Aircraft Ground Remote Control System for Electric Taxi Operations
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for repositioning aircraft on the ground require multiple personnel, including a crew member in the flight deck and ground crew, which can be inefficient and pose safety risks, especially when using electric taxi systems (ETS) for motive power.
Innovation Solution
A remote control system for aircraft with an ETS that includes an electric taxi system, braking system, steering system, and security pairing device, allowing secure electronic command generation for speed, direction, and steering, reducing the need for on-site personnel by enabling remote operation through a ground remote control system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple personnel are used for aircraft repositioning (crew member in flight deck and ground crew), then safety and control are maintained, but operational efficiency decreases and personnel requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical system of manual aircraft repositioning with an automated electric taxi system (ETS) that provides motive power through electric motors. This substitution eliminates the need for tug vehicles and reduces personnel requirements while maintaining safe and precise aircraft movement on the ground.
Solution Approach 2:
The ETS enables the aircraft to reposition itself autonomously without requiring external tug vehicles or extensive ground crew assistance. The electric taxi system allows the aircraft to move under its own power using electric motors, thereby serving itself during ground operations and improving operational efficiency.
2Productivity
If remote control system is implemented for aircraft operation, then personnel requirements are reduced, but security and control challenges increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a ground remote control system that acts as an intermediary between the operator and the aircraft's ETS. This intermediary system includes a ground control station that communicates with the aircraft's flight control system, enabling remote operation while maintaining security through controlled access and authenticated communication channels.
Solution Approach 2:
The remote control system incorporates feedback mechanisms that provide real-time information about aircraft status, position, and system parameters to the ground control operator. This feedback loop ensures continuous monitoring and control, maintaining reliability and security while enabling remote operation of the ETS.
Data Source
AI summary
A ground remote control system for an aircraft includes a security pairing device configured to establish a first secure communication link and protocol between a remote control device and a ground remote control system controller; and establish a second secure communication link and protocol, using the first communication link and protocol between the remote control device and the ground remote control system controller. The ground remote control system controller is configured to receive drive command signals, brake command signals, steering command signals, and power command signals, from the remote control device and generate the electronic drive commands, the electronic brake commands, the electronic steering commands, and the electronic power commands.