only responsive to an initialisation instruction received over the wireless communication interface from the second device;receiving an initialisation instruction over the wireless communication interface while operating in the first mode; andresponsive to the initialisation instruction operating the tyre monitoring device in a second mode in which the tyre monitoring device is responsive to instructions received over the wireless communication interface;wherein the first mode draws lower power than the second mode.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising claim 1 , when operating in the first mode claim 1 , restricting power to at least one component of the tyre monitoring device.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein restricting power comprises providing no power to the at least one component.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the tyre monitoring device ...

CONFIRMATION OF TYRE MONITORING DEVICE STATUS

A method, apparatus and system are disclosed in which an indication given by at least one tyre monitoring device is confirmed by input received from another source is disclosed. The method includes causing, by the control device, at least one tyre monitoring device mounted on a wheel to measure a tyre pressure and to indicate a status using an indicator provided on the tyre monitoring device; receiving, from the at least one tyre monitoring device, data representative of the status of the at least one tyre monitoring device; receiving input representative of the status indicated on the indicator of the at least one tyre monitoring device; comparing the received data representative of the status with the received input representative of the status; and taking action based on the result of the comparing. 1. A method for a device of a tyre monitoring system comprising:causing, by the device, at least one tyre monitoring device mounted on a wheel to measure a tyre pressure and to indicate a status using an indicator provided on the tyre monitoring device;receiving, from the at least one tyre monitoring device, data representative of the status of the at least one tyre monitoring device;receiving input representative of the status indicated on the indicator of the at least one tyre monitoring device;comparing the received data representative of the status with the received input representative of the status; andtaking action based on the result of the comparing.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein:the comparing determines that the received data representative of the status and the received input representative of the status do not represent a same status; andthe taking action comprises causing further input representative of the status indicated on the indicator of the at least one tyre monitoring device.3. The method of claim 2 , further comprising:receiving further input representative of the status indicated on the indicator of the at least one tyre monitoring device; ...

MULTIPLATFORM MANAGEMENT SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MOBILE DEVICES

Systems and methods for managing multiple wireless devices are disclosed. An exemplary system includes multiple domains each having a particular type of wireless device management system and respective (application programming interface) APIs. API call modules corresponding to each domain enable accessing of the APIs exposed by each of the respective domains. A management console enables compiling of a consolidated list of devices and users from each of the device management systems into a single view. An exemplary method includes querying multiple domains to obtain user information, compiling a consolidated list of users, displaying the consolidated list in a user interface, selecting a user from the consolidated list, and submitting a command to either all or a specific domain for the selected user. 120-. (canceled)21. A management console comprising:an API call module for accessing each of a respective plurality of domains, each of the plurality of domains each having a respective application programming interface (API) and user profiles each associated to a device managed by said domain; andan interface to the API call module configured to submit an input query via the API call module to each of the respective API's of each of the plurality of domains, the interface further configured to receive a plurality of user profile information from the queried domains and to consolidate the received user profiles associated with respective users common to the plurality of domains.22. The management console of claim 21 , including one or more processors configured to execute the management console and the plurality of API call modules.23. The management console of claim 21 , the user profiles including authorizations for access to applications.24. The management console of claim 21 , wherein the devices are one or more of wireless devices and desktop computers.25. The management console of claim 21 , the domains having respective different operating systems devices.26. ...

CONFIGURATION MODE ENTRY FOR A TIRE MONITORING DEVICE

Restricting commands for a tire monitoring device including controlling entry into a configuration mode and restricting operation based on detection of an abnormal command pattern. The method includes, at a tire monitoring device: receiving a configuration request from a first device for the tire monitoring device to operate in a configuration mode, the configuration request provided using a first wireless communication protocol; responsive to receipt of the configuration request, initiating communication using a second wireless communication protocol; establishing successful communication using the second wireless protocol; and entering the configuration mode responsive to establishing successful communication using the second wireless communication protocol. In another example, a method restricts operation of a lire monitoring device including receiving instructions via a wireless communication interface; detecting an abnormal instruction pattern based on the received instructions; and restricting the operation of the tire monitoring device responsive to detecting the abnormal instruction pattern. 1. A method comprising , at a tire monitoring device:receiving a configuration request from a first device, the configuration request indicating that the tire monitoring device is to operate in a configuration mode, the configuration request provided using a first wireless communication protocol;responsive to receipt of the configuration request, initiating communication using a second wireless communication protocol;establishing successful communication using the second wireless protocol; andentering the configuration mode responsive to establishing successful communication using the second wireless communication protocol.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein claim 1 , in the configuration mode claim 1 , the tire monitoring device receives at least one of configuration data and configuration instructions from the first device using the first wireless communication protocol ...

DETERMINING A STATUS OF A TYRE MONITORING DEVICE

A method of determining a status of a tyre monitoring device is disclosed. The tyre monitoring device includes a counter initiated on a first use of the tyre monitoring device on a wheel and the method includes: determining a current value of the counter; determining a status of the tyre monitoring device based on the current value of the counter; and providing an indication based on the determined status. In some examples, the status is a remaining service lifetime and the indication may be a replacement notification. A method of cross-checking data between tyre monitoring devices is also disclosed. The method includes receiving data from a plurality of tyre monitoring devices associated with respective tyres of a same vehicle; comparing the received data from different ones of the plurality of tyre monitoring devices; determining inconsistent data associated with at least one of the plurality of tyre monitoring devices based on the comparison; and providing an indication of the inconsistent data. 1. A method of determining a status of a tyre monitoring device comprising a counter initiated on a first use of the tyre monitoring device on a wheel , the method comprising:determining a current value of the counter;determining a status of the tyre monitoring device based on the current value of the counter; andproviding an indication based on the determined status.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the status of the tyre monitoring device is representative of an elapsed time period since the tyre monitoring device was first used on a wheel.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the status of the tyre monitoring device is an estimated remaining service lifetime of the tyre monitoring device.4. The method of claim 3 , comprising estimating the remaining service lifetime of the tyre monitoring device using the current value of the counter and a reference value indicative of a predetermined service lifetime of the tyre monitoring device.5. The method of claim 4 , comprising: ...

AIRCRAFT SYSTEM AND METHOD

A computer implemented method of determining a tire pressure is disclosed including the steps of receiving data of a recent stable point comprising both a tire gas pressure and a temperature; receiving data of a desired temperature, at which a current pressure is desired to be determined; and determining the current pressure based on the data of the recent stable point and the desired temperature.

AIRCRAFT SYSTEM AND METHOD

A computer-implemented method of tire maintenance including: receiving data of a plurality of tire gas pressure measurements each measurement having an associated time; analyzing the received data to determine maintenance information, wherein the maintenance information comprises at least one of: an inflation event, a maximum pressure, a minimum pressure and a tire replacement event; and providing an indication based the determined maintenance information.

Aircraft system and method

A computer-implemented method of compressing a data set including a plurality of historical tire monitoring measurements spaced by a first time interval. The method includes discarding particular ones of the historical tire monitoring measurements which are older than a first threshold age, such that historical tire monitoring measurements which are older than the first threshold age are retained at a second time interval that is longer than the first time interval.

AIRCRAFT SYSTEM AND METHOD

A method of communicating configuration data of a tire pressure monitoring device configured to be affixed to a wheel is disclosed. The method includes, at the tire pressure monitoring device, receiving a request to confirm configuration data, and responsive to receipt of the request to confirm configuration data, transmitting a configuration data signal which encodes the configuration data. The configuration data signal is configured to be received and understood by a human.

AIRCRAFT SYSTEM AND METHOD

A computer-implemented method of predicting a tire gas temperature of an aircraft tire including receiving data of a plurality of measurements of temperature with associated times after a landing event, the data measured by a tire monitoring device affixed to an aircraft wheel; selecting a temperature profile from a plurality of predetermined temperature profiles based on the received data, the plurality of temperature profiles representing heating and cooling under different conditions; and predicting a future tire gas temperature based on the selected temperature profile and the received data. Another method includes: receiving data of a plurality of measurements of temperature with associated times, the data measured by a tire monitoring device affixed to an aircraft wheel; determining a gradient of the temperature from the data; and predicting a future tire gas temperature using the gradient.

AIRCRAFT SYSTEM AND METHOD

A computer-implemented method of aircraft tire maintenance is disclosed including the steps of receiving data of a plurality of pressure and temperature measurements, each of the plurality of pressure and temperature measurements having an associated time stamp; determining stable points in the plurality of pressure and temperature measurements; and using the stable points for determining tire maintenance. A computer readable medium with instructions to implement the method and a processing system to implement the method are also disclosed.

TIRE PRESSURE SENSOR DEVICE

A tire pressure sensor device () for a wheel () of an aircraft () including a pressure sensor () for measuring the internal pressure of a tire, a temperature sensor () for measuring a temperature local to the tire (), a memory unit () local to the tire for storing data, and a control unit () local to the tire arranged to record in the memory unit () data of the readings taken at intervals of time. The data recorded for each reading includes an indication of the time of the reading, the tire pressure and the temperature local to the tire. Measurements may be taken and recorded over time, both when the aircraft is on the ground and when the aircraft is in flight. Data may be uploaded to a portable handheld device () for analysis when maintaining the tires in their correctly inflated state. 1. A tire pressure sensor device for a wheel of an aircraft , wherein the tire pressure sensor device comprises:a housing,a pressure sensor configured to measure an internal pressure of a tire,a temperature sensor configured to measure a temperature local to the tire,a memory unit local to the tire configured to store data, anda control unit local to the tire arranged to record in the memory unit data in respect of multiple readings over time,wherein the housing accommodates at least the control unit and the memory unit, andthe data so recorded for each such reading includes an indication of a time of the reading, an actual pressure as measured by the pressure sensor, and a temperature as measured by the temperature sensor, andthe memory unit includes an indication of a reference tire pressure for the tire, the memory unit configured to be read by a handheld device arranged to compare the reference pressure with the actual pressure and to indicate whether the actual pressure is suggestive that the tire is, or soon will be, underinflated.2. The tire pressure sensor device according to further including a communication module facilitating secure wireless communication with the ...

Improved-Efficiency Submersible Thruster

A submersible thruster, and methods of optimizing and using same, including selecting a motor with an efficiency of greater than 75 percent when operated at 250 rpm immersed in a pressure-resistant fluid, the motor having a drive shaft with a rotor and a stator matched to the rotor, the rotor and the stator being immersed in the pressure-resistant fluid and being separated by a gap less than or equal to 1 mm. The motor is disposed in a housing to isolate the motor components from a liquid environment. A rear portion of the drive shaft extends through a low-friction shaft seal beyond the housing to drive at least one propeller within the liquid environment. Movement of the drive shaft is constrained to a radial and axial play each of less than 0.75 mm. The method further includes operating the motor at less than 50 percent of peak power, wherein said thruster operates at greater than 30 percent end-to-end thrust efficiency within the liquid environment. 1. A method of increasing the efficiency of a thruster submersible in a liquid environment , comprising:selecting an electric motor with an efficiency of greater than 75 percent when operated at 250 rpm, the motor having a drive shaft with a rotor and a stator matched to the rotor, the rotor and the stator being separated by a gap less than or equal to 1 mm, the motor being disposed in a housing to isolate the motor components from the liquid environment, movement of the drive shaft being constrained to a radial and axial play each of less than 1.0 mm, and a rear portion of the drive shaft extending through a low-friction shaft seal beyond the housing to drive at least one propeller within the liquid environment; andoperating the motor at less than 50 percent of peak power, wherein said thruster operates at greater than 30 percent end-to-end thrust efficiency.2. The method of wherein the drive shaft is supported by at least three bearings claim 1 , with at least one bearing supporting the drive shaft in front of the ...

AIRCRAFT BRAKE COOLING FAN CONTROL SYSTEM

An aircraft includes a power source arranged to provide AC electrical power of varying frequency, and a brake cooling fan including an impeller which is driven by an electric motor powered by said AC electrical power for cooling brakes of the aircrafts wheels. The brake cooling fan has an operable mode when the frequency of said AC electrical power meets certain criteria indicating that the frequency of the AC power is suitable for powering the motor, and an inoperable mode to protect against unsuitable operation of the motor. The brake cooling fan may then be safely powered with AC power direct from a wild frequency power network on the aircraft without needing a power inverter or constant power supply generator. 1. An aircraft including:a power source arranged to provide alternating current (AC) electrical power of varying frequency, anda brake cooling fan including an impeller driven by an electric motor powered by the AC electrical power,wherein the brake cooling fan is arranged to have an operable mode selected when certain criteria are met, the criteria including whether the frequency of the AC electrical power is suitable for powering the motor, andthe brake cooling fan is arranged to have an inoperable mode selected when the certain criteria are not met and to protect against unsuitable operation of the motor.2. The aircraft according to claim 1 , wherein the certain criteria include whether or not the frequency is less than a maximum amount.3. The aircraft according to claim 1 , wherein the certain criteria include whether or not the frequency has been less than a threshold amount for a certain period of time.4. The aircraft according to claim 1 , wherein the aircraft is so arranged that the inoperable mode of the brake cooling fan is triggered if the frequency of the AC power is not suitable for powering the motor.5. The aircraft according to claim 1 , wherein the aircraft is so arranged that the inoperable mode of the brake cooling fan is triggered if the ...

TIRE PRESSURE SENSOR DEVICE

A tire pressure sensor device () for a wheel () of an aircraft () including a pressure sensor () for measuring the internal pressure of a tire, a temperature sensor () for measuring a temperature local to the tire (), a memory unit () local to the tire for storing data, and a control unit () local to the tire arranged to record in the memory unit () data of the readings taken at intervals of time. The data recorded for each reading includes an indication of the time of the reading, the tire pressure and the temperature local to the tire. Measurements may be taken and recorded over time, both when the aircraft is on the ground and when the aircraft is in flight. Data may be uploaded to a portable handheld device () for analysis when maintaining the tires in their correctly inflated state. 1. A tire pressure sensor device for a wheel of an aircraft , wherein the tire pressure sensor device comprises:a housing,a pressure sensor configured to measure an internal pressure of a tire of the wheel,a temperature sensor configured to measure a temperature local to the tire,a non-transitory memory unit local to the tire configured to store data, anda control unit local to the tire arranged to record in the memory unit data in respect of multiple readings over time,wherein the housing accommodates at least the control unit and the memory unit, andwherein the data recorded for each of the multiple readings includes an indication of a time of the reading, a pressure as measured by the pressure sensor, and a temperature as measured by the temperature sensor.2. The tire pressure sensor device according to further including a communication module facilitating secure wireless communication with a reader device external to the aircraft.3. The tire pressure sensor device according to claim 1 , wherein the tire pressure sensor device includes a motion sensor and wherein the control unit is configured to detect with the use of the motion sensor at least one of (a) whether the aircraft is ...

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DETECTING A FAULT CONDITION ASSOCIATED WITH A VALVETRAIN OF AN ENGINE

A system for detecting a fault condition in a valvetrain of an engine is configured to measure one or more operating parameters associated with the engine and determine if the operating parameters satisfy pre-defined corresponding boundary conditions. If so, a pair of values of at least one performance parameter is measured corresponding to measurement on a first and second bank of cylinders present on the engine. The difference between the pair of values is determined and used to compute at least one measure of variation for the at least one performance parameter in a time segment. If the at least one measure of variation for the at least one performance parameter exceeds a pre-defined limit for the engine, the valvetrain is flagged as faulty. 1. A fault detection system for an engine having a first bank of cylinders and a second bank of cylinders therein , the fault detection system comprising:a first plurality of sensors disposed on the engine, the first plurality of sensors configured to measure one or more operating parameters of the engine;a second plurality of sensors disposed on the engine, the second plurality of sensors being configured to measure a pair of values of at least one performance parameter associated with the engine, wherein the at least one performance parameter, the pair of values corresponding to respective measurements of the at least one performance parameter taken from each of the first bank of cylinder and the second bank of cylinders; and determine a difference in magnitude of the pair of values for the at least one performance parameter;', 'compute at least one measure of variation of the at least one performance parameter in a time segment;', 'determine if the measure of variation of the at least one performance parameter exceeds a pre-defined limit for the engine, and if so:', 'determine if the measure of variation persists above the pre-defined limit for the engine for at least a pre-defined period of time and if so, flag the ...

Lubricant dilution detection system

Lubricant dilution detection systems and methods are disclosed. A method for detecting lubricant dilution for a lubrication system includes detecting a shutdown event of the lubrication system. The method includes measuring lubricant pressure during the shutdown event. The method further includes determining lubricant dilution based on the measured lubricant pressure during the shutdown event. In accordance with a determination that there is lubricant dilution, the method includes outputting an indication of the lubricant dilution.

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR LUBRICANT DILUTION DETECTION

Systems and methods for lubricant dilution detection are disclosed. A method for detecting lubricant dilution for a lubrication system includes detecting a low idle condition. The method includes receiving sensed values indicative of lubricant pressure and lubricant temperature during the low idle condition. The method also includes determining a lubricant pressure threshold based on the sensed value indicative of lubricant temperature. The method further includes determining lubricant dilution based on the sensed value indicative of lubricant pressure and the determined lubricant pressure threshold during the low idle condition. In accordance with a determination that there is lubricant dilution, the method includes outputting an indication of the lubricant dilution. 1. A method for detecting lubricant dilution for a lubrication system , comprising:detecting a low idle condition;receiving sensed values indicative of lubricant pressure and lubricant temperature during the low idle condition;determining a lubricant pressure threshold based on the sensed value indicative of lubricant temperature;determining lubricant dilution based on the sensed value indicative of lubricant pressure and the determined lubricant pressure threshold during the low idle condition; andin accordance with a determination that there is lubricant dilution, outputting an indication of the lubricant dilution.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein detecting the low idle condition includes detecting an engine speed is substantially equal to a low idle engine speed threshold.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein detecting the low idle condition includes:receiving sensed values indicative of engine speed; anddetecting the low idle condition when the sensed values indicative of engine speed change from a high idle condition to the low idle condition after a predetermined amount of time.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the lubricant pressure threshold is determined based on a map representative of ...

TYRE MONITORING DEVICE AND METHOD

A tyre monitoring device configured to be mounted on a wheel is described. The device includes a pressure sensor for sensing an inflation pressure of a tyre on the wheel; a wireless communication interface configured to receive data indicative of a command to indicate tyre pressure; a storage storing a predetermined pressure value; an indicator configured to provide a first indication and a second indication, wherein the first indication is different from the second indication; and a processing system configured to operate the indicator to provide the first indication or the second indication responsive to receipt of the command to indicate tyre pressure, and based at least in part on the inflation pressure and the predetermined pressure value. 1. A tyre monitoring device configured to be mounted on a wheel and comprising:a pressure sensor configured to sense an inflation pressure of a tyre on the wheel;a wireless communication interface configured to receive data indicative of a command to indicate tyre pressure;a non-transitory storage configured to store a predetermined pressure value;an indicator configured to provide a first indication and a second indication, wherein the first indication is different from the second indication; anda processing system configured to operate the indicator to provide the first indication or the second indication responsive to receipt of the command to indicate tyre pressure, and based at least in part on the inflation pressure and the predetermined pressure value.2. The tyre monitoring device according to claim 1 , wherein the wireless communication interface is configured to communicate with at least one other tyre monitoring device.3. The tyre monitoring device according to claim 2 , wherein the processing system is configured to operate the indicator to provide the first indication or the second indication further based at least in part on data indicative of inflation pressure received from the at least one other tyre ...

FAULT DETECTION BASED ON BRAKE TORQUE AND TEMPERATURE

A fault detection system for an aircraft braking system including: a controller configured to receive braking demand information; torque information; wear information; wheel speed information; and brake temperature information. The controller is to calculate an expected maximum temperature of the brake based on the torque information, the wear information and the wheel speed information; to determine whether a significant temperature discrepancy exists between the expected maximum temperature and the brake temperature information; to determine whether a significant torque-related discrepancy exists based on the braking demand information and the torque information. The controller is to generate a first alert if a significant torque-related discrepancy exists and no significant temperature discrepancy exists; a second alert if a significant temperature discrepancy exists and no significant torque-related discrepancy exists; and a third alert if a significant temperature discrepancy and a significant torque-related discrepancy exists. 1. A fault detection system to detect faults relating to an aircraft braking system comprising at least one brake , the fault detection system comprising a controller configured to:receive braking demand information relating to a requested braking intensity for a braking event;receive torque information relating to an amount of torque reacted by the at least one brake during the braking event;receive wear information relating to a wear state of the at least one brake during the braking event;receive wheel speed information relating to a wheel speed of a wheel associated with the at least one brake during the braking event;receive brake temperature information relating to a maximum temperature of the at least one brake as a result of the braking event;calculate an expected maximum temperature of the brake as a result of the braking event, based on the received torque information, the received wear information and the received wheel speed ...

INTERNAL TIRE AND/OR WHEEL MONITORING DEVICE AND METHOD

An apparatus for monitoring a tire and/or a wheel including a sensor system; a wireless communication interface; a processor connected to the sensor system and the wireless communication interface; a power source; and a mounting system for attaching the apparatus to a wheel. The mounting system is configured to allow movement of the sensor system relative to the wheel in use. 1. An apparatus for monitoring at least one of a tire and a wheel , the apparatus comprising:a sensor system;a wireless communication interface;a processor connected to the sensor system and the wireless communication interface;a power source; anda mounting system for attaching the apparatus to a wheel and configured to allow movement of the sensor system relative to the wheel in use.2. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the movement of the sensor system relative to the wheel in use is rotation about an axis.3. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the mounting system is configured to attach the apparatus inside a tire.4. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the mounting system defines a track around a wheel and the sensor system can translate along the track.5. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the mounting system comprises a carriage for engaging a circumferential track provided on the wheel.6. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the mounting system comprises a hoop-shaped band for mounting around a wheel claim 1 , such that the hoop-shaped band can rotate about the wheel in use.7. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the mounting system is configured to allow the sensor system to move relative to the wheel under the action of gravity so as to maintain the sensor system at a bottom of the wheel in use at least for wheel rotation speeds less than 60 revolutions per minute.8. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the sensor system comprises at least one of: a pressure sensor claim 1 , a temperature sensor claim 1 , an accelerometer ...

Aquatic Sampler and Collection Apparatus

An aquatic particle sampling and collection apparatus comprising a tube within a tube cylindrical collection system wherein an inner tube is housed within an outer tube wherein the outer tube has a front end that is flared in a frustum shape to collect water. The inner tube defines an open chamber lined with a net or other collection apparatus which concludes with a conical cod end. An axial flow pump is situated within the collection system to facilitate the movement of water through the system thereby drawing particles in to be collected. The apparatus is paired with a subsea vehicle that allows for controlled collection and sampling. In various embodiments, the apparatus can be used to collect both bio particles such as plankton and non-bio particles such as plastics from the ocean. Where sampling is desired, the apparatus may include a disk after the conical cod end upon which the samples are collected. 1. A sampling and collection apparatus for in situ sampling of particles in an aquatic environment , the apparatus comprising:a. an outer collection tube further comprising at least one inlet adapted to allow fluids to enter the apparatus and at least one outlet;b. an interior tube, at least a portion of which is capable of being housed within the outer collection tube;c. a flow pump capable of drawing fluid into the apparatus;d. a filter means disposed within the outer collection tube;e. a fluid blocking means; andf. an attachment means adapted to secure the system to an aquatic vehicle or platform;wherein the inlet is diametrically larger than the interior tube.2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the interior tube comprises a front opening claim 1 , at least a portion of the filter means is in fluid communication with the interior of the interior tube claim 1 , and the fluid blocking means is capable of controllably blocking at least some fluid from entering the interior tube.3. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the fluid blocking means is a valve selected ...

FAILURE DETECTION DEVICE FOR DETECTING AN ISSUE WITH A PART OF A MACHINE

A failure detection device is disclosed. The failure detection device may receive operations data related to operations of a set of parts of a machine. The failure detection device may process the operations data using a condition-based processing technique. The condition-based processing technique may be associated with mapping initial values of data elements of the operations data to binary values based on satisfaction of a first set of conditions by the initial values. The failure detection device may detect a presence of a possible issue with the operations of the set of parts based on a second set of conditions, associated with the binary values and the initial values, being satisfied during a time period. The failure detection device may perform, after detecting the presence of the possible issue, a set of actions related to addressing the possible issue. 1. A method , comprising: wherein the machine is one of a vehicle, a backhoe loader, a cold planer, a wheel loader, a compactor, a feller buncher, a forest machine, a forwarder, a harvester, an excavator, an industrial loader, a knuckleboom loader, a material handler, a motor grader, a pipelayer, a road reclaimer, a skid steer loader, a skidder, a telehandler, a tractor, a dozer, or a tractor scraper,', 'wherein the operations data is received from a set of sensors associated with the set of parts, and', 'wherein the operations data includes measurement data from a sensor of the set of sensors;, 'receiving, by a device, operations data related to operations of one or more of a set of parts of a machine,'} 'wherein the condition-based processing technique is associated with mapping initial values of data elements of the operations data to mapped values based on satisfaction of a set of conditions by the initial values;', 'processing, by the device and after receiving the operations data, the operations data using a condition-based processing technique,'}detecting, by the device and after processing the ...

System and Method for Health Determination of a Machine Component

A system for determining health of a component is provided. The system includes an operational parameter module associated with the component and in communication with a controller. The controller is configured to receive an operating parameter signal from the operational parameter module. The controller is configured to monitor a change of the operating parameter over a predetermined time period. The controller is configured to compare the monitored operating parameter with a first predetermined threshold. The controller is configured to determine a rate of change of the monitored operating parameter over the predetermined time period. The controller is also configured to compare the determined rate of change with a second predetermined threshold. The controller is further configured to determine the health of the component based, at least in part, on the comparisons with the first and second predetermined thresholds respectively and one or more additional parameters associated with the component. 1. A system for determining health of a component , the system comprising:an operational parameter module associated with the component, the operational parameter module configured to generate an operating parameter signal indicative of an operating parameter of the component; and receive the operating parameter signal from the operational parameter module;', 'monitor a change of the operating parameter over a predetermined time period;', 'compare the monitored operating parameter with a first predetermined threshold;', 'determine a rate of change of the monitored operating parameter over the predetermined time period;', 'compare the determined rate of change with a second predetermined threshold; and', 'determine the health of the component based, at least in part, on the comparisons with the first and second predetermined thresholds respectively and one or more additional parameters associated with the component., 'a controller in communication with the operational ...

METHOD OF MONITORING THE PRESSURE OF AN AIRCRAFT TIRE

A method of monitoring the pressure of a tire of an aircraft, the method including: taking two or more pressure readings from the tire at different times; calculating an estimated deflation rate based on the pressure readings; and calculating a time for the tire to deflate to a reference pressure level based on the estimated deflation rate. Two or more temperature readings are each associated with one of the pressure readings, and the estimated deflation rate is calculated by normalising each pressure reading based on its associated temperature reading and a common reference temperature to obtain a temperature-normalised pressure reading, and calculating the estimated deflation rate based on the temperature-normalised pressure readings. The estimated deflation rate is compared with a threshold, and a warning provided if the estimated deflation rate exceeds the threshold. 1. A method of monitoring the pressure of a tire of an aircraft by a computer system , the method comprising:taking two or more pressure readings from the tire at different times; andcalculating, by the computer system, an estimated deflation rate of the tire based on the two or more pressure readings.2. The method of further comprising comparing the estimated deflation rate with a threshold and providing a warning if the estimated deflation rate exceeds the threshold.3. The method of further comprising calculating a time for the tire to deflate to a reference pressure level based on the estimated deflation rate.4. The method of further comprising displaying the time for the tire to deflate to the reference pressure level.5. The method of claim 3 , wherein the time for the tire to deflate to the reference pressure level is calculated by reducing a selected one of the pressure readings with respect to a lower temperature to obtain a temperature-adjusted pressure level claim 3 , and calculating a time for the tire to deflate from the temperature-adjusted pressure level to the reference pressure level ...

BRAKE CONTROL

An apparatus including a controller configured to generate a first indication for a vehicle braking system depending upon an oxidation state of a wheel brake of the vehicle is disclosed. Also disclosed is a braking system including a controller configured to receive a first indication, the first indication having been generated depending upon an oxidation state of a wheel brake of a vehicle and control the operation of the brake based on the first indication. Also disclosed is a method of controlling at least one brake of an aircraft, and an aircraft including the apparatus, the braking system and a temperature sensor configured to measure a temperature of a wheel brake of the aircraft and to transmit the temperature measurement to the apparatus. 1. An apparatus comprising: 'generate a first indication for a vehicle braking system depending upon an oxidation state of a wheel brake of the vehicle.', 'a controller configured to2. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein: determine a brake temperature characteristic criterion of the brake according to the oxidation state of the brake;', 'determine whether a temperature characteristic of the brake satisfies the brake temperature characteristic criterion; and', 'generate the first indication for the braking system depending upon whether the brake temperature characteristic satisfies the brake temperature characteristic criterion., 'the controller is configured to3. The apparatus according to claim 2 , wherein the controller receives an indication of the temperature characteristic of the brake from a temperature sensor associated with the brake.4. The apparatus according to claim 2 , wherein the controller receives a predicted temperature characteristic from a brake temperature prediction function as the temperature characteristic of the brake.5. The apparatus according to claim 2 , wherein the controller is configured to:monitor the temperature characteristic of the brake; andif the temperature characteristic of the ...

Vehicle braking

An apparatus with a processor configured to and a method for determining a number of future use cycles of an aircraft wheel brake based on a predicted condition of the brake is disclosed. Also disclosed is an aircraft including one or more aircraft wheel brakes and the apparatus.

AIRCRAFT BRAKING

A braking system and a method for applying one or more aircraft wheel brakes according to at least one of a plurality of wheel brake control functions are disclosed. The method includes receiving an indication of an aircraft speed from an aircraft speed indicator, controlling a wheel braking operation of the aircraft according to at least a first wheel brake control function if the aircraft speed indicated by the aircraft speed indicator exceeds a speed threshold, and controlling the wheel braking operation of the aircraft according to at least a second wheel brake control function if the aircraft speed does not exceed the speed threshold. Also disclosed is an aircraft including one or more aircraft wheel brakes and the disclosed braking system. 1. A braking system for an aircraft operable to apply one or more aircraft wheel brakes according to at least one of a plurality of wheel brake control functions , the braking system comprising:an aircraft speed indicator; and control a wheel braking operation of the aircraft according to at least a first wheel brake control function if the aircraft speed indicated by the aircraft speed indicator exceeds a speed threshold; and', 'control the wheel braking operation of the aircraft according to at least a second wheel brake control function if the aircraft speed does not exceed the speed threshold., 'a controller configured to2. The braking system according to comprising a brake condition indicator claim 1 , wherein the controller is configured to select the second wheel brake control function claim 1 , from the plurality of wheel brake control functions claim 1 , according to a condition of the one or more aircraft wheel brakes.3. The braking system according to claim 2 , wherein:the brake condition indicator comprises a brake temperature characteristic indicator; andthe brake condition comprises a temperature characteristic of the one or more aircraft wheel brakes.4. The braking system according to claim 3 , wherein:the ...

BRAKE TEMPERATURE PREDICTION AND COOLING TIME FUNCTIONALITY

A brake cooling period prediction system for predicting a brake cooling period following a braking event, and including a sensor apparatus in communication with a prediction apparatus. The sensor apparatus has a torque sensor for measuring the torque reacted by a brake during a braking event; a wear sensor for measuring a wear state of the brake; and an environmental sensor for measuring at least one ambient condition of the environment of the brake. The prediction apparatus includes a memory storing information relating to the thermal behavior of the brake; and a controller configured to receive a torque measurement, a wear measurement and an ambient condition measurement from the sensor apparatus; and predict a cooling period based on the received torque, wear and ambient condition measurements, and the information relating to the thermal behavior of the brake. 1. An aircraft comprising:a torque sensor configured to measure the torque reacted by a brake during a braking event;a wear sensor configured to measure a wear state of the brake;an environmental sensor configured to measure at least one ambient condition of the environment of the brake; and a non-transitory memory storing information relating to a thermal behavior of the brake; and', receive a torque measurement from the torque sensor;', 'receive a wear measurement from the wear sensor;', 'receive an ambient condition measurement from the environmental sensor; and', 'predict a cooling period required for the brake to reach a predetermined temperature following the braking event, based on the received torque measurement, the received wear measurement, the received ambient condition measurement, and the stored information relating to the thermal behavior of the brake., 'a controller configured to], 'a brake cooling prediction apparatus configured to predict a brake cooling period following a braking event involving the brake, when measured values of the temperature of the brake are not available at least in ...

TYRE DEFLECTION MONITORING

An apparatus for monitoring deflection of a tyre including a non-transitory memory, storing tyre behavior information which relates tyre deflection to tyre load and tyre pressure; and a controller in communication with the memory. The controller is configured to: receive load information which relates to a load on the tyre; receive pressure information which relates to a pressure of the tyre; and determine a deflection of the tyre based on the received load information, the received pressure information, and the stored tyre behavior information. 1. An apparatus for monitoring deflection of a tire , the apparatus comprising:a non-transitory memory, storing tire behavior information which relates tire deflection to tire load and tire pressure; and 'receive load information which relates to a load on the tire;', 'a controller in communication with the memory, the controller being configured toreceive pressure information which relates to a pressure of the tire; anddetermine a deflection of the tire based on the received load information, the received pressure information, and the stored tire behavior information.2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the load information comprises a measurement of a load on an axle of a wheel on which the tire is installed.3. The apparatus of claim 2 , wherein a further wheel is additionally mounted on the axle claim 2 , and wherein the controller is further configured to receive pressure information for a further tire installed on the further wheel claim 2 , and to calculate a load on the tire based on the axle load measurement claim 2 , the tire pressure information claim 2 , and the further tire pressure information.4. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the controller is further configured to determine whether the tire should be replaced claim 1 , based on the determined deflection.5. The apparatus of claim 4 , wherein the controller is configured to determine whether the tire should be replaced by determining whether the determined ...

Wireless sensor architecture

A Wireless Access Point (WAP) for enabling remote access to data generated by systems of an aircraft including a wireless interface having a transmitter and a receiver; and a processor. The WAP is configured to: wirelessly receive sensor data generated by a plurality of sensors on an aircraft; receive aircraft data from an avionics system of the aircraft; wirelessly receive a data request signal from a remote computing device; and, responsive to the data request signal, wirelessly transmit to the remote computing device data based on received sensor data and/or received aircraft data. 1. A Wireless Access Point (WAP) for enabling remote access to data generated by systems of an aircraft , the WAP comprising:a wireless interface comprising a transmitter and a receiver; anda processor; wirelessly receive sensor data generated by a plurality of sensors on an aircraft;', 'receive aircraft data from an avionics system of the aircraft;', 'wirelessly receive a data request signal from a remote computing device; and', 'responsive to the data request signal, wirelessly transmit to the remote computing device data based on received sensor data and/or received aircraft data., 'wherein the WAP is configured to2. The WAP according to claim 1 , wherein the WAP is configured to receive the aircraft data from the avionics system over a wired connection between the WAP and the avionics system.3. The WAP according to claim 1 , wherein the WAP is further configured to receive claim 1 , from the avionics system claim 1 , further sensor data generated by at least one further sensor on the aircraft.4. The WAP according to claim 1 , wherein:the data transmitted to the remote computing device comprises data covering a specific time period, wherein the specific time period is specified by the data request signal received from the remote computing device; and/orthe data transmitted to the remote computing device comprises data from one or more specific sensors, wherein the one or more ...

SENSOR NETWORK

A sensor network for use in an aircraft, including a plurality of wireless nodes. A first wireless node of the plurality of wireless nodes is arranged to communicate with at least one other wireless node of the plurality of wireless nodes. The communication is via a secure communications channel and is on the basis of a control message received at the first wireless node. The at least one other wireless node is arranged to perform an operation on the basis of the control message. 1. A sensor network for use in an aircraft , the sensor network comprising:a plurality of wireless nodes;wherein a first wireless node of the plurality of wireless nodes is arranged to communicate with at least one other wireless node of the plurality of wireless nodes via a secure communications channel, on the basis of a control message received at the first wireless node; andwherein the at least one other wireless node of the plurality of wireless nodes in the sensor network is arranged to perform an operation on the basis of the control message.2. The sensor network of claim 1 , wherein the first wireless node is arranged to receive the control message and one or more cryptographic keys from a remote computing device.3. The sensor network of claim 2 , wherein the secure communications channel is secured by at least one of the one or more cryptographic keys.4. The sensor network of claim 3 , wherein the first wireless node is arranged to communicate claim 3 , via the secure communications channel claim 3 , one or more replacement cryptographic keys for replacing at least one of the one or more cryptographic keys.5. The sensor network of claim 4 , wherein the operation comprises a configuration operation to use at least one of the one or more replacement cryptographic keys in place of the at least one of the one or more cryptographic keys.6. The sensor network of claim 5 , wherein the configuration operation comprises causing the at least one other of the plurality of wireless nodes to ...

SECURE COMMUNICATIONS

A system including a sensor, a computing device and a Wireless Access Point (WAP). The sensor in response to receipt of an initiation signal, via a first communication channel, from a relatively proximal computing device, is arranged to generate and store first security information and to transmit, wirelessly via a second communications channel, a first message comprising information representing at least a part of the first security information. The WAP, which is remote from the sensor is arranged to receive and store the first message. The WAP is arranged to generate second security information and to transmit wirelessly to the computing device, via a third communications channel when the computing device is within range of the WAP, a second message comprising information representing at least a part of the second security information. The sensor is arranged to receive at least the second message via only the first communications channel. 1. A system comprising:a sensor, which is responsive to receipt of an initiation signal, via a first communications channel, from a relatively proximal computing device, to generate and store first security information and to transmit, wirelessly via a second communications channel, a first message comprising information representing at least a part of the first security information; anda Wireless Access Point (WAP), which is remote from the sensor and which is arranged to receive and store the first message, to generate second security information and to transmit wirelessly to the computing device, via a third communications channel when the computing device is within range of the WAP, a second message comprising information representing at least a part of the second security information,wherein the sensor is arranged to receive at least the second message via only the first communications channel.2. The system according to wherein the first communications channel is a wireless communications channel.3. The system according to ...

BRAKE TEMPERATURE PREDICTION AND COOLING TIME FUNCTIONALITY

A brake cooling period prediction system for predicting a brake cooling period following a braking event, comprising a sensor apparatus in communication with a prediction apparatus. The sensor apparatus includes a torque sensor for measuring the torque reacted by a brake during a braking event; a wear sensor for measuring a wear state of the brake; and an environmental sensor for measuring at least one ambient condition of the environment of the brake. The prediction apparatus includes a memory storing information relating to the thermal behaviour of the brake; and a controller configured to receive a torque measurement, a wear measurement and an ambient condition measurement from the sensor apparatus; and predict a cooling period based on the received torque, wear and ambient condition measurements, and the information relating to the thermal behaviour of the brake.

AIRCRAFT BRAKE COOLING FAN CONTROL SYSTEM

An aircraft includes a power source arranged to provide AC electrical power of varying frequency, and a brake cooling fan including an impeller which is driven by an electric motor powered by said AC electrical power for cooling brakes of the aircrafts wheels. The brake cooling fan has an operable mode when the frequency of said AC electrical power meets certain criteria indicating that the frequency of the AC power is suitable for powering the motor, and an inoperable mode to protect against unsuitable operation of the motor. The brake cooling fan may then be safely powered with AC power direct from a wild frequency power network on the aircraft without needing a power inverter or constant power supply generator. 1. An aircraft including:a power source arranged to provide alternating current (AC) electrical power of varying frequency, anda brake cooling fan including an impeller driven by an electric motor powered by the AC electrical power,wherein the brake cooling fan is arranged to have an operable mode selected when certain criteria are met, the criteria including whether the frequency of the AC electrical power is suitable for powering the motor, andthe brake cooling fan is arranged to have an inoperable mode selected when the certain criteria are not met and to protect against unsuitable operation of the motor.2. The aircraft according to claim 1 , wherein the certain criteria include whether or not the frequency is less than a maximum amount.3. The aircraft according to claim 1 , wherein the certain criteria include whether or not the frequency has been less than a threshold amount for a certain period of time.4. The aircraft according to claim 1 , wherein the aircraft is so arranged that the inoperable mode of the brake cooling fan is triggered if the frequency of the AC power is not suitable for powering the motor.5. The aircraft according to claim 1 , wherein the aircraft is so arranged that the inoperable mode of the brake cooling fan is triggered if the ...

Brake characteristics

A non-transitory computer readable storage medium is disclosed having stored thereon instructions which, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to: determine whether an aircraft wheel brake is capable of performing a future rejected take-off event. The determination includes determining from a rejected take-off energy parameter and a set of brake parameters whether a predicted mass of the brake is sufficient to perform the future rejected take-off event. Further, a method for determining whether an aircraft wheel brake is capable of performing a future rejected take-off event is disclosed.

Aircraft braking system

A routine maintenance procedure performed in respect of a wheel of an aircraft landing gear is disclosed. Consumable brake lining material is integrated with the wheel. Re-treading or replacing the wheel tyre and inspecting or replacing the consumable brake lining material tyre are performed at the same successive intervals as part of the routine maintenance procedure. The sum volume and mass of brake material present on the aircraft may thus be reduced. Brake material providing for the demands of a maximum energy rejected take-off may be provided separately. The wheel may be made in one or two parts from carbon-fibre composite material. At least some of the brake material may be provided on an outwardly facing planar surface of the wheel.

FENCE POST FOR A FLEXIBLE FENCE

Disclosed is a fence post to be coupled to a flexible (e.g., mesh) fence to hold the fence above the ground. The fence post has a shaft to be driven into the ground. A downturned lower fence engaging hook extends from the bottom of the shaft to engage the bottom of the fence. The lower fence engaging hook is embedded in the ground along with the shaft of the fence post in order to hold the bottom of the fence against the ground. The fence post also has an upturned upper fence engaging hook extending from the top of the shaft to engage the top of the fence and hold the top of the fence up and above the ground. An upturned intermediate fence engaging hook extends from the shaft of the fence post between the lower and upper fence engaging hooks to engage the middle of the fence and hold the middle up and above the ground. 1. A combination comprising:a fence to be held above the ground, said fence having a top and a bottom;a fence post to be coupled to the fence by which to hold the fence in place above the ground, said fence post including:a shaft to be driven into the ground, said shaft having a top and a bottom;a first fence engaging coupler extending from the bottom of the shaft of said fence post and facing downwardly towards the ground, said first fence engaging coupler being coupled to the bottom of the fence at a first position thereof and being embedded in the ground when the shaft of said fence post is driven into the ground whereby to hold the first portion of said fence against the ground, anda second fence engaging coupler extending from the top of the shaft of said fence post and facing upwardly and away from the ground, said second fence engaging coupler being coupled to the top of the fence at a second portion thereof in order to hold the second portion of said fence up and above the ground.2. The combination recited in claim 1 , wherein said fence is a mesh fence having a plurality of holes formed therein claim 1 , the first fence engaging coupler being ...

CONTROLLING VEHICLE BRAKES

An apparatus for controlling braking of a vehicle having a plurality of brake-packs. The apparatus includes a controller configured to receive a first plurality of input values having a first scatter value; calculate an adjustment factor for each brake-pack based on the received first plurality of input values; output a control signal to cause each brake-pack of the plurality of brake-packs to be applied at a pressure based on the adjustment factor calculated for that brake-pack; and receive a second plurality of input values having a second scatter value. Each input value relates to a different one of the plurality of brake-packs. The adjustment factors are calculated such that the second scatter value is less than or equal to the first scatter value. 1. An apparatus for controlling braking of a vehicle having a plurality of brake-packs , the apparatus comprising a controller configured to:receive a first plurality of input values having a first scatter value, wherein each input value of the first plurality of input valves relates to a different one of the plurality of brake-packs;calculate an adjustment factor for each brake-pack of the plurality of brake packs based on the received first plurality of input values;output a control signal to cause each brake-pack of the plurality of brake-packs to be applied at a pressure based on the adjustment factor calculated for that brake-pack; andreceive a second plurality of input values having a second scatter value;wherein the adjustment factors are calculated such that the second scatter value is less than or equal to the first scatter value.2. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the controller is operable in a first mode in which each input value is a value of a first parameter claim 1 , and in a second mode in which each input value is a value of a second claim 1 , parameter claim 1 , different from the first parameter claim 1 , and wherein the apparatus is configured to operate the controller in either the ...

Variable buoyancy ballast and flotation unit for submerged objects or structures

A variable buoyancy float/ballast assembly has control means allowing it to sink otherwise floating objects and bring sunken objects to the surface or control their placement in the water column. The assembly can be employed to tension mooring lines, reduce vertical uploads on anchors and dampen mooring line transients.

Device for plugging the interior of a pipe

Tyre monitoring device and method

Tyre pressure sensor device

A tyre pressure sensor device (122) for a wheel (112) of an aircraft (102) is disclosed. The device (122) includes a pressure sensor (124) for measuring the internal pressure of a tyre, a temperature sensor (126) for measuring a temperature local to the tyre (116), a memory unit (131) local to the tyre for storing data, and a control unit (128) local to the tyre arranged to record in the memory unit (131) data in respect of multiple readings over time. The data recorded for each reading includes an indication of the time of the reading, the pressure as measured by the pressure sensor and the temperature as measured by the temperature sensor. Multiple successive measurements may be taken and recorded over time, both when the aircraft is on the ground and when the aircraft is in flight. Data may be uploaded to a portable handheld device (140), for example, for analysis when maintaining the tyres in their correctly inflated state.

Multiplatform management system and method for mobile devices

Systems and methods for managing multiple wireless devices are disclosed. An exemplary system includes multiple domains each having a particular type of wireless device management system and respective (application programming interface) APIs. API call modules corresponding to each domain enable accessing of the APIs exposed by each of the respective domains. A management console enables compiling of a consolidated list of devices and users from each of the device management systems into a single view. An exemplary method includes querying multiple domains to obtain user information, compiling a consolidated list of users, displaying the consolidated list in a user interface, selecting a user from the consolidated list, and submitting a command to either all or a specific domain for the selected user.

Method of monitoring the pressure of an aircraft tyre

A method of monitoring the pressure of a tyre of an aircraft, the method comprising: taking two or more pressure readings from the tyre at different times; calculating an estimated deflation rate based on the pressure readings; and calculating a time for the tyre to deflate to a reference pressure level based on the estimated deflation rate. Two or more temperature readings are each associated with one of the pressure readings, and the estimated deflation rate is calculated by normalising each pressure reading based on its associated temperature reading and a common reference temperature to obtain a temperature-normalised pressure reading, and calculating the estimated deflation rate based on the temperature-normalised pressure readings. The estimated deflation rate is compared with a threshold, and a warning provided if the estimated deflation rate exceeds the threshold.

Large dynamic range electric motor

An efficient, large dynamic range electric motor system and method of operating same, including a frame, at least a first rotor-stator pair, together having a first dynamic range, and a second rotor-stator pair, having a second dynamic range, with the first and second pairs mounted within the frame for rotation about a common central axis of an output shaft, mounted for rotation about the first axis and configured to transfer torque from the first and second pairs. A clutch is configured to isolate at least one of the first and second pairs away from the output shaft, thereby establishing an at least one isolated pair, and preventing torque transfer between the at least one isolated pair and the output shaft. A controller is connected to the first and second pairs and is configured to control power delivery to the first and second pairs.

Device for plugging the interior of a pipe

High pressure tapping apparatus.

Apparatus for plugging a pipe

An apparatus for plugging the interior of a pipe having an internal cylindrical surface, the pipe being penetrated by an access opening, the plugging device comprising: an upright tubular plugger housing having means at a lower end for attachment to a pipe in communication with an opening in the pipeline; an elongated vertical cylindrical control bar having a plugger at a lower end thereof, the plugger being operable to plug a pipe after it has been inserted through an opening into the pipe; a housing closure member secured to an upper end of said housing, the closure member having an opening therethrough sealably and slidably receiving said control bar; a jack slidably received on said control bar and having a lower end secured to said housing closure member, the control bar extending through an upper end of said jack; plugger positioning means secured to said control bar above said jack; means to operate said jack to axially advance said control bar to move said plugger into the interior of a pipe and to permit said plugger to be withdrawn from a pipe.

Automatic operation of a plurality of tyre monitoring devices

A method of checking tyre pressures using a control device having a wireless communication interface and at least one tyre monitoring device is disclosed. Each tyre monitoring device is mounted on a respective wheel of a vehicle and comprises a wireless communication interface and a pressure sensor for sensing an inflation pressure of a tyre on the respective wheel. The method comprises, at the control device: receiving an input and, responsive to the input: identifying a plurality of tyre monitoring devices within a wireless communication range of the control device, wherein the identifying comprises receiving responses from each tyre monitoring device within the wireless communication range, each response including a vehicle identifier associated with a vehicle upon which the tyre monitoring device is installed; selecting a vehicle identifier to be the subject of the request to check a tyre pressure based on the received responses; and sending a request to check tyre pressure to at least one tyre monitoring device associated with the selected vehicle identifier.

Lubricant dilution detection system

Lubricant dilution detection systems and methods are disclosed. A method for detecting lubricant dilution for a lubrication system includes detecting a shutdown event of the lubrication system. The method includes measuring lubricant pressure during the shutdown event. The method further includes determining lubricant dilution based on the measured lubricant pressure during the shutdown event. In accordance with a determination that there is lubricant dilution, the method includes outputting an indication of the lubricant dilution.

Fence post for a flexible fence

Disclosed is a fence post to be coupled to a flexible fence to hold the fence above the ground. The fence post has a shaft to be driven into the ground. A downturned lower fence engaging hook extends from the bottom of the shaft to engage the bottom of the fence. The lower fence engaging hook is embedded in the ground along with the shaft of the fence post in order to hold the bottom of the fence against the ground. The fence post also has an upturned upper fence engaging hook extending from the top of the shaft to engage the top of the fence and hold the top of the fence up and above the ground. An upturned intermediate fence engaging hook extends from the shaft of the fence post between the lower and upper fence engaging hooks to engage the middle of the fence and hold the middle up and above the ground.

Improved-efficiency submersible thruster

A submersible thruster, and methods of optimizing and using same, including selecting a motor with an efficiency of greater than 75 percent when operated at 250 rpm immersed in a pressure-resistant fluid, the motor having a drive shaft with a rotor and a stator matched to the rotor, the rotor and the stator being immersed in the pressure-resistant fluid and being separated by a gap less than or equal to 1mm. The motor is disposed in a housing to isolate the motor components from a liquid environment. A rear portion of the drive shaft extends through a low- friction shaft seal beyond the housing to drive at least one propeller within the liquid environment. Movement of the drive shaft is constrained to a radial and axial play each of less than 0.75 mm. The method further includes operating the motor at less than 50 percent of peak power, wherein said thruster operates at greater than 30 percent end-to-end thrust efficiency within the liquid environment.

Fault detection based on brake torque and temperature

The fault detection system has a controller which, for at least one break during a braking event, receives information on the braking demand requested, the amount of torque reacted by the brake, wear condition of the brake, wheel speed of a wheel associated with the brake, and maximum brake temperature during the event; the controller calculates an expected maximum temperature based on the torque, wear and wheels speed information and determines whether there is a discrepancy between the expected temperature and the measured temperature, and between the braking demand and the measured torque; the controller generates one of three different alerts if there is a discrepancy in the temperature, torque or both. A temperature discrepancy may indicate faults relating to brake components such as a ruptured brake disc or hydraulic failure; a torque discrepancy may indicate faults relating to failure or incorrect operation of sensors, a discrepancy in both temperature and torque may indicate faults relating to a torque sensor. The controller may utilise predefined temperature discrepancy thresholds, from brake calibration data, and compare measured values from several consecutive flight cycles in its determination. A claim for an aircraft with sensors and the controller, and a method for detecting and diagnosing faults with an aircraft braking system are included.

Aircraft system and method

Disclosed is a method of communicating configuration data of a tire pressure monitoring device configured to be affixed to a wheel in use. The method includes, at the tire pressure monitoring device, receiving a request to confirm configuration data, and responsive to receipt of the request to confirm configuration data, transmitting a configuration data signal which encodes the configuration data. The configuration data signal is configured to be received and understood by a human. The configuration data signal is indicative of any of an aircraft wheel location at which the tire pressure monitoring device is intended to be located, and a security code representative of security parameters of the tire pressure monitoring device.

Sensor network

Failure detection device for detecting an issue with a part of a machine

A failure detection device is disclosed. The failure detection device may receive operations data related to operations of a set of parts of a machine. The failure detection device may process the operations data using a condition-based processing technique. The condition-based processing technique may be associated with mapping initial values of data elements of the operations data to binary values based on satisfaction of a first set of conditions by the initial values. The failure detection device may detect a presence of a possible issue with the operations of the set of parts based on a second set of conditions, associated with the binary values and the initial values, being satisfied during a time period. The failure detection device may perform, after detecting the presence of the possible issue, a set of actions related to addressing the possible issue.

A butt fusion machine for manufacturing full size segmented pipe turns

A machine for use in butt fusing in axial alignment plastic pipe having a selected maximum diameter is adaptable by the use of specially designed inserts secured in the lower portions of fixed and moveable clamps, the inserts serving to elevationally raise segments of pipes to be joined when the machine is used to manufacture a segmented pipe turn. In addition to the employment of inserts providing increased height of support for pipe segments, the pivotal upper portions for the fixed and moveable clamps are replaced by specially designed upper clamp portions that have contacting surfaces configured to accept inclined and elevationally upwardly supported pipe segments. By the use of such specially designed inserts and replacement upper clamp portions a butt fusion machine can be employed to manufacture segmented pipe turns of the maximum pipe diameter for which the machine is designed.

Tire inflation optimisation

There is provided a tire inflation optimisation apparatus configured to determine an optimum inflation pressure for a tire installed on an aircraft. The apparatus comprises a memory and a controller. The memory stores information relating tire gas properties to aircraft schedule parameters and a reference pressure for the tire. The controller is configured to receive future schedule information indicative of a future flight schedule for the aircraft and to determine an optimum inflation pressure for the tire based on the received future schedule information, the stored information relating tire gas properties to aircraft schedule parameters, and the stored reference pressure.

Fence post for a flexible fence

Pipe interior plugging device

An apparatus for plugging the interior of a pipe that is penetrated by an axis opening including an upright tubular plugger housing attachable at its lower end to have communication with the interior of the pipe through the opening. An elongated vertical cylindrical control bar is provided with a plugger at its lower end, the plugger being positioned through the opening into the interior of the pipe to close against further flow of fluid through the pipe. A jack is affixed to the plugger housing upper end and telescopically receives the control bar, the jack being pivotally affixed to the housing so that the control bar, having a plugger on the lower end thereof, can be pivoted relative to the housing and thereby relative to the pipe for proper positioning of the plugger in the pipe. The jack serving to axially downwardly or upwardly advance the control bar so that a plugger can be installed or removed from a pipe, the jack providing force to expand a sealing cup on the plugging head to seal the inside of the pipe. A control bar clamp and latch are used for locking the plugger head in the plugging position.

Aircraft tire pressure monitoring system

A monitoring system, having a processor, provides pressure warnings associated with a tire of an aircraft When the aircraft is stationary, the processor operates in a maintenance mode and receives a first pressure measurement indicating a pressure of the tire; compares the first pressure measurement with a maintenance mode low pressure threshold, and causes the flight deck display to display a low pressure warning associated if the first pressure measurement is below the maintenance mode low pressure threshold. When the aircraft is in motion, the processor operates in a flight mode and receives a second pressure measurement indicating a pressure of the tire, compares the second pressure measurement with an abnormal pressure threshold which is lower than the maintenance mode low pressure threshold, and causes the flight deck display to display an abnormal pressure warning if the second pressure measurement is below the abnormal pressure threshold.

Tyre pressure monitoring devices enforcing range limitation on communication

A tyre monitoring device, tyre monitoring system and method including a wireless interface having range determining capability and a processor. The processor: receives a command via the wireless interface from a second device of the tyre monitoring system; determines a range to the second device; and executes the command if the range to the second device is less than a predetermined threshold.

Tyre pressure monitoring devices enforcing range limitation on communication

A tyre monitoring device, tyre monitoring system and method are described. In one example a tyre monitoring device comprises a wireless interface having range determining capability and a processor. The processor is configured to: receive a command via the wireless interface from a second device of the tyre monitoring system; determine a range to the second device; and execute the command if the range to the second device is less than a predetermined threshold.

Multiplatform management system and method for mobile devices

Systems and methods for managing multiple wireless devices are disclosed. An exemplary system includes multiple domains each having a particular type of wireless device management system and respective (application programming interface) APIs. API call modules corresponding to each domain enable accessing of the APIs exposed by each of the respective domains. A management console enables compiling of a consolidated list of devices and users from each of the device management systems into a single view. An exemplary method includes querying multiple domains to obtain user information, compiling a consolidated list of users, displaying the consolidated list in a user interface, selecting a user from the consolidated list, and submitting a command to either all or a specific domain for the selected user.

Systems and methods for lubricant dilution detection

Systems (100) and methods (300) for lubricant dilution detection are disclosed. A method (300) for detecting lubricant dilution for a lubrication system (14) includes detecting a low idle condition (420). The method (300) includes receiving sensed values indicative of lubricant pressure and lubricant temperature during the low idle condition (420). The method (300) also includes determining a lubricant pressure threshold (415) based on the sensed value indicative of lubricant temperature. The method (300) further includes determining lubricant dilution based on the sensed value indicative of lubricant pressure and the determined lubricant pressure threshold (415) during the low idle condition (420). In accordance with a determination that there is lubricant dilution, the method (300) includes outputting an indication of the lubricant dilution.

Indicating errors in a tyre monitoring system

Configuration mode entry for a tyre monitoring device

Methods of restricting commands for a tyre monitoring device are discussed, including a method for controlling entry into a configuration mode and a method of restricting operation based on detection of an abnormal command pattern. In one example, a method comprises, at a tyre monitoring device: receiving a configuration request from a first device, the configuration request indicating that the tyre monitoring device is to operate in a configuration mode, the configuration request provided using a first wireless communication protocol; responsive to receipt of the configuration request, initiating communication using a second wireless communication protocol; establishing successful communication using the second wireless protocol; and entering the configuration mode responsive to establishing successful communication using the second wireless communication protocol. In another example, a method of restricting the operation of a tyre monitoring device comprising a wireless communication interface comprises, at the tyre monitoring device: receiving instructions via the wireless communication interface; detecting an abnormal instruction pattern based on the received instructions; and restricting the operation of at least one component of the tyre monitoring device responsive to detecting the abnormal instruction pattern.

A method of determining a tire performance characteristic of a tire

Disclosed is a method of determining a tire performance characteristic of a tire including querying, using a processing system, a memory as to a presence of a first set of values indicative of a tire parameter of a tire in the memory, and determining, using the processing system, that the first set of values is insufficient to determine the tire performance characteristic of the tire, The method includes performing steps, using the processing system, comprising one or more of providing an indication that a second set of values indicative of the tire parameter is required to determine the tire performance characteristic of the tire, and retrieving, from the memory, a performance coefficient of the tire corresponding to performance of the tire associated with the first set of values, and determining, based on the performance coefficient, the tire performance characteristic of the tire.

Systems and methods for lubricant dilution detection

Systems (100) and methods (300) for lubricant dilution detection are disclosed. A method (300) for detecting lubricant dilution for a lubrication system (14) includes detecting a low idle condition (420). The method (300) includes receiving sensed values indicative of lubricant pressure and lubricant temperature during the low idle condition (420). The method (300) also includes determining a lubricant pressure threshold (415) based on the sensed value indicative of lubricant temperature. The method (300) further includes determining lubricant dilution based on the sensed value indicative of lubricant pressure and the determined lubricant pressure threshold (415) during the low idle condition (420). In accordance with a determination that there is lubricant dilution, the method (300) includes outputting an indication of the lubricant dilution.

Wheel assembly sensor apparatus

A sensor apparatus for measuring a property of a wheel assembly is disclosed including at least one sensor configured to acquire measurement data; and a mounting member attached to the at least one sensor. The mounting member is configured to engage with a wheel such as to retain the sensor on the wheel within an enclosed space formed by the wheel and a tire mounted on the wheel. The mounting member is further configured to enable the sensor to move around the circumference of the wheel when the mounting member is engaged with the wheel.

Tyre monitor

A tyre monitor is disclosed including a sensor device configured to operate within an enclosed space formed by the wheel and the tyre, and an energy harvester unit. The energy harvester is arranged to convert a first type of energy experienced by the harvester unit in use (e.g. mechanical energy, thermal energy) into electrical energy to energise the sensor device. The energy harvester may be, for example, a piezoelectric device or a thermoelectric generator. In use, mechanical stresses experienced by the tyre monitor are converted into electrical energy which can be used to energise the sensor as a supplement to energy from the battery within the tyre monitor, thus prolonging its service life.

Tyre monitor

It has been proposed to detect the operating pressure of a tyre by installing a tyre monitor within the tyre, together with a wireless communication interface arranged to transmit readings from the tyre monitor to an external reader. However, such a system needs to be energised by batteries, which have a limited life. The invention provides a tyre monitor (26) comprising a sensor device (12) configured to operate within an enclosed space formed by the wheel and the tyre, and an energy harvester unit (28, 29). The energy harvester is arranged to convert a first type of energy experienced by the harvester unit in use (e.g. mechanical energy, thermal energy) into electrical energy to energise the sensor device (12). The energy harvester may be, for example, a piezoelectric device or a thermoelectric generator. In use, mechanical stresses experienced by the tyre monitor are converted into electrical energy which can be used to energise the sensor as a supplement to energy from the battery (18) within the tyre monitor, thus prolonging its service life.

Aircraft system and method

A method of communicating configuration data of a tire pressure monitoring device configured to be affixed to a wheel is disclosed. The method includes, at the tire pressure monitoring device, receiving a request to confirm configuration data, and responsive to receipt of the request to confirm configuration data, transmitting a configuration data signal which encodes the configuration data. The configuration data signal is configured to be received and understood by a human.

Device and method for determining if a brake mass is sufficient to perform a rejected take off event

Aircraft braking system

An aircraft wheel and brake assembly comprises a first brake pack on the wheel (116) and a second brake pack mounted on landing gear structure adjacent to the wheel. The first brake pack is operable separately from the second brake pack and can by itself provide braking and dissipate energy at a first level. The first and second brake packs are also operable together to provide braking and dissipate energy at a second, higher, level. Thus, in use, there may be braking in response to a maximum energy rejected take-off requiring the use of both the first brake pack and the second brake pack together, whereas at other times, only the first brake pack need be used. This may have maintenance benefits, for example requiring less frequent maintenance and less frequent replacement of the second brake pack.

Tyre monitoring device and method

A tire monitoring device configured to be mounted on a wheel and including: a pressure sensor for sensing an inflation pressure of a tire on the wheel; a wireless communication interface configured to receive data indicative of a command to indicate tire pressure, wherein the wireless communication interface is configured to communicate with at least one other tire monitoring device; a storage storing a predetermined pressure value; an indicator configured to provide a first indication and a second indication, wherein the first indication is different from the second indication; and a processing system configured to operate the indicator to provide the first indication or the second indication responsive to receipt of the command to indicate tire pressure, and based at least in part on the inflation pressure and the predetermined pressure value.

Aircraft system and method

A computer-implemented method of aircraft tire maintenance comprises: receiving (502) data of a plurality of pressure and temperature measurements, each of the plurality of pressure and temperature measurements having an associated time stamp; determining (504) stable points in the plurality of pressure and temperature measurements; and using the stable points for determining (510) tire maintenance. A computer readable medium with instructions to implement the method and a processing system to implement the method are also disclosed.

Aircraft braking

Disclosed is a braking system and a method for applying one or more aircraft wheel brakes according to at least one of a plurality of wheel brake control functions. The method comprises: receiving an indication of an aircraft speed from an aircraft speed indicator; receiving a brake temperature characteristic from a brake temperature characteristic indicator; controlling a wheel braking operation of the aircraft according to at least a first wheel brake control function if the aircraft speed indicated by the aircraft speed indicator exceeds a speed threshold; selecting a thermal oxidation function as a second wheel brake control function is a brake temperature characteristic meets a thermal oxidation criterion; and controlling the wheel braking operation of the aircraft according to at least a second wheel brake control function if the aircraft speed does not exceed the speed threshold. Also disclosed is an aircraft comprising one or more aircraft wheel brakes and the disclosed braking system.

Aircraft braking

A tire performance monitoring system

Disclosed is a tire performance monitoring system including a tire monitoring device configured to obtain, over a time period, a plurality of values indicative of a tire parameter of a tire. The tire monitoring device includes a local memory configured to store a performance coefficient corresponding to performance of the tire. The tire performance monitoring system includes a processing system configured to determine a tire performance characteristic based on the second plurality of values and the performance coefficient.

A method of determining a tire performance characteristic of a tire

Disclosed is a method of determining a tire performance characteristic of a tire. The method includes obtaining, using a processing system, a performance coefficient of the tire corresponding to performance of the tire during a first time period, wherein the performance coefficient is based on a first plurality of values indicative of a tire parameter over the first time period. The method includes obtaining a second plurality of values indicative of the tire parameter over a second time period, and determining, based on the second plurality of values and the performance coefficient, the tire performance characteristic.

Method of checking the pressure of an aircraft tyre

Synchronising a plurality of aircraft tire monitoring devices

A method of synchronising a plurality of aircraft tire monitoring devices, wherein the method includes providing a synchronisation signal, and synchronising the plurality of aircraft tire monitoring devices such that each of the plurality of aircraft tire monitoring devices is available to connect to a remote device in a same time interval.

Large dynamic range electric motor

An efficient, large dynamic range electric motor system and method of operating same, including a frame, at least a first rotor-stator pair, together having a first dynamic range, and a second rotor-stator pair, having a second dynamic range, with the first and second pairs mounted within the frame for rotation about a common central axis of an output shaft, mounted for rotation about the first axis and configured to transfer torque from the first and second pairs. A clutch is configured to isolate at least one of the first and second pairs away from the output shaft, thereby establishing an at least one isolated pair, and preventing torque transfer between the at least one isolated pair and the output shaft. A controller is connected to the first and second pairs and is configured to control power delivery to the first and second pairs.

Distributing data between devices

A method of copying data from a first device to a second device, each device comprising a wireless communication interfaces having a maximum range, is disclosed. The first device and the second device are separated by a distance greater than the maximum range. The method comprises: transmitting, by the first device, the data to a third device positioned within the maximum range of the first device; receiving the data at the third device and storing the data in a memory of the third device; moving the third device to a physical location within the maximum range of the second device; and transmitting, by the third device, the data to the second device.

Systems and methods for lubricant dilution detection

Systems (100) and methods (300) for lubricant dilution detection are disclosed. A method (300) for detecting lubricant dilution for a lubrication system (14) includes detecting a low idle condition (420). The method (300) includes receiving sensed values indicative of lubricant pressure and lubricant temperature during the low idle condition (420). The method (300) also includes determining a lubricant pressure threshold (415) based on the sensed value indicative of lubricant temperature. The method (300) further includes determining lubricant dilution based on the sensed value indicative of lubricant pressure and the determined lubricant pressure threshold (415) during the low idle condition (420). In accordance with a determination that there is lubricant dilution, the method (300) includes outputting an indication of the lubricant dilution.

System zur erkennung von schmiermittelverdünnung

Systeme und Verfahren zur Erkennung von Schmiermittelverdünnungen sind offenbart. Ein Verfahren (300) zum Erfassen einer Schmiermittelverdünnung für ein Schmiersystem (14) beinhaltet das Erkennen eines Abschaltvorgangs des Schmiersystems (14). Das Verfahren beinhaltet das Messen des Schmiermitteldrucks während des Abschaltvorgangs. Das Verfahren beinhaltet ferner das Ermitteln der Schmiermittelverdünnung basierend auf dem gemessenen Schmiermitteldruck während des Abschaltvorgangs. Gemäß einer Ermittlung, dass eine Schmiermittelverdünnung vorliegt, beinhaltet das Verfahren das Ausgeben einer Angabe über die Schmiermittelverdünnung.

Systems and methods for processing aircraft sensor data

Disclosed is a system including an aircraft (12), and a computing system remote from the aircraft (12). The aircraft (12) includes a sensor (18), an aircraft component (16) associated with the sensor (18), a first transmitter (20), and a first receiver (22). The computing system includes one or more processors, a second transmitter (38), and a second receiver (34). The aircraft (12) is configured to transmit, via the first transmitter (20), sensor data (26) sensed by the sensor (18), to the computing system, and the computing system is configured to receive, via the second receiver (34), sensor data (26) transmitted from the aircraft (12). The computing system is configured to process using the one or more processors, the received sensor data (26) to generate status data (28) indicative of an operational mode of the aircraft component (16), and to transmit, when the status data (28) is indicative of an altered operational mode of the aircraft component (16), the status data (28) to the aircraft (12) via the second transmitter (38). The aircraft (12) is configured to indicate, based at least partially on the status data (28) received by the first receiver (22), the altered operational mode of the aircraft component (16).

Method of monitoring the pressure of an aircraft tire

A method of monitoring the pressure of a tire of an aircraft is disclosed including taking two or more pressure readings from the tire at different times; calculating an estimated deflation rate based on the pressure readings; and calculating a time for the tire to deflate to a reference pressure level based on the estimated deflation rate. Two or more temperature readings are each associated with one of the pressure readings, and the estimated deflation rate is calculated by normalising each pressure reading based on its associated temperature reading and a common reference temperature to obtain a temperature-normalised pressure reading, and calculating the estimated deflation rate based on the temperature-normalised pressure readings. The estimated deflation rate is compared with a threshold, and a warning provided if the estimated deflation rate exceeds the threshold.

Landing gear load sensing apparatus and methods

A sensor carrier 220 is provided for use within an axle 215 of an aircraft landing gear assembly. The carrier includes a first coupling 225 for coupling the carrier to a first location of the axle, and a second coupling 227 for coupling the carrier to a second location of the axle which is axially spaced apart from the first location. At least one sensor 230 is arranged to detect strain occurring between the first and second coupling of the carrier. The carrier may further include a third coupling 245 for coupling the sensor to a third location of the axle, axially spaced apart from the first and second locations, and at least one further sensor arranged to detect strain occurring between the second and third locations. The second location may correspond to a connection between the axle and the landing gear leg 210. The carrier may be constructed of composite material.