Training system and simulation method for ground travel in aircraft equipped with non-engine drive means

Abstract

A training system and method for operating aircraft equipped with non-engine drive means during independent ground travel is provided. The system and method of the present invention is designed specifically to train pilots, ground personnel, and air traffic control to move an aircraft safely and efficiently on the ground during taxi and pushback using the aircraft's non-engine drive means to propel the aircraft independently during ground travel. Simulations and procedures for training pilots and ramp personnel in the conduct of pushback operations and forward taxi with an aircraft equipped with non-engine drive means are also provided.

Description

PRIORITY CLAIM[0001]This application claims priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 584,106, filed Jan. 6, 2012, the disclosure of which is fully incorporated herein.TECHNICAL FIELD[0002]The present invention is directed generally to training simulations and methods for training aircraft pilots, air traffic controllers, and ground personnel for taxi and pushback operations and specifically to a training system and simulation method for training airport personnel and operators of aircraft equipped with non-engine ground drive means controllable to move the aircraft on the ground to operate such aircraft to ensure safe and efficient aircraft ground travel.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0003]It is acknowledged that many, if not most, delays in aircraft arrivals and departures result from delays in aircraft ground travel between landing and takeoff. It is additionally acknowledged that minimizing the time an aircraft spends sitting idle on the ground between taxi-in after ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0007]It is a primary object of the present invention, therefore, to overcome the deficiencies of the prior art and to provide a training system and method for training airport ground personnel, air traffic control personnel, and pilots and other operators of aircraft equipped with non-engine drive means controllable to move aircraft independently during taxi and pushback which that produces safe and efficient ground movement.

[0008]It is another object of the present invention to provide a training system and method for aircraft equipped with non-engine drive means for ground travel designed to include the aircraft's pilot, ramp personnel, maintenance, and ground operations to optimize efficiency of aircraft taxi and pushback operations, thereby directly and indirectly increasing the efficiency of landing and gate operations.

[0012]It is yet a further object of the present invention to provide a training system and simulation method for aircraft equipped with non-engine drive means for ground travel capable of incorporation into a generic airport simulation and into a specific airport simulation that includes all aspects of ground operations at the specific airport between landing and takeoff, including landing patterns and airport facility availability designed to enhance the efficiency of the complete airport operating environment.

[0013]It is a still further object of the present invention to provide a training system and simulation method that has the potential not only to improve airport ground operation efficiency, but also to effectively increase aircraft handling and management, the numbers of aircraft able to land within a designated time period, and airport throughput generally.

[0014]In accordance with the aforesaid objects, a training system and method for operating aircraft equipped with non-engine drive means during independent ground travel is provided. The system and method of the present invention is designed specifically to train pilots, ground personnel, and air traffic control to move an aircraft safely and efficiently on the ground during taxi and pushback using the aircraft's non-engine drive means to propel the aircraft independently during ground travel. Efficiencies in the management and control of airport ground operations made possible by the present invention produce this safe and efficient aircraft movement. Simulations and procedures for training pilots and ramp personnel in the conduct of pushback operations and forward taxi with an aircraft equipped with non-engine drive means are also provided. These simulations enable air traffic control personnel to obtain a more precise understanding of aircraft ground movements and provide information that can lead to better control of aircraft ground movement and more effective use of airport gates.

Problems solved by technology

It is acknowledged that many, if not most, delays in aircraft arrivals and departures result from delays in aircraft ground travel between landing and takeoff.

None of the foregoing patents or published applications, however, suggests systems or methods by which the non-engine drive systems described therein may be simulated or used in any way for training pilots, ground personnel and air traffic control personnel or other aircraft and / or airport operators in the effective use of such systems.

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