Airport signaling system with cellular communication capabilities

Abstract

An airport signaling system (100) comprising a plurality of signaling units (2), each signaling unit comprising at least one airport signaling device (9, 10), and a central communication unit (4) configured for data communication with the plurality of signaling units. The plurality of signaling units (2) each comprises a wireless data communication device (18) configured for cellular data communication and at least one sensor device (15) configured for capturing measurement data related to one or more of: environmental conditions, meteorological conditions, presence of an object, motion of an object, and a status condition related to the respective signaling unit, but not a status condition of the respective at least one signaling device. The at least one sensor device (15) is configured to communicate the measurement data to the wireless data communication device for transmission via a cellular network.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to data communication equipment for signaling systems at airports. In particular, this invention relates to the digital conversion of airport signaling and monitoring systems. Background Technology

[0002] Airports have a large number of signaling devices, such as lighting equipment, which may be located on or near the apron, ramps, taxiways, or runways, or on buildings such as hangars, air traffic control (ATC) towers, or other facilities. Signaling equipment may also include, for example, radar equipment or radio beacons.

[0003] Airport signaling systems with a central communication unit and a control unit capable of communicating with multiple signaling devices are known from EP 1523864 and EP 1606785. The signaling devices are connected to the control unit and the central communication unit via power lines. Communication between the central communication unit and the signaling devices is performed via the power lines using Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM) technology, in which a data stream is divided across several narrowband channels within a limited frequency range to reduce interference and crosstalk. The signaling devices include, at their ends, addressable communication gateway devices capable of communicating with the central communication unit. Data communication via the power lines may include control commands for operating the signaling devices and may include measurement data captured by sensors located near the signaling devices.

[0004] Along the power line, current-isolated transformers are arranged at each node with signaling equipment. Communication gateway equipment is located on the secondary side of the transformers, on the signaling equipment side. Because these transformers typically attenuate high-frequency signals, dedicated transformers must be used to allow high-frequency signals to pass through, increasing installation costs. However, the available frequency band is typically limited to approximately 190kHz, thus limiting data bandwidth.

[0005] Most airport signaling equipment, particularly aviation ground lighting (AGL), uses series circuitry. This topology further limits the amount of information that can be transmitted through the circuitry used to monitor the operational status of the signaling system. Bandwidth constraints prevent the transmission of additional information from various sensors or historical data stored at the equipment. Furthermore, for security reasons, status condition information is typically centrally stored within the signaling system, limiting its accessibility to maintenance personnel. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Therefore, there is a need in the art to provide distributed sensor networks at airports in an economical manner to increase security. There is also a need in the art to provide an airport signaling system that allows communication and the collection of a larger amount of information to improve system control and maintenance. Furthermore, there is a need in the art to provide an airport signaling system that allows for easier and faster maintenance and monitoring.

[0007] According to the first aspect, an airport signaling system is therefore provided, as described in this disclosure and the appended claims. The airport signaling system described herein includes a plurality of signaling units, each signaling unit including at least one airport signaling device, and a central communication unit configured to communicate data with the plurality of signaling units. The plurality of signaling units and the possible central communication unit include a wireless data communication device configured for cellular communication with measurement data associated with one or more of the following: environmental conditions, meteorological conditions, the presence of (foreign) objects, the movement of (foreign) objects, and state conditions associated with a corresponding signaling unit, but not the state conditions of the corresponding at least one signaling device, and possibly other data indicating the state of the airport signaling system / at least one airport signaling device or control signals for operating the airport signaling system. The measurement data is captured by one or more sensor devices included in the signaling units. The wireless data communication device can communicate or cooperate with a communication device for data communication via a power line, through which power is supplied to at least one airport signaling device.

[0008] Therefore, according to this disclosure, a distributed sensor network can be obtained at an airport by incorporating sensor devices into the signaling unit. The sensor devices communicate with a wireless communication device provided in the signaling unit, which is configured to transmit data collected by the distributed sensors via a cellular network. Thus, this disclosure makes it possible to create a distributed sensor network for sensing various conditions, both external and internal, of the signaling unit housing. These conditions are advantageously independent of the operating conditions of the signaling devices themselves. Instead, by providing a distributed system of sensors, the measurement data obtained from these sensor devices serves the purpose of improving air traffic control and airport security and safety. These sensors are positioned in locations relevant to airport traffic and collect large amounts of data in a non-cooperative manner: meteorological conditions (which may vary at different locations at the airport), environmental conditions, security conditions of the signaling unit housing (water ingress, broken windows, excessive vibration, etc.), and non-cooperative detection of airport traffic to enhance existing traffic control systems. Cellular communication capabilities enable the simultaneous transmission of large amounts of data captured by various sensor devices at the airport.

[0009] According to a second aspect, an airport signaling unit as described in this disclosure and the appended claims is provided. A plurality of such signaling units allow for the provision of the airport signaling system of the first aspect.

[0010] According to a third aspect of this disclosure, a control unit for an airport signaling system and a management system for an airport signaling system are provided. The control unit is advantageously included in the airport signaling system of the first aspect. The management system is advantageously implemented in the airport signaling system of the first aspect.

[0011] According to a fourth aspect of this disclosure, a method for operating an airport signaling system (such as the airport signaling system of the first aspect) is provided. Attached Figure Description

[0012] Various aspects of the invention will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals denote like features, wherein:

[0013] Figure 1 A schematic diagram illustrating a signaling system used in airports according to the aspects described herein;

[0014] Figure 2 Indicates in Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the first signaling unit used in the signaling system;

[0015] Figure 3 It can be used Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the second signaling unit in the signaling system;

[0016] Figure 4 Indicates used for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the third signaling unit in the signaling system;

[0017] Figure 5 Indicates used for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the fourth signaling unit in the signaling system;

[0018] Figure 6 This indicates the ability to communicate via cellular data to cloud networks. Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the signaling system. Detailed Implementation

[0019] refer to Figure 1 A signaling system 100 for airports, such as airfields, includes a control unit 110 and multiple signaling units 2. The control unit includes a power supply device 1, such as a constant current regulator (CCR) or a distributed parallel power system. The signaling units 2 are connected to the power supply device 1 via power lines 3. The power lines 3 form a series power supply circuit, and the signaling units 2 are connected in series to this series power supply circuit. However, the power lines 3 can also form a parallel power supply circuit with the signaling units 2 connected in parallel.

[0020] Signaling Unit 2 includes one or more signaling devices and one or more sensor devices. Signaling devices may refer to lighting equipment, such as aviation ground lighting (AGL) equipment as defined in Annex 14 of ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization). Signaling devices may alternatively or additionally refer to visual guidance equipment, such as parking barriers and airport light signs. Sensor devices may refer to sensors suitable for airport sites, such as orientation sensors, sensors for aircraft detection and classification, torque sensors (e.g., for sensing or monitoring torque applied by bolts), and vibration sensors. Sensor devices may alternatively or additionally refer to devices, for example, for detecting and signaling wind direction and intensity, as well as other types of detection and signaling equipment for meteorological or environmental data, such as temperature, humidity, and light conditions. Signaling devices may alternatively or additionally refer to sensors for detecting gas and / or water in cable ducts, as well as visual detection equipment, such as cameras, for monitoring runway areas, taxiway areas, aprons, and any other areas of the airport or apron. It will be convenient to note that all the above-mentioned sensors refer to non-cooperative sensors. In particular, these sensors do not cooperate with passing aircraft or vehicles; for example, they are not configured to intercept signals emitted by such aircraft or vehicles for detection.

[0021] The control unit 110 of the airport signaling system 100 also includes a central communication unit 4. Advantageously, the central communication unit 4 is connected to the power supply line 3. Therefore, the signaling unit 2 is connected to the power supply device 1 and the central communication unit 4 via the same power supply line 3.

[0022] Central communication unit 4 is connected to main control unit 6, for example, via data communication network 5. Main control unit 6 may be located near or far from central communication unit 4. Central communication unit 4 can receive setpoint data from main control unit 6 and forward it to signaling unit 2. Furthermore, central communication unit 4 can receive status reports from signaling unit 2 and forward them to main control unit 6. Main control unit 6 is configured in this way to operate as an airport management system, as described in, for example, DE10104950A1, DE 19949737A1, or EP 0883873B1.

[0023] refer to Figure 2 Each signaling unit 2 includes a base 7 in which one or more signaling devices (such as lighting devices 9), one or more sensor devices 10 as described above, and a local control unit 12 are arranged. Connection terminals 8 are provided in the base 7 for connecting one or more signaling devices 9, 10 to a power line 3. A switching device 11 may also be provided. The lighting device 9 may include one or more lamps. The switching device 11 is configured to operate the lighting device 9 and / or any other switchable sensor devices 10 arranged in the base 7. The switching device 11 and the local control unit 12 are connected to the connection terminals 8.

[0024] Refer again Figure 1 Transformer 13 is connected to connection terminal 8. Transformer 13 enables signaling unit 2 to be connected to power line 3 while ensuring electrical insulation. This connection can be achieved via branch line 3', which can be up to 200m long, preferably 100m or less. Alternatively, the transformer is connected downstream of connection terminal 8, for example, between connection terminal 8 and switching device 11 and / or local control unit 12. Transformer 13 can be provided outside or inside the base 7.

[0025] According to one aspect, the central communication unit 4 includes a first communication gateway device 41 coupled to a radio antenna 42. The first communication gateway device 41 is configured for cellular data communication via the antenna 42. Cellular data communication can be implemented by the first gateway device 41 according to any suitable wireless data communication protocol for cellular radio communication, such as orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM), such as 4G, 5G, etc. The central communication unit 4 may additionally or alternatively include a second communication gateway device 43 configured for wired data communication. Specifically, the second communication gateway device 43 is connected to a power line 3 and is configured to superimpose communication signals onto electrical signals (voltage and / or current) passing through the power line 3.

[0026] Refer again Figure 2 The local control unit 12 includes a processing device 16, such as a microprocessor, and a third communication gateway device 18 coupled to a radio antenna 19. The third communication gateway device 18 is configured for cellular data communication via the antenna 19. Cellular data communication can be implemented by the third gateway device 18 according to any suitable wireless data communication protocol for cellular radio communication, such as orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM), such as 4G, 5G, etc. Additionally or alternatively, the local control unit 12 includes a fourth communication gateway device 17, which is configured for wired data communication, specifically via power line 3. The third and fourth communication gateway devices 18 and 17 are operatively coupled to the processing device 16.

[0027] According to one aspect, the first and third communication gateway devices 41 and 18 are configured to communicate with each other unidirectionally or bidirectionally via their respective antennas 42 and 19. The second and fourth communication gateway devices 43 and 17 are advantageously configured to communicate with each other unidirectionally or bidirectionally via power line 3.

[0028] The central communication unit 4 is configured to transmit control signals S to the local control unit 12 of each signaling unit 2. The transmission of control signals S can be implemented in different ways. According to the first possibility, from... Figure 1 and Figure 2As can be seen, the control signal S is communicated as message signal 21 via power line 3. Specifically, signal S is superimposed on an AC (50Hz or 60Hz) voltage or current signal fed via power line 3, which powers signaling devices 9 and 10. For example, signal S can be superimposed as an OFDM signal as described above, which may include one or more non-overlapping narrowband frequency channels, advantageously in the frequency range between 20 and 190 kHz. The channels can be parameterized by a second or fourth communication gateway device. Alternatively, as described in WO95 / 24820, signal S can be synchronously superimposed via time slots, and pulses contained in the pulse signal can be communicated using a controlled high impedance on the secondary side of transformer 13. It should be understood that alternative power line communication techniques known in the art can also be used in the system described herein, particularly frequency modulation schemes for data communication, such as frequency shift keying (FSK) signals transmitted via power lines.

[0029] The control signal S is transmitted via power line 3 by the second communication gateway device 43 as a superimposed message signal 21 and is received by the fourth communication gateway device 17. Each of the fourth communication gateway devices 17 in the signaling unit 2 can be individually addressed by the second communication gateway device 43 to receive the dedicated control signal S. The control signal S received by the fourth communication gateway device 17 is transmitted to the processing device 16, which is configured to process the control signal S for, for example, operating the switching device 11 and / or one or more signaling devices 9, 10. Suitable examples of control commands are turning the lighting device 9 on or off, controlling the light intensity of the lighting device 9, and querying the sensor device 10.

[0030] According to the second possibility, the control signal S is communicated as a wireless signal between the central communication unit 4 and the signaling unit 2. For this purpose, the control signal S is transmitted by the first communication gateway device 41 via antenna 42 and received by the third communication gateway device 18 of the signaling unit 2 via antenna 19. As described above, wireless communication between antenna 42 and antenna 19 can be implemented according to any suitable cellular radio communication network protocol, such as 5G, especially within mission-critical dedicated cellular networks.

[0031] The central communication unit 4 can be configured to select the appropriate transmission route for the control signal S, i.e., via wired (device 43 / 17) or wireless (device 41 / 18) routing. For example, the central communication unit 4 can be configured to select the transmission path based on the type of control signal S, such as control signals related to operating the lighting device 9 transmitted via the power line 3, and control signals related to operating the sensor device 10 transmitted wirelessly.

[0032] Either communication gateway devices 41 and 18 can be configured as a base station to establish a cellular communication network through which data can be transmitted via communication gateway devices 41, 18 and corresponding antennas 42 and 19. Alternatively or additionally, external or remote devices are configured as base stations to establish the cellular communication network. Communication gateway devices 41 and 18 advantageously act as transceivers in the cellular network. Advantageously, the cellular communication network is a dedicated cellular network, such as a dedicated 5G cellular network, specifically configured for mission-critical data communications. In this disclosure, the term "5G" can refer to any radio access technology operating according to the International Mobile Telecommunications-2020 (IMT-2020) standard published by the Radiocommunication Sector (ITU-R) of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and / or according to any of the 5G radio access technologies proposed by the 3GPP (3rd Generation Partnership Project) alliance, such as, but not limited to, 5G NR (New Radio), LTE-M (Machine-Type Communications), and NB-IoT (Narrowband Internet of Things). In the context of this disclosure, the term "5G" may also refer to any further development of cellular communication technology, such as 6G and 6GE, which advantageously allows for the establishment of dedicated, i.e., non-public cellular radio communication networks, particularly for mission-critical communications.

[0033] refer to Figure 2 The sensor device 10 may include a first sensor 14 and / or a second sensor 15. The first sensor 14 can detect the internal state of the lighting (signaling) device 9 and transmit it to the local control unit 12. For example, the first sensor 14 can detect whether current flows through the lighting device 9, or whether the lighting device 9 is emitting light, and the possible intensity of the light. The processing unit 16 can receive a measurement signal R from the first sensor and, for example, combine it with the (known) switching state of the switching device 11 to determine whether the lighting device 9 is defective. The corresponding monitoring message M (e.g., on / off / flickering / defective) can optionally be transmitted by the local control unit 12 to the central communication unit 4 via a third gateway device 18 (wirelessly via antenna 19) or via a fourth gateway device 17 (e.g., as an OFDM signal).

[0034] The second sensor 15 is configured to detect the dominant state of the environment outside the signaling unit 2 or the substrate 7, such as weather conditions (temperature, humidity) or environmental conditions (ambient light intensity, day or night), or to detect passing objects, such as aircraft or vehicles, in a non-cooperative manner. The second sensor can be configured, for example, as a magnetic field sensor. The presence or absence of object 20 can be detected by means of the magnetic field sensor 15, particularly if the signaling unit 2 is installed on an airport runway, landing runway, or taxiway. This is especially applicable when object 20 is a metallic object, such as an aircraft 20 or a motor vehicle. The velocity of object 20 can also be determined when two second sensors 15 are arranged at a spaced distance along the direction of movement (either in the same signaling unit 2 or in two different signaling units 2). Alternatively, the second sensor 15 can be configured as a radar sensor, such as a microwave transceiver. In another example, the second sensor 15 can be configured to detect meteorological or environmental characteristics. Meteorological or environmental characteristics can be, for example, temperature, wind speed, precipitation (e.g., rain, snow), or visibility conditions (e.g., day / night / fog).

[0035] Alternatively or additionally, other characteristics can be detected by means of sensor devices 10 or 15. Examples of these characteristics are vibration, (external) noise, air or ground humidity, light intensity, and the internal state or operating conditions of signaling unit 2, rather than the state or operating conditions of lighting (signaling) device 9, which is captured by the first sensor 14. Any suitable sensor can be used for this purpose. Some examples of the second sensor 15 can be configured to monitor the operating conditions of the substrate 7 and / or any other structure associated with signaling unit 2 other than lighting (signaling) device 2, such as a torque sensor for sensing torque applied by, for example, bolts, and / or sensors for detecting gases and / or water, such as monitoring the sealing condition of substrate 7, such as a broken window or a loose cover. Furthermore, in addition to radar or magnetic field sensors, the detection and identification of objects can also be achieved by non-cooperative sensors. For example, an optical sensor (e.g., a camera) can be used, which can detect not only the presence of an object but also its shape and / or movement and direction of movement.

[0036] The signal R generated by the second sensor 15 can be transmitted to the local control unit 12, where it is processed by the processing device 16 to determine the useful signal N. The useful signal N can be transmitted from the local control unit 12 to the central communication unit 4 via the third communication gateway device 18 (wirelessly via antenna 19) or via the fourth communication gateway device 17 (e.g., as an OFDM signal).

[0037] If signaling unit 2 operates based on synchronization on a shared time base, it may also transmit the corresponding detection time to central communication unit 4 via signal N. For this purpose, for example in a mission-critical dedicated cellular radio communication network, the time synchronization signal is advantageously received via antenna 19 and third communication gateway device 18.

[0038] Local control unit 12 can also be configured to transmit a signal transmission request to central communication unit 4, for example, in the form of an interrupt request IR. This can be achieved via a fourth communication gateway device 17, as an overlay message signal 21 via power line 3, or wirelessly—if applicable—via a third communication gateway device 18. For example, if one of the local control units 12 notices a defect in lighting equipment 9, it can transmit a signal transmission request IR to central communication unit 4, allowing central communication unit 4 to address the local control unit 12 from which the signal transmission request IR originates in a targeted manner. In addition to the identifier of signaling unit 2 (local control unit 12), the signal transmission request IR may include a code from which central communication unit 4 can identify the type of signal to be transmitted. For example, different codes may be used to identify object 20, to modify weather identification characteristics, or to modify the internal state of the airport signaling unit (e.g., a malfunction of lighting equipment 9).

[0039] Alternatively, the local control unit 12 can not only feed the interrupt request IR, but also feed it along with the useful signal N itself to the central communication unit 4. However, this type of transmission requires some form of collision detection, as is known in the art.

[0040] It should be understood that wired communication via the second and fourth communication gateway devices 43, 17 can be carried out via cables other than power lines, for example, when available, via dedicated data communication cables such as optical fibers.

[0041] It is convenient to note that the base 7 may include multiple pairs of connection terminals 8 for connection to one or more different signaling devices. The pairs of connection terminals 8 can be connected to different transformers 13. The base 7 can therefore refer to different types of mounting enclosures, such as underground pits, access holes, or underground or elevated bases.

[0042] Typically, transformers 13 are optimized for power transmission frequencies rather than data signal transmission frequencies. Therefore, they significantly suppress transmitted data signals S, M, N, and IR. To avoid this problem, dedicated transformers with reduced high-frequency damping characteristics can be used, but this comes at the cost of increased cost. Furthermore, or alternatively, the second and fourth communication gateway devices 43, 17 preferably include repeaters for signal conditioning and amplification, as well as means for measuring the received strength and quality of signals S, M, N, and IR transmitted via power line 3 as superimposed message signals. The received strength and quality are preferably also transmitted via power line 3 to the central communication unit 4. This advantageously allows the central communication unit 4 to monitor the status of the entire communication system. By evaluating the transmitted information regarding transmission quality and signal strength, the central communication unit 4 can thus advantageously configure the communication system for each individual transmission operation. In particular, the central communication unit 4 can specify which fourth communication gateway device 17 should perform a repeater function and which should not in each case by transmitting corresponding control signals S. In this way, sufficient transmission quality in the communication system is consistently guaranteed. Meanwhile, the power expenditure required for this, as well as crosstalk behavior and background noise, can be optimized through dynamic adaptation of the wired communication network.

[0043] refer to Figure 3 Alternative embodiments of signaling unit 30 and Figure 2 The signaling unit 2 differs in that it includes a fifth communication gateway device 28 for cellular communication, which is connected to the power line 3 via a connection node 81 upstream of the transformer 13. The fifth communication gateway device 28 includes a power line communication module 281, which may be similar to the fourth communication gateway device 17, allowing signals to be transmitted and / or received via the power line 3, and a cellular communication module 282 for wireless (cellular) communication of signals via the antenna 19. The fifth communication gateway device 28 can be configured to wirelessly transmit any data signals received via the power line 3 through a cellular communication network via the antenna 19, or to feed any data signals received via the antenna 19 into the power line 3.

[0044] The fifth communication gateway device 28 can be coupled to the local control unit 12 for data communication via the (wired) data communication line 23. In this case, the fifth communication gateway device 28 can replace any one or both of the third and fourth communication gateway devices 18 and 17, and therefore they may not be present in the local control unit 12. Figure 3 In the example, a fourth communication gateway device 17 is provided, but a third communication gateway device 18 is not provided.

[0045] One advantage of the fifth communication gateway device 28 is that it allows the bypass transformer 13 to provide a direct interface between powerline communication and cellular communication networks. Therefore, the powerline communication module 281 experiences minimal signal attenuation from the transformer 13. Consequently, a cheaper transformer 13 can be used and / or a signal repeater or conditioner can be omitted, resulting in a more economical communication gateway device. Furthermore, the network communication protocol implemented for powerline communication can have some similarities to cellular network communication protocols (e.g., OFDM) used for wireless transmission via antenna 19. By providing a direct link between communication modules 281 and 282, signal conversion between powerline communication and wireless (cellular) communication can be facilitated.

[0046] Depending on the circumstances, antenna 19 coupled to communication gateway devices 18, 28, 58, or 68 is advantageously configured to transmit and / or receive radio signals within a frequency range defined by the cellular communication protocol (cellular network) used (e.g., 5G). Figure 2 and 3 As shown, antenna 19 is advantageously arranged outside the substrate 7 for optimal reception and / or transmission. Alternatively, antenna 19 may be arranged inside the substrate 7 or integrated into the body of the substrate 7. In the latter case, the substrate 7 is advantageously made of a material that is transparent to radio waves (especially in the frequency range in which antenna 19 is used), such as a non-conductive material, a composite material, or both.

[0047] refer to Figure 4 The fifth communication gateway device 28 is particularly useful in larger access port facilities 40 (where multiple signaling devices 9, for example, associated with the same or different airport signaling circuits, are arranged, and each signaling device is equipped with a different transformer 13 and local control unit 22). In this case, it may be economical to provide communication capability to a single communication gateway device 28 with power lines 3, 3” for each different signaling circuit. The fifth communication gateway device 28 can be operatively coupled to each local control unit 22 via (wired) data communication line 23. In this case, the fifth communication gateway device 28 can replace one or both of the third and fourth communication gateway devices 18, 17 of the local control unit 22. Therefore, the local control unit 22 does not need to include any one or both of the third and fourth communication gateway devices 18 and 17.

[0048] Alternatively, the fifth communication gateway device 28 can communicate with the fourth communication gateway device 17 of the local control unit 22 of various signaling devices via the power line communication module 281. This can be achieved by sending message signals (superimposed on power signals) via power lines 3, 3”. In this case, the data communication line 23 can be omitted. The power line communication module 281 is connected to the cellular communication module 282 for receiving and / or sending any data signals through the cellular network. Therefore, the cellular communication module 282 can operate as a cellular communication gateway device for the local control unit 22, and the local control unit 22 does not need to be provided with a third communication gateway device 18.

[0049] refer to Figure 5 Another embodiment of signaling unit 50 is similar to Figure 2 The difference in signaling unit 2 is that one or more signaling devices 14, 15 include their own, directly coupled, different cellular communication gateway devices 58, 68. For example, sensor (signaling) device 14 includes a dedicated cellular communication gateway device 58 and a corresponding antenna 19. Sensor (signaling) device 15 includes a dedicated cellular communication gateway device 68 and a corresponding antenna 19. Cellular communication gateway devices 58, 68 may be operatively or inoperably connected to local control unit 12, meaning direct data communication between local control unit 12 and cellular communication gateway devices 58, 68 may or may not be possible.

[0050] Cellular communication gateway devices 58 and 68 can be configured to receive measurement and / or monitoring signals from signaling devices 14 and 15 to which they are coupled, and to wirelessly transmit the measurement and / or monitoring signals over the cellular network via their respective antennas 19. In this case, the local control unit 12 may also include a third communication gateway device 18, for example, for cellular communication of signals, particularly control signals S related to the operation or monitoring of the lighting device 9. Alternatively, the cellular communication gateway device (not shown) may be directly coupled to the lighting device 9, which may or may not be operatively connected to the processing device 16. This type of installation may be particularly useful when retrofitting an existing installation, or when additional signaling devices such as sensors or lighting devices are added to the signaling unit 50 and there is no communication protocol via the power line 3.

[0051] It should be understood that some sensor devices, such as sensor 15, located within signaling units 2, 30, 40, and 50 may be equipped with their own power supplies. Alternatively, the sensor devices may draw power from power line 3.

[0052] refer to Figure 6Any of the previously described cellular communication gateway devices 41, 18, 282, 58, and 68 is advantageously configured to communicate with the cloud network 200 via the cellular network 180. The cloud network 200 includes a data storage system 201 that can store data associated with one or more signaling devices 9, 10 and / or power unit 1 of the signaling system 100. This data is transmitted via the cellular network 180 by one or more of the various cellular communication gateway devices described above and may include identifier data, monitoring data, and / or operational data, possibly with their respective timestamps.

[0053] For example, the first communication gateway device 41 can be configured to wirelessly transmit monitoring data related to the power supply unit 1 or the entire signaling system, such as transformer impedance measurements, to the cloud network 200 via the cellular network 180. Communication gateway devices 18, 28, 58, and 68 can be configured to wirelessly transmit monitoring and / or measurement data related to the lighting equipment 9 from one or more sensor devices 10 to the cloud network 200 via the cellular network 180. Therefore, the cellular communication capabilities of the central communication unit and / or signaling unit allow for the transmission of more data. Thus, compared to prior art systems, the system described herein allows for the collection of additional data related to the operation and status conditions of the signaling system 100. This data can be advantageously used to improve the maintenance of the signaling system and / or to provide awareness of improvements related to faults or defects in the signaling system.

[0054] Data storage system 201 can be a remote system, for example, where data is stored in a cloud system. In this case, some or all of the data communicated from the cellular communication gateway device of the signaling system to the cloud network 200 can also be stored locally, for example, in a data storage system linked to the main control unit 6. Therefore, the data communicated to and / or stored in the cloud network 200 may be redundant. Alternatively, data storage system 201 can be a local system, for example, located in an ATC tower or airport site, and may or may not be linked to the main control unit 6.

[0055] A user interface 300 (such as a computer, handheld tablet, or mobile device) advantageously equipped with cellular network communication capabilities, used by a maintenance operator, can communicate with the cloud network 200 (wirelessly, via the cellular network 180) to access data related to the signaling system 100 stored in the data storage system 201. This allows maintenance operators to more easily access maintenance-related data of the signaling system 100, even from a remote location.

[0056] It should be understood that the cellular communication gateway device described herein may have the above-mentioned features. Figure 1 and Figure 6 Any one or both of the described cellular communication capabilities.

[0057] Advantageously, the local control unit 12 or the fifth communication gateway device 28 can be configured to act as a communication bridge between wired (power line) communication and cellular communication networks. For example, message signal 21 transmitted via power line 3 can be received by the fourth communication gateway device 17 or communication module 281, and once properly converted (e.g., by processing device 16), transmitted to the third communication gateway device 18 or cellular communication module 282 for wireless transmission, and vice versa. In particular, some signaling units 2 can act as communication hubs, where data is collected from nearby signaling units and transmitted between the wired communication network (power line 3) and the cellular communication network. This also avoids the need for signal repeaters and amplifiers on power line 3.

[0058] The embodiments of this disclosure are defined by the following numbered clauses:

[0059] A1. An airport signaling system (100), comprising:

[0060] Multiple signaling units (2, 30, 40, 50), each signaling unit including at least one airport signaling device (9, 10),

[0061] The control unit (1, 6) is configured to control the operation of multiple signaling units (2, 30, 40, 50).

[0062] The central communication unit (4) is operatively coupled to the control unit and configured to perform data communication (S) with multiple signaling units (2, 30, 40, 50).

[0063] The feature is that one or more of the central communication unit (4) and the plurality of signaling units (2, 30, 40, 50) include a wireless data communication device (18, 28, 58, 68) configured for wireless data communication.

[0064] A2. An airport signaling system as described in Clause A1, comprising a power supply (1) and a power line (3) connecting the power supply to a plurality of signaling units (2, 30, 40, 50).

[0065] A3. The airport signaling system as described in the preceding clause, wherein each of the plurality of signaling units (2, 30, 40, 50) includes a first communication device (17, 281) coupled to a power line, and wherein a central communication unit (4) is coupled to a power line (3) and configured to communicate data with the first communication device (17, 281) via the power line.

[0066] A4. The airport signaling system as described in the preceding clause, wherein the first communication device (17, 281) is configured to operate at least one airport signaling device (9, 10) of the corresponding signaling unit (2, 30, 40, 50).

[0067] A5. An airport signaling system as described in any of the preceding clauses, wherein the central communication unit (4) includes a first wireless data communication device (41).

[0068] A6. The airport signaling system as described in the preceding clause, wherein the central communication unit (4) is configured to receive data from one or more of a plurality of signaling units (2, 30, 40, 50) and / or control unit (6), and transmit at least a portion of the data to a remote data storage system (201) via a first wireless data communication device (41).

[0069] A7. The airport signaling system as described in the preceding clause includes a local data storage system, wherein the central communication unit (4) is configured to transmit at least a portion of the data to the local data storage system in addition to wireless transmission to the remote data storage system (201).

[0070] A8. An airport signaling system as described in clauses A6 or A7, wherein the data includes data for monitoring the operational status of one or more of the control unit (6) and a plurality of signaling units (2, 30, 40, 50), preferably wherein the data includes identifier data of the respective signaling unit or control unit.

[0071] A9. An airport signaling system as described in any of the preceding clauses, wherein each of the plurality of signaling units (2, 30, 40, 50) includes a second wireless communication device (18, 28) for wireless data communication.

[0072] A10. An airport signaling system as described in the preceding clause, wherein each signaling unit (2, 30, 40, 50) includes at least one sensor (10) for capturing measurement data associated with one or more of the following: the state conditions of the corresponding signaling device, environmental conditions and the presence of foreign objects, and wherein at least one sensor (10) is configured to communicate the measurement data to a second wireless communication device.

[0073] A11. An airport signaling system as described in clauses A9 or A10, wherein a second wireless communication device (18, 28) is configured to receive first data from a corresponding signaling unit (2, 30, 40, 50) and / or receive measurement data from at least one sensor, and transmit the first data and / or measurement results via the second wireless communication device (18, 28).

[0074] A12. An airport signaling system as described in any one of the provisions A9-A11 of Clause 5, wherein the central communication unit (4) is configured to conduct wireless data communication with a plurality of signaling units (2, 30, 40, 50) via a first wireless data communication device (41) and a second wireless communication device (18, 28).

[0075] A13. An airport signaling system as described in any one of clauses A9 to A12, comprising a power supply (1) and a power line (3) connecting the power supply to a plurality of signaling units (2, 30, 40, 50), wherein each of the plurality of signaling units includes a first gateway device (17) coupled to the power line (3), and wherein a central communication unit (4) includes a second gateway device (43) coupled to the power line (3), wherein the second gateway device is configured to communicate data with the first gateway device via the power line.

[0076] A14. An airport signaling system as described in Clause A13, wherein the central communication unit (4) is configured to selectively communicate data with a plurality of signaling units (2, 30, 40, 50) via first and second wireless communication devices and via power lines.

[0077] A15. The airport signaling system as described in any of the preceding clauses, wherein (first and / or second) wireless data communication equipment is configured to receive and / or transmit in accordance with a wireless cellular communication protocol, preferably, wireless communication equipment is configured to receive and / or transmit 5G radio signals.

[0078] A16. An airport signaling system as described in any of the preceding clauses, wherein the airport signaling equipment (9) is an aviation ground light, airport sign, airport warning light or airport sensing equipment (14, 15).

[0079] A17. An airport signaling unit (2, 30, 40, 50), comprising:

[0080] Outer shell (7),

[0081] Connection terminal (8) for connecting to power cord (3),

[0082] At least one airport signaling device (9, 10),

[0083] A power transformer (13) is coupled between the connection terminal (8) and the airport signaling equipment (9, 10).

[0084] The airport signaling unit is characterized in that it includes a first communication device (18, 28, 58, 68) coupled to at least one airport signaling device (9, 10), wherein the first communication device is configured for wireless data communication.

[0085] A18. An airport signaling unit as described in the preceding clause, wherein the first communication device is configured to wirelessly receive control commands (S) for operating at least one airport signaling device (9, 10).

[0086] A19. An airport signaling unit as described in any of the preceding two clauses includes at least one sensor (14, 15) for measuring data (R) representing conditions or events inside or outside the enclosure (7), and wherein at least one sensor (14, 15) is configured to communicate the data (R) to a first communication device (18, 28, 58, 68).

[0087] A20. An airport signaling unit as described in any one of clauses A17-A19, wherein a first communication device (18, 28, 58, 68) is configured to receive first data representing an operational status from at least one airport signaling device (9, 10) and / or receive measurement data from at least one sensor (14, 15), and transmit the first data and / or measurement data via a wireless data communication network.

[0088] A21. An airport signaling unit as described in any one of clauses A17-A20 includes a second communication device (17, 281) coupled to a connection terminal (8), wherein the second communication device is configured to perform data communication via a power line (3), and in particular to receive control commands (S) for operating airport signaling equipment (9, 10).

[0089] A22. An airport signaling unit as described in the preceding clause, wherein a second communication device (281) is connected to a power line (3) at a connection node between a connection terminal (8) and a power transformer (13), wherein a first communication device (282) and a second communication device (281) are configured to exchange data signals with each other.

[0090] A23. An airport signaling unit as described in any one of clauses A17-A22, comprising a radio antenna (19) operatively coupled to a first communication device (18, 28, 58, 68), particularly for cellular communication.

[0091] A24. The airport signaling unit as described in the preceding clause, wherein the radio antenna (19) is arranged outside the housing (7).

[0092] A25. An airport signaling unit as described in clause A23, wherein a radio antenna (19) is arranged inside the housing (7).

[0093] A26. An airport signaling unit as described in clause A25, wherein the housing is made of a material substantially transparent to radio waves, particularly a composite material, especially a fiber-reinforced composite material.

[0094] A27. A control unit for an airport signaling system, comprising:

[0095] The power supply unit (1) is configured to supply power to at least one airport signaling device (9, 10) of the airport signaling system via a power line (3).

[0096] The central communication unit (4) is used to communicate control signals (S) to at least one airport signaling device.

[0097] The central communication unit (4) is characterized in that it includes a first communication device (41) configured for wireless data communication.

[0098] A28. The control unit as described in the preceding clause, wherein the central communication unit (4) is configured to communicate first data representing the status of the power supply unit (1) to the first communication device (41) for its wireless transmission.

[0099] A29. The control unit as described in any of the preceding two clauses includes a second communication device (43) configured to communicate data with at least one signaling device via a power line (3), particularly for transmitting control signals (S) for operating at least one signaling device (9, 10) and / or for receiving second data representing the status of at least one signaling device (9, 10).

[0100] A30. The control unit as described in any one of clauses A27-A29, wherein the central communication unit (4) is configured to receive second data representing the status of the airport signaling system and transmit the second data to the first communication device (41) for its wireless transmission.

[0101] A31. The control unit as described in any one of clauses A27-A30, wherein the first communication device (41) includes a radio antenna (42), particularly for cellular communication.

[0102] A32. A management system for an airport signaling system, comprising the control unit described in clause A30, and further comprising a data storage system (201), wherein a first communication device (41) is configured to wirelessly transmit second data to the data storage system.

[0103] A33. A method of operating an airport signaling system, wherein the airport signaling system includes a control unit and a plurality of signaling units, each signaling unit being provided with at least one airport signaling device, the method comprising:

[0104] Collect operational status data from at least one signaling device, and

[0105] The collected operational status data is wirelessly transmitted to a remote data storage system.

[0106] A34. The method as described in the preceding clause, wherein the collected operational status data is retrieved from a remote data storage system via a user interface, preferably a portable user interface.

[0107] A35. The method as described in any one of the preceding two clauses, wherein the collected operational status data is transmitted via a wireless cellular communication network, preferably wherein the collected operational status data is retrieved from a remote data storage system via a wireless cellular communication network.

[0108] A36. The method as described in any one of clauses A33-A35, comprising sending an operation command to a signaling unit for operating at least one signaling device, wherein the operation command is sent via power line communication and / or via wireless transmission.

[0109] B1. An airport signaling system (100), comprising:

[0110] Multiple signaling units (2, 30, 40, 50), each signaling unit including at least one airport signaling device (9, 10),

[0111] The control unit (1, 6) is configured to control the operation of multiple signaling units (2, 30, 40, 50).

[0112] The central communication unit (4) is operatively coupled to the control unit and configured to perform data communication (S) with multiple signaling units (2, 30, 40, 50).

[0113] The feature is that one or more of the central communication unit (4) and the plurality of signaling units (2, 30, 40, 50) include a wireless data communication device (18, 282, 41, 58, 68) configured for cellular data communication.

[0114] B2. An airport signaling system as described in Clause B1, comprising a power supply (1) and power lines (3) connecting the power supply to a plurality of signaling units (2, 30, 40, 50).

[0115] B3. An airport signaling system as described in the preceding clause, wherein each of the plurality of signaling units (2, 30, 40, 50) includes a first communication device (17, 281) coupled to a power line, wherein a central communication unit (4) is coupled to a power line (3) and configured to communicate data with the first communication device (17, 281) via the power line, preferably wherein the first communication device (17, 281) is configured to operate at least one airport signaling device (9, 10) of the respective signaling unit (2, 30, 40, 50).

[0116] B4. An airport signaling system as described in any of the preceding clauses, wherein the central communication unit (4) comprises the first of the wireless data communication devices (41).

[0117] B5. The airport signaling system as described in the preceding clause, wherein the central communication unit (4) is configured to receive first data from one or more of a plurality of signaling units (2, 30, 40, 50) and / or control unit (6), and to transmit at least a portion of the first data to a remote data storage system (201) via a first wireless data communication device (41) via a cellular network (180).

[0118] B6. The airport signaling system as described in clause B5, wherein the first data includes data for monitoring the operational status of one or more of the control unit (6) and a plurality of signaling units (2, 30, 40, 50), preferably wherein the first data includes identifier data of the respective signaling unit or control unit.

[0119] B7. An airport signaling system as described in any of the preceding clauses, wherein each of the plurality of signaling units (2, 30, 40, 50) includes a second of wireless communication devices (18, 28) configured for cellular data communication.

[0120] B8. An airport signaling system as described in the preceding clause, wherein each of the plurality of signaling units (2, 30, 40, 50) includes at least one sensor device (15) for capturing one or more measurement data relating to environmental conditions, meteorological conditions and the presence of foreign objects, and wherein at least one sensor device (15) is configured to communicate the measurement data to a second wireless communication device for transmission via a cellular network (180).

[0121] B9. An airport signaling system as described in conjunction with clause B7 or B8 of clause 5, wherein the central communication unit (4) is configured to communicate wirelessly with a plurality of signaling units (2, 30, 40, 50) via a cellular network (180) through a first wireless data communication device (41) and a second wireless communication device (18, 28).

[0122] B10. An airport signaling system as described in any one of clauses B7 to B9, comprising a power supply (1) and a power line (3) connecting the power supply to a plurality of signaling units (2, 30, 40, 50), wherein each of the plurality of signaling units includes a first gateway device (17) coupled to the power line (3), and wherein a central communication unit (4) includes a second gateway device (43) coupled to the power line (3), wherein the second gateway device is configured to communicate data with the first gateway device via the power line.

[0123] B11. An airport signaling system as described in the preceding clause, wherein the central communication unit (4) is configured to selectively communicate data with a plurality of signaling units (2, 30, 40, 50) via first and second wireless communication devices on a cellular network (180) and via a power line (3).

[0124] B12. The airport signaling system as described in any of the preceding clauses, wherein the wireless data communication equipment is configured to receive and / or transmit 5G radio signals.

[0125] B13. The airport signaling system as described in any of the preceding clauses, wherein the airport signaling equipment (9) includes lighting equipment.

[0126] B14. An airport signaling system as described in the preceding clause, wherein the airport signaling equipment (9) is an aviation ground light, airport sign or airport warning light.

[0127] B15. An airport signaling unit (2, 30, 40, 50), comprising:

[0128] Outer shell (7),

[0129] Connection terminal (8) for connecting to power cord (3),

[0130] At least one airport signaling device (9, 10),

[0131] A power transformer (13) is coupled between the connection terminal (8) and the airport signaling equipment (9, 10).

[0132] The airport signaling unit is characterized in that it includes a first communication device (18, 28, 58, 68) coupled to at least one airport signaling device (9, 10), wherein the first communication device is configured for cellular data communication.

[0133] B16. An airport signaling unit as described in the preceding clause, wherein the first communication device is configured to wirelessly receive control commands (S) for operating at least one airport signaling device (9, 10).

[0134] B17. An airport signaling unit as described in either of the preceding two clauses includes at least one sensor (14, 15) for measuring data (R) representing conditions or events outside the enclosure (7), and wherein at least one sensor (14, 15) is configured to communicate the data (R) to a first communication device (18, 28, 58, 68).

[0135] B18. An airport signaling unit as described in clause B17, wherein a first communication device (18, 28, 58, 68) is configured to receive first data representing an operational status from at least one airport signaling device (9, 10) and / or receive measurement data from at least one sensor (14, 15), and transmit the first data and / or measurement data via a cellular network (180).

[0136] B19. The airport signaling unit as described in any one of clauses B15-B18 further includes a second communication device (17, 281) coupled to the connection terminal (8), wherein the second communication device is configured to perform data communication via the power line (3), and in particular to receive control commands (S) for operating the airport signaling equipment (9, 10).

[0137] B20. An airport signaling unit as described in the preceding clause, wherein a second communication device (281) is connected to a power line (3) at a connection node (81) upstream of a power transformer (13), wherein a first communication device (282) and a second communication device (281) are configured to exchange data signals with each other.

[0138] B21. An airport signaling unit as described in any of clauses B15-B20, comprising a radio antenna (19) for cellular communication operatively coupled to a first communication device (18, 282, 58, 68).

[0139] B22. An airport signaling unit as described in the preceding clause, wherein a radio antenna (19) is arranged outside the housing (7).

[0140] B23. An airport signaling unit as described in clause B21, wherein a radio antenna (19) is arranged inside the housing (7).

[0141] B24. An airport signaling unit as described in clause B23, wherein the housing comprises a material substantially transparent to radio waves, particularly a composite material, especially a fiber-reinforced composite material.

[0142] B25. A control unit (110) for an airport signaling system, the control unit comprising:

[0143] The power supply unit (1) is configured to supply power to at least one airport signaling device (9, 10) of the airport signaling system via a power line (3).

[0144] The central communication unit (4) is used to communicate control signals (S) to at least one airport signaling device.

[0145] The central communication unit (4) is characterized in that it includes a first communication device (41) configured for cellular data communication.

[0146] B26. The control unit as described in the preceding clause, wherein the central communication unit (4) is configured to communicate first data representing the status of the power supply unit (1) to the first communication device (41) for wireless transmission via a cellular network (180).

[0147] B27. The control unit of either of the preceding two clauses further includes a second communication device (43) configured to communicate data with at least one signaling device via a power line (3), in particular for transmitting control signals (S) for operating at least one signaling device (9, 10) and / or for receiving second data representing the status of at least one signaling device (9, 10).

[0148] B28. The control unit as described in any one of clauses B25 to B27, wherein the first communication device (41) includes a radio antenna (42) for cellular communication.

[0149] B29. The control unit as described in any one of clauses B25 to B28, wherein the central communication unit (4) is configured to receive second data representing the status of the airport signaling system and transmit the second data to the first communication device (41) for its wireless transmission.

[0150] B30. A management system for an airport signaling system, comprising the control unit described in clause B29, and further comprising a data storage system (201) and a mobile user interface (300), wherein a first communication device (41) is configured to wirelessly transmit second data to the data storage system via a cellular network (180), and wherein the mobile user interface (300) is configured to access the second data stored in the data storage system (201) via the cellular network (180).

[0151] B31. A method of operating an airport signaling system (100), wherein the airport signaling system includes a control unit (110) and a plurality of signaling units (2), each signaling unit being provided with at least one airport signaling device (9), the method comprising:

[0152] Collect operational status data from at least one signaling device, and

[0153] The collected operational status data is wirelessly transmitted to a remote data storage system (201) via a cellular network (180).

[0154] B32. The method as described in the preceding clause, wherein the collected operational status data is retrieved from the remote data storage system via a user interface, preferably via a portable user interface, through a cellular network (180).

[0155] B33. The method as described in clauses B31 or B32 includes sending an operation command to the signaling unit (2) for operating at least one signaling device, wherein the operation command is sent via power-line communication and / or via wireless transmission over a cellular network.

Claims

1. An airport signaling system, comprising: Multiple signaling units, each including at least one airport signaling device, The control unit is configured to control the operation of the plurality of signaling units. A central communication unit is operatively coupled to the control unit and configured to communicate data with the plurality of signaling units. Each of the plurality of signaling units includes at least one sensor device, which is configured to capture measurement data associated with one or more of the following: environmental conditions, meteorological conditions, the presence of an object, the motion of an object, and state conditions associated with the corresponding signaling unit, rather than the state conditions of the corresponding at least one signaling device. Each of the plurality of signaling units includes a first wireless data communication device configured for cellular data communication. Furthermore, the at least one sensor device is configured to communicate the measurement data to the first wireless data communication device for transmission via a cellular network.

2. The airport signaling system according to claim 1, wherein, The central communication unit includes a second wireless data communication device configured for cellular data communication.

3. The airport signaling system according to claim 2, wherein, The central communication unit is configured to receive first data from one or more of the plurality of signaling units and / or the control unit, and to transmit at least a portion of the first data to a remote data storage system via the cellular network through the second wireless data communication device.

4. The airport signaling system according to claim 3, wherein, The first data includes data used to monitor the operational status of one or more of the control unit and the plurality of signaling units.

5. The airport signaling system according to claim 4, wherein, The first data includes the identifier data of the corresponding signaling unit or control unit.

6. The airport signaling system according to any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein, The central communication unit is configured to perform wireless data communication with the plurality of signaling units via the cellular network through the first wireless data communication device and the second wireless data communication device.

7. The airport signaling system according to any one of claims 2 to 5, comprising a power supply and a power line connecting the power supply to the plurality of signaling units.

8. The airport signaling system according to claim 7, wherein, Each of the plurality of signaling units includes a first gateway device coupled to the power line, and wherein the central communication unit includes a second gateway device coupled to the power line, wherein the second gateway device is configured to perform data communication with the first gateway device via the power line.

9. The airport signaling system according to claim 8, wherein, The central communication unit is configured to selectively communicate with the plurality of signaling units via the first wireless data communication device and the second wireless data communication device, as well as via the power line.

10. The airport signaling system according to claim 2, wherein, The first wireless data communication device is configured to receive and / or transmit 5G radio signals.

11. The airport signaling system according to claim 10, wherein, The second wireless data communication device is configured to receive and / or transmit 5G radio signals.

12. The airport signaling system according to claim 3, wherein, The cellular network in question is a dedicated cellular network.

13. The airport signaling system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The airport signaling equipment includes lighting equipment.

14. The airport signaling system according to claim 13, wherein, The airport signaling equipment mentioned above includes aviation ground lights, airport signs, airport warning lights, or airport visual guidance equipment.

15. An airport signaling unit, comprising: shell, Connection terminals for connecting to the power cord. At least one airport signaling device, A power transformer is coupled between the connection terminal and the airport signaling equipment. At least one sensor is used to capture measurement data representing one or more of the following: environmental conditions, meteorological conditions, the presence of an object, the motion of an object, and state conditions associated with a corresponding signaling unit, rather than the state conditions of at least one corresponding signaling device. The airport signaling unit is characterized in that it includes a first wireless data communication device configured for cellular data communication. Furthermore, the at least one sensor is configured to communicate the measurement data to the first wireless data communication device.

16. The airport signaling unit according to claim 15, wherein, The first wireless data communication device is configured to wirelessly receive control commands for operating the at least one airport signaling device.

17. The airport signaling unit according to claim 15 or 16, wherein, The first wireless data communication device is configured to receive first data indicating operational status from the at least one airport signaling device, and to transmit the first data and / or the measurement data via a cellular network.

18. The airport signaling unit according to any one of claims 15 to 16, further comprising a second communication device coupled to the connection terminal, wherein the second communication device is configured for data communication via the power line.

19. The airport signaling unit of claim 18, wherein the second communication device is configured to receive control commands for operating the airport signaling device.

20. The airport signaling unit according to claim 18, wherein, The second communication device is connected to the power line at a connection node upstream of the power transformer, wherein the first wireless data communication device and the second communication device are configured to exchange data signals with each other.

21. The airport signaling unit of claim 20, comprising a radio antenna for cellular communication, the radio antenna being operatively coupled to the first wireless data communication device.

22. The airport signaling unit according to claim 21, wherein, The radio antenna is arranged on the outside of the housing.

23. The airport signaling unit according to claim 21, wherein, The radio antenna is located inside the housing.

24. The airport signaling unit according to claim 23, wherein, The outer casing comprises a material that is substantially transparent to radio waves.

25. The airport signaling unit according to claim 24, wherein, The material is a composite material.

26. The airport signaling unit according to claim 25, wherein, The composite material is a fiber-reinforced composite material.

27. A management system for an airport signaling system, comprising the airport signaling system according to any one of claims 3 to 5, and further comprising a data storage system, wherein the first wireless data communication device is configured to wirelessly transmit the measurement data to the data storage system via a cellular network.

28. The management system according to claim 27, wherein, The central communication unit includes a second wireless data communication device, wherein the central communication unit is configured to receive first data from one or more of the plurality of signaling units and / or the control unit, and transmit at least a portion of the first data to the data storage system via the second wireless data communication device through the cellular network.

29. The management system of claim 27 or 28 further includes a mobile user interface, wherein the mobile user interface is configured to access the measurement data and / or the first data stored in the data storage system via the cellular network.

30. A method for operating an airport signaling system, wherein, The airport signaling system includes a control unit and multiple signaling units, each signaling unit being provided with at least one airport signaling device and at least one sensor device, the at least one sensor device capturing measurement data related to one or more of the following: environmental conditions, meteorological conditions, the presence of an object, the movement of an object, and state conditions associated with the corresponding signaling unit but not the state conditions of the corresponding at least one signaling device, the method comprising: Collect measurement data from the at least one sensor, and The collected measurement data is wirelessly transmitted to a remote data storage system via a cellular network.

31. The method of claim 30, further comprising collecting operational status data from the at least one signaling device and wirelessly transmitting the collected operational status data to the remote data storage system via the cellular network.

32. The method according to claim 31, wherein, The collected operational status data is retrieved from the remote data storage system via the cellular network through a user interface.

33. The method according to claim 32, wherein, The user interface is a portable user interface.

34. The method according to any one of claims 30 to 33, comprising sending an operation command to the signaling unit for operating the at least one signaling device, wherein the operation command is sent via power-line communication and / or via wireless transmission over the cellular network.

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