Method for implementing required navigational performance procedures

Abstract

A method (200) is disclosed for designing an RNP approach for an aircraft at a particular runway (90). The method includes selecting a runway (201), gathering obstacle data for the obstacle evaluation area (202), selecting a VEB method and terms (204), laying out a preliminary approach, inducing a missed approach segment (206), calculating a preliminary obstacle clearance surface (208), calculating a momentary descent segment using a physical model of the aircraft (210), adjusting the obstacle clearance surface so that no obstacles intersect the surface (212), and optionally optimizing the approach by departing from the operator's standard procedures (214). Preferably, the obstacle clearance surface is adjusted so that it just touches an obstacle, without any object intersecting the surface, thereby providing an optimal decision altitude.

Description

[0001] Cross reference to related applications [0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Patent Application No. 60 / 662,133, filed March 10, 2005, the entire disclosure of which is hereby expressly incorporated by reference, and also claims what is claimed herein under 35 U.S.C. §119 Priority of filing date. technical field [0003] The present invention relates to aircraft flight path design and, more particularly, to final approach procedure design. Background technique [0004] In the field of commercial aviation, the ability to accurately locate an aircraft's bearing is important to safe and efficient air travel. Initially, pilots relied on visual cues to avoid obstacles during takeoff and approach landing. However, weather conditions often hinder the pilot's ability to see such objects. Accordingly, navigation procedures were developed to guide aircraft into or out of terminal areas requiring only positional information and no visual cues. Currently, sched...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

The basic question answered by conventional procedures is: "given the characteristics required for basic navigation, what is the best method of entry?", while the basic question of RNP procedures is: "perform the safest and most efficient way to enter the runway." What level of performance do you need for your flight path?"

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