Aircraft Door Status Detection Using Image Recognition

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Solution Overview

Problem

Manual docking of passenger boarding bridges to aircraft is time-consuming and requires trained operators, leading to costly delays, as existing automatic systems rely on infrared sensors that are not reliable for all door types and movements.

Innovation Solution

An image recognition system that takes images of the aircraft door before and after opening to detect reference indicators, determining the door status by comparing positions, allowing for automated docking and undocking processes without the need for trained operators.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If manual docking operation is used, then the docking can be performed with simple equipment, but the docking process becomes time-consuming and requires trained operators

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedocking operation simplicityVSAvoiddocking speed

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The docking system performs self-service by automatically detecting door status and executing docking/undocking procedures without requiring trained operators. The image recognition system autonomously monitors door position and triggers appropriate actions, eliminating the need for human intervention while maintaining operational simplicity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual mechanical operation with an automated image recognition and control system. Cameras and image processing algorithms substitute for the operator's visual assessment and manual control, enabling automated decision-making for docking and undocking operations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Device complexity

If infrared sensors are used for door status detection, then the detection system is simple, but the reliability is insufficient for all door types and movements

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedetection system complexityVSAvoiddoor status detection reliability

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The image recognition system provides universal applicability across different door types (sliding doors, rotating doors, plug doors) and movement patterns. By using visual recognition rather than door-type-specific sensors, the system achieves multi-functionality and reliable detection regardless of the particular door configuration.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces infrared sensor-based detection with optical image recognition technology. This substitution enables reliable door status detection by analyzing visual features in images, which is more adaptable to various door types and movement patterns compared to infrared reflection methods.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Productivity

If automated docking is implemented, then the need for trained operators is eliminated, but reliable door status detection becomes critical for safety

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveground handling efficiencyVSAvoiddoor status detection accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements continuous feedback by repeatedly capturing images of the door status before, during, and after docking operations. The image recognition system processes these images to confirm door closed status before initiating undocking, providing real-time verification that ensures safety while enabling automated operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent performs preliminary door status verification by capturing and analyzing images before initiating automated undocking operations. This preliminary action confirms that the door is properly closed and secured, ensuring safety conditions are met before automated procedures commence.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

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

Enables reliable and automated detection of aircraft door status, facilitating efficient docking and undocking procedures by verifying the door's closed position before initiating automated undocking, thus reducing operational delays and eliminating the need for trained operators.

Implementation Method 1

An image recognition device 20 comprises a camera 21 for taking a plurality of images 6 of the fuselage 2, at least partially covering the door 3a

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectImage recognition: Photography

Data Source

PatentEP3833601B1Method for detecting a door status of an aircraft door

Publication Date: 2023.03.01 TK ESCALATOR NORTE SA

Figure 1
Figure 2a~2c
Figure 3a~3c

AI summary

Method for detecting a door status of an aircraft door (3), wherein the door status indicates whether the aircraft door (3) is opened or closed, the method comprising the following steps: - taking a first image (6a) of the aircraft door (3); - detecting at least a reference indicator (4) in the first image (6a) and determining a first position (P1) of the reference indicator (4); - taking a third image (6c) of the aircraft door (3) after taking said first image (6a), - searching for said reference indicator (4) in the third image (6c) and detecting a third position (P3) of said reference indicator (4); - determining that the door status is closed if the third position (P3) conforms to the first position (P1).