Aircraft Descent Profile Optimization via Segmented Idle and Geometric Sub-segments
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing aircraft descent and approach profile calculation methods often result in long and steep geometric segments, which do not provide adequate deceleration capacity, leading to a deceleration point (DECEL) positioned too high, not aligned with pilot practices or air traffic control expectations.
Innovation Solution
The method involves calculating a descent and/or approach profile by iteratively determining idle and geometric segments, allowing for multiple sub-segments with lower gradients, positioning DECEL lower and closer to the destination, and adjusting segment types to optimize deceleration capacity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the descent profile is calculated using traditional backward calculation method with single geometric segments, then the calculation is simple and fast, but the deceleration capacity is insufficient and DECEL point is positioned too high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the descent profile into multiple sub-segments (first geometric segment, first idle segment, second geometric segment, second idle segment) instead of using a single geometric segment. This segmentation allows the profile to better accommodate deceleration requirements by creating dedicated geometric segments with appropriate gradients, thereby improving deceleration capacity while maintaining operational simplicity through automated calculation.
2Productivity
If long and steep geometric segments are used to meet altitude restrictions, then the number of vertical maneuvers is minimized, but the deceleration capacity becomes insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the descent profile into multiple geometric segments and idle segments. By creating multiple shorter geometric segments with controlled gradients rather than one long steep segment, the profile maintains descent efficiency while providing adequate deceleration capacity. The segmentation allows alternating between geometric segments (for altitude restriction compliance) and idle segments (for deceleration), resolving the contradiction between productivity and ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic characteristics by alternating between different segment types (geometric and idle) along the descent profile. This dynamic structure allows the system to switch between altitude restriction compliance mode and deceleration mode, enabling the profile to adapt to varying operational requirements and providing sufficient deceleration capacity without sacrificing descent efficiency.
3Ease of operation
If the DECEL point is positioned high to ensure sufficient deceleration distance, then deceleration capacity is adequate, but it does not align with pilot practices or air traffic control expectations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses segmentation to create a more distributed deceleration profile with multiple geometric segments positioned at different altitudes. This allows the DECEL point to be positioned lower (aligning with pilot practices and ATC expectations) while still providing sufficient total deceleration capacity through the cumulative effect of multiple deceleration zones created by the segmented structure.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and device for automatically determining an optimized approach and/or descent profile for an aircraft are provided. The device comprises means for optimizing an approach and/or descent profile of an aircraft avoiding long and steep geometric segments, the device to this end inserting an idle segment, if it satisfies the restrictions, in the profile relating to the descent phase and/or to the approach phase, wherein said idle segment can be followed by a geometric segment.