Adaptive Sensors for Aircraft Operational Monitoring
Miguel Morales, David Haas · 2004
An advanced algorithm capable of executing the extraction, categorization and fusion of aircraft sensor data to achieve improvements in sensor capabilities has been developed. Integration of this strategy with standard sensors results in an adaptive sensor capable of improving its functionality with time. The first of these adaptive sensors is currently undergoing developmental flight testing onboard several Navy SH-60 helicopters. Its function is to determine aircraft gross weight during steady hover conditions. This study describes the methodology necessary for the development of an adaptive sensor and its implementation, as well as the value of the adaptation process. Results from the aircraft gross weight adaptive sensor are evaluated using forty two validation flights originating from three distinct aircraft. Application of this technology to other aircraft systems is also discussed.