Man-machine interface for piloting an aircraft

Abstract

The present invention relates to a human-machine interface (1) for assisting control for monitoring an aircraft (95) moving along a trajectory toward or away from a landing area (100), wherein the human-machine interface (1) for assisting control comprises a display (10) and a symbol generator (20), wherein the symbol generator (20) drives a display on the display (10) and is configured according to a variable display configuration of at least one image (30, 50) including a plurality of display symbols. The symbol generator (20) is configured at each moment of calculation to parameterize the display configuration as a function of the distance (D0) between the aircraft (95) and the landing area (100), and the symbol generator (20) is configured to calculate the position of each display symbol (25) on the display (10) based on the display configuration at each moment of calculation.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a human-machine interface for aircraft control and a method of using the same. Background Technology

[0002] The aircraft may reach or depart from a destination via an on-board pilot, a remote human pilot, or an autopilot. The destination may take the form of a landing area located, for example, on the ground, a building, or even a moving object.

[0003] In particular, drones can land on ships, platforms, or vertical take-off and landing areas (vertiports) by being controlled by an off-board autopilot or a human.

[0004] In this regard, the human-machine interface may include one or more displays that display a representation of the aircraft's movement. Such a human-machine interface may be interesting for optimizing the operator's workload.

[0005] According to one example, a human pilot not on board the drone may need to visualize the drone's movements to direct the drone toward a destination along a specific trajectory or even to stop an ongoing mission.

[0006] According to another example, with respect to an aircraft controlled by an autopilot, visualization of the trajectory the aircraft follows on a display allows onboard or non-onboard operators to verify that the aircraft is operating as expected. For example, a drone can automatically orient itself toward a landing area on a vessel along a specific trajectory. An operator on the vessel can track the drone's movement on a display to verify that the drone is operating normally. If necessary, the operator can stop the drone's movement toward the vessel or control the drone remotely using remote control.

[0007] Patent document WO2010 / 077531 proposes a system for determining waypoints of a trajectory that guides an aircraft toward an "offshore" facility. The system is configured to display waypoints on a display. At a certain distance from the offshore facility, the system scales the display according to the distance between the aircraft and the offshore facility to maintain a safe area scanned by a RADAR at the top of the display.

[0008] The following patent documents are not related to this problem.

[0009] Patent document FR3062493 describes a method and system for supporting the approach and relative hovering of a rotary-wing aircraft in relation to a movement area. A trajectory to be followed is determined and displayed on a screen. The trajectory passes through various waypoints.

[0010] Patent document EP2009534 describes a system and method for providing approach information to a first vehicle approaching a second vehicle, such as an aircraft carrier. The system determines movement information of the second vehicle and at least one segmented trajectory, in particular, based on at least one center of the movement of the second vehicle or at least one center of the landing area of ​​the second vehicle.

[0011] Patent document US10739789 describes a system for guiding an aircraft to an approach point located at a predetermined distance from a moving vessel.

[0012] Patent document WO2011 / 008643 describes a system for displaying air traffic near an aircraft in a "horizontal" view and a "vertical" view. The horizontal view represents air traffic volume viewed along a vertical axis from a ground reference point, and the vertical view represents air traffic volume viewed along a horizontal axis perpendicular to the vertical axis.

[0013] Although known in patent documents EP 3 293 718 A2, US 2011 / 264312 A1, and US 2015 / 002316 A1, they pursue a different purpose from the present invention. The problem to be solved

[0014] Therefore, the objective of the present invention is to provide a method for creating a human-machine interface and a display of the trajectory that an aircraft must follow, and for facilitating the workload of a pilot, such as a pilot, who monitors the aircraft. means of solving the problem

[0015] Accordingly, the present invention aims for a human-machine control assistance interface for monitoring an aircraft moving toward or along a trajectory from a landing area, wherein the human-machine control assistance interface comprises a display and a symbol generator, wherein the symbol generator is configured to drive a display on the display, and wherein, according to a variable display configuration of at least one image including multiple display symbols, the multiple display symbols include an aircraft symbol exemplifying the aircraft, a landing area symbol exemplifying the landing area, and at least one pass symbol indicating a pass point of the trajectory.

[0016] A symbol generator is configured to parameterize the display configuration as a function of the distance between the aircraft and the landing area at each moment of calculation, and the symbol generator is configured to calculate the position of each display symbol on the display as a function of the display configuration at each moment of calculation, wherein the display configuration includes at least one of the following configurable variables: the orientation of the image relative to the display, the fixed position of the image relative to the display, and a reference point to be used to calculate the position of each display symbol.

[0017] The landing area may be a stationary landing area, for example, on the ground or on a building. The landing area may be a mobile landing area of ​​a ground reference point present on a moving vehicle, for example, a vessel on water.

[0018] The term "waypoint" refers to a point that an aircraft must pass through. A waypoint may correspond, for example, to a point where the aircraft must modify altitude or height indications, speed indications, and / or heading indications.

[0019] The term "remote" refers to the distance representing the spatial separation between the aircraft and the landing area. The term "distance" may refer to the shortest straight-line distance between the aircraft and the landing area, or, for example, the distance between the aircraft's projection and the landing area within a horizontal plane based on ground reference.

[0020] Furthermore, the trajectory may be determined by the aircraft or the human-machine interface from initial parameter settings performed by the human-machine interface. According to one example, the pilot sets the wind direction in the landing area using the human-machine interface, the aircraft, or the human-machine interface to calculate the trajectory to be followed as a function of this wind direction. For example, the trajectory can be set so that the aircraft can land against the wind during the landing phase.

[0021] Therefore, the human-machine interface determines and displays at least one image that allows the aircraft to follow changes in the landing area. Thus, the operator can use this human-machine interface, for example, on the deck of a ship where the landing area is located, when the aircraft is taking off from this landing area or seeking to land in this landing area.

[0022] Therefore, the human-machine interface can adjust the reference point used to calculate the position of various symbols displayed, particularly depending on the required accuracy. The human-machine interface can adjust the orientation of the image so that the operator can clearly understand the aircraft's movement. The human-machine interface can adjust the fixation of the image. That is, here too, a point on the image can be defined in relation to the movement of other points so that the operator can properly grasp the aircraft's movement.

[0023] The human-machine interface is configured to automatically adjust the displayed image(s) based on the distance between the aircraft and the landing area to facilitate the operator's task. In particular, the human-machine interface adjusts the display configuration to display necessary information in the most appropriate manner based on the aircraft's position relative to the landing area.

[0024] Accordingly, when the aircraft is at a first distance from the landing area, the symbol generator is configured to display symbols according to the first configuration. For example, at a second distance closer to the landing area, the symbol generator is configured to automatically display symbols according to a second configuration different from the first configuration. The orientation, fixation, and / or reference point of the displayed image are automatically changed by the symbol generator between the first and second configurations to provide the necessary information in the most appropriate manner at every moment. The configuration change is performed automatically based on the distance between the aircraft and the landing area.

[0025] The human-machine interface may additionally include one or more of the following functions.

[0026] According to one possibility, the symbol generator may be configured to set the reference point by selecting the reference point from a list that includes at least one absolute reference point associated with latitude as well as longitude and altitude, a relative reference point centered on a landing area, and an average area reference point centered on the average position of the moving landing area after a predetermined time.

[0027] For example, when the aircraft is far from the landing area, the human-machine interface positions various display symbols using absolute reference points and associated sensors, and at such distances, high-accuracy calculations are not required. Conversely, as the aircraft approaches the landing area, the human-machine interface deploys various display symbols using relative reference points and associated sensors to provide the pilot with accurate information. When moving from a very short distance ground reference point, an average area reference point can be used to track movement within the landing area.

[0028] According to compatibility with the prior art, the human-machine interface can display one or more images to indicate the location of various display symbols in space.

[0029] In particular, the above at least one image may include a horizontal image comprising at least one display symbol that appears vertical according to a ground reference point.

[0030] For example, by using such an image, the situation viewed from above can be visualized, allowing the distance between different display points to be visualized.

[0031] Accordingly, the above display configuration may include at least three configurable variables, namely the aforementioned direction, reference point, and fixed position.

[0032] According to compatibility with previous ones, a symbol generator can be configured to set a horizontal image direction, and one direction can be selected from a list including a north direction such that a horizontal image point indicating a magnetic north direction or a geographical north direction is placed at a predetermined location on the display, a direction of travel such that the nose of the aircraft is placed on the display in a predetermined manner, and a landing area direction.

[0033] For example, as the aircraft moves away from the landing area, the human-machine interface uses the north direction to provide an overview of the situation. Conversely, as the aircraft approaches the landing area, the human-machine interface uses the direction relative to the nose to visualize the aircraft's movement "as seen from the aircraft." Finally, near the landing area, the direction relative to the landing area can be used to provide the pilot with an image that substantially matches the scene being observed by the pilot within the landing area.

[0034] According to compatibility with previous ones, the symbol generator can select this position from a list including global positioning that enables displaying each display symbol on the display, positioning for the aircraft that positions the aircraft symbol on the display in a predetermined and fixed manner, and positioning for the landing area that positions the landing area symbol on the display in a predetermined and fixed manner.

[0035] For example, as the aircraft moves away from the landing area, the human-machine interface fixes the image's breadcenter, which is the center of the display symbol, to provide all display symbols. Conversely, as the aircraft approaches the landing area, the human-machine interface fixes the aircraft's position on the display so that the aircraft's movement can be viewed "as seen from the aircraft." Finally, near the landing area, the human-machine interface fixes the position of the landing area to provide the operator with an image that substantially matches the scene observed by the operator.

[0036] In some cases, since the landing area symbol indicates the stern of the vessel, the location for the landing area may include the location of the representation of the stern on the display at a predetermined location.

[0037] Using this feature, the operator on the ship can have an image displaying what they are seeing.

[0038] Depending on compatibility with the previous one, if a horizontal image exists, the display configuration may include a representation variable, and the symbol generator is configured to display a concentric circle centered at a fixed center point on the display according to the first mode, and the symbol generator is configured to display an arc centered at a fixed center point on the display according to the second mode, thereby setting the representation variable.

[0039] Depending on the distance, the center point of the aircraft symbol, landing area symbol, or pass symbol may be located in the center.

[0040] Circles or arcs indicating distance can be displayed to help the operator assess the situation.

[0041] Therefore, the display configuration of the horizontal image may vary depending on the distance and the stored threshold. These thresholds may correspond, for example, to the stored distance and / or the distance associated with the waypoint.

[0042] According to compatibility with the prior art, if a horizontal image exists, the symbol generator can be configured to determine whether the distance is greater than a maximum threshold, and if so, automatically set the direction of the horizontal image to the north direction so that a point on the horizontal image representing the magnetic North Pole or the geographical North Pole is placed at a predetermined location on the display, and each display symbol is configured to have a single absolute reference point associated with latitude as well as longitude and altitude, and to set the location according to global positioning to display each display symbol.

[0043] For example, the maximum threshold is about 10 nautical miles or 18.52 km.

[0044] When at a distance from the landing area, the display configuration allows different points on the display to be displayed to the pilot with acceptable accuracy. The pilot can check the general shape of the trajectory being followed, for example, to determine whether the aircraft is entering the right side of the landing area during the landing phase.

[0045] If necessary, the symbol generator may be configured to parameterize the display configuration's display variables in a first mode configured to display concentric circles centered at the center point of the display symbol. The operator may optionally change this setting manually.

[0046] According to compatibility with the prior art, if there is a horizontal image, the symbol generator may be configured to determine whether the distance is less than or equal to the maximum threshold and greater than the minimum threshold, in which case the direction of the horizontal image is set with respect to the direction of travel so that the direction of travel of the aircraft is positioned on the display in a predetermined manner, and each symbol on the display is set according to the reference point according to an absolute reference point related not only to longitude and altitude but also to latitude, and the position is basically set according to the position relative to the aircraft.

[0047] For example, the minimum threshold is approximately 1 nautical mile or 1.852 km.

[0048] At an intermediate distance from the landing area, a horizontal image is fixed on the aircraft to monitor the aircraft's movement from an absolute reference point. The pilot monitors the aircraft's movement as seen "from the aircraft." The display configuration's notation variables are parameterized by default depending on the first or second mode, or they can be modified by the pilot using the interface.

[0049] According to compatibility with the prior art, if a horizontal image exists, the symbol generator can be configured to determine whether the distance is less than or equal to the minimum threshold and greater than the proximity threshold, in which case the landing area symbol is positioned on the display in a predetermined manner, the direction is set according to the direction of the landing area, the reference point is set according to a relative reference point centered on the landing area, and the position is set according to the position of the landing area so that the landing area symbol is positioned on the display in a predetermined and fixed manner.

[0050] For example, the proximity threshold is about 150 yards or about 137 m. If necessary, the proximity threshold can be placed at a waypoint where the landing can be aborted.

[0051] Horizontal images at close range to the landing area are fixed to the landing area and are determined using accurate relative reference points. The pilot monitors the movement of the aircraft "viewed from the landing area." Possible representation variables of the display configuration are parameterized by default depending on the first or second mode, or can be modified by the pilot via the interface.

[0052] According to compatibility with the prior art, if there is a horizontal image, it is possible to determine whether the distance is less than or equal to a proximity threshold and automatically set the direction of the horizontal image according to the direction of the landing area, and to set a reference point according to a relative reference point centered on the landing area so that the landing area symbol is positioned on the display in a predetermined manner, the symbol generator can be configured to set the position according to the position of the landing area position by positioning the landing area symbol in a predetermined and fixed manner on the display.

[0053] At very close distances, landing area symbols can be displayed in more detail than at near distances. For example, at near distances, the landing area symbol represents a vessel, whereas at very short distances, the aircraft symbol may represent the landing area itself.

[0054] According to compatibility with previous images, at least one of the above images includes one vertical image showing at least an aircraft symbol and a landing area symbol at each altitude.

[0055] In some cases, the vertical image may include an elevation scale having at least one variable limit according to the distance.

[0056] Depending on compatibility with previous ones, if a vertical image exists, at least the distance is greater than a proximity threshold, and a symbol generator can be configured to position each display symbol of the vertical image according to the distance from the origin and altitude, and the display configuration includes at least the origin, the position of the origin on the display and a reference point as variables, and the symbol generator is configured to set the origin selected from a list including an aircraft and a landing area, and the symbol generator is configured to set the position to position the origin at a first position or a second position on the display according to the distance.

[0057] The vertical image may represent a diagram including a vertical axis representing altitude. The scale of this vertical axis may vary according to distance. The diagram may also include a horizontal axis indicating the cumulative distance traveled by the aircraft, starting from an origin that may be placed at the left or right end of the horizontal axis at the first and second positions, respectively. In principle, the aircraft symbol may be on the left side of the horizontal axis and the landing area symbol may be on the right side.

[0058] Depending on compatibility with the previous one, if a vertical image exists, determine whether the distance is greater than the maximum threshold, and if so, automatically assign the aircraft to the origin, set the reference point as an absolute reference point where each display symbol is associated not only with longitude and altitude but also with latitude, and configure the symbol generator to set the position according to the first position.

[0059] When at a distance from the landing area, the display configuration can present various display points to the operator with acceptable accuracy.

[0060] Depending on compatibility with the previous one, if there is a vertical image, the symbol generator can be configured to determine whether the distance is less than or equal to the maximum threshold and greater than the minimum threshold, and in this case, automatically assign the aircraft to the origin, set the reference point according to the absolute reference point, and set the position according to the first position.

[0061] The vertical image at an intermediate distance from the landing area originates from the aircraft to monitor the aircraft's movement from an absolute reference point. The pilot monitors the aircraft's movement "as seen from the aircraft."

[0062] Depending on compatibility with the previous one, if there is a vertical image, the symbol generator can be configured to determine whether the distance is less than or equal to the minimum threshold and greater than the proximity threshold, and in this case, automatically assign the landing area to the origin, set the reference point according to a relative reference point centered on the landing area, and set the position according to a second position.

[0063] The vertical image at close range to the landing area originates from the landing area and is determined from an accurate relative reference point. The pilot monitors the aircraft's movement "as seen from the landing point."

[0064] According to compatibility with the prior art, if a vertical image is present, a symbol generator can be configured to determine whether the distance is less than or equal to a proximity threshold, and in this case, to indicate an elevation scale for the average position of the landing area after a predetermined time, wherein the aircraft symbol and the landing area symbol represent a pass symbol indicating the elevation scale.

[0065] The vertical image can be reduced to a very close range of altitude scales to visualize the relative altitude positions of the aircraft and the landing area.

[0066] According to compatibility with the prior art, the human-machine interface may include at least one of the following sensors: an aircraft position sensor at an absolute reference point, a landing area position sensor at an absolute reference point, an aircraft altitude sensor, an altitude sensor of the landing area, and a relative position sensor of the aircraft and the landing area.

[0067] For example, at an absolute reference point, the aircraft positioning sensor may include a receiver for an inertial unit and / or a satellite positioning system. Similarly, at an absolute reference point, the landing area positioning sensor may include a receiver for an inertial unit and / or a satellite positioning system.

[0068] Aircraft altitude sensors may include radiosondes, altimeters, and satellite positioning system receivers. Similarly, landing area altitude sensors may include radiosondes, altimeters, and satellite positioning system receivers.

[0069] Relative positioning sensors for the aircraft and landing area may include, for example, a system known by the trademark deckfinder®.

[0070] According to compatibility with the prior art, the human-machine interface may include at least one verification interface connected to a transmitter and configured to transmit a signal to the aircraft to convey approval to continue flying toward or away from the landing area.

[0071] The operator can operate this approval interface to abort landing or takeoff based on the displayed images. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0072] The present invention and its advantages will be explained in more detail below with reference to the embodiments given as examples in the accompanying drawings. FIG. 1 is a drawing illustrating a human-machine interface according to the present invention used when moving an aircraft to or from a landing area. Figure 2 is a diagram illustrating the distance between an aircraft and a landing area. Figure 3 is a diagram illustrating a human-machine interface when a distance greater than the maximum threshold exists. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a human-machine interface and a representation according to a first mode in the case where there exists a distance that is less than or equal to the maximum threshold and greater than the minimum threshold. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a representation according to a human-machine interface and a second mode in the case where there exists a distance that is less than or equal to the maximum threshold and greater than the minimum threshold. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a human-machine interface and a representation according to the first mode in the case where there exists a distance that is less than or equal to the minimum threshold and greater than the proximity threshold. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a human-machine interface and a representation according to a second mode in the case where there is a distance that is less than or equal to the minimum threshold and greater than the proximity threshold. Figure 8 is a diagram illustrating a human-machine interface when a distance below a proximity threshold exists. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0073] Elements in multiple individual drawings are assigned a single reference numeral.

[0074] FIG. 1 illustrates a human-machine interface (1). This human-machine interface (1) can assist an operator (OP) in monitoring or even controlling an aircraft (95) moving toward or along a trajectory from a landing area (100). This landing area (100) may be located on the ground (101), a stationary object, and, for example, a building (102) equipped with a vertical take-off and landing area, or even a moving object and possibly a vehicle such as, for example, a ship (103). Then, the operator (OP) may be positioned near the landing area (100) to monitor or even control the movement of the aircraft (95).

[0075] For example, although not mandatory, the aircraft (95) may include at least one rotor (96) involved in lift and / or forward movement. The aircraft (95) may include a human pilot on board or not on board, or may be piloted by a pilot (OP) using an autopilot or even a human-machine interface (1).

[0076] The tracked trajectory includes at least one waypoint that the aircraft (95) must pass through. Each waypoint may be defined by at least an altitude or height and a distance from the landing area (100). The trajectory may be set to extend from the landing area (100) according to the wind direction, or even set against the wind direction.

[0077] Accordingly, the human-machine interface (1) may include a display (10) carried by a box (11). This display (10) may include, for example, one or more screens.

[0078] Additionally, the human-machine interface (1) includes a symbol generator (20) that can be carried by a box (11) configured to drive the display of at least one image (30, 50) on a display (10) according to the configuration of the variable display.

[0079] Each image (30, 50) includes several display symbols (25) exemplified below. Due to this display configuration, the human-machine interface (1) can determine how to position various display symbols (25) on the display (10). In particular, these display symbols (25) include an aircraft symbol (31, 51) representing an aircraft (95), a landing area symbol (32, 52) representing a landing area (100), and at least one pass symbol (33, 53) representing a waypoint of a trajectory.

[0080] The symbol generator (20) may include at least one processing unit for calculating the position of each display symbol (25) in particular according to the current display configuration. The expression “processing unit” refers to a device that may include, for example, at least one processor (21) and at least one memory (22), at least one integrated circuit, at least one programmable system, and at least one logic circuit, but these examples do not limit the scope given to the term “processing unit.” The term processor may mean a central processing unit known by the abbreviation CPU, a graphics processing unit (GPU), a digital device known by the abbreviation DSP, a microcontroller, etc.

[0081] Accordingly, the symbol generator (20) is configured to calculate the location of various symbols and transmit a signal to the display (10) to display the image or images (30, 50) that the display (10) needs.

[0082] Additionally, the human-machine interface (1) may include a symbol generator and a plurality of sensors that communicate via a wired or wireless link.

[0083] Accordingly, the human-machine interface (1) may include at least one of the following sensors: a sensor (71) for positioning the aircraft (95) at an absolute reference point placed on the aircraft (95), a sensor (72) for positioning the landing area at an absolute reference point placed on the landing area (100), for example, an altitude sensor (73) of the aircraft (95) placed on the aircraft (95), for example, an altitude sensor (74) of the landing area (100) placed on the landing area (100), and a relative positioning sensor (75) of the aircraft (95) and the landing area (100). The relative positioning sensor (75) of the aircraft (95) and the landing area (100) may include two modules arranged on the aircraft (95) and the landing area (100), respectively.

[0084] Additionally, the human-machine interface (1) may include a plurality of control interfaces that can be operated by a controller (OP) carried, for example, by a box (11). Each of the control interfaces may take the form of a button, a lever, a screen haptic sector, a keyboard, a mouse, or a trackball, and such examples are provided for illustrative purposes only.

[0085] Accordingly, the human-machine interface (1) may include at least one verification interface (81) connected to a transmitter (82). The verification interface (81) may generate a signal that conveys permission to continue flying toward or away from the landing area (100), and this signal is transmitted by the transmitter (82) to the antenna (83) of the aircraft (95). The human or autopilot of the aircraft (95) may continue or stop tracking the trajectory.

[0086] The human-machine interface (1) may include a parameterization interface (84) for parameterizing, for example, an approach axis or wind direction in a landing area (100). This parameterization interface (84) may transmit a setting signal conveying the approach axis or wind direction to a control computer (97). This control computer (97) may belong to an aircraft (95), in which case the parameter setting signal is transmitted to the control computer (97) via a transmitter (82) and an antenna (83). Alternatively, the control computer (97) may belong to the human-machine interface (1).

[0087] The control computer (97) may include one or more processing units. Consequently, the control computer (97) may be configured to determine a trajectory to be tracked in a known manner.

[0088] The human-machine interface (1) may include at least one magnification interface communicating with a symbol generator (20), and the magnification interface transmits a zoom adjustment signal of the image (30.50) to the symbol generator (20).

[0089] The human-machine interface (1) may include at least one control interface (80) capable of generating a control signal that is transmitted to the aircraft (95) via a transmitter (82) and an antenna (83) and transmitted to one or more actuators of the aircraft (95) capable of modifying the movement of the aircraft (95).

[0090] In addition to these options, the display configuration may also change. In particular, the symbol generator (20) is configured to apply the required display configuration as a function of the distance (D0) between the aircraft (95) and the landing area (100) at each calculation moment. This display configuration may include at least one of the following configurable variables: the orientation of the image (30, 50) relative to the display (10), the fixed position of the image (30, 50) relative to the display (10), a reference point used to calculate the position of the display symbol (25), a notation variable for indicating the distance using a circle or arc, an object determination assigned to the origin of the diagram, and a positioning of this origin within the diagram.

[0091] In particular, the symbol generator (20) is configured to calculate the position of each display symbol (25) on the display (10) according to the display configuration to be applied at each calculation moment.

[0092] FIG. 2 illustrates various methods for calculating this distance (D0), and as an example, shows an aircraft (95) that intends to land in a landing area (100) located on the upper part of a building (102).

[0093] According to the first variation, the distance (D0) corresponds to the minimum distance (D1) between the aircraft (95) and the landing area (100).

[0094] According to the second variation, the distance (D0) corresponds to the minimum distance (D2) between the aircraft (95) and the landing area (100) protrusion in the horizontal plane (200).

[0095] FIGS. 3 through 8 illustrate a human-machine interface (1) used when landing an aircraft (95) in a ship-type landing area (100). However, these drawings are applicable to other types of landing areas (100) and / or takeoff from a landing area (100).

[0096] Referring to FIG. 3, the control computer (97) calculates the trajectory that the aircraft (95) must follow and transmits it to the symbol generator (20) for processing. According to one example, the operator (OP) requests the configuration interface (84) to set the wind direction for this purpose, and the control computer (97) of the aircraft (95) receives this wind direction and calculates the trajectory accordingly. Then, the parameters of this trajectory are transmitted to the human-machine interface (1) by a common means of communication.

[0097] Next, the symbol generator (20) can determine the current configuration to be applied to the image or images (30, 50) to be displayed and can transmit the parameters of the image or images (30, 50) to the display (10).

[0098] In particular, the display (10) may display a horizontal image (30) including at least one display symbol (25) that is shown vertically according to a ground reference point and / or a vertical image (50) showing at least an aircraft symbol (51) and a landing area symbol (52) at individual altitudes.

[0099] Regardless of the image, the display configuration may include reference points applicable to calculating the positions of various display symbols (25) according to the coordinates of the relevant objects, particularly the aircraft (95) associated with the aircraft symbol and the landing area (100) associated with the landing area symbol. Thus, the symbol generator (20) may be configured to use a sensor associated with an absolute reference point (REFABS) associated with latitude as well as longitude or even altitude, a sensor associated with a relative reference point (REFREL) centered on the landing area (100), and a sensor associated with an average area reference point (REFMOY) centered on the average position of the moving landing area (100) after a predetermined time (TPS), for example, about 30 seconds. The average position may be calculated by the symbol generator or other processing unit using the continuous positions measured during the predetermined time (TPS).

[0100] For a horizontal image (30), the symbol generator (20) may be configured to select a direction from a list including at least one of the following directions: a direction toward north (ONORD) such that a point of the horizontal image (30) representing a magnetic or geographical image is located at a predetermined location on the display (10); a direction toward direction of travel (OCAP) such that the direction of travel of the aircraft (95) is located on the display (10) in a predetermined manner; and a direction toward landing area (100) such that a landing area symbol is located on the display (10) in a predetermined manner (OAIRE).

[0101] For a horizontal image (30), the symbol generator (20) may be configured to define a fixed position of the horizontal image (30), that is, a point of the image (30) remaining in a stationary state on the display (10), by selecting a position from a list including at least one of the following positions: a global positioning (PGLOB) for displaying each of the display symbols (25) on the display (10), a positioning (PHC) for the aircraft (95) for positioning the aircraft symbol (31) on the display (10) in a predetermined manner, and a positioning (PAIRE) for the landing area (100) for positioning the landing area symbol (32) on the display (10) in a predetermined and fixed manner.

[0102] When the landing area symbol (32) includes the vessel (103), the positioning for the landing area (100) includes positioning a representation of the stern (104) of the vessel (103) at a predetermined location on the display (10) above the bow (105) of the vessel (103).

[0103] As an example, the display configuration includes three or more of the aforementioned configurable variables.

[0104] In some cases, the symbol generator (20) is configured to set a display variable of the display configuration in a first mode (ROSE) in which the symbol generator (20) is fixed on the display and is configured to display a concentric circle (60) centered at a center (61) associated with a display symbol that changes according to the distance (D0), or in a second mode (SECT) in which the symbol generator (20) is fixed on the display and is associated with a display symbol that changes according to the distance (D0), or is configured to display an arc (62) centered at a center (61) fixed on the display.

[0105] For a vertical image (50), as long as the distance (D0) is greater than the proximity threshold (SPROX), the symbol generator (20) is configured to position each display symbol (25) according to the following:

[0106] - The distance from the origin (54), that is, the distance between the object indicated by the display symbol (25) and the object representing the origin, and

[0107] - Altitude, that is, altitude according to the altitude of the object indicated by the display symbol (25).

[0108] Consequently, the symbol generator (20) is configured to set the origin by selecting the origin from a list including the aircraft (95) and the landing area (100), and to set the positioning of the origin within the vertical image (50) to position the origin at a first position (POS1) or a second position (POS2).

[0109] Under these conditions, the symbol generator (20) is configured to calculate the distance (D0) and compare it with a plurality of threshold values, and the display configuration settings of each image are parameterized according to the value range of the distance (D0).

[0110] Optionally, the vertical image (50) includes an elevation scale having at least one variable limit as a function of the distance. The symbol generator (20) may be configured to parameterize at least one scale of the elevation scale according to the current distance.

[0111] Figure 3 illustrates a calculation moment where the distance (D0) is greater than the maximum threshold value (SMAX).

[0112] According to the example illustrated, the symbol generator (20) calculates the positions of various display symbols (25) using measurements from a sensor (71) for positioning the aircraft (95) at an absolute reference point and a sensor (72) for positioning the landing area (100) at an absolute reference point. Each display symbol (25) is positioned on a horizontal (30) or vertical (50) image according to the latitude and longitude of the associated object.

[0113] Additionally, the symbol generator (20) parameterizes the display configuration according to a global positioning (PGLOB) that enables displaying each display symbol (25) on the display (10) by adapting the scale of the horizontal image (30).

[0114] Finally, the symbol generator (20) orients the horizontal image (30) on the display (10) according to the direction (ONORD) toward north. The symbol "N" is positioned along a predetermined line (500) that is substantially vertical, particularly in FIG. 3.

[0115] If necessary, the symbol generator (20) applies the first PINK mode to include a horizontal image with a concentric circle (60) having a distance around the center (61). This center (61) may be located at the center point of the symbol (25) of the display. This center point may also represent a fixed point of the image.

[0116] According to the example illustrated, the symbol generator (20) calculates the positions of various display symbols (25) on a vertical image (50) using measurements from the positioning sensor (71) of the aircraft (95) at the absolute reference point and the positioning sensor (72) of the landing area (100) at the absolute reference point, as well as measurements from the altitude sensor (73) of the aircraft (95) and the altitude sensor (74) of the landing area (100). Each display symbol (25) is positioned on the vertical image (50) according to the latitude, longitude, and altitude of the object. Thus, this vertical image (50) includes a vertical axis with an altitude scale and a horizontal axis representing the distance from the origin.

[0117] Additionally, the symbol generator (20) assigns the aircraft (95) to the origin (54) and positions it according to the first position (POS1). Then, the origin (54) is located to the left of the horizontal axis, and the aircraft symbol (51) is to the right of the origin (54). Another display symbol (25) is located at the altitude of the corresponding waypoint or landing area (100) and is located at the distance of the origin (54), which is an image of the distance between the waypoint or the corresponding landing area (100) and the aircraft (95).

[0118] According to another embodiment, whatever the distance (D0) is, the symbol generator (20) can display the current altitude value of the aircraft (95).

[0119] According to another embodiment, regardless of the distance (D0), the symbol generator (20) can display a symbol (REF) representing the applied reference system on the display (10).

[0120] According to another embodiment, whatever the distance (D0) may be, the symbol generator (20) may display an arrow (VECT) representing the velocity vector of the aircraft (95) on the display (10). To do this, the symbol generator (20) may communicate with a conventional sensor of the aircraft (95), such as an inertial unit.

[0121] Optionally, regardless of distance (D0), the symbol generator (20) may display boxes (301-308) on the touchable display (10) that display the settings of the current display configuration. For example, the background of each box may vary depending on the current configuration. For example, the background of the box may have a first aspect when the relevant settings are applied, a second aspect when the relevant settings are not applied but can be manually selected, or a third aspect when the relevant settings are not applied but cannot be selected. For example, modifying the background color of the box changes the shape of the box. Accordingly, the display (10) may include a box (301) connected to the application of the second SEC mode, a box (302) connected to the application of the first ROSE mode, a box (303) connected to the ONORD direction, a box (304) connected to the OCAP direction, a box (305) connected to the OAIRE direction, a box (306) connected to the global positioning PGLOB, a box (307) connected to the PHC position, and a box (308) connected to the PAIRE positioning.

[0122] FIGS. 4 and 5 illustrate calculation times where the distance (D0) is less than or equal to the maximum threshold (SMAX) and greater than the minimum threshold (SMIN). To avoid complicating FIGS. 4 and 5, only the display (10) is shown.

[0123] According to the example illustrated, the symbol generator (20) calculates the positions of various display symbols (25) using measurements from the positioning sensor (71) of the aircraft (95) at an absolute reference point and from the positioning sensor (72) of the landing area (100) in the REFABS absolute coordinate system. Each display symbol (25) is positioned on a horizontal image (30) or a vertical image (50) according to the latitude and longitude of the object associated with it.

[0124] Additionally, the symbol generator (20) fixes the position of the aircraft symbol (31) at a predetermined position and applies PHC positioning to the aircraft (95) by moving another display symbol (25) to the aircraft (31).

[0125] Finally, the symbol generator (20) orients the horizontal image (30) on the display (10) according to the OCAP direction with respect to the nose direction. The aircraft symbol (31) is positioned so that its nose direction faces the top of the display (10) along the previously mentioned substantially vertical predetermined line (500). Optionally, the symbol generator (20) adjusts the scale of the horizontal image (30) to display each of the pass symbols (33) existing between the aircraft symbol (31) and the landing area symbol (32) on the display (10).

[0126] According to the example of FIG. 4, the symbol generator (20) basically applies the first ROSE mode so that the horizontal image (30) includes concentric circles (60) having a distance around the center (61). The aircraft symbol (31) is located, for example, at this center (61).

[0127] According to the example of FIG. 5, the symbol generator (20) applies a second SEC mode so that the horizontal image (30) includes an arc of a concentric circle (62) having a distance around the center (61). The aircraft symbol (31) is, for example, located at this center (61).

[0128] According to the example illustrated, the symbol generator (20) calculates the positions of various display symbols (25) on a vertical image (50) using measurements from the position sensor (71) of the aircraft (95) at the absolute reference point, the position sensor (72) of the landing area (100) at the absolute reference point, the altitude sensor (73) of the aircraft (95), and the altitude sensor (74) of the landing area (100). Each of the passage symbols (33) is located on the vertical image (50) according to the latitude, longitude, and altitude of the corresponding object. Thus, this vertical image (50) includes a vertical axis with an altitude scale and a horizontal axis representing the distance from the origin (54).

[0129] Additionally, the symbol generator (20) assigns the aircraft (95) to the origin (54) and positions it according to the first position (POS1). Then, the origin (54) is located to the left of the horizontal axis, and the aircraft symbol (51) is to the right of the origin (54). Another display symbol (25) is located at the distance of the origin (54), which is an image of the altitude of the corresponding waypoint or landing area (100) and the distance between the aircraft (95) and the corresponding waypoint or landing area (100).

[0130] Additionally, the vertical image (50) may include an elevation scale extending from 0 to a maximum limit of 2,000 feet, according to the example illustrated. Consider that 1 foot is 0.3048 m.

[0131] According to another embodiment, the symbol generator (20) can display a symbol (REF) exemplifying an applied reference system on the display (10).

[0132] FIGS. 6 and 7 illustrate the calculation moment when the distance (D0) is less than or equal to the minimum threshold (SMIN) and greater than the proximity threshold (SPROX). To avoid complicating FIGS. 6 and 7, only the display (10) is shown.

[0133] According to the example, the symbol generator (20) calculates the position of various display symbols (25) using the measurements of the relative positioning sensor (75) of the aircraft (95) and the landing area (100).

[0134] Additionally, the symbol generator (20) applies EVEN positioning to the landing area (100) by calculating the position of the display symbol (25) in relation to the landing area symbol (32, 52) fixed on the display (10).

[0135] Finally, the symbol generator (20) orients the horizontal image (30) on the display (10) according to the OAIRE direction for the landing area (100). The landing area symbol (32) is positioned to extend along the aforementioned substantial vertical predetermined line (500). Optionally, the symbol generator (20) adjusts the scale of the horizontal image (30) to display each of the pass symbols (33) existing between the aircraft symbol (31) and the landing area symbol (32) on the display (10).

[0136] According to the example of FIG. 6, the symbol generator (20) applies a first ROSE mode so that the horizontal image (30) includes concentric circles (60) having a distance around the center (61). The landing area symbol (32) is, for example, at this center (61).

[0137] Additionally, the vertical image (50) may include an elevation scale extending from 0 to an intermediate limit of 1,200 feet according to the example illustrated.

[0138] According to the example of FIG. 7, the symbol generator (20) applies a second SEC mode so that the horizontal image (30) includes an arc of a concentric circle (62) centered at the center (61). The landing area symbol (32) is located, for example, at this center (61). The landing area symbol (32) may include only the representation of the entire vessel from bow to stern in FIG. 6 and the representation of the stern in FIG. 7.

[0139] According to the example illustrated, the symbol generator (20) calculates the positions of various display symbols (25) on a vertical image (50) using measurements from the position sensor (75) of the aircraft (95) and the landing area (100). Each display symbol (25) is positioned on the vertical image (50) according to the latitude, longitude, and altitude of the corresponding object. Thus, the vertical image (50) includes a vertical axis with an altitude scale and a horizontal axis representing the distance from the origin (54).

[0140] Additionally, the symbol generator (20) assigns an origin (54) to the landing area (100) and positions it according to the second position POS2. Then, the origin (54) is located to the right of the horizontal axis, and the landing area symbol (52) is located at the origin (54). Another waypoint symbol (53) is located at the altitude of the waypoint or the corresponding aircraft (95), and is located at the distance of the origin (54), which is the distance image between the landing area (100) and the corresponding waypoint or aircraft (95).

[0141] Figure 8 shows the calculation moment when the distance (D0) is less than or equal to the proximity threshold (SPROX).

[0142] The horizontal image (30) may be set in the same manner as in FIGS. 6 and FIGS. 7 without having the aforementioned circle or arc. Nevertheless, the landing area symbol (32) may be larger to adequately represent the ratio between the aircraft (95) and the landing area (100). Optionally, the landing area symbol (32) includes various strokes (85) to help the operator (OP) visualize the scene.

[0143] Meanwhile, the vertical image (50) may only include an altitude scale (65). This altitude scale may be initialized to the average position of the landing area (100), and the average position of the landing area (100) is at zero (0) altitude on this scale.

[0144] For example, the elevation scale is between two limit values ​​of -10 feet and +30 feet, respectively, according to the illustrated example.

[0145] The symbol generator (20) calculates the positions of the aircraft symbol (51) and the landing area symbol (52) for this altitude scale. If there is a movable landing area (100), the landing area symbol (52) may not indicate an altitude of 0. For example, a triangle-type symbol may indicate the average position (66) of the landing area on the altitude scale, i.e., an altitude of zero (0), to optimize the pilot's reading.

[0146] According to another embodiment, at any time or when reaching at least one waypoint, the symbol generator (20) or other processing unit of the human-machine interface (1) may be configured to request the operator (OP) to control the verification interface (81) to track the trajectory, or conversely, for the aircraft to take a predetermined flight form, such as hovering or returning to the takeoff point.

[0147] According to another embodiment, at any time or when reaching at least one waypoint, the pilot can control the aircraft using the control interface(s) (80).

[0148] Of course, many variations are possible in the implementation of the present invention. Although several embodiments have been described, it will be understood that it is not possible to thoroughly grasp all possible embodiments. Of course, it is possible to replace the described embodiments with equivalent embodiments without departing from the scope of the present invention. Explanation of the symbols

[0149] 1: Human-machine interface 10: Display 11: Box 20: Symbol Generator 22: Memory 25: Display symbol 30, 50: Image 31, 51: Aircraft symbol 32, 52: Landing area symbols 33, 53: Passage symbols 65: Altitude scale 71, 72, 73, 74, 75: Sensor 80: Control Interface 82: Transmitter 83: Antenna 84: Parameterized Interface 85: Stroke 95: Aircraft 96: Rotor 97: Control Computer 100: Landing Area 101: Ground 102: Building 103: Ship 104; Stern 105: Bow 200: Horizontal plane 500: Line OP: Controller GPU: Graphics Processing Unit DSP: Digital device, microcontroller

Claims

Claim 1 a) a human-machine interface (1) for monitoring an aircraft (95) moving toward or from a landing area (100) along a trajectory, b) said human-machine interface (1) comprises a display (10) and a symbol generator (20) for control assistance, c) the symbol generator (20) is configured to drive the display (10) in a configuration of a variable display of at least one image (30, 50) comprising several display symbols (25), d) the several display symbols (25) include an aircraft symbol (31, 51) exemplifying the aircraft (95), a landing area symbol (32, 52) exemplifying the landing area (100), and at least one pass symbol (33, 53) exemplifying a pass point of the trajectory, e) said symbol generator (20) is configured to parameterize the display configuration as a function of the distance (D0) between the aircraft (95) and the landing area (100) at each calculation moment, and f) said symbol The generator (20) is configured to calculate the position of each display symbol (25) on the display (10) based on the display configuration at each calculation moment, and g) the display configuration includes at least one of configurable variables, namely, the orientation of the image (30, 50) for the display (10), the fixed positioning of the image (30, 50) for the display (10), and a reference point used to calculate the position of each display symbol (25), and the at least one image includes a horizontal image (30) that includes at least one display symbol (25) that is viewed vertically according to the ground reference point, and the symbol generator (20) determines whether the distance (D0) is greater than a maximum threshold value (SMAX), and in this case, automatically parameterizes the orientation of the horizontal image (30) according to the direction (ONORD) toward the north so that a point of the horizontal image (30) exemplifying magnetic or geographical north is placed at a predetermined position on the display (10), andEach of the above display symbols (25) is configured to construct the reference point according to an absolute reference point (REFABS) associated with latitude as well as longitude and altitude, and to parameterize the positioning according to a global positioning (PGLOB) that enables each of the above display symbols (25); the symbol generator (20) determines whether the distance (D0) is less than or equal to a maximum threshold (SMAX) and greater than a minimum threshold (SMIN), and in this case, parameterizes the direction of the horizontal image according to a direction for the nose direction (OCAP) in which the nose direction of the aircraft (95) is positioned on the display (10) in a predetermined manner, and parameterizes the reference point according to an absolute reference point (REFABS) associated with latitude, longitude and altitude for each of the above display symbols (25), and is configured to parameterize the positioning according to a positioning (PHC) for the aircraft, and the symbol generator (20) determines whether the distance (D0) is less than or equal to a minimum threshold (SMIN) and is close A human-machine interface characterized by being configured to determine whether it is greater than a threshold (SPROX), and in this case, to parameterize the direction according to the direction (OAIRE) for the landing area so that the landing area symbol (100) is positioned on the display (10) in a predetermined manner, to parameterize the reference point according to a relative reference point (REFREL) centered on the landing area symbol (100), and to parameterize the positioning according to the positioning (PAIRE) for the landing area by positioning the landing area symbol (32) that exemplifies the landing area (100) in a predetermined and fixed manner on the display (10). Claim 2 A human-machine interface according to claim 1, wherein the symbol generator (20) is configured to parameterize the reference points by selecting a reference point from a list comprising at least one absolute reference point (REFABS) associated with latitude, longitude, and altitude, a relative reference point (REFREL) centered on the landing area (100), and an average area reference point (REFMOY) centered on the average position after a predetermined time (TPS) of the moving landing area (100). Claim 3 delete Claim 4 A human-machine interface according to claim 1, wherein the display configuration comprises at least three configurable variables. Claim 5 A human-machine interface according to claim 1, wherein the symbol generator (20) is configured to parameterize the direction of the horizontal image (30) by selecting from a list comprising a direction for north (ONORD) such that a point of the horizontal image (30) exemplifying the magnetic North Pole direction or the geographical North Pole direction is placed at a predetermined location on the display (10), a direction for nose direction (OCAP) such that the nose direction of the aircraft (95) is positioned on the display (10) in a predetermined manner, and a direction for landing area (100) such that the landing area symbol (100) is positioned on the display (10) in a predetermined manner. Claim 6 A human-machine interface according to claim 1, wherein the symbol generator (20) is configured to parameterize the fixed positioning of the horizontal image (30) by selecting from a list including a global positioning (PGLOB) that displays each symbol of the display (25) on the display (10), a positioning (PHC) for the aircraft (95) by positioning the aircraft symbol (31) on the display (10) in a predetermined and fixed manner, and a position (PAIR) for the landing area by placing the landing area symbol (32) on the display (10) in a predetermined and fixed manner. Claim 7 A human-machine interface according to claim 6, wherein the landing area symbol (32) includes a stern marking (104) of a vessel (103), and the positioning for the landing area (100) includes positioning of the stern marking (104) on the display (10) at a predetermined position. Claim 8 A human-machine interface according to claim 1, wherein the display configuration includes one notation variable, and the symbol generator (20) is configured to parameterize the notation variable in a first mode (ROSE) in which the symbol generator (20) is configured to display a concentric circle (60) centered on a fixed center (61) on the display, or in a second mode (SECT) in which the symbol generator (20) is configured to display an arc (62) centered on a fixed center (61) on the display. Claim 9 delete Claim 10 A human-machine interface according to claim 1, wherein the symbol generator (20) is configured to parameterize the notation variables of the display configuration in a first mode (ROSE) in which the symbol generator (20) is configured to display a concentric circle (60) of a distance around a center (61) located at the center point of the display symbol (25). Claim 11 delete Claim 12 delete Claim 13 A human-machine interface according to claim 1, wherein the symbol generator (20) is configured to determine whether the distance (D0) is less than or equal to a proximity threshold (SPROX), and in this case, automatically parameterize the direction of the horizontal image (30) according to the direction (OAIRE) for the landing area so that the landing area symbol (100) is positioned on the display (10) in a predetermined manner, parameterize the reference point according to a relative reference point (REFREL) centered on the landing area (100), and parameterize the positioning according to the positioning (PAIR) for the landing area by positioning the landing area symbol (32) in a predetermined and fixed manner on the display (10). Claim 14 A human-machine interface according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that at least one image comprises a vertical image (50) representing at least an aircraft symbol (51) and a landing area symbol (52) at individual altitudes. Claim 15 A human-machine interface characterized in that, in claim 14, when the distance (D0) is greater than the proximity threshold (SPROX), the symbol generator (20) is configured to position each display symbol (25) of the vertical image (50) according to the distance and altitude from the origin (54), the display configuration includes at least the origin (54) and the reference point on the display (10) as variables, as well as the origin (54), the symbol generator (20) is configured to parameterize the origin by selecting from a list including an aircraft (95) and a landing area (100), and the symbol generator (20) is configured to configure the positioning to position the origin at a first position (POS1) or a second position (POS2) on the display (10) according to the distance (DO). Claim 16 A human-machine interface according to claim 15, wherein the symbol generator (20) is configured to determine whether the distance (D0) is greater than a maximum threshold value (SMAX), and in this case, automatically assign the aircraft (95) to the origin (54), parameterize the reference point according to an absolute reference point (REFABS) in which each display symbol (25) is associated with latitude, longitude, and altitude, and parameterize the position assignment according to a first position (POS1). Claim 17 A human-machine interface according to claim 15, wherein the symbol generator (20) is configured to determine whether the distance (D0) is less than or equal to a maximum threshold (SMAX) and greater than a minimum threshold (SMIN), and in this case, automatically assign the aircraft (95) to the origin (54), parameterize the reference point according to an absolute reference point (REFABS), and parameterize the position assignment according to a first position (POS1). Claim 18 A human-machine interface according to claim 15, wherein the symbol generator (20) is configured to determine whether the distance (D0) is less than or equal to a minimum threshold (SMIN) and greater than a proximity threshold (SPROX), and in this case, automatically assign the landing area (100) to the origin (54), parameterize the reference point according to a relative reference point (REFREL) centered on the landing area (100), and parameterize the position assignment according to a second position (POS2). Claim 19 A human-machine interface according to claim 14, wherein the symbol generator (20) is configured to determine whether the distance (D0) is less than or equal to a proximity threshold (SPROX), and in this case, to display the average position (66) of the landing area (100) during a predetermined time (TPS), the aircraft symbol (51) and the altitude scale (65), and also the altitude scale (65) for the landing area symbol (52) indicating a symbol path pointing to the altitude scale (65). Claim 20 A human-machine interface according to claim 14, wherein the vertical image comprises an elevation scale having at least one variable limit as a function of the distance. Claim 21 A human-machine interface according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the human-machine interface (1) comprises at least one sensor selected from a sensor (71) for positioning the aircraft at an absolute reference point, a sensor (72) for positioning the landing area in an absolute reference coordinate system, an aircraft altitude sensor (73), a landing area altitude sensor (74), and a sensor (75) for designating the relative position of the aircraft and the landing area. Claim 22 A human-machine interface according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the human-machine interface (1) is connected to a transmitter (82) and comprises at least one verification interface (81) configured to transmit a signal to the aircraft (95) to convey permission to continue flying or to move toward or away from the landing area (100).

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