System and method for monitoring aircraft at airport

Abstract

The invention relates to a system and method for monitoring an aircraft at an airport. A system (100) and method includes a user interface (110) having a display (112). The control unit (120) is configured to monitor a position of the aircraft (102) relative to one or more other structures of the airport (106), associate the aircraft (102) model with the position of the aircraft (102), associate the one or more structure models (126) with the one or more other structures, and present the aircraft (102) model and the one or more structure models (126) on the display (112).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Examples of the present disclosure generally relate to systems and methods for monitoring the position of an aircraft at an airport, such as when taxiing between locations. Background Art

[0002] Aircraft are used to transport passengers and cargo between various locations. Every day, countless aircraft take off and arrive at a typical airport.

[0003] A typical airport has various obstacles that aircraft operators (e.g., pilots) must navigate around when taxiing to different locations. Fixed structures such as buildings, gates, light poles, and signs are readily visible and easily avoided. However, various vehicles, such as other aircraft and ground support vehicles, are also present at the airport.

[0004] Generally speaking, an aircraft operator is able to accurately judge conflicts with obstacles in front of the aircraft and take necessary measures to avoid them. However, once the nose of the aircraft passes an obstacle, clearing the remaining portion of the aircraft (wings and tail) from the obstacle can become challenging because the operator may not be able to accurately judge clearance from the portion of the aircraft that is out of view. Summary of the Invention

[0005] A system and method for monitoring the position of an aircraft relative to other structures at an airport is needed. Additionally, a system and method are needed to accurately, effectively, and efficiently allow an operator of an aircraft to avoid conflicts (such as potential collisions) with other structures at an airport.

[0006] In view of these needs, certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide a system including a user interface having a display. A control unit is configured to monitor a position of an aircraft relative to one or more other structures at an airport, associate an aircraft model with the aircraft position, associate one or more structure models with the one or more other structures, and present the aircraft model and the one or more structure models on the display.

[0007] The one or more other structures may include one or more other aircraft, one or more fixed structures, and / or one or more ground vehicles. The one or more structure models may include one or more other aircraft models associated with the one or more aircraft, one or more fixed structure models associated with the one or more fixed structures, and / or one or more ground vehicle models associated with the one or more ground vehicles.

[0008] The user interface may be located in a cockpit of the aircraft.

[0009] In at least one embodiment, the aircraft model includes a three-dimensional (3D) model of the aircraft. The 3D model provides geometric information of the aircraft. The geometric information includes the size, shape, length, height, and width of the external features of the aircraft (including the fuselage, wings, and tail).

[0010] In at least one embodiment, the control unit is further configured to output an alert to the aircraft in response to detecting a conflict between the aircraft and one or more other structures. For example, the control unit is configured to detect a conflict when the aircraft is within a predetermined distance of the one or more other structures.

[0011] In at least one embodiment, the control unit is further configured to display a projected path graphic associated with the aircraft model on the display. The control unit may be further configured to detect a conflict when the projected path graphic intersects one or both of the one or more other structures or another projected path graphic.

[0012] In at least one example, the control unit may be further configured to automatically control the aircraft in response to detecting a collision with one or more other structures.

[0013] The control unit can be an artificial intelligence or machine learning system.

[0014] Certain examples of the present disclosure provide a method that includes monitoring, by a control unit, a position of an aircraft relative to one or more other structures at an airport; associating, by the control unit, an aircraft model with the position of the aircraft; associating, by the control unit, one or more structure models with one or more other structures; and presenting, by the control unit, the aircraft model and the one or more structure models on a display of a user interface.

[0015] Certain examples of the present disclosure provide a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium containing executable instructions that, in response to execution, cause one or more control units including a processor to perform operations, the operations comprising monitoring a position of an aircraft relative to one or more other structures at an airport; associating an aircraft model with the position of the aircraft; associating one or more structure models with one or more other structures; and presenting the aircraft model and the one or more structure models on a display of a user interface. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] Figure 1 A block diagram of a system for monitoring aircraft on an airport ground path according to an example of the present disclosure is shown.

[0017] Figure 2 Shown is a front view of a display according to an example of the present disclosure.

[0018] Figure 3 A flow chart illustrating a method according to an example of the present disclosure is shown.

[0019] Figure 4 A schematic block diagram of a control unit according to an example of the present disclosure is shown.

[0020] Figure 5 A perspective front view of an aircraft according to an example of the present disclosure is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0021] When read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, the foregoing summary of the invention and the detailed description of certain examples below will be better understood. As used herein, an element or step described in the singular and beginning with the word "a" or "an" should be understood to not necessarily exclude multiple elements or steps. In addition, reference to "one example" is not intended to exclude the existence of other examples that also include the described features. In addition, unless explicitly stated to the contrary, an example that "comprising" or "having" one or more elements with a particular condition may include additional elements that do not have that condition.

[0022] Examples of the present disclosure provide systems and methods that take into account the actual geometry of an aircraft to provide an accurate representation of the aircraft on a display (e.g., a virtual wireframe representation). These systems and methods compare the geometry of the aircraft with the geometry of obstacles (e.g., fixed structures, other aircraft, ground vehicles, and / or the like) that are near the aircraft (e.g., within 200 feet or less). These systems and methods are configured to output an alert to an operator of the aircraft (e.g., a pilot) if the aircraft is within a predetermined distance of another structure. In at least one example, the aircraft includes a display (e.g., in a cockpit or cockpit) that provides a visual projection of the aircraft's positional status, including the area behind the operator's field of view, thereby allowing the operator to take any corrective actions, such as changing heading, reducing speed, maintaining the current position, etc., at the appropriate time to ensure safe ground operations.

[0023] Figure 1 A block diagram of a system 100 for monitoring aircraft 102 on a ground path 104 at an airport 106 is shown, according to an example of the present disclosure. The ground path 104 may include one or more parking areas near gates, taxiways, runways, and the like.

[0024] Each aircraft 102 includes controls 108 configured to allow an operator (e.g., a pilot) to control the operation of the aircraft 102. For example, controls 108 include one or more of a control handle, a yoke, a joystick, control surface controls, an accelerator, a decelerator, and / or the like.

[0025] Aircraft 102 also includes a user interface 110, such as within a cockpit or cabin of aircraft 102. User interface 110 includes a display 112 and an input device 114. Display 112 can be a monitor, screen, television, touch screen, and / or the like. Input device 114 can include a keyboard, mouse, stylus, touch screen interface (i.e., input device 114 can be integrated with display 112), and / or the like. User interface 110 can be a computer workstation or portion thereof. For example, user interface 110 can be part of a flight computer within the cockpit or cabin of aircraft 102. As another example, user interface 110 can be a handheld device, such as a smartphone, tablet computer, or the like.

[0026] Aircraft 102 also includes a position sensor 116 that outputs a position signal. Position sensor 116 allows aircraft 102 to be tracked by tracking subsystem 118.

[0027] System 100 also includes a control unit 120 that communicates with tracking subsystem 118, aircraft 102 (e.g., with user interface 110), and model database 122, such as via one or more wireless connections. For example, control unit 120 can communicate with tracking subsystem 118, user interface 110, and model database 122 via one or more antennas, transceivers, and / or the like. Control unit 120 can be independent of aircraft 102. For example, control unit 120 can be located at a central monitoring location, such as at airport 106, or at a location remote from airport 106. Control unit 120 can be co-located with one or both of tracking subsystem 118 and / or model database 122. As another example, control unit 120 can be remote from tracking subsystem 118 and / or model database 122. In at least one other example, control unit 120 can be onboard aircraft 102.

[0028] In at least one example, control unit 120 may also be in communication with controls 108 of aircraft 102 and configured to automatically operate controls 108 as described herein. Optionally, control unit 120 may not be in communication with controls 108 and may not be configured to automatically operate aircraft 102.

[0029] Tracking subsystem 118 is configured to track the position of aircraft 102 in real time. In at least one embodiment, tracking subsystem 118 is a radar subsystem. As another example, tracking subsystem 118 is an Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) tracking subsystem. The real-time position of aircraft 102 on the ground and in airspace is detected by tracking subsystem 118, which receives position signals output by position sensors 116 of various aircraft 102. For example, tracking subsystem 118 receives ADS-B signals output by position sensors 116 of various aircraft 102. As another example, position sensors 116 may be Global Positioning System sensors. Position sensors 116 output one or more signals indicating the position, altitude, heading, acceleration, velocity, and / or similar information of various aircraft 102. These signals are received by tracking subsystem 118.

[0030] Tracking subsystem 118 is configured to track the current position of aircraft 102. Control unit 120 monitors the position of aircraft 102 using data received from tracking subsystem 118. That is, tracking subsystem 118 tracks the position of aircraft 102, and control unit 120 receives such data from tracking subsystem 118. In at least one embodiment, tracking subsystem 118 is an ADS-B tracking subsystem. In such an embodiment, ADS-B tracking subsystem 118 determines the current position of aircraft 102 via satellite navigation using position signals of aircraft 102 output by position sensor 116, which are received by one or more position receivers of tracking subsystem 118. Position sensor 116 may be or include a transmitter that periodically outputs information about aircraft 102, such as identification details, current position, current altitude, and current speed. Tracking subsystem 118 receives the transmitted position signals from the position receivers to determine the current and real-time position, heading, speed, and other information of aircraft 102.

[0031] Model database 122 includes data about various structures at airport 106. These structures can be fixed structures and mobile structures. In at least one example, model database 122 includes aircraft models 124 associated with aircraft 102 at airport 106. Aircraft models 124 include information about the size, shape, length, height, width, and other external features of aircraft 102. In at least one example, aircraft models 124 include a three-dimensional (3D) model of aircraft 102, such as a 3D wireframe model. The 3D model of aircraft 102 provides geometric information about aircraft 102, including the size, shape, length, height, width, and other external features of aircraft 102, such as the fuselage, wings, and tail.

[0032] Model database 122 may also include fixed structure models 126 for various fixed structures at airport 106 , such as buildings, lighting structures, signs, etc. Optionally, model database 122 may not include fixed structure models.

[0033] Model database 122 may also include ground vehicle models 128 for various ground vehicles at airport 106. Ground vehicles 128 may be tracked by tracking subsystem 118. Optionally, model database 122 may not include ground vehicle models 128.

[0034] During operation, aircraft 102 is tracked by tracking subsystem 118. Control unit 120 receives tracking data from tracking subsystem 118 to determine the position of aircraft 102 along ground path 104 at airport 106. Based on the tracked position of aircraft 102, control unit 120 associates aircraft model 124 with the tracked position of aircraft 102. For example, control unit 120 registers, overlays, superimposes, and / or performs the same operations on aircraft model 124 with the tracked position of aircraft 102. Aircraft model 124 is scaled to fit the tracked position, thereby providing physical dimensions of external portions of aircraft 102, such as the length and width of the fuselage, wings, and tail. Aircraft model 124 can be oriented based on the tracked position of the aircraft (e.g., ADS-B data) so that the front, rear, and sides of aircraft model 124 are aligned with the actual heading of aircraft 102. Aircraft model 124 can virtually represent the 3D external features of aircraft 102, including the fuselage, wings, and tail. As another example, aircraft model 124 may be a virtual representation showing the exterior boundaries (such as length and width) of aircraft 102. In this example, aircraft model 124 may be a circular or spherical representation defining the exterior boundaries of aircraft 102.

[0035] In at least one example, control unit 120 associates aircraft model 124 with each aircraft 102 at airport 106. Optionally, control unit 120 may associate aircraft model 124 only for other aircraft 102 within a predetermined distance of aircraft 102, such as within 500 feet. Optionally, the predetermined distance may be less than 500 feet (e.g., 200 feet) or greater than 500 feet (e.g., 1000 feet). Control unit 120 may also associate fixed structure models 126 with known locations of structures at airport 106 and / or ground vehicle models 128 with tracked locations of ground vehicles at airport 106. Optionally, control unit 120 associates aircraft models 124 only for various aircraft 102 at airport 106. As another example, control unit 120 associates aircraft models 124 for aircraft 102 at airport 106 and ground vehicle models 128 for ground vehicles at airport 106 (but not fixed structure models).

[0036] After determining the position of aircraft 102 and associating an aircraft model 124 with aircraft 102, control unit 120, in communication with user interface 110, provides a virtual representation of aircraft 102 on display 112. Specifically, control unit 120 displays aircraft model 124 of aircraft 102 on display 112. Aircraft model 124 is linked to the position of aircraft 102 on ground path 104, as tracked by tracking subsystem 118. Therefore, as aircraft 102 moves along ground path 104, aircraft model 124 displayed on display 112 moves in real time with the tracked position. Control unit 120 scales aircraft model 124 to provide accurate size on display 112. Control unit 120 may also display ground path 104 and other structures on display 112, such as aircraft models 124 of other aircraft 102, fixed structure models 126 of fixed structures, and ground vehicle models 128 of tracked ground vehicles and / or the like. In this manner, an operator of aircraft 102 may view display 112 to determine whether aircraft 102 has adequate clearance between various other structures on ground path 104 .

[0037] In at least one example, control unit 120 may further output an alert to aircraft 102 in response to detecting a conflict between aircraft 102 and another structure. For example, control unit 120 may output an alert when aircraft 102 is within a predetermined distance of another structure. For example, if aircraft 102 is within a predetermined distance of 50 feet from another structure, control unit 120 may output an alert indicating a close proximity to the other structure. The alert may be displayed as graphics, text, and / or the like on display 112 and / or output as an audio signal via speakers within the cockpit or cabin. Alternatively, control unit 120 may not output an alert.

[0038] In at least one embodiment, control unit 120 may further provide a projected path graphic associated with aircraft model 124 of aircraft 102 displayed on display 112. The projected path graphic may be a polygon that illustrates the future position of aircraft 102 if it continues on its current course within a predetermined time period (e.g., 30 seconds or less). Optionally, the predetermined time period may be less than 30 seconds (e.g., 10 seconds) or greater than 30 seconds (e.g., 1 minute or more). If the projected path graphic intersects with a projected path graphic of another aircraft 102 or ground vehicle displayed on the display by its respective model, control unit 120 may output an alert to aircraft 102 regarding the potential conflict, thereby allowing the operator of aircraft 102 to take corrective action. Alternatively, control unit 120 may not determine and display the projected path graphic.

[0039] In at least one example, in response to control unit 120 determining an actual or potential conflict between aircraft 102 and another structure (e.g., another aircraft 102, a ground vehicle, and / or a fixed structure) on ground path 104 (e.g., through an intersection of an intended ground path, or when aircraft 102 and the structure are within a predetermined distance of each other, such as 50 feet or less), control unit 120 may automatically operate aircraft 102 to ensure that aircraft 102 does not contact the structure. For example, control unit 120 may override control device 108 to automatically operate aircraft 102 to ensure that aircraft 102 does not contact the structure. Optionally, control unit 120 may not be configured to automatically control aircraft 102.

[0040] As described herein, system 100 includes a user interface 110 having a display 112. A control unit 120 is configured to monitor the position of aircraft 102 relative to one or more other structures at airport 106 (e.g., the position tracked by tracking subsystem 118). Control unit 120 is further configured to associate an aircraft model 124 with the position of aircraft 102, associate one or more structure models (e.g., models 124, 126, and / or 128) with the one or more other structures, and present aircraft model 124 and the one or more structure models on display 112. The one or more other structures include one or more other aircraft, one or more fixed structures, and / or one or more ground vehicles. The one or more structure models include one or more other aircraft models associated with one or more aircraft, one or more fixed structure models associated with one or more fixed structures, and / or one or more ground vehicle models associated with one or more ground vehicles.

[0041] Figure 2 1 shows a front view of a display 112 according to an example of the present disclosure. Figure 1 and Figure 2 , control unit 120 displays a virtual representation of the area of ​​airport 106, such as one or more ground paths 104, on which tracked positions 102a and 102b of different aircraft 102 may be displayed. Control unit 120 provides (e.g., overlays, superimposes, etc.) aircraft models 124a and 124b onto tracked positions 102a and 102b, respectively. Control unit 120 may further display expected path graphics 130a and 130b associated with aircraft models 124a and 124b, respectively.

[0042] Control unit 120 may also display a ground vehicle model 128 associated with a ground vehicle 140 on display 112. Ground vehicle 140 may be a ground support vehicle of airport 106, such as a mobile tanker, baggage handler, emergency vehicle (such as an ambulance or fire truck), and / or the like.

[0043] As described herein, control unit 120 considers the exact geometry of aircraft 102 and provides a representation of aircraft 102 on display 112 (e.g., via aircraft model 124). Control unit 120 compares this information with various other structures on ground path 104, such as other aircraft, ground vehicles, and fixed structures. In this manner, control unit 120 provides accurate and continuous information to the operator of aircraft 102 to ensure collision avoidance. The tracking data and associated model presented on display 112 are continuously updated based on changes in the aircraft's heading, the relative positions and flight paths of other structures, and so on.

[0044] The aircraft model 124 displayed on the display 112 provides the operator of the aircraft 102 with a visual projection of the status of the aircraft 102 behind the operator's field of view, which helps the operator take corrective actions at the appropriate time, such as changing heading, reducing speed, maintaining current position, and / or the like. The control unit 120 can also display the virtual representation to displays in other locations (e.g., air traffic control) to improve monitoring, such as during periods of low visibility.

[0045] Figure 3 A flow chart of a method according to an example of the present disclosure is shown. Figures 1 to 3 At 200, control unit 120 monitors the position of aircraft 102 and other structures (e.g., other aircraft, ground vehicles, fixed structures, etc.) relative to one or more ground paths 104 of airport 106. At 202, control unit 120 associates aircraft model 124 with the tracked position of aircraft 102. At 204, control unit 120 associates structure models (e.g., other aircraft models, ground vehicle models, and / or fixed structure models) with the other structures. At 206, control unit 120 then displays aircraft model 124 and structure models on display 112, which may be located in the cockpit or cabin of aircraft 102, at a remote monitoring location (e.g., air traffic control), and / or the like.

[0046] At 208, the control unit 120 determines whether there is a conflict between the aircraft 102 and another structure. A conflict may be a separation distance less than a predetermined distance (e.g., 50 feet, 100 feet, or less), an intersection of the intended path graph with the structure or another intended path graph, and / or the like. If there is no conflict, the method returns to 208.

[0047] However, if a conflict exists at 208, the method proceeds to 210, where the control unit 120 outputs an alert (e.g., a visual and / or audio alert) to the operator of the aircraft 210. In at least one example, the control unit 120 may also automatically control the aircraft 102 (e.g., override the control device 108) to maneuver the aircraft 102 out of the conflict.

[0048] Figure 4 A schematic block diagram of a control unit 120 according to an example of the present disclosure is shown. In at least one example, the control unit 120 includes at least one processor 300 in communication with a memory 302. The memory 302 stores instructions 304, received data 306, and generated data 308. Figure 4 The control unit 120 shown in FIG. 1 is merely exemplary and not restrictive.

[0049] As used herein, the terms "control unit," "central processing unit," "CPU," "computer," and the like may include any processor-based or microprocessor-based system, including systems using microcontrollers, reduced instruction set computers (RISC), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), logic circuits, and any other circuit or processor, including hardware, software, or a combination thereof, capable of performing the functions described herein. These are examples only and are not intended to limit the definition and / or meaning of these terms in any way. For example, as described herein, the control unit 120 may be or include one or more processors configured to control operations.

[0050] The control unit 120 is configured to execute a set of instructions stored in one or more data storage units or elements (e.g., one or more memories) in order to process data. For example, the control unit 120 may include or be coupled to one or more memories. The data storage unit may also store data or other information as desired or needed. The data storage unit may be in the form of an information source or a physical storage element within a processor.

[0051] The instruction set may include various commands that instruct the control unit 120, acting as a processor, to perform specific operations, such as the methods and processes of various embodiments of the subject matter described herein. The instruction set may be in the form of a software program. The software may be in various forms, such as system software or application software. Furthermore, the software may be in the form of a collection of individual programs, a subset of a larger program, or a portion of a program. The software may also include modular programming in the form of object-oriented programming. The processing of input data by the processor may be in response to user commands, in response to the results of previous processing, or in response to a request issued by another processor.

[0052] The example diagrams herein may illustrate one or more control or processing units, such as control unit 120. It should be understood that the processing or control unit may represent a circuit, a circuit system, or a portion thereof, which may be implemented as hardware with relevant instructions (e.g., software stored on a tangible and non-temporary computer-readable storage medium such as a computer hard disk, ROM, RAM, etc.), which execute the operations described herein. The hardware may include a state machine circuit for executing the functions described herein. Optionally, the hardware may include an electronic circuit that includes and / or is connected to one or more logic-based devices (e.g., a microprocessor, a processor, a controller, etc.). Optionally, the control unit 120 may represent a processing circuit, such as one or more of a field programmable gate array (FPGA), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a microprocessor, and / or similar devices. The circuits in various examples may be configured to execute one or more algorithms to perform the functions described herein. One or more algorithms may include aspects of the examples disclosed herein, whether or not explicitly identified in a flowchart or method.

[0053] As used herein, the terms "software" and "firmware" are interchangeable and include any computer program stored in a data storage unit (e.g., one or more memories) for execution by a computer, including RAM memory, ROM memory, EPROM memory, EEPROM memory, and non-volatile RAM (NVRAM) memory. The above data storage unit types are exemplary only and do not limit the types of memories that can be used to store computer programs.

[0054] refer to Figures 1 to 4 , examples of the disclosed subject matter provide systems and methods that allow computing devices to quickly and efficiently analyze large amounts of data. For example, the control unit 120 can analyze various aspects of numerous aircraft 102 over a specific time period. Thus, a large amount of data that a human may not be able to easily discern is being tracked and analyzed. As described herein, the control unit 120 effectively organizes and / or analyzes vast amounts of data. The control unit 120 analyzes the data in a relatively short period of time in order to quickly and efficiently determine the locations of various aircraft and other airport structures and send alerts in response to detecting potential conflicts between them at appropriate times. Thus, examples of the disclosed subject matter provide increased and efficient functionality, and their performance significantly exceeds the ability of humans to analyze large amounts of data.

[0055] In at least one embodiment, components of system 100, such as control unit 120, provide and / or enable a computer system to operate as a specialized computer system to provide a virtual representation of an aircraft relative to other structures in airport 106 and alert an operator to potential conflicts. Control unit 120 improves upon standard computing devices by determining such information and automatically communicating it to an operator of the aircraft in an efficient and effective manner.

[0056] In at least one embodiment, all or part of the systems and methods described herein may be or otherwise include an artificial intelligence (AI) or machine learning system capable of automatically performing the operations of the methods described herein. For example, control unit 120 may be an artificial intelligence or machine learning system. These types of systems can be trained based on external information and / or self-trained to repeatedly improve the accuracy of data analysis to determine locations, associate models, output alerts, and so on. Over time, these systems can improve by making determinations and communications with increasing accuracy and speed, thereby significantly reducing the likelihood of any potential errors. For example, an AI or machine learning system can learn and determine models, associate these models with tracked locations, and identify potential conflicts. The AI ​​or machine learning systems described herein may include technologies supported by adaptive predictive capabilities and exhibiting at least some degree of autonomous learning to automate and / or enhance pattern detection (e.g., identifying irregularities or regularities in data), customization (e.g., generating or modifying rules to optimize record matching), and / or similar functions. The system can be trained and retrained using feedback from one or more previous analyses of data, aggregated data, and / or other such data. Based on this feedback, the system can be trained by adjusting one or more parameters, weights, rules, criteria, etc. used in its analysis. This process can be performed using data and aggregate data other than training data and can be repeated multiple times to iteratively improve the determination and communication described herein. Training minimizes conflicts and interference by executing an iterative training algorithm, in which the system is retrained using an updated data set and based on feedback from the system's previous training. This provides a robust analytical model that can better determine runway warnings in a cost-effective and efficient manner.

[0057] Figure 5A perspective front view of an aircraft 102 according to an example of the present disclosure is shown. The aircraft 102 includes a propulsion system 412 including, for example, engines 414. Optionally, the propulsion system 412 may include more engines 414 than shown. The engines 414 are carried by wings 416 of the aircraft 102. In other examples, the engines 414 may be carried by a fuselage 418 and / or a tail surface 420. The tail surface 420 may also support a horizontal stabilizer 422 and a vertical stabilizer 424. The fuselage 418 of the aircraft 102 defines an interior cabin 430 that includes a cockpit or cabin, one or more work areas (e.g., a galley, a carry-on luggage area, etc.), one or more passenger areas (e.g., first class, business class, and economy class areas), one or more lavatories, and / or the like. Figure 5 An example of an aircraft 102 is shown. It should be understood that the size, shape, and configuration of the aircraft 102 may vary. Figure 5 The difference in display.

[0058] Furthermore, the present disclosure includes embodiments according to the following clauses: Clause 1. A system comprising: a user interface comprising a display; and A control unit configured as follows: monitoring the position of the aircraft relative to one or more other structures at the airport; associating an aircraft model with the aircraft's position; Associating one or more structure models with one or more other structures, and An aircraft model and one or more structure models are displayed on a display.

[0059] Clause 2. The system of clause 1, wherein the one or more other structures include one or more other aircraft, one or more fixed structures, or one or more ground vehicles, and wherein the one or more structure models include one or more other aircraft models associated with the one or more aircraft, one or more fixed structure models associated with the one or more fixed structures, or one or more ground vehicle models associated with the one or more ground vehicles.

[0060] Clause 3. The system of clause 1 or 2, wherein the user interface is within a cockpit of the aircraft.

[0061] Clause 4. A system according to any one of clauses 1 to 3, wherein the aircraft model comprises a three-dimensional (3D) model of the aircraft, wherein the 3D model provides geometric information of the aircraft, wherein the geometric information includes the size, shape, length, height and width of external features of the aircraft (including the fuselage, wings and tail).

[0062] Clause 5. The system of any of clauses 1 to 4, wherein the control unit is further configured to output an alert to the aircraft in response to detecting a collision between the aircraft and one or more other structures.

[0063] Clause 6. The system of clause 5, wherein the control unit is configured to detect a conflict when the aircraft is within a predetermined distance of one or more other structures.

[0064] Clause 7. The system of any one of clauses 1 to 6, wherein the control unit is further configured to present a projected path graphic associated with the aircraft model on the display.

[0065] Clause 8. The system of clause 7, wherein the control unit is further configured to detect a conflict when the expected path graph intersects one or both of one or more other structures or another expected path graph.

[0066] Clause 9. The system of any of clauses 1 to 8, wherein the control unit is further configured to automatically control the aircraft in response to detecting a collision with one or more other structures.

[0067] Clause 10. The system of any one of clauses 1 to 9, wherein the control unit is an artificial intelligence or machine learning system.

[0068] Clause 11. A method comprising: monitoring, by a control unit, the position of the aircraft relative to one or more other structures at the airport; associating the aircraft model with the position of the aircraft via the control unit; associating one or more structural models with one or more other structures via a control unit; and The control unit displays the aircraft model and the one or more structural models on a display of the user interface.

[0069] Clause 12. The method of clause 11, wherein the one or more other structures include one or more other aircraft, one or more fixed structures, or one or more ground vehicles, and wherein the one or more structure models include one or more other aircraft models associated with the one or more aircraft, one or more fixed structure models associated with the one or more fixed structures, or one or more ground vehicle models associated with the one or more ground vehicles.

[0070] Clause 13. The method of clause 11 or 12, wherein the user interface is within a cockpit of the aircraft.

[0071] Clause 14. A method according to any one of clauses 11 to 13, wherein the aircraft model comprises a three-dimensional (3D) model of the aircraft, wherein the 3D model provides geometric information of the aircraft, wherein the geometric information includes the size, shape, length, height and width of external features of the aircraft (including the fuselage, wings and tail).

[0072] Clause 15. The method of any of clauses 11 to 14, further comprising outputting, by the control unit, an alert to the aircraft in response to detecting a conflict between the aircraft and one or more other structures.

[0073] Clause 16. The method of clause 15, wherein the detecting comprises determining that the aircraft is within a predetermined distance of one or more other structures.

[0074] Clause 17. The method according to any one of clauses 11 to 16, further comprising: displaying, via the control unit, a graphic of the projected path associated with the aircraft model on the display; and A collision is detected by the control unit when the expected path pattern intersects one or both of one or more other structures or another expected path pattern.

[0075] Clause 18. The method of any one of clauses 11 to 17, further comprising automatically controlling the aircraft via the control unit in response to detecting a collision with one or more other structures.

[0076] Clause 19. The method according to any one of clauses 11 to 18, wherein the control unit is an artificial intelligence or machine learning system.

[0077] Clause 20. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium comprising executable instructions that, in response to execution, cause one or more control units including a processor to perform operations comprising: monitoring the position of the aircraft relative to one or more other structures at the airport; Associating an aircraft model with an aircraft position; Associating one or more structure models with one or more other structures; and The aircraft model and the one or more structure models are presented on a display of the user interface.

[0078] As described herein, examples of the present disclosure provide systems and methods for monitoring the position of an aircraft relative to other structures at an airport. Furthermore, examples of the present disclosure provide systems and methods for accurately, effectively, and efficiently allowing operators of aircraft to avoid conflicts (e.g., potential collisions) with other structures (stationary and mobile) at an airport.

[0079] Although various spatial and directional terms, such as top, bottom, lower, middle, lateral, horizontal, vertical, front, etc., may be used to describe examples of the present disclosure, it is understood that these terms are used only with respect to the orientations shown in the accompanying drawings. These orientations may be reversed, rotated, or otherwise changed, such as top becoming bottom and vice versa, horizontal becoming vertical, etc.

[0080] As used herein, a structure, limitation, or element that is "configured to" perform a task or operation is, among other things, structurally formed, constructed, or adapted in a manner corresponding to the task or operation. For clarity and avoidance of doubt, an object that can merely be modified to perform a task or operation is not "configured to" perform a task or operation as used herein.

[0081] It should be understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative and not limiting. For example, the above examples (and / or aspects thereof) may be used in combination with each other. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt specific circumstances or materials to the teachings of the various examples of this disclosure without departing from the scope thereof. Although the dimensions and material types described herein are intended to limit various aspects of the various examples of this disclosure, these examples are by no means limiting, but rather illustrative. A person skilled in the art will find many other examples after reading the above description. Therefore, the scope of the various examples of this disclosure should be determined by reference to the appended claims and the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. In the claims and detailed description appended hereto, the terms "including" and "in which" are used as the plain English equivalents of the respective terms "comprising" and "wherein." In addition, the terms "first," "second," and "third," etc. are used merely as labels and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on their objects. Furthermore, the claim limitations are not drafted in means-plus-function format and are not intended to be interpreted under 35 USC § 112(f) unless and until such claim limitations expressly use the phrase "means for" followed by a description of the function without further construction.

[0082] This written description uses examples to disclose various embodiments of the present disclosure, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the various embodiments of the present disclosure, including making and using any device or system and performing any incorporated method. The patentable scope of each embodiment of the present disclosure is defined by the claims and may include other embodiments that occur to those skilled in the art. If the structural elements of these embodiments do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if these embodiments include equivalent structural elements that do not differ much from the literal language of the claims, then these other embodiments fall within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A system (100), comprising: a user interface (110) comprising a display (112); and A control unit (120) is configured to: monitoring a position of an aircraft (102) relative to one or more other structures at an airport (106); associating an aircraft (102) model with the position of the aircraft (102); associating one or more structural models (126) with the one or more other structures; and The aircraft (102) model and the one or more structural models (126) are presented on the display (112).

2. The system (100) of claim 1, wherein the one or more other structures comprise one or more other aircraft (102), one or more fixed structures, or one or more ground vehicles (128), and wherein the one or more structure models (126) comprise one or more other aircraft (102) models associated with the one or more aircraft (102), one or more fixed structure models (126) associated with the one or more fixed structures, or one or more ground vehicle models associated with the one or more ground vehicles (128).

3. The system (100) of claim 1, wherein the user interface (110) is within a cockpit of the aircraft (102).

4. The system (100) of claim 1, wherein the aircraft (102) model comprises a three-dimensional (3D) model of the aircraft (102), wherein the 3D model provides geometric information of the aircraft (102), wherein the geometric information includes external features of the aircraft (102), including size, shape, length, height, and width of a fuselage, wings, and tail.

5. The system (100) of claim 1, wherein the control unit (120) is further configured to output an alert to the aircraft (102) in response to detecting a collision between the aircraft (102) and the one or more other structures.

6. The system (100) of claim 5, wherein the control unit (120) is configured to detect the conflict when the aircraft (102) is within a predetermined distance of the one or more other structures.

7. The system (100) of claim 1, wherein the control unit (120) is further configured to present a projected path graphic associated with the aircraft (102) model on the display (112).

8. The system (100) of claim 7, wherein the control unit (120) is further configured to detect a conflict when the expected path graph intersects one or both of the one or more other structures or another expected path graph.

9. The system (100) of claim 1, wherein the control unit (120) is further configured to automatically control the aircraft (102) in response to detecting a collision with the one or more other structures.

10. The system (100) of claim 1, wherein the control unit (120) is an artificial intelligence or machine learning system.

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