Project number
25004
Organization
Rightfooted Foundation, supported by the Craig M Berge Dean's Community Fund
Offering
ENGR498-F2024-S2025
In aircraft with multiple fuel tanks, pilots must regularly switch between tanks to maintain balance and prevent fuel starvation. However, pilots with disabilities are often unable to operate the fuel selector handle in its current design. The team worked with Jessica Cox, an armless pilot, to create a custom redesign that accommodates her needs. Additionally, the team integrated additional automated systems that allow her to focus on other critical flight tasks while ensuring proper fuel control.
The redesigned system consists of four primary functions: an automated fuel selection, an electronic override, a redesigned fuel selector handle, and a means of error detection. The pilot can enable automatic fuel switching as desired. When activated, the system automatically switches between tanks every 30 minutes. An electronic override allows the pilot to manually change the valve’s position with the push of a button. Cox can use the redesigned handle to move the valve without electronics. It is ergonomically optimized for Cox while remaining accessible to a nondisabled copilot. Finally, error detection alerts the pilot or copilot of any system issues using a display and light-emitting diodes that offer constant visual feedback. This project was specific to Cox, but the results enhance flight safety, reduce pilot workload, and ensure accessibility for all pilots regardless of physical ability.
The redesigned system consists of four primary functions: an automated fuel selection, an electronic override, a redesigned fuel selector handle, and a means of error detection. The pilot can enable automatic fuel switching as desired. When activated, the system automatically switches between tanks every 30 minutes. An electronic override allows the pilot to manually change the valve’s position with the push of a button. Cox can use the redesigned handle to move the valve without electronics. It is ergonomically optimized for Cox while remaining accessible to a nondisabled copilot. Finally, error detection alerts the pilot or copilot of any system issues using a display and light-emitting diodes that offer constant visual feedback. This project was specific to Cox, but the results enhance flight safety, reduce pilot workload, and ensure accessibility for all pilots regardless of physical ability.