Flight Guidance Controller

Abstract

Embodiments provide techniques for indicating and manipulating flight parameters communicated to an aircraft. More specifically, the techniques disclosed herein provide a graphical user interface (GUI) that enables adjustment of flight parameters via a translucent or transparent compass rose icon overlaid on a flight map for intuitively selecting, sending, and executing commands in the aircraft. For example, a pilot can adjust one or more flight parameters, such as the speed, heading, and / or altitude, of an aircraft, such as an autonomous aircraft, by dragging an arrow icon around a compass rose icon displayed in the GUI in association with the aircraft.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 440,652, entitled "Flight Guidance Controller," filed January 23, 2023, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes. [Background technology]

[0002] Existing systems for communicating with devices often require traditional data entry methods to communicate with the device. For example, a user may use multiple data entry areas on a display device to enter commands to be communicated to the device. However, given the abstract level of symbology (e.g., numbers and symbols) used during data entry, and the ease of keystroke errors during data entry and the difficulty of noticing errors, the likelihood of data entry errors is high, and therefore error correction may not occur quickly enough to prevent accidents. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0003] The embodiments of the invention described herein address these and other problems, individually and collectively. [Means for solving the problem]

[0004] Embodiments provide techniques for displaying and manipulating aircraft flight parameters communicated to multiple aircraft. According to various embodiments, a graphical user interface (GUI) is provided for displaying aircraft flight parameters and enabling easy adjustment of the aircraft flight parameters. The GUI may be animated and may include graphical representations of the aircraft, a compass rose, flight parameters, and related information displayed on (e.g., overlaid on) a movable, expandable map (e.g., that can be panned and zoomed) depicting the area over which the aircraft is flying. According to various embodiments, the aircraft controlled via the GUI may include autonomous aircraft, such as an autonomous vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) aircraft. In some embodiments, the aircraft may include an electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft.

[0005] According to various embodiments, a method is provided that includes displaying a GUI on a display device using a computing device and representing an aircraft with a first icon of a plurality of icons on the GUI. The method further includes receiving input at the computing device manipulating a second icon representing a flight parameter associated with the aircraft, the input manipulating the second icon moving the second icon from a first position to a second position on the GUI. The method further includes sending a command to the aircraft represented by the first icon based at least in part on the manipulation of the second icon representing the flight parameter.

[0006] In various embodiments, the method further includes displaying one or more flight parameters associated with the aircraft, the one or more flight parameters including at least one of a heading, a speed, or an altitude associated with the aircraft, and displaying a second icon and a third icon of the plurality of icons above the first icon in response to detecting a selection of the first icon, the third icon representing a compass rose.

[0007] In various embodiments, at least the first icon, the second icon, and the third icon of the plurality of icons are superimposed on a map displayed on the GUI.

[0008] In various embodiments, at least the first icon, the second icon, and the third icon of the plurality of icons are transparent.

[0009] In various embodiments, the method further includes displaying, at the computing device, a third icon in response to detecting an operation of the second icon representing a flight parameter, the third icon representing a change in the flight parameter of the one or more parameters associated with the aircraft.

[0010] In various embodiments, the third icon merges with the second icon when the aircraft executes a command based at least in part on the manipulation of the second icon.

[0011] In various embodiments, the third icon snaps to a location, which represents a predetermined increment of the flight parameter.

[0012] In various embodiments, the method further includes displaying a first visual cue indicating transmission of the command to the aircraft and displaying a second visual cue indicating receipt of the command by the aircraft.

[0013] In various embodiments, the method further includes receiving one or more prohibited flight parameters and displaying a visual cue indicating that the second icon is prohibited from being manipulated to a location within the GUI, the location representing a prohibited flight parameter of the one or more prohibited flight parameters.

[0014] In various embodiments, the method further includes transmitting a command to the aircraft in response to receiving the selected location for landing the aircraft, the command initiating at least one or more flight procedures associated with landing the aircraft.

[0015] In various embodiments, one or more non-transitory computer-readable storage media are provided that store instructions that, when executed by a computer system, cause the computer system to perform the above-described methods.

[0016] In various embodiments, a system is provided for performing the above methods.

[0017] For a better understanding of the nature and advantages of the present disclosure, reference should be made to the following description and accompanying drawings. It should be understood, however, that each of the drawings is provided for illustrative purposes only and is not intended as a limitation on the scope of the present disclosure. Also, as a general rule, unless clearly contrary from this specification, when elements in different drawings use the same reference numerals, the elements are generally identical or at least similar in function or purpose. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0018] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary animated GUI depicting a flight map, according to various embodiments. [Figure 2]FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary flight map depicted on a pane of a GUI overlaid with a Flight Guidance Controller (FGC), according to various embodiments. [Figure 3] 10A-10C illustrate the manipulation of a sphere icon on the tip of an arrow icon to adjust one or more flight parameters, according to various embodiments. [Figure 4] 10A-10C illustrate the movement of an arrow icon to communicate updated flight parameters of an aircraft, according to various embodiments. [Figure 5] 1A-1C illustrate visual cues depicting the sending of commands to and receipt of commands by an aircraft, according to various embodiments. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 illustrates the selection of one or more flight parameter limits, according to various embodiments. [Figure 7] 10A-10C illustrate the implementation of visual cues indicating prohibited flight paths, according to various embodiments. [Figure 8] FIG. 1 illustrates the initiation of one or more flight procedures based on the selection of flight parameters, according to various embodiments. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 illustrates the manipulation of one or more flight parameters using incremental snapping to appropriate round numbers, according to various embodiments. [Figure 10] 1 is a flowchart of an example process performed by a computer system, according to various embodiments. [Figure 11] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary computing system, in accordance with various embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0019] The technology disclosed herein relates to an animated GUI for illustrating and manipulating aircraft flight information and / or commands communicated to multiple aircraft. According to various embodiments, the aircraft are autonomous aircraft configured to receive commands from a pilot (e.g., a supervising pilot, an on-ground controller, an onboard controller, etc.). The pilot's commands may be communicated to the aircraft through the GUI. More specifically, the technology disclosed herein provides a GUI that enables selection of one or more aircraft on a flight map and adjustment of flight parameters of the selected aircraft via a translucent or transparent icon (e.g., a compass rose icon) superimposed on the flight map to intuitively select, detect, send, and / or execute commands at the aircraft. For example, the pilot may adjust one or more flight parameters, such as speed, heading, direction, and / or altitude, by dragging an arrow icon around the compass rose icon. Various embodiments of the present invention, including methods, processes, systems, devices, etc., are described herein.

[0020] The flight control systems described herein may be simultaneously used to complete other important flight tasks, such as monitoring aircraft flight history, information associated with the aircraft, and the location of nearby geographic hazards. However, using a display device to monitor and control multiple aircraft and corresponding flight maps can lead to a cluttered display where important information can easily be obscured by various data entry areas and icons. Such a crowded display may lead to an increased likelihood that important information will be overlooked, potentially leading to errors and accidents. Embodiments provide techniques, methods, and systems for displaying command input means without cluttering the display device, such that important and / or relevant flight information displayed on the display device is not obscured by the command input means described herein.

[0021] Several exemplary embodiments are now described with reference to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of this specification. The following description provides embodiments only and is not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or configuration of the present disclosure. Rather, the following description of the embodiments provides those skilled in the art with an enabling description for practicing one or more embodiments. It will be understood that various changes can be made in the functions and arrangement of elements without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the invention. It will be apparent, however, that various embodiments may be practiced without these specific details. The drawings and descriptions are not intended to be limiting. The word "example" or "exemplary" is used herein to mean "serving as an example, instance, or illustration." Any embodiment or design described herein as "exemplary" or "example" is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments or designs.

[0022] Embodiments are directed to techniques, methods, and systems including, among other things, animated GUIs for illustrating and communicating flight characteristics, flight parameters, and / or commands to one or more aircraft. A pilot (e.g., a user) may be responsible for monitoring and controlling one or more aircraft at a given time. Therefore, it is imperative that the pilot be aware of flight parameters associated with the aircraft and / or relay commands and / or information to the appropriate aircraft in a timely and efficient manner. For example, the pilot may command the aircraft to change certain flight parameters using an animated GUI that displays interactive flight parameters.

[0023] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary animated GUI 100 depicting a flight map 102 according to various embodiments. One or more aircraft icons 103 may be depicted on a display device displayed via the exemplary animated GUI 100. One or more aircraft icons 103 may be overlaid on the flight map 102 to represent one or more aircraft (described further below in connection with FIG. 11 ). In some examples, the aircraft icons 103 may represent a particular aircraft, and the GUI 100 may be positioned to depict the location and orientation of the aircraft relative to the flight map 102. For example, the aircraft icon 103 may be placed over a particular section of the flight map 102 and point in a first direction (e.g., north) with respect to the flight map 102, indicating that the aircraft represented by the aircraft icon 103 is oriented north and is located at a physical location corresponding to the particular section of the flight map 102. The animated GUI 100 may further display the aircraft icon 103 moving along the flight map 102 to reflect the changing location of the aircraft represented by the aircraft icon 103. For example, as the aircraft moves, the corresponding aircraft icon 103 moves along the flight map 102 depicted on a pane of the GUI 100. According to various embodiments, the animated GUI 100 may surround the aircraft icon 103 evenly on each side. By surrounding the aircraft icon 103 with the animated GUI 100 in this manner, problems such as ambiguity, offset, and / or opacity caused by components such as dialog boxes may be avoided. For example, as depicted in the animated GUI 100 in a situational and / or spatial context, the animated GUI 100 may provide a clear and distinct context within which the aircraft may be navigated by the pilot.

[0024] In some embodiments, an alphanumeric representation of one or more flight parameters corresponding to an aircraft (e.g., heading 104, speed 101, and / or altitude) may be depicted adjacent to an aircraft icon 103 representing the aircraft. For example, an aircraft with a heading 104 of 250 degrees may be depicted as the aircraft icon 103 superimposed on the flight map 102 and adjacent to an alphanumeric representation displaying the heading 104 as 250 degrees. In some embodiments, one or more flight parameters 101, 104 may be stuck to the aircraft icon 103 and may move along the flight map 102 with the aircraft icon 103. For example, one or more flight parameters 101, 104 may remain adjacent to the aircraft icon 103 even as the aircraft icon 103 appears to move across the flight map 102. By showing the aircraft icon 103 near one or more flight parameters 101, 104 corresponding to the aircraft represented by the aircraft icon 103, important information related to the aircraft may be easily viewed and considered by the pilot when using the GUI 100. The GUI 100 may then provide a minimally distracting display that allows the pilot to quickly gather information from the GUI 100 and immediately relay commands and / or information to the desired aircraft in a timely and efficient manner.

[0025] According to various embodiments, the aircraft may be an autonomous aircraft. For example, the aircraft may include an autonomous electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft that is monitored and / or controlled via the animated GUI 100.

[0026] FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary flight map depicted on a pane of a GUI overlaid with a flight guidance controller (FGC) according to various embodiments. A pane of the GUI 100 on a display device may be overlaid with the FGC. While the FGC is depicted in the drawing as a compass rose icon 202 and / or an icon representing current flight parameters (e.g., first arrow icon 203), the FGC may be any type of visual overlay that appropriately focuses attention on a particular aircraft icon or icons 103 depicted on the GUI 100. The FGC may be displayed when one or more locations on the GUI 100 are selected. For example, the pilot may select an aircraft icon 103, which causes the FGC to be displayed. Additionally and / or alternatively, the FGC may be displayed when a predetermined situation occurs in which it is appropriate to draw the pilot's attention to the flight parameters 101, 104. For example, if the aircraft associated with the aircraft icon 103 arrives within a predetermined distance of a prohibited airspace, the FGC may appear overlaid on the pane of the GUI 100.

[0027] Selection of an aircraft may occur through the pilot's use of an input device such as a mouse or pointer, through a touch on a touchscreen, or from an asynchronous condition by the system when it determines that the aircraft requires attention. Upon selection of an aircraft icon 103 depicted on the GUI 100, one or more icons used to communicate flight parameters 101, 104 (e.g., compass rose icon 202, first arrow icon 203, globe icon 204, and / or second arrow icon 301) may appear superimposed on the flight map 102. In some embodiments, one or more icons (compass rose icon 202, first arrow icon 203, globe icon 204, second arrow icon 301) may include an FGC as the compass rose icon 202, as shown in FIG. 2 . The compass rose icon 202 may be superimposed on the flight map 102 and may be centered at or near the location of the icon 103 depicted on the GUI 100. The compass rose icon 202 may include visual indicators that provide the aircraft's current flight parameters 101, 104. For example, the compass rose icon 202 may include an indication of the direction and / or heading 104, speed 101, and / or altitude of the aircraft associated with the depicted aircraft icon 103.

[0028] The compass rose icon 202 may be displayed so as not to completely obscure the flight map 102 or a particular area of ​​interest on the GUI 100. For example, the compass rose icon 202 may appear transparent (e.g., a transparent shape that allows objects behind the transparent shape to be clearly seen, as opposed to an opaque shape) or semi-transparent (e.g., a transparent shape that is not fully transparent that allows partial visibility of objects behind the shape) so as not to obscure underlying information (e.g., the flight map 102 or nearby objects). As a result, the compass rose icon 202 can be spatially oriented on the GUI 100 to correspond to a particular aircraft, and can appear visually light weight so as not to clutter or obscure the flight map 102. In this way, important details about the aircraft represented by the aircraft icon 103 may be depicted in close proximity to the aircraft icon 103 without making it difficult to view the flight map 102. For example, if the compass rose icon 202 appears transparent, the image behind the compass rose icon 202, such as details on a map depicted on the GUI 100, may be easily discerned by the viewer. If the compass rose icon 202 appears semi-transparent, the image behind the compass rose icon 202 may appear less detailed, but imagery superimposed on the compass rose icon 202, such as text, may be easier to discern by the viewer.

[0029] As previously discussed with respect to FIG. 1 , animated GUI 100 may be depicted based on situational and / or spatial context. For example, as an aircraft represented by aircraft icon 103 flies over a particular location, animated GUI 100 may display aircraft icon 103 and compass rose icon 202 over the corresponding location on the map. Additional details related to the situational and / or spatial context may be displayed on animated GUI 100 on or around aircraft icon 103 and / or compass rose icon 202. For example, names of locations around the aircraft, information related to the aircraft corresponding to aircraft icon 103, current weather patterns at the aircraft's location, etc. may be depicted via animated GUI 100 to provide further situational and / or spatial context. In some embodiments, compass rose icon 202 may show information about the aircraft represented by aircraft icon 103. For example, the compass rose icon 202 may indicate static information such as the direction of magnetic north (e.g., the alignment of the compass rose icon 202 being adjusted with magnetic declination in the region covered by the flight map 102) and dynamic information about the aircraft such as flight parameters 101, 104 (e.g., speed 101, altitude, and / or heading 104). To facilitate the illustration and manipulation of the dynamic information, a first arrow icon 203 may be used in conjunction with the compass rose icon 202. The placement of the first arrow icon 203 on the compass rose icon 202 may be used to provide a visual representation of the flight parameters 101, 104 for the pilot. For example, as shown in FIG. 2 , the first arrow icon 203 may point to 315 degrees on the compass rose icon 202 to communicate that the aircraft's heading is 315 degrees. Values ​​related to the flight parameters 101, 104 may be displayed in proximity to the first arrow icon 203, the compass rose icon 202, and / or the aircraft icon 103. Additionally or alternatively, values ​​relating to the flight parameters 101, 104 may be displayed in predetermined locations on the GUI 100.For example, a value related to the speed of an aircraft represented by aircraft icon 103 may be depicted on GUI 100 in a location that is clearly associated with aircraft icon 103 yet avoids obscuring flight map 102 .

[0030] According to various embodiments, the first arrow icon 203 may be depicted with one or more visual cues (e.g., a change in the length of the arrow, a change in the color of the arrow, a change in the opacity of the arrow, etc.) to indicate one or more flight parameters 101, 104 (speed 101, altitude, and / or heading 104). For example, the length of the first arrow icon 203 may be used to indicate a first flight parameter such as speed, while the orientation of the first arrow icon 203 may be used to indicate a second flight parameter such as heading 104, as discussed further below in connection with FIG. 9. In some embodiments, the color of the first arrow icon 203 may indicate whether a command is being sent to or executed by the aircraft. For example, the first arrow icon 203 may be depicted using a first color if a command is being sent to the aircraft via the GUI 100, and the first arrow icon 203 may be depicted using a second color if the aircraft has completed executing the command. Upon execution of the command, the position of the aircraft icon 103 and associated flight parameters 101, 104 are also updated on the GUI 100.

[0031] In some embodiments, the first arrow icon 203 may include a globe icon 204 that the pilot can use to interact with the flight parameters 101, 104. In some embodiments, the globe icon 204 may be displayed outside of the compass rose icon 202. For example, the globe icon 204 may appear at the tip of the first arrow icon 203, which, when selected, may allow the pilot to change the flight parameters 101, 104 by dragging the globe icon 204 along a pane of the GUI 100. The globe icon 204 may be shown with one or more visual cues, such as a color change, that indicate that the globe icon 204 has been selected or deselected. For example, the globe icon 204 may be shown in a first color when attached to the first arrow icon 203 on the GUI 100. Upon selection of the globe icon 204, the globe icon 204 may be shown in a second color. Additionally, if the globe icon 204 is deselected, the icon 204 may return to the first color.

[0032] 3 illustrates the manipulation of a globe icon 204 on the tip of an arrow icon (e.g., first arrow icon 203, second arrow icon 301, etc.) to adjust one or more flight parameters 101, 104, according to various embodiments. In one example, when the globe icon 204 attached to the first arrow icon 203 is selected, the second arrow icon 301 may appear. Initially, the second arrow icon 301 may be overlaid on the first arrow icon 203. The pilot may then drag the second arrow icon 301 to a new location on the GUI 100 representing the selected flight parameters 302, 303 around the compass rose icon 202 using the selected globe icon 204. For example, the globe icon 204 on the first arrow icon 203 may be selected, and the second arrow icon 301 may appear overlaid on the first arrow icon 203. The globe icon 204 and second arrow icon 301 may then be dragged around the compass rose icon 202, while the first arrow icon 203 remains in its original location indicating the current state of the flight parameters 101, 104. Additionally and / or alternatively, when the globe icon 204 on the tip of the first arrow icon 203 is manipulated, the first arrow icon 203 may be transformed into the second arrow icon 301 using one or more visual cues, such as changing to a first color. The second arrow icon 301 may further be displayed on the flight map 102 using a visual cues, such as using the first color, to distinguish the second arrow icon 301 from the first arrow icon 203. This may allow the pilot to differentiate the second arrow icon 301, which depicts selected (e.g., future, desired, commanded) flight parameters 302, 303, from the first arrow icon 203, which depicts the current flight parameters 101, 104. Manipulation of sphere 204 and second arrow icon 301 may constitute non-alphanumeric input. For example, instead of the pilot entering an alphanumeric value of 110 on GUI 100 to change speed parameter 302 to 110 knots, the pilot may manipulate sphere 204 and / or second arrow icon 301 to a location on GUI 100 that represents an increase in speed parameter 302 to 110 knots.

[0033] Additionally, instead of dragging the sphere 204 and second arrow icon 301, the icons 204, 301 may be manipulated in alternative manners. In one example, the icons 204, 301 may be manipulated such that dragging the sphere icon 204 parallel to the second arrow icon 301 changes the length of the second arrow icon 301. Increasing and decreasing the vector of the second arrow icon 301 may correlate to changes in flight parameters 302, 303, such as the speed parameter 302. For example, the pilot may drag the icons 204, 301 away from the center of the compass rose icon 202 so that the second arrow icon 301 becomes longer. A longer second arrow icon 301 may represent a selection of an increase in the speed parameter 302 proportional to the length of the icon 301. In further embodiments, the various methods of manipulating the sphere 204 and second arrow icon 301 may be combined to change more than one flight parameter 302, 303 at a time (e.g., the GUI 100 may be used to generate simultaneous commands to change more than one flight parameter).

[0034] In some embodiments, after dragging the sphere 204 and second arrow icon 301 to a new location on the compass icon 202, releasing the sphere icon 204 may place the icons 204, 301 in the new location. The new location on the compass icon 202 may depict one or more selected flight parameters 302, 303. For example, the sphere 204 and second arrow icon 301 may be dragged from a 240-degree heading 104 shown on the compass icon 202 to a 120-degree heading 303 shown on the compass icon 202. In this manner, dragging the sphere 204 and second arrow icon 301 around the compass icon 202 may allow the pilot to select one or more flight parameters 302, 303 by releasing the icons 204, 301 at the new location.

[0035] In some embodiments, one or more flight parameters 302, 303 may be selected by releasing the globe icon 204 at a new location on the compass rose icon 202, the new location becoming associated with the one or more selected flight parameters 302, 303. When one or more selected flight parameters 302, 303 are selected, a command to implement the one or more selected flight parameters 302, 303 may be detected, generated, and transmitted to the aircraft associated with the aircraft icon 103. For example, releasing the globe icon 204 at a location on the compass rose icon 202 that represents a heading 303 of 240 degrees may result in a command being detected, generated, and / or transmitted to the aircraft to change the aircraft's heading 303 to 240 degrees. Thus, in some embodiments, manipulating the globe 204 and second arrow icon 301 to a new location on the compass rose icon 202 may enable the pilot to select and implement one or more selected flight parameters 302, 303 for the aircraft. In this manner, the GUI 100 on the display device can provide an easy-to-understand visual representation of flight parameters 101, 104 that the pilot can intuitively change by dragging an arrow icon (e.g., second arrow icon 301) around the compass rose icon 202.

[0036] Alphanumeric representations of one or more selected flight parameters 302, 303 may be shown on the GUI 100. In some embodiments, when the globe icon 204 is selected, one or more representations of the selected flight parameters 302, 303 may appear proximate the globe 204 and the second arrow icon 301. The selected flight parameters 302, 303 may correspond to the location of the globe 204 and the second arrow icon 301 relative to the compass rose icon 202. For example, when the globe icon 204 is selected and the second arrow icon 301 appears, one or more flight parameters 302, 303 may also appear proximate the two icons 204, 301. In some embodiments, when the icons 204, 301 are manipulated, one or more alphanumeric representations may change corresponding to the changing flight parameters 302, 303. For example, if the globe icon 204 is dragged from a heading of 315 degrees to 258 degrees, as depicted on a compass rose, the displayed heading flight parameter 303 may also change from a value of 315 to a value of 258. Direct manipulation of the icons 204, 301 may indicate an increased or decreased speed 302 or heading directional change, which is conveyed by the movement and new position of the icons 204, 301 and the corresponding values ​​of the flight parameters 302, 303 displayed adjacent to the icons 204, 301.

[0037] By depicting the changing flight parameters 302, 303, the GUI 100 can provide the pilot with immediate, continuous, and accurate feedback while avoiding ambiguity. For example, if the pilot uses icons 204, 301 to input heading 303, the pilot's movement of icon 204, 301 can direct the aircraft to turn. The GUI 100 can then display a representation that indicates the direction of the aircraft turn (e.g., right or left), while a numerical representation of heading 303 adjacent to icon 204, 301 can provide the pilot with more relevant information.

[0038] Additionally, the explanation and manipulation of flight parameters 302, 303 via GUI 100 can reduce the likelihood of data entry errors. The likelihood of data entry errors is high when there is an abstract level of symbology (e.g., symbols and / or letters) through which data is entered. For example, if, via traditional data entry, a pilot attempts to command an aircraft to descend to an altitude of 10,000 ft but fails to press the keys and enters a value of 1,000 ft, the ramifications can be significant and devastating. While it is very easy to make a keystroke during data entry, it is not easy to notice the error, and therefore correction of the error may not occur quickly enough to prevent an accident. To avoid such errors, GUI 100 uses a display device to present the pilot with concrete visual elements, including, but not limited to, manipulable icons (e.g., globe 204 and second arrow icon 301) and alphanumeric representations of the current flight parameters 101, 104 and / or selected flight parameters 302, 303. Furthermore, GUI 100 can provide the pilot with immediate and proportional feedback. For example, if the pilot attempts to change heading 303 to 325 degrees but inadvertently enters 200 degrees, the visual representation on GUI 100 can clearly depict the proportionally significant discrepancy between the selected heading flight parameters 303 and the intended heading flight parameters 303, allowing the pilot to quickly correct the error.

[0039] The flight parameters 101, 104 may also be adjusted via sidebars present on the GUI 100. In further embodiments, one or more flight parameters 101, 104 (e.g., altitude) may be adjusted via pilot input on at least a sidebar of the GUI 100. For example, the pilot may command the aircraft to change altitude by selecting a sidebar on the GUI 100 and inputting a new altitude. Based on the pilot input via the sidebar, commands to implement the selected one or more flight parameters 302, 303 may be detected, generated, and sent to the aircraft associated with the aircraft icon 103.

[0040] In some embodiments, when one or more flight parameters 101, 104 are manipulated, the flight parameters 101, 104 may "stick" to their current values ​​until the flight parameters 101, 104 are manipulated beyond a threshold. If the value of a selected flight parameter 302, 303 exceeds a threshold, the value becomes freely adjustable. For example, the GUI 100 may depict information indicating that a particular aircraft's heading 104 is currently 315 degrees, while its speed 101 is 100 knots. If the pilot attempts to manipulate the globe 204 and second arrow icon 301 to a location on the compass rose icon 202 that indicates a heading 303 of 258 degrees, the icons 204, 301 may "stick" to the current heading 104 of 315 degrees and the current speed 101 of 100 knots. When the icon 204, 301 is manipulated beyond a certain threshold for heading 104 but not for speed 101, the icon 204, 301 may become freely adjustable for the heading flight parameter 104, but not for the speed flight parameter 101. In this way, the pilot can select a desired 258 degree heading 303, while the speed flight parameter 101 remains unchanged. In this way, it may be easier to manipulate one flight parameter 302, 303 while holding the value of a different flight parameter 101, 104 constant.

[0041] After a predetermined period of time has elapsed, globe icon 204 may be depicted with one or more visual cues to communicate various events. For example, globe icon 204 may change to a first color of magenta after 10 seconds to communicate that a flight landing procedure has been initiated for the aircraft associated with aircraft icon 103. In some embodiments, the predetermined period of time may be associated with the pilot's interaction with GUI 100 and / or globe icon 204. In particular, the depiction of one or more visual cues may communicate that globe icon 204 and / or one or more locations on the GUI have not been interacted with for a predetermined period of time. For example, if the pilot has not interacted with globe icon 204 for 10 seconds, globe icon 204 may change color, change opacity, disappear, etc. In another embodiment, the depiction of globe icon 204 with one or more visual cues after a predetermined period of time may be associated with one or more commands being detected, generated, and / or transmitted to the aircraft associated with aircraft icon 103. For example, the pilot may select globe icon 204 and drag it to a location on compass rose icon 202 indicating a heading 303 of 245 degrees. Sphere icon 204 may then remain visible on a pane of GUI 100 while a command associated with changing heading 303 to 245 degrees is generated and transmitted to the aircraft. When the command is received by the aircraft, globe icon 204 may then change color, disappear, turn opaque / transparent / semi-transparent, etc. Additionally or alternatively, when a command is executed by the aircraft (e.g., the aircraft executes a command to complete a transition from its current heading 104 to a 245 degree heading 303), the globe icon 204 may change color, disappear, become opaque / transparent / semi-transparent, etc. In another embodiment, the predetermined period may be associated with a preset value or a pilot input value.For example, if the pilot drags globe icon 204 to a location on compass rose icon 202 that indicates heading 303 of 245, after a preset period of 10 seconds, globe icon 204 may disappear, turn opaque / transparent / semi-transparent, etc. If the pilot desires to vary the period, the pilot may customize the period to, for example, 20 seconds, after which globe icon 204 will disappear, turn opaque / transparent / semi-transparent, etc.

[0042] Additional steps / tasks / actions may be required to complete the confirmation process. In some embodiments, one or more additional selections may be required to confirm the detection, generation, transmission, and / or execution of the command by the aircraft. For example, if a 270-degree heading 303 is selected, an additional pop-up may appear at a location on GUI 100 requesting the pilot to confirm the input before generating the command. If the pilot selects to confirm the input, a command corresponding to changing the heading 303 to 270 degrees may then be generated and sent to the aircraft for execution. This multi-step selection for sending and executing the command by the aircraft may ensure that the command is sent intentionally. In some embodiments, if one or more additional selections are not made for a predetermined period of time, the selected command may be canceled. For example, if the pilot does not confirm the command for 20 seconds after a 270-degree heading 303 is selected and a pop-up appears requesting confirmation of the command, the command may be canceled. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the confirmation process described herein is for illustrative purposes only and is not to be considered limiting. Various additional steps / tasks / actions / operations etc. may be enacted to complete the verification process.

[0043] 4 illustrates the movement of arrow icons 203, 301 to communicate updated flight parameters 302, 303 of an aircraft, according to various embodiments. In one example, as execution of a command begins, the first arrow icon 203 may incrementally advance around the compass rose icon 202 toward the second arrow icon 301. The first arrow icon 203 may represent one or more current flight parameters 101, 104 of the aircraft represented by the aircraft icon 103. Thus, the incremental movement of the first arrow icon 203 around the compass rose icon 202 toward the second arrow icon 301 may indicate execution of a command by the aircraft as it turns. For example, if a command to change the aircraft's direction is sent to change the aircraft's current aircraft heading 104 of 240 degrees to a heading 303 of 120 degrees, the first arrow icon 203 may start at the 240-degree marker on the compass rose icon 202 and move toward the second arrow icon 301 at the 120-degree marker on the compass rose icon 202 as the aircraft executes the command and turns. The movement of the first arrow icon 203 provides the pilot with a visual representation of the execution of the command to change the heading flight parameter 104 (e.g., a visual representation of the aircraft turning to the updated heading flight parameter 303). Additionally, the alphanumeric representation of one or more current flight parameters 101, 104 may increase or decrease incrementally as the first arrow icon 203 moves across the GUI 100. In this manner, the aircraft's turn direction may be intuitively and clearly suggested through manipulation of the first arrow icon 203 and / or the second arrow icon 301.

[0044] In various embodiments, the aircraft includes one or more sensors and / or flight computers. The one or more sensors and / or flight computers may be in communication with a computer system (e.g., a computing device) executing GUI 100 such that the aircraft's current flight parameters 101, 104 are continuously obtained from the aircraft in real time. In this manner, the pilot may be provided with up-to-date information about the aircraft via GUI 100 as the aircraft executes commands.

[0045] In some embodiments, the first arrow icon 203 may merge with the second arrow icon 301, indicating that the aircraft has completed execution of the command. One or more visual cues may be displayed when the first and second arrow icons 203, 301 converge (e.g., merge). For example, when the first arrow icon 203 merges with the second arrow icon 301, the second arrow icon 301 may disappear and / or the globe icon 204 may change color. Additionally, in some embodiments, when the second arrow icon 301 merges with the first arrow icon 203, the globe icon 204 may remain in the GUI 100 and appear at the tip of the first arrow icon 203. In another embodiment, the globe icon 204 may disappear when the second arrow icon 301 and the first arrow icon 203 merge. When the first arrow icon 203 and the second arrow icon 301 merge, the first arrow icon 203 may disappear so that the GUI 100 depicts only the second arrow icon 301. The remaining second arrow icon 301 may indicate that the command sent to the aircraft has been executed, and the GUI 100 may then show the new flight parameters 302, 303. For example, the pilot may select the second arrow icon 301 and drag it to a location on the compass rose icon 202 representing a selected heading 303 of 258 degrees and a selected speed 302 of 100 knots. When the first arrow icon 203 merges with the second arrow icon 301, the aircraft has completed executing the commands to change its heading to 258 degrees and its speed to 100 knots. The GUI then reflects the new flight parameters 302, 303 as a heading of 258 degrees and a speed of 100 knots.

[0046] FIG. 5 illustrates visual cues depicting the sending of commands to and receipt of commands by an aircraft, according to various embodiments. The visual cues may be used to help an operator gather various types of information by simply observing the GUI 100. In FIG. 5, pane A illustrates commands being entered via the GUI, and pane B illustrates commands being sent and / or received by the aircraft corresponding to the aircraft icon 103 depicted on the GUI 100. In one example, after one or more selected flight parameters 302, 303 are selected by releasing the second arrow icon 301 at a new location on the compass rose icon 202, a visual cue, such as a flashing and / or color change, may be used to indicate that a command to change one or more current flight parameters 101, 104 is being sent to the aircraft represented by the aircraft icon 103, as shown in pane A of the GUI 100. In some embodiments, a first visual cue may indicate the sending of a command, and a second visual cue may indicate the receipt of a command. For example, the aircraft computer may communicate receipt of the command to the pilot's computer (e.g., a server computer running GUI 100). Upon receipt, another visual cue, such as flashing and / or changing color, may be used to indicate successful receipt of the command by the aircraft, as shown in pane B of GUI 100. In further embodiments, the visual cue may continue until transmission is complete and the command is received by the aircraft. For example, after the pilot selects a flight parameter 303 of a new heading of 120 degrees, second arrow icon 301 may begin flashing, communicating that a command to change current flight parameter 104 is being sent to a particular aircraft, as shown in pane A. If the command is successfully sent to the aircraft and / or if confirmation is received from the aircraft, second arrow icon 301 may stop flashing and / or change color, communicating successful transmission of the command to a particular aircraft, as shown in pane B.

[0047] In some embodiments, one or more visual cues may be used to indicate that a command was not successfully transmitted to the aircraft. For example, if there is a disruption in transmitting a command to the aircraft and the command is not received, the second arrow icon 301 may change color to indicate to the pilot that the command was not received by the aircraft. By using one or more visual cues to communicate that a command was transmitted and that the command was either successfully or unsuccessfully received by the aircraft, the pilot can be made aware of a potential communication problem with a particular aircraft. With this information, the pilot can then be motivated to remedy the situation. For example, the pilot may resend the command that was not successfully received.

[0048] FIG. 6 illustrates one or more flight parameter limits, according to various embodiments. In some embodiments, a pilot may set one or more flight parameter limits to prevent the selection and execution of a selected flight parameter 302, 303 that exceeds the set limit 601. In some embodiments, the computer system may retrieve flight parameter limits from a database or from a flight plan assigned to the aircraft. A pane of the animated GUI 100 may be dedicated to showing upper and lower limits using flight parameter limit indicators 601 for one or more selected flight parameters 302, 303. In some embodiments, flight parameter limits may be dynamic based on the aircraft's flight conditions (e.g., flight plan, terrain, weather conditions). The flight parameter limit indicators 601 may automatically adjust to indicate the current limit. Implementing the flight parameter limits may then prevent the pilot from selecting a flight parameter 302, 303 that exceeds the assigned upper and / or lower limits. In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 6 , flight parameter limit indicator 601 may indicate a 100 knot upper limit for aircraft speed 302 for given terrain and flight conditions. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the upper limits shown herein are for illustrative purposes only and are not to be considered limiting. Any speed limit may be used in connection with the embodiments described herein. If a 100 knot upper limit is selected for aircraft speed 302, the pilot may be prevented from selecting a 110 knot speed 302 based on the set limit. By allowing selection of flight parameter limits, the pilot is provided with more intuitive and granular control of the aircraft via animated GUI 100.

[0049] In various embodiments, one or more flight parameters 302, 303 may be constrained to a defined range based on the aircraft's operating envelope. For example, if the aircraft's speed operating limit is determined to be 150 knots, then speed 302 may be constrained to a maximum speed of 150 knots to stay within the flight envelope. This may limit the range of commands that can be generated and sent to the aircraft. For example, if speed 302 is set to have a range between 100 knots and 150 knots, then if a pilot attempts to input a speed 302 of 160 knots, no command may be generated and / or sent to the corresponding aircraft.

[0050] In some embodiments, if a selected flight parameter 302, 303 is selected that exceeds an established limit, a visual indicator 602 may be displayed to indicate that the selected flight parameter 302, 303 exceeds the established limit. For example, if an upper limit of 100 knots is selected for the aircraft's speed 302 and the pilot attempts to select a speed 302 of 160 knots, a visual indicator 602 may be displayed on a pane of the GUI 100 to inform the pilot that the selected speed 302 is outside the allowable range. In this manner, instead of sending a command to the aircraft to change the speed 302 to a value that is outside the allowable range, the command entry and / or transmission is rejected, preventing the implementation of the unauthorized speed change.

[0051] Additionally and / or alternatively, one or more selected flight parameters 302, 303 may be constrained by limiting the movement of the second arrow icon 301 and / or its correlated target value. For example, if the pilot attempts to select a flight parameter 302, 303 beyond the established limit value 601 by dragging the sphere 204 and second arrow icon 301 to a new location on the compass rose icon 202, the sphere 204 and second arrow icon 301 may snap back to the position of the first arrow icon 203, effectively preventing the pilot from selecting a prohibited value (e.g., a prohibited flight parameter). One or more visual cues, such as the second arrow icon 301 flashing and / or changing color, may also indicate that the selected flight parameter 302, 303 is prohibited. For example, if a heading between 225 degrees and 270 degrees constitutes a prohibited flight parameter and the pilot drags the sphere 204 and second arrow icon 301 through an area of ​​the compass rose icon 202 that represents that heading range of 225 degrees to 270 degrees, the second arrow icon 301 may turn opaque / transparent / semi-transparent, change color, flash, etc. to indicate that selecting a heading 303 within the particular range is prohibited. Alternatively or additionally, if the sphere 204 and second arrow icon 301 are moved and released at a location on the compass rose icon 202 that represents a prohibited action and / or prohibited flight parameter, the sphere 204 and second arrow icon 301 may change color, change opacity, etc., to gradually return to the position of the first arrow icon 203. In some embodiments, when the sphere 204 and second arrow icon 301 are dragged over an area of ​​the compass rose icon 202 that represents a prohibited action (e.g., selection of one or more prohibited flight parameters 302, 303), one or more visual cues may be presented to indicate that the sphere 204 and second arrow icon 301 are over a location that is not permitted.For example, if the heading range between 225 degrees and 270 degrees is prohibited, then when the pilot drags the sphere 204 and second arrow icon 301 through this range on the compass rose icon 202, the sphere 204 and second arrow icon 301 may change color, change opacity, flash, appear as a dotted line, disappear, etc. This change in the depiction of the sphere 204 and second arrow icon 301 may then communicate to the pilot that an attempt to select a heading 303 between 225 degrees and 270 degrees is rejected.

[0052] FIG. 7 illustrates an implementation of visual cues indicating prohibited flight paths, according to various embodiments. In some embodiments, it may be determined that hazardous and / or restricted locations may intersect with the aircraft's selected route. If the pilot attempts to command flight toward the hazardous and / or restricted locations through the animated GUI 100, visual cues may be used to relay that the selected flight path is unwise or prohibited. For example, if the pilot attempts to steer the aircraft toward terrain determined to be hazardous by manipulating the sphere 204 and second arrow icon 301, the sphere 204 and second arrow icon 301 may flash to inform the pilot that the attempted action is prohibited. In some embodiments, the pilot may specify the hazardous or restricted locations through the GUI 100. Additionally and / or alternatively, an external source may communicate the hazardous and restricted locations to a server computer running the GUI 100. The restricted route may be determined based on one or more factors, such as, but not limited to, current air traffic conditions, weather conditions, terrain, and restricted airspace.

[0053] In some embodiments, if a hazardous or restricted location intersects the selected flight route, a visual indicator 602 may be displayed to indicate that the flight route includes a hazardous or prohibited location. For example, if there is an attempt to direct the aircraft toward a restricted location, a visual indicator 602 may be displayed in a pane of GUI 100 to inform the pilot that the selected flight route includes a restricted location. If a hazardous and / or restricted location is determined to intersect with the aircraft's selected route, execution of the route may be prevented. In this manner, the pilot is given a clear indication that the selected route may be unsuitable for proceeding, and a potential accident may be easily avoided.

[0054] In some embodiments, a portion of the compass rose icon 202 may be depicted with one or more visual cues to indicate that a dangerous or restricted location intersects the flight route corresponding to the selection of the portion of the compass rose icon 202. For example, the portion of the compass rose icon 202 representing a heading 303 between 0 and 45 degrees may be depicted in a different color, opacity, etc. than other portions of the compass rose icon 202. The pilot is thus provided with a visual representation that the selection of a particular location on the compass rose icon 202 corresponds to a flight route that intersects a dangerous or restricted location. In this way, the pilot may more easily avoid an improper or dangerous route of travel and more easily avoid potential errors and / or accidents.

[0055] FIG. 8 illustrates the initiation of one or more flight procedures based on the selection of flight parameters 302, 303, according to various embodiments. In some embodiments, the selection of one or more flight parameters 302, 303 may initiate one or more flight procedures. For example, the pilot may select one or more flight parameters 302, 303 indicating that the pilot desires to land the aircraft, such as specifying a route ending at landing location 801 and / or reducing the aircraft's speed. In response to the selection of flight parameters 302, 303 indicating landing the aircraft, one or more flight procedures associated with landing the aircraft may be initiated. For example, after the selection of landing location 801, a glide slope procedure may be initiated and a particular altitude may be communicated to and executed by the aircraft. In some embodiments, the aircraft icon 103 may be shown with one or more visual cues indicating that one or more flight procedures have been initiated.

[0056] FIG. 9 illustrates the manipulation of one or more flight parameters 302, 303 using incremental snapping, according to various embodiments. The flight parameters 302, 303 may be manipulated in predetermined increments. In some embodiments, the pilot may select a predetermined increment to apply to the selection of one or more flight parameters 302, 303. When the sphere 204 and second arrow icon 301 are dragged around the compass rose icon 202 and released at a location associated with one or more flight parameters 302, 303, the sphere 204 and second arrow icon 301 may snap to the most appropriate incremental value (e.g., the nearest value, the next lowest value, the next highest value, etc.) based on the predetermined increment. Additionally and / or alternatively, the second arrow icon 301 may remain in place on the GUI 100 while the values ​​representing one or more flight parameters 302, 303 snap to the nearest incremental value (e.g., degrees for heading, knots for speed, 100-foot units for altitude, etc.). For example, if a heading 303 of 272 degrees is selected, the displayed heading 303 may snap to the nearest multiple of 10, which is 270 degrees. In this case, when released by the pilot, the sphere 204 and second arrow icon 301 may return to the position of the first arrow icon 203 and incrementally transition to the selected 270 degree heading 303. In some embodiments, after selecting one or more flight parameters 302, 303, the sphere 204 and second arrow icon 301 and / or first arrow icon 203 may transition to the selected flight parameter(s) 302, 303 by incrementally snapping to values ​​until the selected flight parameter(s) 302, 303 are reached. For example, if the first arrow icon 203 is at a 280 degree heading 104 and a new 270 degree heading 303 is selected, the sphere 204 and second arrow icon 301 may snap from 280 degrees to 278 degrees to 276 degrees to 274 degrees to 272 degrees in two predetermined increments before finally snapping to the selected 270 degree heading 303.When selecting values ​​for one or more parameters, the pilot may operate the GUI 100 to cause the selected values ​​to snap to predetermined multiples of the value. For example, the pilot may set the aircraft's speed 302 to be displayed to the nearest multiple of 5. If the globe 204 and second arrow icon 301 are dragged to a marker on the compass rose icon 202 indicating a speed of 103 knots, the globe 204 and second arrow icon 301 may snap to a marker indicating a speed of 105 knots. In some embodiments, the same predetermined increment can be set for all flight parameters 302, 303. In other embodiments, different predetermined increments can be set for individual flight parameters 302, 303.

[0057] The animated GUI 100 described herein is contextual: according to various embodiments, the upper and / or lower limits may be provided by traffic control data associated with a location, incorporated into the flight map 102, entered by the pilot, or automatically populated based on live data received from a source external to the server computer running the GUI 100.

[0058] The animated GUI 100 described herein is transparent and / or translucent. According to various embodiments, the animated GUI 100 may render a minimal configuration (e.g., an annotated compass rose icon 202 rotated to the appropriate magnetic declination), dynamic translucency, no background, and few pixels so as not to obscure important background information on the flight map 102 and around the aircraft icon 103.

[0059] The animated GUI 100 described herein is intuitive. According to various embodiments, the animated GUI 100 accepts input from the pilot by manipulating the head of a first arrow icon 203. This first arrow icon 203 indicates the current heading 104 and velocity 101. As the head of the first arrow icon 203 is moved, in addition to continuing to display the current heading 104 and velocity 101, a separate second arrow icon 301 (of a different color) is rendered to indicate a target heading 303 and velocity 302.

[0060] Embodiments may also provide one or more non-transitory computer-readable storage media storing instructions that, when executed on a computer system (e.g., computing device), cause the computer system (e.g., computing device) to perform the above-described method. Embodiments may also provide a system comprising a display screen, one or more processors, and a memory storing instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to perform the above-described method.

[0061] 10 is a flowchart of an example process 1000. In step 1002, a GUI 100 is displayed on a display device 1110 using a computing device. An example animated GUI 100 is shown in FIG.

[0062] In step 1004, the aircraft is represented on GUI 100 using a first icon (e.g., aircraft icon 103) of a plurality of icons. For example, referring back to FIG. 1 , aircraft icon 103 represents the aircraft (e.g., an autonomous aircraft) on GUI 100. In some embodiments, GUI 100 may display multiple icons (e.g., aircraft icons 103), each representing a separate aircraft. Additionally or alternatively, information regarding one or more flight parameters 101, 104 associated with the aircraft represented by the icon (e.g., aircraft icon 103) may be displayed adjacent to the icon (e.g., aircraft icon 103) on GUI 100. For example, as shown in FIG. 1 , flight parameter 101 of a speed of 100 knots and flight parameter 104 of a heading of 250 degrees are displayed adjacent to the icon (e.g., aircraft icon 103).

[0063] In step 1006, the computing device receives input manipulating a second icon (e.g., globe icon 204, first arrow icon 203, and / or second arrow icon 301) representing flight parameters 302, 303 associated with the aircraft. The input manipulating the second icon (e.g., globe icon 204, first arrow icon 203, and / or second arrow icon 301) moves the second icon from a first position to a second position on the GUI 100. For example, with reference to FIG. 3 , the second arrow icon 301 may be dragged across the GUI 100 to a location representing the flight parameters 302, 303. In this example, the second arrow icon 301 is dragged to a location representing a heading flight parameter 303 of 258 degrees and a speed flight parameter 302 of 100 knots. The computing device may then receive non-alphanumeric input (signals sent from the input device to the server computer) manipulating the second arrow icon 301 such that the manipulation corresponds to an alphanumeric command (e.g., change heading to 258 degrees and speed to 100 knots). For example, the computing device may translate the manipulation of the second arrow icon 301 into an alphanumeric command corresponding to where the second arrow icon 301 is to be dragged.

[0064] In step 1008, a command based at least in part on the manipulation of a second icon (e.g., globe icon 204, first arrow icon 203, and / or second arrow icon 301) representing the flight parameters 302, 303 is sent to the aircraft represented by the first icon (e.g., aircraft icon 103). In some embodiments, information corresponding to the flight parameters 302, 303 associated with the aircraft may be displayed in proximity to the first icon (e.g., aircraft icon 103) representing the aircraft. For example, with reference to FIG. 3 , following manipulation of the second arrow icon 301 to a location on the GUI 100 representing the flight parameters 303 of a heading of 258 degrees and a speed of 100 knots, a command based at least in part on the manipulation is sent to the aircraft represented by the aircraft icon 103. The GUI 100 may then depict alphanumeric representations of the flight parameters 302, 303 in proximity to the second arrow icon 301 and / or aircraft icon 103.

[0065] 11 illustrates an example computing system 1100 that may be used to implement various embodiments described herein. The example computing system may be used by an operator 1130 (e.g., a human operator 1130) to monitor and interact with one or more autonomous aerial vehicles 1140, individually and / or collectively. According to various embodiments, operator 1130 may interact with computing system 1100 using input device 1150. For example, operator 1130 may select an autonomous aerial vehicle 1140 and / or provide commands to a selected autonomous aerial vehicle 1140 by using input device 1150.

[0066] As shown, computing system 1100 may include one or more processors 1104, a system memory 1102 (which may include any combination of volatile and / or non-volatile memory, such as, for example, buffer memory, RAM, DRAM, ROM, flash, or any other suitable memory device), a network interface 1106 (e.g., an external communication interface), and a computer-readable medium (e.g., a non-transitory computer-readable medium 1108 that stores instructions). Additionally, one or more of the modules may be located within one or more of the components of system memory 1102 or may be located externally. The software and hardware modules shown in FIG. 11 are provided for illustrative purposes only, and the configuration is not intended to be limiting. The processor 1104, the system memory 1102, and / or the external communication interface (e.g., the network interface 1106) may implement the techniques and / or methods described herein.

[0067] Network interface 1106 may be configured or programmed to receive and generate (e.g., send and execute instructions) electronic messages containing information to or from the plurality of autonomous aerial vehicles 1140 through computing system 1100. Computing system 1100 may also include at least one display device 1110 for displaying GUI 100. When an electronic message is received by computing system 1100 through an external communication interface (e.g., network interface 1106) of computing system 1100, it may be processed, and associated information may be displayed on display device 1110 via GUI 100. When input is received from operator 1130 through GUI 100, it may be processed, and associated information may be sent to a corresponding autonomous aerial vehicle 1140. For example, operator 1130 may use input device 1150 to input commands to be sent to the plurality of autonomous aerial vehicles 1140. The commands may be received by computing system 1100, where they are processed and sent to the plurality of autonomous aerial vehicles 1140 for execution. According to various embodiments, computing system 1100 may be further configured to receive supplemental information from a third party, such as air traffic control, weather, other aircraft (e.g., aircraft monitoring one or more autonomous air vehicles 1140 in the air), etc. The supplemental information may be processed by computing system 1100 and displayed on GUI 100 via display device 1110.

[0068] In the foregoing specification, embodiments of the present disclosure have been described with reference to numerous specific details that may vary from implementation to implementation. Accordingly, the specification and drawings should be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense. The sole and exclusive indication of the scope of the present disclosure, and what is intended by the applicant as the scope of the present disclosure, is the literal and equivalent scope of the set of claims issuing from this application in the particular form in which such claims issue, including any subsequent amendments. Specific details of particular embodiments may be combined in any appropriate manner without departing from the spirit and scope of the embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0069] Additionally, spatially relative terms such as "bottom," "top," or "side" may be used to describe the relationship of an element and / or feature to another element and / or feature, for example, as shown in the figures. It is understood that the spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use and / or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned upside down, an element described as being on the "bottom" side may be oriented "above" the other element or feature. The device may also be oriented in other ways (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations), and the spatially relative descriptors used herein will be interpreted accordingly.

[0070] The methods, systems, and devices discussed herein are examples. Various embodiments may omit, substitute, or add various procedures or components as appropriate. For example, features described with respect to one embodiment may be combined in various other embodiments. Different aspects and elements of the embodiments may be combined in a similar manner. Also, because technology evolves, many of the elements are examples that do not limit the scope of the disclosure to those particular examples.

[0071] As used herein, the terms "and," "or," and "and / or" can include a variety of meanings that are also expected to depend, at least in part, on the context in which such terms are used. Typically, when "or" is used to link a list such as A, B, or C, it is intended to mean A, B, and C, which are used herein in an inclusive sense, as well as A, B, or C, which are used herein in an exclusive sense. Furthermore, as used herein, the term "one or more" may be used to describe any feature, structure, or characteristic in the singular, or it may be used to describe any combination of features, structures, or characteristics. However, it should be noted that this is merely an illustrative example, and claimed subject matter is not limited to this example. Furthermore, the term "at least one of," when used to relate a list such as A, B, or C, can be interpreted to mean any combination of A, B, and / or C, such as A, B, C, AB, AC, BC, AA, AAB, ABC, AABBCCC, etc.

[0072] References throughout this specification to "one example," "an example," "certain examples," or "exemplary implementation" mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with a feature and / or example may be included in at least one feature and / or example of the claimed subject matter. Thus, appearances of the phrases "in one example," "an example," "in certain examples," "in certain implementations," or other similar phrases in various places throughout this specification do not necessarily all refer to the same features, examples, and / or limitations. Furthermore, particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in one or more examples and / or characteristics.

[0073] In the foregoing detailed description, numerous specific details have been set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the claimed subject matter. However, those skilled in the art will understand that the claimed subject matter may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, methods and devices that would be known by those skilled in the art have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the claimed subject matter. Therefore, it is not intended that the claimed subject matter be limited to the particular examples disclosed, but rather that such claimed subject matter may include all aspects that fall within the scope of the appended claims and equivalents thereof.

Claims

1. using a computing device to display a graphical user interface (GUI) on a display device; representing the aircraft with a first icon of a plurality of icons; receiving, at the computing device, input manipulating a second icon representing a flight parameter associated with the aircraft, the input manipulating the second icon moving the second icon from a first position to a second position on the GUI; sending a command to the aircraft represented by the first icon based at least in part on manipulation of the second icon representing the flight parameter; A method comprising:

2. displaying one or more flight parameters associated with the aircraft, the one or more flight parameters including at least one of a heading, a speed, or an altitude associated with the aircraft; 2. The method of claim 1, further comprising: displaying the second icon and a third icon of the plurality of icons over the first icon in response to detecting a selection of the first icon, the third icon representing a compass rose.

3. The method of claim 2 , wherein at least the first icon, the second icon, and the third icon of the plurality of icons are superimposed on a map displayed on the GUI.

4. The method of claim 2 , wherein at least the first icon, the second icon, and the third icon of the plurality of icons are transparent.

5. 10. The method of claim 1, further comprising: displaying, at the computing device, a third icon in response to detecting manipulation of the second icon representing the flight parameter, the third icon representing a change in the flight parameter of one or more flight parameters associated with the aircraft.

6. The method of claim 5 , wherein the third icon merges with the second icon when the aircraft executes the command based at least in part on the manipulation of the second icon.

7. The method of claim 5 , wherein the third icon snaps to a location, the location representing a predetermined increment of the flight parameter.

8. displaying a first visual cue indicating transmission of the command to the aircraft; The method of claim 1 , further comprising: displaying a second visual cue indicating receipt of the command by the aircraft.

9. receiving one or more prohibited flight parameters; 2. The method of claim 1, further comprising: displaying a visual cue indicating that the second icon is prohibited from being manipulated to a location within the GUI, the location representing a prohibited flight parameter of the one or more prohibited flight parameters.

10. 10. The method of claim 1, further comprising transmitting the command to the aircraft in response to receiving a selected location for landing the aircraft, the command initiating at least one or more flight procedures associated with landing the aircraft.

11. When executed on a computer system, the computer system: displaying a graphical user interface (GUI) on a display device; representing the aircraft with a first icon of a plurality of icons; receiving input manipulating a second icon representing a flight parameter associated with the aircraft, the input manipulating the second icon moving the second icon from a first position to a second position on the GUI; and sending a command to the aircraft represented by the first icon based at least in part on manipulation of the second icon representing the flight parameter.

12. a display device; one or more processors; a memory that, when executed by the one or more processors, causes the one or more processors to: displaying a graphical user interface (GUI) on the display device; representing the aircraft with a first icon of a plurality of icons; receiving input manipulating a second icon representing a flight parameter associated with the aircraft, the input manipulating the second icon moving the second icon from a first position to a second position on the GUI; sending a command to the aircraft represented by the first icon based at least in part on manipulation of the second icon representing the flight parameter; a memory storing instructions for performing steps including: A system comprising:

13. The instructions, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to: displaying one or more flight parameters associated with the aircraft, the one or more flight parameters including at least one of a heading, a speed, or an altitude associated with the aircraft; 13. The system of claim 12, further comprising: displaying the second icon and a third icon of the plurality of icons over the first icon in response to detecting a selection of the first icon, the third icon representing a compass rose.

14. The system of claim 13 , wherein at least the first icon, the second icon, and the third icon of the plurality of icons are overlaid on a map displayed on the GUI.

15. The system of claim 13 , wherein at least the first icon, the second icon, and the third icon of the plurality of icons are transparent.

16. The instructions, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to:

13. The system of claim 12, further comprising displaying a third icon in response to detecting manipulation of the second icon representing the flight parameter, the third icon representing a change in the flight parameter associated with the aircraft.

17. 17. The system of claim 16, wherein the third icon merges with the second icon when the aircraft executes the command based at least in part on the manipulation of the second icon.

18. The instructions, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to: displaying a first visual cue indicating transmission of the command to the aircraft; 13. The system of claim 12, further comprising: displaying a second visual cue indicating receipt of the command by the aircraft.

19. The instructions, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to: receiving one or more prohibited flight parameters; 13. The system of claim 12, further comprising: displaying a visual cue indicating that the second icon is prohibited from being manipulated to a location within the GUI, the location representing a prohibited flight parameter of the one or more prohibited flight parameters.

20. The instructions, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to:

13. The system of claim 12, further comprising transmitting the command to the aircraft in response to receiving a selected location for landing the aircraft, the command initiating at least one or more flight procedures associated with landing the aircraft.

Images