Aircraft Collision Avoidance Using Proximity Sensors and Video Imagers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Aircraft operators face challenges in detecting obstacles during ground operations due to limited visibility, leading to potential collisions, which can result in damage and significant repair costs.
Innovation Solution
A collision avoidance system equipped with proximity sensors and video imagers that provide real-time obstacle detection and video feed to the cockpit, along with a braking system activation to prevent collisions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the aircraft dimensions are increased (larger wing sweep angles, greater distance from cockpit to wingtip), then the aircraft can accommodate more equipment and passengers, but the operator's field of view is reduced and blind spots increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces proximity sensors and video imagers as intermediary devices between the operator and the blind spots. These sensors detect obstacles in areas the operator cannot directly see, and video imagers provide visual feedback to the cockpit display, effectively extending the operator's sensory capability beyond physical line-of-sight limitations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical limitation of human visual field with an electronic sensing and display system. Instead of relying on the operator's physical ability to see around the aircraft, the system uses proximity sensors, video cameras, and digital displays to provide obstacle information electronically to the cockpit.
2Device complexity
If the operator relies on direct visual monitoring, then no additional equipment is needed, but obstacles in blind spots cannot be detected in time for evasive action
Solution Approach 1:
The system introduces proximity sensors and video imagers as intermediary detection devices that bridge the gap between the operator's limited visual field and the blind spots around the aircraft. These intermediaries detect obstacles independently and relay information to the operator through the display system.
Solution Approach 2:
The proximity sensors continuously monitor for obstacles in advance before they enter the operator's visual field or become imminent threats. The system performs preliminary detection in blind spots and provides early warning, allowing the operator to take evasive action before the obstacle becomes a direct collision risk.
3Reliability
If proximity sensors and video imagers are added to detect obstacles, then obstacle detection capability is improved, but the system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple functions into a single unified system: proximity sensors serve both collision avoidance and positioning functions, video imagers provide both blind spot monitoring and situational awareness, and the display system integrates multiple information streams into a single cockpit interface. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines proximity sensing, video imaging, signal processing, and display functions into an integrated collision avoidance system. Multiple sensors and cameras are merged into a single coordinated system that processes information centrally and presents unified output to the operator, reducing overall system complexity compared to separate independent systems.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system effectively reduces the likelihood of collisions by providing timely alerts and visual feedback to operators, enabling them to take evasive actions and preventing damage to aircraft.
Implementation Method 1
A processor onboard an aircraft receives a detection signal from one of a plurality of proximity sensors... The detection signal indicates that the obstacle has been detected by a particular proximity sensor
Implementation Method 2
A video image signal is transmitted from the processor to a display in the cockpit of the aircraft... A video image, corresponding to the video image signal, of a particular region around the aircraft that includes the obstacle is displayed on a display
Implementation Method 3
the processor can also transmit at least one of: an alert signal to an element in a cockpit of the aircraft, and a brake activation signal to activate a braking system to prevent the aircraft from colliding with the obstacle
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosed embodiments relate to methods and systems for avoiding a collision between an obstacle and a vehicle, such as an aircraft, on a ground surface. A processor receives a detection signal from one of a plurality of proximity sensors. The detection signal indicates that the obstacle has been detected. In response to receiving the detection signal, a video image signal is transmitted from the processor to a display in the cockpit of the aircraft. The video image signal corresponds to a particular video imager that is associated with the particular proximity sensor that detected the obstacle. A video image, of a particular region around the aircraft that includes the obstacle is displayed on a display. In response to receiving the detection signal, the processor can also transmit an alert signal, and a brake activation signal to activate a braking system to prevent the aircraft from colliding with the obstacle.