A pyramid skewed axis sensor set for multiplex flight control systems

Abstract

In order to meet the 'two defect survival' capability in future full-time flight control systems, one approach is to use four identical sensors in each axis, giving a total of twelve for a three-axis system. An alternative eight Sensor Pyramid Arrangement has been developed which offers a similar 'two defect survival' capability in all three axes leading to reduced cost and maintenance effort but with slightly larger transients following failure of a sensor. The pyramid arrangement can also be used for 'fail safe' systems reducing the number of sensors from six to four, or alternatively for a twelve gyro, 'four defect survival' configuration.