Automatic brake selection interface, and method for automatic brake selection

Abstract

An automatic brake selection interface for an aircraft includes a user-selectable display mounted in the cockpit. The display includes automatic brake selection options and braking information. The automatic brake selection options include at least one of an automatic brake off option, an aborted takeoff (RTO) option, a constant deceleration option, and a runway exit and takeoff selection option. The braking information includes at least one of an estimated brake temperature, an estimated brake cooldown time, and an estimated landing distance.The automatic brake selection interface also includes a braking parameter determinator configured to determine at least one of the estimated brake temperature and the estimated landing distance according to the user's selection of automatic brake selection options.

Description

AUTOMATIC BRAKE SELECTION INTERFACE, AND METHOD FOR AUTOMATIC BRAKE SELECTION Fundamentals of Information Field:

[001] The present invention generally relates to aircraft braking systems and, more specifically, to systems, methods, and interfaces of automatic aircraft braking systems for activating the automatic aircraft braking system. Fundamentals:

[002] Many commercial aircraft come equipped with a feature called an automatic brake. An automatic brake is a type of wheel-based automatic braking system, typically activated during takeoff and landing procedures. Upon landing, the automatic brake can help free the pilot to allow monitoring of other systems. There are usually several settings for the deceleration rate. The selection of these settings is normally made on the aircraft's instrument panel before landing. The selection mechanism is typically a manual dial located in the cockpit.

[003] A manual marker has many disadvantages, such as taking up space in the cockpit. In addition, the pilot must spend time accessing the runway and aircraft conditions in order to determine the appropriate automatic brake setting. SUMMARY

[004] In an illustrative embodiment, an automatic brake selection interface for an aircraft is provided. The automatic brake selection interface includes a user-selectable display mounted in the cockpit. The display includes automatic brake selection options and braking information. The automatic brake selection options include at least one automatic brake off option, an option to Petition 870250036897, dated 07 / 05 / 2025, page 21 / 70 / 26 aborted takeoff (RTO), a constant deceleration option, and a runway exit and takeoff selection option. Braking information includes at least one of an estimated brake temperature, an estimated brake cooldown time, and an estimated landing roll-off distance. The automatic brake selection interface also includes a braking parameter determiner configured to determine at least one of the estimated brake temperature and the estimated landing distance according to the user's selection of the automatic brake selection options.

[005] In another illustrative embodiment, a method for selecting automatic brakes in an aircraft is provided. The method includes displaying an automatic brake selection interface comprising a constant deceleration option and a runway exit option. The method also includes displaying one of a constant deceleration selection menu and a runway exit menu response to user input in the automatic brake selection interface. The method also includes adjusting a brake parameter according to the user's selection of one of a constant deceleration setting and a runway exit number.

[006] In yet another illustrative embodiment, a computer for automatic brake selection in an aircraft is provided. The computer includes a processor and a computer-readable, non-transient storage medium storing program code which, when executed by the processor, performs a computer-implemented method of automatic brake selection in an aircraft. The program code includes program code for displaying an automatic brake selection interface comprising a constant deceleration option and a runway exit option. The program code also includes program code for displaying one of a deceleration selection menu. Petition 870250036897, dated 07 / 05 / 2025, page 22 / 70 / 26 constant and a runway exit menu response to user input in the automatic brake selection interface. The program code also includes program code to regulate a brake parameter according to the user selection of one of a constant deceleration setting and a runway exit number.

[007] The features and functions can be obtained independently in various embodiments of the present invention or can be combined in still other embodiments, in which additional details can be seen with reference to the following description and the following drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[008] The new features believed to be characteristic of the illustrative embodiments are displayed in the appended claims. The illustrative embodiments, however, as well as a preferred mode of use, other purposes and characteristics thereof, will be better understood by reference to the following detailed description of an illustrative embodiment of the present invention, when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 is an illustration of an aircraft, in which an illustrative embodiment can be implemented; Figure 2 is an illustration of an automatic braking system according to an illustrative embodiment; Figure 3 is an illustration of an enhanced automatic braking interface according to an illustrative embodiment; Figure 4 is an illustration of an enhanced automatic brake interface with the automatic brake disengaged according to an illustrative embodiment; Figure 5 is an illustration of an improved automatic braking interface in constant deceleration mode according to Petition 870250036897, dated 07 / 05 / 2025, page 23 / 70 / 26 an illustrative example; Figure 6 is an illustration of an improved automatic braking interface in a runway exit and takeoff selection mode according to an illustrative embodiment; Figure 7 is an illustration of an improved method for automatic brake selection according to an illustrative embodiment; Figure 8 is an illustration of an improved automatic braking method for determining and displaying brake temperatures and estimated cooling time for brakes according to an illustrative embodiment; Figure 9 is an illustration of a block diagram of a data processing system according to an illustrative embodiment; Figure 10 is an illustration of an aircraft manufacturing and service method in the form of a block diagram according to an illustrative embodiment; and Figure 11 is an illustration of an aircraft in the form of a block diagram, in which an illustrative embodiment can be implemented. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[009] The different illustrative embodiments acknowledge and take into account one or more different considerations. For example, the illustrative embodiments acknowledge and take into account that current automatic braking systems occupy significant space in the cockpit and require a considerable amount of cabling. The illustrative embodiments acknowledge and take into account that current automatic braking systems require the pilot to perform a number of calculations in determining which settings to select on the automatic brake. The illustrative embodiments acknowledge and take into account that performing these calculations adds workload to the pilot, possibly during landing. Petition 870250036897, dated 07 / 05 / 2025, page 24 / 70 / 26

[0010] The embodiments of the enhanced automatic braking system, as described, provide an on-screen automatic braking interface, thereby removing mechanical and cabling features from the cockpit. Furthermore, the embodiments of the enhanced automatic braking system, as described, automatically calculate the braking settings necessary to bring an aircraft to an appropriate speed for exiting the runway at a runway exit selected by the pilot. The selection of an automatic braking option using the described automatic braking interface and screen can be made before or during flight. The illustrative embodiments of the present invention automate the automatic braking calculations, thereby reducing the crew's workload.

[0011] With reference now to the figures and, in particular, with reference to figure 1, an illustration of an aircraft is represented, in which an illustrative embodiment can be implemented. In this illustrative example, aircraft 100 has wing 102 and wing 104, connected to body 106. Aircraft 100 includes engine 108, connected to wing 102, and engine 110, connected to wing 104.

[0012] Body 106 has tail section 112. Horizontal stabilizer 114, horizontal stabilizer 116, and vertical stabilizer 118 are connected to tail section 112 of body 106. Aircraft 100 is an example of an aircraft in which the improved, exposed automatic braking system can be implemented.

[0013] When used here, the phrase “at least one of,” when used with a list of items, means different combinations of one or more of the listed items may be used, and only one of each item in the list may be required. In other words, “at least one of” means any combination of items and any number of items may be used from the list, but not all of the items in the list are required. The item may be a particular object, a feature, or a category. Petition 870250036897, dated 07 / 05 / 2025, page 25 / 70 / 26

[0014] For example, “at least one of item A, item B, or item C” may include, without limitation, item A, item A and item B, or item B. This example may also include item A, item B, and item C or item B and item C. Naturally, any combination of these items may be present. In other examples, “at least one of” may be, for example, without limitation, two of item A; one of item B; and ten of item C; four of item B and seven of item C; or other appropriate combinations.

[0015] This illustration of aircraft 100 is provided for the purpose of illustrating an environment in which the different illustrative modalities can be implemented. The illustration of aircraft 100 in Figure 1 is not understood to imply architectural limitations to the manner in which the different illustrative modalities can be implemented. For example, aircraft 100 is shown as a commercial passenger aircraft. The different illustrative modalities can be applied to other types of aircraft, such as a private passenger aircraft, a helicopter, or other appropriate types of aircraft.

[0016] Returning now to Figure 2, a block diagram of the automatic brake system 200 is represented according to an illustrative embodiment. The automatic brake system 200 includes the user-selectable display 202 and brake parameter determinator 236. The user-selectable display 202 is configured to present automatic brake selection options and braking information to the rider. The user-selectable display 202 includes the brake temperature display 204, which displays the current brake temperature and / or the estimated brake temperature after applying the user selection of braking options. The user-selectable display 202 also includes the estimated cool-down time display 206, which shows the rider the estimated cool-down time of the brakes if the current braking option selections are used.

[0017] The user-selectable screen 202 also includes options for Petition 870250036897, dated 07 / 05 / 2025, page 26 / 70 / 26 automatic brake selection 208. Automatic brake selection options 208 provide the pilot with a plurality of options for automatic braking. The options include off 210, constant deceleration 212, runway departure and takeoff 224, and RTO 234.

[0018] Constant deceleration 212, when selected, provides the pilot with a plurality of constant deceleration brake settings, depending on how quickly the pilot wishes to decelerate the aircraft. Options include option 1 214, option 2 216, option 3 218, option 4 220, and max braking 222. In other modes, more or fewer brake options are presented to the pilot. Each constant deceleration option 214, 216, 218, 220, 222 corresponds to a different braking level. In an alternative mode, the selection options are presented to the pilot on an on-screen cursor to provide a virtually unlimited number of deceleration settings (i.e., a continuous set of values ​​for the deceleration setting). In other modes, fewer brake options are provided to the pilot.

[0019] Runway exit 224, when selected, provides a plurality of exits including exit 1 226, exit 2 228, exit 3 230, and exit 4 232. Each exit corresponds to a different runway exit at the selected airport. The number of options corresponds to the number or number of runway exits for a particular runway at a particular airport. Once an option is selected, the brake parameters are determined and adjusted to ensure that the aircraft is decelerated sufficiently for the aircraft to exit at the selected runway exit.

[0020] Runway departure options 226, 228, 230, 232, which are unavailable because the aircraft is, for example, too far from the beginning of the runway, moving from Petition 870250036897, dated 07 / 05 / 2025, page 27 / 70 / 26 excessively fast, etc. are shown to the pilot, but are not selectable. In one mode, the color, clarity, or other characteristic, or indication of those unavailable from exit options 226, 228, 230, 232 are modified to be different from the same characteristic of those selectable from exit options 226, 228, 230, 232. Providing the pilot with an option to select the desired exit frees the pilot from making braking calculations and therefore frees him to direct his attention to another of a multitude of factors that require the pilot's attention during landing.

[0021] Brake parameter determinator 236 controls the characteristics displayed on the user-selectable screen 202 and responds to pilot selection to modify the user-selectable screen 202. Brake parameter determinator 236 also determines brake parameters 238 that correspond to pilot input. Brake parameter determinator 236 determines brake parameter settings according to user selection input 240, received from the user-selectable screen 202, and according to other factors. Other factors may include one or more aerodrome data 242 and observable aircraft operating factors 258. Aerodrome data 242 includes runway lengths 244, runway exit locations 246, and runway conditions 248 (e.g., wet, dry, icy, etc.).), and local weather 250, such as, for example, wind, which can alter the aircraft's approach speed. Aerodrome data may also include other data, such as, for example, aerodrome altitude. The observable aircraft operating factors 258 include aircraft speed 260, brake temperatures 262, and tire pressure 264. The observable aircraft operating factors 258 may include other information, such as, for example, aircraft altitude and brake failure, which may be taken into account for stopping performance. The brake parameter determinator 236 also determines. Petition 870250036897, dated 07 / 05 / 2025, page 28 / 70 / 26 estimated parameters 252 based on pilot selections, aerodrome data 242, observable aircraft operating factors 258, and / or other information. Estimated parameters 252 include estimated brake temperature 254, estimated cooling time 255 for the brakes, and estimated landing distance 256 for pilot brake selections.

[0022] Returning now to Figure 3, an illustration of an enhanced automatic brake interface is represented according to an illustrative embodiment. In one embodiment, the enhanced automatic brake interface 300 is a touch screen, which both displays information and receives user input through touch at various locations on the screen. In other embodiments, the enhanced automatic brake interface 300 may be other types of displays that utilize different input methods, such as a pointer and a “mouse”, to allow the pilot to select various options. The interface 300 includes brake temperature display 302, selected automatic brake indicator 304, automatic brake selection interface 306, estimated landing distance display 314, and information display screen 316, which is expandable and retractable. The selected automatic brake indicator 304 shows the pilot the selection the pilot has made.In the example shown, the pilot selected the aborted takeoff (RTO) option. The options provided to the pilot in this example, on the automatic brake selection interface 308, include off 308, specific constant deceleration 310, and RTO 312. The selected RTO 312 option is also displayed in a way that is different from the other unselected options off 308 and specific constant deceleration 310.

[0023] In one mode, the enhanced automatic brake interface 300 is continuously displayed in, for example, the brake / door menu presented to the rider. The enhanced automatic brake interface 300 allows the rider to select a system function: off Petition 870250036897, dated 07 / 05 / 2025, page 29 / 70 / 26 308, specific constant deceleration 310 (legacy automatic brake settings), takeoff interrupted (RTO) 312, or brake for departure function (BTE). During the first taxi and takeoff, the RTO setting 312 is available and the runway exit and takeoff is not available or displayed. The runway exit and takeoff is available during descent and RTO 312 is not available, as described below and shown in Figure 6. The selected RTO function 312 will appear, for example, in green. The default selected setting for takeoff will be RTO 312 with the ability to select off 308 (or specific constant deceleration 310 under certain circumstances, mainly for testing purposes). On takeoff, the automatic brake function switches to off 308 automatically. The default setting for descent will be off 308.If aerodrome data 242 is not available for runway exits 224, then 224 will not be selectable.

[0024] When selecting either the specific constant deceleration or runway exit, the respective selection menu will appear. The improved automatic braking interface for constant deceleration is shown in Figure 5 and described in more detail below. The improved automatic braking interface for a runway exit is shown in Figure 6 and also described in more detail below. Available outputs / settings for selection will appear, for example, in white letters. Available but not recommended outputs / settings (high brake temperature monitoring system (BTMS), etc.) will have, for example, amber letters. Outputs / settings that are unavailable for selection (e.g., deceleration above AB4) will appear, for example, in gray letters. The selected output will appear, for example, in green.In one mode, for runway exits, if there are more than 5 exits on the listed runway, the movement bar will appear on the right. Petition 870250036897, dated 07 / 05 / 2025, page 30 / 70 / 26

[0025] The Brake Temperature Display 302 shows the pre-set brake temperature of the selected landing gear setting as well as the estimated cooling time for the brake system. The cooling time is the time after which the aircraft can subsequently be safely dispatched. If any BTMS is above 5, it is displayed in amber. These BTMS ratings update in real time.

[0026] The Estimated Landing Distance display 314 shows the estimated landing distance of the selected setting based on deceleration, runway and takeoff conditions, given inputs, etc. The landing distance is the distance to decelerate to 0, or other values, from, for example, the nominal touchdown point on the runway or the distance to the exit. The landing distance will be updated in real time. By updating the landing distance in real time, the current touchdown point on the runway can be considered for, and entered into, various calculations, when available, such as runway exits, etc. The stopping point is represented by, in one mode, a “football” icon or other indicator on the navigation screen and the HUD (Head-Up Display), which will also be updated in real time.

[0027] The default display screen for information 316 will be the “suppressed” mode. If all necessary inputs are given, the information display letters will be green. Otherwise, they will be gray. When the information display is expanded, the runway and takeoff distance and the maximum landing distance are displayed at the top. (These are shown in Figures 5 and 6). Selecting the viewing scale at the bottom allows the pilot to view the setting on either a brake high temperature monitoring system (BTMS) scale or a landing position scale. If the constant deceleration function is selected in the automatic brake selection menu 306, the automatic brake settings Petition 870250036897, dated 07 / 05 / 2025, page 31 / 70 / 26 of legacy are shown on a graphically representative scale. If the runway exit is selected, the runway exits are displayed. The diamond of the selected exit is green. In one mode, the settings are precisely scaled graphically in relation to either the landing distance or the BTMS. This is not a selection menu, but provides important information that allows the pilot to make an informed decision and verify their selection. The scale itself is automatically scaled. In one mode, for the landing distance, it is automatically scaled by 0.30 meters (1,000 feet) from the nearest 0.30 meters (1,000 feet) above the longest setting to the next 0.30 meters (1,000 feet) below the shortest setting. Similarly, in one embodiment, the BTMS is scaled across the full range of 0.0 - 9.9 BTMS.

[0028] Returning now to Figure 4, an illustration of an improved automatic brake interface with automatic brake off is represented according to an illustrative embodiment. Interface 400 is similar to interface 300 represented in Figure 3. However, the automatic brake selection menu 406 is different from the automatic brake selection menu 306. Also, in this example, the pilot has selected automatic brake off, as indicated by the selected automatic brake indicator 304 and also by the selected option “off” 308 being displayed in a different way from at least one of the unselected options 310, 412.

[0029] Returning now to Figure 5, an illustration of an improved automatic brake interface in constant deceleration mode is represented according to an illustrative embodiment. In this example, the pilot has selected the constant deceleration option 310, as indicated by the different appearance of the constant deceleration option 310 compared to other setting options 308, 412 and, as shown, in the selected automatic brake indicator 304 displaying “constant deceleration: 3” indicating Petition 870250036897, dated 07 / 05 / 2025, page 32 / 70 / 26, states that setting “3” of the “constant deceleration” setting was selected. This causes the constant deceleration selection menu 522 to be displayed. The constant deceleration selection menu 522 includes options “1” 524, “2” 526, “3” 528, “4” 530, and “MAX” 532. In the example shown, “MAX” 532 is displayed in a way, such as in amber, to indicate that it is not recommended. The selected option, “3” 528, is displayed in a way, such as in green, to indicate that the pilot made this selection.

[0030] Brake temperature display 302 shows the estimated brake temperatures for left landing gear 506 and right landing gear 508, as well as estimated cooldown time 510. The brake temperatures in this example are displayed as 2.7 for left landing gear 506 and 5.2 for right landing gear 508. In the example shown, the brake temperatures are displayed on a scale, where any value of 5 or higher is also considered hot. Thus, the correct brake temperature is estimated to be 5.2 using the pilot's selections. This is displayed in a way, for example, with amber color, to indicate that it is not recommended or is outside the recommended range.

[0031] In the example shown, the estimated cooling time for brakes 510 is 52 minutes. This is the time for the brakes to cool down within an acceptable safety range for the subsequent dispatch and allows the dispatcher and pilot to know how long the aircraft should wait before the next departure. Several cues can be used to differentiate between available options, selected options, and unavailable options for various menus. The various cues may include, for example, different colors, different shades, use of different text formatting, such as bold or italic text, hatching, flashing indicators, etc. in order to differentiate between available options, selected options, and unavailable options. Petition 870250036897, dated 07 / 05 / 2025, page 33 / 70 / 26

[0032] In interface 500, information display 316 has been expanded to show a representation of the runway 538 with the diamond 540, 542, 544, 546, 548 representing the estimated landing distances for the various constant deceleration selections. Since, in this example, the pilot has selected option “3” 528, the diamond corresponding to setting “3” 544 is displayed in a way, such as in green, to indicate that this is the estimated landing distance for the pilot's selections. The representation of the runway 538 can be shown in terms of landing distance by selecting the landing distance option 550 or in BTMS by selecting the BTMS option 552. In the example shown, the BTMS option 552 has been selected and can be indicated to the pilot by displaying it in, for example, a green color.

[0033] Returning now to Figure 6, an illustration of an improved automatic brake interface in a runway exit selection mode is represented according to an illustrative embodiment. In this example, the pilot has selected runway exit selection option 412. Thus, runway exit selection menu 622 is displayed. Also, automatic brake indicator 304 shows “E RWY exit” indicating the pilot’s selection. The runway exit menu 622 has options 626, 628, 630, 632, 634, 636, 640 for the various runway exits on the designated runway. Because there are more runway exits than can comfortably be displayed, the 624 scroll bar is provided to allow the pilot to choose between the various runway exit options.In one mode, exit options 626, 628, 630, 632, and 636 are displayed in a way that distinguishes them from exit options 634 and 640, which are not available for selection by the pilot. For example, available options are displayed in white text, and unavailable options are displayed in gray text. In the example... Petition 870250036897, dated 07 / 05 / 2025, page 34 / 70 / 26 represented, the exit option E 630 was selected. The selected runway exit option E 630 is displayed in a way that distinguishes it from other runway exit options 626, 628, 632, 634, 636, 640. For example, the selected runway exit option may be displayed in green text.

[0034] In the example shown, information display 316 has been omitted. The estimated landing distance for pilot braking selection is provided in the estimated landing distance display 314. In the example shown, the estimated landing distance is 4,567 feet or 1,392 meters. In one mode, the estimated landing distance is provided in both feet and meters, but in other modes, the distance may only be provided in one unit of measurement.

[0035] The pre-set brake temperatures for the selected runway exit and takeoff option are displayed in the brake temperature display 302. In the example shown, the left landing gear 506 brake temperature is 2.7, and the right landing gear 508 brake temperature is 3.2. Since all temperatures are within the maximum brake limit temperature, the temperatures for landing gear 506 and 508 are displayed in, for example, white text. The estimated cooldown time 510 for the brakes for the pilot selection is shown as 18 minutes.

[0036] Returning now to Figure 7, an illustration of an improved automatic braking method for brake selection is represented according to an illustrative embodiment. Method 700 is an example of a method that can run on system 200 and utilize interface 300, 400, 500, 600. Method 700 begins by presenting a user interface with automatic brake selection options (step 702) to a user. In one embodiment, the options include off, RTO, constant deceleration, and runway exit and takeoff selection. Then, the input of Petition 870250036897, dated 07 / 05 / 2025, page 35 / 70 / 26. User automatic brake is received (step 704). Then, method 700 determines if automatic brake off was selected (step 705). If automatic brake off was selected, then method 700 returns to step 702. If automatic brake off was not selected, then method 700 determines the input selection (step 706). If the user selects RTO, then method 700 adjusts the brake parameters for RTO (step 708), after which method 700 terminates.

[0037] If, in step 706, the selection type is constant deceleration, then method 700 presents the user with an interface for the constant deceleration options (step 710). Method 700 then receives the user's selection of a constant deceleration value (step 712). Method 700 then determines the brake parameters to effect the constant deceleration value selected by the user (step 714). Next, the brake settings are adjusted according to the determined brake parameters (step 716), after which method 700 terminates.

[0038] If, in step 706, the input selection is determined to be the runway exit option, method 700 determines the available runway exits (step 718). Then, method 700 presents an interface for selecting the runway exit (step 720). Runway exits that are unavailable due to, for example, the aircraft's current speed and its location relative to the runway exit, are not selectable and are displayed in a way that indicates this. Next, method 700 receives the user's selection of the runway exit (step 722). Method 700 then determines the braking parameters that will decelerate the aircraft to the appropriate speed for runway exit at the user-selected runway exit (step 724).Method 700 then adjusts the brake setting according to the determined brake parameters (step 726), after which, method 700. Petition 870250036897, dated 07 / 05 / 2025, page 36 / 70 / 26 ends.

[0039] Returning now to Figure 8, an illustration of an improved automatic braking method for determining and displaying estimated brake temperatures and estimated cooling time for the brakes is represented according to an illustrative embodiment. Method 800 begins by measuring the current brake temperatures (step 802). Next, method 800 receives user input for braking options (step 804). Braking options can be selected according to method 800 and automatic braking system 200 using one of the interfaces 300, 400, 500, 600. Method 800 then estimates the brake temperature for the designed landing and taxiing roll (step 805). Next, method 800 determines the estimated brake cooling time according to the estimated brake temperatures and selected braking options (step 806).After determining the estimated cooling time, method 800 presents the estimated cooling time and projected brake temperatures to the user (step 808) through, for example, one of the 300, 400, 500, or 600 interfaces, after which method 800 terminates. The estimated brake cooling time provides a minimum time the aircraft must wait before attempting to take off again. Therefore, if the estimated cooling time is longer than the user desires, the user can adjust the braking selections to decrease the estimated cooling time and / or use other aircraft deceleration devices, such as thrust reversers.

[0040] Returning now to Figure 9, an illustration of a block diagram of a data processing system is represented according to an illustrative embodiment. The data processing system 900 can be used to implement portions of the automatic braking system 208 of Figure 2, the user-selectable screen 202, or the brake parameter determinator 204. As represented, the system of Petition 870250036897, dated 07 / 05 / 2025, page 37 / 70 / 26 data processing 900 includes the communications structure 902, which provides communications between the processor unit 904, storage devices 906, communications unit 908, input / output unit 910, and the screen 912. In some cases, the communications structure 902 can be implemented as a digital bus system.

[0041] The 904 processor unit is configured to execute instructions for software to perform a number of operations. The 904 processor unit may comprise a number of processors, a multiprocessor core, and / or some other type of processor, depending on the implementation. In some cases, the 904 processor unit may take the form of a hardware unit, such as a circuit system, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a programmable logic device, or some other appropriate type of hardware unit.

[0042] Instructions for the operating system, applications, and / or programs run by the processor unit 904 may be located on storage devices 906. Storage devices 906 may be in communication with the processor unit 904 via the communications structure 902. When used herein, a storage device, also referred to as a computer-readable storage device, is any piece of hardware capable of storing information on a temporary and / or permanent basis. This information may include, but is not limited to, data, program code, and / or other information.

[0043] Memory 914 and persistent storage 916 are examples of storage devices 906. Memory 914 can take the form of, for example, random access memory or some type of volatile or non-volatile storage device. Persistent storage 916 can comprise any number of components or devices. For example, persistent storage 916 Petition 870250036897, dated 07 / 05 / 2025, page 38 / 70 / 26 may comprise a hard disk drive, a flash memory, a rewritable optical disc, a rewritable magnetic tape, or some combination thereof. The media used for persistent storage 916 may or may not be removable.

[0044] Communications unit 908 enables data processing system 900 to communicate with other data processing systems and / or devices. Communications unit 908 can provide communications using physical and / or wireless communication links.

[0045] The input / output unit 910 allows input to be received from, and output to be sent to, other devices connected to the data processing system 900. For example, the input / output unit 910 may allow user input to be received via a keyboard, a mouse, and / or some other type of input device. As another example, the input / output unit 910 may allow output to be sent to a printer connected to the data processing system 900.

[0046] The 912 screen is configured to display information to a user. The 912 screen may comprise, for example, without limitation, a monitor, a touch screen, a laser display, a holographic display, a virtual display device, and / or some other type of display device.

[0047] In this illustrative example, the processes of the different illustrative modalities can be performed by the 904 processor unit using computer-implemented instructions. These instructions can be referred to as program code, computer-usable program code, or computer-readable program codes that can be read and executed by one or more processors in the 904 processor unit. Petition 870250036897, dated 07 / 05 / 2025, page 39 / 70 / 26

[0048] In these examples, the program code 918 is located in a functional form on the computer-readable medium 920, which is selectively removable, and can be loaded into, or transferred to, the data processing system 900, for execution by the processor unit 904. The program code 918 and the computer-readable medium 920 together form the computer program product 922. In this illustrative example, the computer-readable medium 920 can be the computer-readable storage medium 924 or the computer-readable signal medium 926.

[0049] Computer-readable storage media 924 is a physical or tangible storage device used to store program code 918, as opposed to a medium that propagates or transmits program code 918. Computer-readable storage media 924 may be, for example, without limitation, an optical or magnetic disk or a persistent storage device that is connected to the data processing system 900.

[0050] Alternatively, program code 918 can be transferred to the data processing system 900 using computer-readable signal medium 926. The computer-readable signal medium 926 can be, for example, a propagated data signal containing program code 918. This data signal can be an electromagnetic signal, an optical signal, and / or some other type of signal that can be transmitted over physical and / or wireless communication links.

[0051] Illustrative embodiments of the present invention can be described in the context of a method for manufacturing and servicing aircraft 1000, as shown in Figure 10, and an aircraft 1100, as shown in Figure 11. Returning first to Figure 10, an illustration of a method for manufacturing and servicing aircraft is represented according to an illustrative embodiment. During pre-production, a method for manufacturing and Petition 870250036897, dated 07 / 05 / 2025, page 40 / 70 / 26 aircraft service 1000 may include the specification and design 1002 of aircraft 1100 in figure 11 and the acquisition of material 1004.

[0052] During production, the manufacturing of components and sub-assemblies 1006 and the integration of systems 1008 of the aircraft 1100 take place. After that, the aircraft 1100 can go through certification and delivery 1010 in order to be put into service 1012. While in service 1012 for a customer, the aircraft 1100 is scheduled for routine maintenance and service 1014, which may include modification, reconfiguration, refurbishment, and other maintenance or service.

[0053] Each of the processes of an aircraft manufacturing and service method 1000 may be performed or executed by a systems integrator, a third party, and / or an operator; in these examples, the operator may be a customer. For the purposes of this description, a systems integrator may include, without limitation, any number of aircraft manufacturers and subcontractors for the main systems; a third party may include, without limitation, any number of vendors, subcontractors, and suppliers; and an operator may be an air transport company, a leasing company, a military institution, a service organization, and others.

[0054] With reference now to Figure 11, an illustration of an aircraft is represented, in which an illustrative embodiment may be implemented. In this example, aircraft 1100 is produced by a manufacturing and service method of aircraft 1000 in Figure 10 and may include fuselage 1102 with a plurality of systems 1104 and interior 1106. Examples of systems 1104 include one or more of the propulsion system 1108, electrical system 1110, hydraulic system 1112, environmental system 1114, and braking system 1116. Any number of other systems may be included. Although an aerospace example is shown, different illustrative embodiments may be applied to other industries, such as Petition 870250036897, dated 07 / 05 / 2025, page 41 / 70 / 26 automotive industry.

[0055] Apparatus and methods incorporated herein may be employed during at least one of the stages of a method of manufacturing and servicing aircraft 1000. One or more illustrative embodiments may be used during the manufacture of components and subassemblies 1006 of figure 10. For example, the improved automatic brake interface 300, 400, 500, 600 and the automatic brake system 200 may be installed in the cockpit during a method of manufacturing and servicing aircraft 1000.

[0056] In one embodiment, an automatic brake selection interface for an aircraft is provided. The automatic brake selection interface includes a user-selectable display mounted in the cockpit. The display includes automatic brake selection options and braking information. The automatic brake selection options include at least one of an automatic brake off option, an aborted takeoff (RTO) option, a constant deceleration option, and a runway exit and takeoff selection option. The braking information includes at least one of an estimated brake temperature, an estimated brake cooldown time, and an estimated landing distance.The automatic brake selection interface also includes a braking parameter determiner, configured to determine at least one of the estimated brake temperature and the estimated landing distance according to the user's selection of automatic brake selection options.

[0057] In an illustrative embodiment, the user-selectable display mounted in the cockpit includes a touch screen, wherein the user selection of options presented on the touch screen is made by touching an appropriate area on the touch screen. In an illustrative embodiment, the constant deceleration option includes a selectable menu. Petition 870250036897, dated 07 / 05 / 2025, page 42 / 70 / 26, comprising a plurality of constant deceleration settings. In an illustrative embodiment, the runway exit selection option includes a selectable screen of a plurality of runway exit numbers corresponding to the runway exits at an aerodrome. In an illustrative embodiment, the selectable screen of the plurality of runway exit numbers is presented to the user in such a way that the available runway exit numbers are presented in a first display format and the unavailable runway exit numbers are presented in a second display format. In an illustrative example, the available runway departure and takeoff numbers are determined based on at least one of the aircraft's location on the runway and the aircraft's speed.

[0058] In an illustrative embodiment, the estimated brake temperature is displayed in a first brake temperature display format when the estimated brake temperature is below a limit, and in a second brake temperature display format when the estimated brake temperature is at, or above, the limit. In an illustrative embodiment, the estimated brake cooling time is displayed in a first estimated brake cooling time format when the estimated brake cooling time is below a cooling time limit, and in a second estimated brake cooling time format when the estimated brake cooling time is at, or above, a cooling time limit.

[0059] In one embodiment, a method for selecting automatic braking in an aircraft is provided. The method includes displaying an automatic braking selection interface comprising a constant deceleration option and a runway exit and takeoff option. The method Petition 870250036897, dated 07 / 05 / 2025, page 43 / 70 / 26, also includes displaying one of a constant deceleration selection menu and a runway exit menu response to user input in the automatic brake selection interface. The method also includes adjusting a brake parameter according to the user's selection of one of a constant deceleration setting and a runway exit number.

[0060] In an illustrative embodiment, the method also includes determining an estimated brake temperature for the brakes according to the user's selection of either the constant deceleration setting or the runway departure number. In an illustrative embodiment, the runway departure menu comprises a plurality of options, with each option corresponding to a respective runway departure at a destination airport. In an illustrative embodiment, the method also includes determining the brake parameter according to a user-selected runway departure number. In an illustrative embodiment, the method also includes determining an estimated cooling time for a brake according to the user's selection of either the constant deceleration setting or the runway departure number.In an illustrative example, the method also includes displaying the estimated brake temperature.

[0061] In an illustrative embodiment, the method also includes displaying the estimated brake temperature in a first format if the estimated brake temperature is less than a limit and displaying the estimated brake temperature in a second format if the estimated brake temperature is greater than the limit. In an illustrative embodiment, the first format includes a first indication and the second format comprises a second indication. In an illustrative embodiment, options corresponding to output numbers that are unavailable due to at least one of the locations of Petition 870250036897, dated 07 / 05 / 2025, page 44 / 70 / 26 aircraft on the runway and current aircraft speed are not selectable by the user. In an illustrative representation, the non-selectable options are displayed in a different format from the selectable options to indicate to a user which options are selectable.

[0062] In one embodiment, a computer for automatic brake selection in an aircraft is provided. The computer includes a processor and a computer-readable, non-transient storage medium storing program code that, when executed by the processor, performs a computer-implemented method of automatic brake selection in an aircraft. The program code includes program code for displaying an automatic brake selection interface comprising a constant deceleration option and a runway exit option. The program code also includes program code for displaying one of a constant deceleration selection menu and a runway exit menu response to user input on the automatic brake selection interface.The program code also includes program code for regulating a brake parameter according to the user's selection of one of a constant deceleration setting and a runway exit number.

[0063] The description of the different illustrative embodiments has been presented for illustrative and descriptive purposes, and is not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the embodiments in the form described. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of common art knowledge. Furthermore, different illustrative embodiments may provide different characteristics compared to other illustrative embodiments. The selected embodiment or embodiments have been chosen and described in order to better explain the principles of the embodiments, the practical application, and to allow others of common art knowledge to understand the invention for the embodiments with various modifications. Petition 870250036897, dated 07 / 05 / 2025, page 45 / 70 / 26 when they are appropriate for the contemplated private use.

Claims

1. Automatic brake selection interface for an aircraft, comprising: a user-selectable screen mounted in the cockpit (202) configured to receive a user selection input (240), automatic brake selection interface characterized in that the screen (202) comprises automatic brake selection options (208) and braking information, the automatic brake selection options (208) being displayed on the screen (202) and selectable by the user, the automatic brake selection options (208) comprising: an automatic brake off option (210), a constant deceleration option (212), and at least one of an aborted takeoff (RTO) option (234), and a runway exit selection option (224), wherein in response to the constant deceleration option (212) being selected, the screen (202) is configured to: display a constant deceleration selection menu (522) comprising a series of options (524, 526,528, 530, 532) to be selected, and display an expandable information display screen (316) comprising a scaled representation of the runway (538) switchable between the scaled representation of the runway (538) with continuously updated estimated landing distances and the scaled representation of the runway (538) with continuously updated brake temperature monitoring system (BTMS) scores for each of the series of options (524, 526, 528, 530, 532) in the selection menu of Petition 870260067271, dated 07 / 07 / 2026, page 11 / 23 2 / 6 constant deceleration (522); and braking information comprising: an estimated brake temperature (254), an estimated brake cooldown time (255),and an estimated landing distance (256); a braking parameter determinator (236) configured to determine the estimated brake temperature (254) and the estimated landing distance (256) according to the user selection of the automatic brake selection options (208).

2. Automatic brake selection interface according to claim 1, characterized in that the user-selectable screen mounted in the cockpit (202) comprises a touch-sensitive screen, wherein the user selection of options presented on the touch-sensitive screen is made by touching an appropriate area on the touch-sensitive screen.

3. Automatic brake selection interface according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the runway exit selection option (224) comprises a selectable screen of a plurality of runway exit numbers (226, 228, 230, 232) corresponding to the runway exits at an aerodrome.

4. Automatic brake selection interface according to claim 3, characterized in that the selectable screen of the plurality of runway exit numbers (226, 228, 230, 232) is presented to the user in such a way that the available runway exit numbers (226, 228, 230, 232) are presented in a first display format and the unavailable runway exit numbers (226, 228, 230, 232) are presented in a second display format.

5. Automatic brake selection interface according to Petition 870260067271, dated 07 / 07 / 2026, page 12 / 23 3 / 6 claim 4, characterized in that the available runway exit numbers (226, 228, 230, 232) are determined according to at least one of the aircraft location on the runway and aircraft speed (260).

6. Automatic brake selection interface according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the estimated brake temperature (254) is displayed in a first brake temperature display format when the estimated brake temperature (254) is below a limit, and in that the estimated brake temperature (254) is displayed in a second brake temperature display format when the estimated brake temperature is at, or above, the limit.

7. Automatic brake selection interface according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the estimated brake cooling time (255) is displayed in a first estimated brake cooling format when the estimated brake cooling time is below a cooling time limit, and in that the estimated brake cooling time (255) is displayed in a second estimated brake cooling format when the estimated brake cooling time is at, or above, a cooling time limit.

8. Method for automatic brake selection for an aircraft, comprising: displaying an automatic brake selection interface (406) as defined in claim 1 on a user-selectable display mounted in the cockpit (202) configured to receive a user selection input (240), characterized in that the automatic brake selection interface (406) comprises: an automatic brake off option (308), a constant deceleration option (310); and Petition 870260067271, dated 07 / 07 / 2026, page 13 / 23 4 / 6 at least one of an aborted takeoff (RTO) option (312), and a runway exit and takeoff option (412); wherein the method also comprises: receiving, in the automatic brake selection interface (406), the user selection input (240) selecting the constant deceleration option (310) or the runway exit and takeoff option (412);display, in response to user selection input (240) in the automatic brake selection interface (406), one of a constant deceleration selection menu (522) and a runway exit menu (622);wherein in response to the constant deceleration option (310) by the user selection input (240), display the constant deceleration selection menu (522) comprising a series of options (524, 526, 528, 530, 532) to be selected, and display an expandable information display screen (316) comprising a scaled representation of the runway (538) switchable between the scaled representation of the runway (538) with continuously updated estimated landing distances and the scaled representation of the runway (538) with continuously updated brake temperature monitoring system (BTMS) scores for each of the series of options (524, 526, 528, 530, 532) in the constant deceleration selection menu (522);regulate a brake parameter according to the user selection of one of the options (524, 526, 528, 530, 532) from the constant deceleration selection menu (522) or a runway exit number (626, 628, 630, 632, 634, 636, 640) from the runway exit menu (622); and Petition 870260067271, dated 07 / 07 / 2026, page. 14 / 23 5 / 6 determine and display an estimated brake temperature (254) for the brakes according to the user's selection of one of the options (524, 526, 528, 530, 532) from the constant deceleration selection menu (522) or the runway exit number (626, 628, 630, 632, 634, 636, 640) from the runway exit menu (622).; 9. Method according to claim 8, characterized in that the runway exit menu (622) comprises a plurality of options with each option corresponding to a respective runway exit (626, 628, 630, 632, 634, 636, 640) at a destination airport.

10. Method according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that it further comprises: determining the brake parameter (238) according to a runway exit number (626, 628, 630, 632, 634, 636, 640) selected by the user.

11. Method according to any one of claims 8 to 10, characterized in that it further comprises: determining an estimated cooling time (255) for a brake according to the user's selection of one of the options (524, 526, 528, 530, 532) from the constant deceleration selection menu (522) or the runway exit number (626, 628, 630, 632, 634, 636, 640) from the runway exit menu (622).

12. Method according to any one of claims 8 to 11, characterized in that it further comprises: displaying the estimated brake temperature (254) in a first format if the estimated brake temperature is less than a limit; and displaying the estimated brake temperature (254) in a second format if the estimated brake temperature is greater than the limit.

13. Method according to claim 12, characterized in Petition 870260067271, dated 07 / 07 / 2026, page 15 / 23 6 / 6 by the fact that the first format comprises a first indication and the second format comprises a second indication.

14. A method according to any one of claims 8 to 13, characterized in that options corresponding to runway departure numbers (626, 628, 630, 632, 634, 636, 640) that are unavailable due to at least one aircraft location on the runway and current aircraft speed, are not selectable by the user.

15. Method according to claim 14, characterized in that the unavailable options corresponding to the runway departure numbers (626, 628, 630, 632, 634, 636, 640) are determined based on continuously updated landing distances to determine an estimated touchdown point on the runway.

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