Aircraft Stand Identification Using Laser Verification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Aircraft collisions with foreign objects during docking procedures at airports are a significant safety concern due to incorrect identification of aircraft types and versions, leading to potential damage and disruptions in air traffic, especially with composite materials where damage may be hard to detect visually.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that receive and compare aircraft identification and position data with predetermined stand data, using a translation database and laser verification to determine if an aircraft is correctly aligned with its assigned stand, and display notifications to pilots to prevent collisions by adjusting bridge positions and relocating aircraft if necessary.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If visual inspection is used to detect damage on composite material aircraft, then the inspection process is simple and quick, but the detection precision is insufficient and small cracks are hard to locate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces visual inspection (mechanical/optical system) with laser-based detection systems including LIDAR and laser triangulation. These systems use laser beams to create detailed 3D models of the aircraft surface, enabling detection of small cracks and damage in composite materials that are invisible to the naked eye, thereby significantly improving measurement precision without requiring complex disassembly or invasive procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the detection parameter from visual observation to laser range measurements and surface topology analysis. By using laser triangulation and comparing point cloud data against reference models, the system detects damage through subtle variations in surface geometry rather than relying on human visual inspection, achieving higher precision in detecting composite material defects
2Reliability
If pilot relies on displayed aircraft type information at the stand, then the docking procedure is simple, but the reliability is reduced and collisions may occur due to pilot mistake or wrong stand assignment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback system where the laser scanning system continuously monitors the approaching aircraft's identification features and compares them with the expected aircraft type stored in the database. The system provides real-time feedback to the control system, which can then issue warnings or prevent docking if a mismatch is detected, thereby significantly improving reliability by closing the loop between identification and docking authorization
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual pilot verification of displayed information with an automated laser-based identification system. The system uses laser triangulation and LIDAR to automatically capture and verify aircraft identification features, eliminating reliance on pilot attention and manual verification, thus improving reliability while the automated nature keeps the added complexity manageable
3Reliability
If bridge is positioned before aircraft type verification, then the docking process is efficient, but the safety is compromised and collision damage may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary laser scanning and aircraft identification before the bridge is positioned or moved into the danger zone. The system captures 3D data and verifies aircraft type in advance, so that by the time the bridge approaches the aircraft, the identification is already confirmed. This preliminary verification ensures safety without significantly delaying the overall docking process
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary anti-action by preventing the bridge from moving into positions where collision could occur if the aircraft type is wrong. The control system uses the laser verification results to authorize or block bridge movement, thereby preemptively eliminating the risk of collision damage before it can happen, while allowing efficient operation when verification succeeds
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a method and system for identifying an aircraft in connection to a stand. The method comprises: receiving identification data and position data transmitted from an aircraft, comparing said received position data with at least one position within a predetermined area in connection to said stand. If said received position data correspond to said at least one position within said predetermined area: determining, based on said identification data, if said aircraft is expected at the stand, and if said aircraft is not expected at the stand: displaying a notification on a display.