Aircraft Contrail Detection Using Antisolar Point Shadows
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional contrail detection methods require dedicated and costly equipment installed at the rear of aircraft, adding weight and increasing operational costs, which is undesirable for aircraft designed to avoid detection.
Innovation Solution
The method involves using pre-existing cameras or optical sensors and processing capabilities to detect contrail shadows in real-time imagery by determining the antisolar point and superimposing aircraft flight vectors onto the imagery to identify contrail shadows, eliminating the need for dedicated contrail detection equipment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If dedicated sensors, cameras, or computers are mounted in the rear of an aircraft for contrail detection, then contrail detection capability is improved, but aircraft weight increases and stability requires additional weight in the front
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by using existing aircraft equipment (cameras or optical sensors already mounted on the aircraft for other purposes) to perform dual functions: their original function plus contrail detection. This eliminates the need for dedicated contrail detection equipment, thereby avoiding additional weight while maintaining detection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies self-service by utilizing the aircraft's own existing equipment and processing capabilities to detect contrails. The aircraft serves itself by using its mounted cameras or optical sensors and onboard computers to perform contrail detection, rather than requiring separate dedicated systems.
2Measurement precision
If dedicated contrail detection equipment is installed in the rear of an aircraft, then contrail detection accuracy is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses existing aircraft equipment to perform multiple functions, including contrail detection. By making existing cameras or optical sensors multi-functional, the system achieves contrail detection capability without adding dedicated equipment, thereby reducing device complexity and cost while maintaining detection accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The aircraft's existing processing capabilities are utilized to analyze imagery for contrail detection. This self-service approach eliminates the need for separate dedicated processing equipment, reducing overall system complexity and cost while maintaining detection precision.
3Productivity
If rearward facing cameras are used for contrail detection, then real-time contrail monitoring is improved, but additional windows in aircraft skin are required, increasing cost and presenting additional issues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by using existing cameras or optical sensors that are already mounted on the aircraft for other purposes. These existing equipment have line-of-sight to the rear through existing windows or openings, eliminating the need for additional windows while maintaining real-time monitoring capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The aircraft uses its own existing optical sensors and windows for dual purposes: their original function plus contrail detection. This self-service approach eliminates the need for modifications to the aircraft skin, thereby maintaining ease of manufacture while achieving real-time monitoring.
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
This approach allows for effective contrail detection without adding weight or cost to the aircraft, providing real-time notification to pilots, thereby enhancing aircraft stealth and reducing operational expenses.
Implementation Method 1
a camera or other optical sensor to provide real time imagery of a cloud deck or other surface below the aircraft
Implementation Method 2
contrail shadows in real time imagery
Data Source
AI summary
Concepts and technologies described herein provide for the detection of aircraft contrails through the identification of contrail shadows in real time imagery provided during a flight. According to one aspect of the disclosure provided herein, an antisolar point is located on a surface from the perspective of the aircraft in flight. Real time imagery encompassing the antisolar point is received and analyzed for a contrail indicator. When the contrail indicator is detected, it is determined that the aircraft is creating a contrail.