Aircraft Docking System Radar-Light Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current visual docking guidance systems (VDGS) for aircraft have limited range due to laser eye safety regulations and are affected by atmospheric conditions, making early detection and accurate aircraft identification challenging, especially in adverse weather.
Innovation Solution
An aircraft docking system that integrates a light-based verification and positioning system with an airport surveillance system to control the scanning volume based on received data, allowing for focused scanning and precise aircraft positioning, using laser, radar, or optical means to enhance detection and identification accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If the energy in light pulses is increased to extend the detection range of the VDGS, then the range is improved, but eye safety regulations are violated and harmful effects occur
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary detection using radar to identify approaching aircraft before the VDGS activates. This allows the VDGS to prepare and activate at the optimal moment when the aircraft is within detection range but still at a safe distance, eliminating the need to increase light pulse energy beyond safety limits.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors the distance to approaching aircraft using radar and dynamically adjusts the VDGS activation timing based on this feedback. As the aircraft approaches, the system receives continuous distance information and activates the VDGS at the precise moment when maximum detection range is achieved without exceeding safe light energy levels.
2Area of stationary object
If the scanning volume is increased to detect aircraft from all directions, then the detection coverage is improved, but the time to identify and track the aircraft increases
Solution Approach 1:
The detection process is segmented into two distinct phases: a wide-area capture phase using radar to identify all approaching aircraft, followed by a focused tracking phase using the VDGS to precisely track and identify the specific aircraft. This segmentation allows comprehensive coverage without sacrificing identification speed.
Solution Approach 2:
Radar performs preliminary scanning of the entire approach area to identify and filter potential aircraft targets before the VDGS begins its detailed tracking and identification process. This preliminary action reduces the number of objects the VDGS must analyze, significantly reducing identification time while maintaining comprehensive detection coverage.
3Length of stationary object
If the VDGS is positioned further into the stand area to enable earlier detection, then the detection range is improved, but the number of objects in the stand area increases and safety considerations are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges the functions of early detection (radar) and precise tracking/identification (VDGS) into a coordinated two-stage process. The radar system, positioned outside the stand area, handles early detection, while the VDGS remains at its standard position but is activated at the optimal moment, combining the advantages of both approaches without the drawbacks.
Solution Approach 2:
The radar system acts as an intermediary between the aircraft and the VDGS. It performs the function of early detection and target acquisition, then passes the identified aircraft information to the VDGS for precise tracking and identification. This intermediary role allows the VDGS to remain at its standard position without compromising detection range or adding unnecessary objects to the stand area.
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 optimizes and potentially increases the effective range of the VDGS without harmful light levels, providing early detection and accurate aircraft identification under various conditions, improving safety and reducing incorrect type identification.
Implementation Method 1
The light pulses are normally emitted in a direction along the lead-in line, wherein an approaching aircraft following the lead-in line will reflect the light pulses towards a detector.
Implementation Method 2
A VDGS typically operates by emitting light pulses, e.g. laser pulses, from a location in connection to the stand
Implementation Method 3
The atmosphere attenuates, absorbs and scatters the light pulses, especially in situations where the weather conditions include fog or heavy rain.
Implementation Method 4
The atmosphere attenuates, absorbs and scatters the light pulses, especially in situations where the weather conditions include fog or heavy rain.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to an aircraft docking system comprising: a light based verification and positioning system adapted to scan a volume (120) in connection to a stand, a receiving unit adapted to receive surveillance data from an airport surveillance system, wherein the light based verification and positioning system is further adapted to control the extension of the scanned volume based on the received surveillance data.