Aircraft Holding Pattern Optimization via Pre-computed Parameters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Aircraft navigation faces challenges in determining optimal holding patterns due to inaccuracies in calculating holding times and positions, which lead to increased fuel consumption and delays, especially when external factors like weather and traffic are considered.
Innovation Solution
The system computes optimized holding pattern parameters, including hold speed, minimum holding entry pattern time, and minimum holding circuit time, using real-time data from enhanced ground proximity warning systems, weather data, navigation databases, and crowd-sourced sensor data, to position the aircraft on the inbound segment prior to the estimated time of clearance, thereby reducing holding time and fuel consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional holding pattern calculations are used, then simplicity of navigation is maintained, but holding time accuracy deteriorates leading to increased fuel consumption and delays
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary calculations of holding pattern parameters before the aircraft enters the holding pattern. By pre-computing the optimal holding pattern based on expected clearance time, weather conditions, and traffic data, the system ensures accurate holding time prediction without adding complexity during the actual holding maneuver.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors actual aircraft position, speed, and weather conditions during the holding pattern, comparing them against the planned parameters. This feedback loop allows real-time adjustments to maintain accurate holding time prediction while accounting for deviations caused by wind, traffic, or operational changes.
2Loss of energy
If holding pattern parameters are optimized using real-time data, then fuel consumption is reduced, but calculation time and processing requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system calculates optimal holding pattern parameters in advance, before the aircraft needs to execute the holding maneuver. This preliminary computation uses available weather data, traffic information, and clearance time estimates to determine the most fuel-efficient holding pattern, avoiding the need for complex real-time calculations during the holding phase.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamic adjustment mechanisms that allow holding pattern parameters to be modified based on changing conditions. Rather than performing exhaustive recalculations, the system uses pre-established models and algorithms that can quickly adapt to new information, balancing optimization accuracy with computational efficiency.
3Productivity
If aircraft position is precisely controlled to exit holding pattern at estimated time of clearance, then air traffic management efficiency is improved, but navigation system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-calculates the optimal exit point and timing for the holding pattern based on the estimated time of clearance. By determining the precise navigation parameters and timing in advance, the aircraft can efficiently exit the holding pattern at the optimal moment without requiring complex real-time decision-making or additional navigation equipment.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, apparatuses, and computer program products are disclosed for determining a holding pattern. An example method includes receiving an estimated time of clearance and holding pattern instructions for an aircraft chartered for holding, receiving flight information and aircraft state information associated with the aircraft, deriving a holding time estimate from the estimated time of clearance, the flight information and aircraft state information, and computing holding pattern parameters placing the aircraft on a holding inbound segment prior to the estimated time of clearance based at least in part on the holding time estimate. The method further includes transmitting the holding pattern parameters to a computing device.