Autonomous distressed aircraft tracking system

Abstract

The invention is an autonomous anomaly response unit comprising: a signal coupler in communication with a selected avionics sensor in the aircraft avionics system, the signal coupler functioning to acquire from the selected avionics sensor a monitored sensor signal configured in a first signal format; a signal processor for receiving the monitored sensor signal and cross-formatting the monitored sensor signal into a selected sensor reading configured in a second signal format; a parameter check for evaluating the selected sensor reading such that a monitor trigger signal is issued in response to detection of an anomaly in the selected sensor reading; and a response module configured to issue an emergency response alarm in response to receiving the monitor trigger signal.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0001]The present invention relates to a system and method for automatically tracking an aircraft placed in a distressed state by the occurrence of one or more anomalies in flight operational conditions.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]Nowadays, commercial aircraft remain top priority targets for terrorist groups. In 2015, more than 8 million people traveled by aircraft on a daily basis; which equates to 3.3 billion passengers annually, a number equal to forty four percent of the world's population. Despite strenuous efforts by governments to harden commercial aviation in the post-9 / 11 era, the number of terrorist plots uncovered annually illustrates that al-Qaida, its affiliates, and numerous other Islamist extremist groups maintain a high level of interest in attacking aviation. Terrorists know that any terrorism targeting commercial aircraft impacts the world's economy on many levels and for long periods of time. These groups direct their hostility onto what...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present invention is related to an autonomous anomaly response unit for monitoring an aircraft avionics system and initiating an emergency response if the aircraft operational state escalates to a distressed stage. The unit includes a signal coupler for acquiring a monitored sensor signal, a signal processor for receiving and cross-formatting the sensor signal, a parameter check for evaluating the sensor reading, and a response module for issuing an emergency response alarm and communicating with ground-based personnel. The invention also includes an aircraft tracking system for automatically determining current aircraft location, an avionics monitoring system with an emergency response system for detecting and responding to anomalous sensor readings, and a satellite communication system for transmitting emergency messages and homing transmissions to ground-based personnel. The technical effects of the invention include improved safety and reliability of aircraft operations and faster response times to emergency situations.

Problems solved by technology

Terrorists know that any terrorism targeting commercial aircraft impacts the world's economy on many levels and for long periods of time.

These groups direct their hostility onto what are referred to as “symbolic targets.” Terrorism is a form of intimidation, which often inflicts wide-spread chaos.

During the 9 / 11 attacks, one of the government's top assets, NORAD, could not locate any of the hi-jacked aircraft until it was too late.

That series of four coordinated terrorist attacks by the Islamic terrorist groups on the morning of September 11, 2001 resulted in thousands of deaths.

The attacks caused $10 billion in property and infrastructure damage, and over $3 trillion in total costs.

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