Aircraft Flight Trajectory Switching via Decision Points
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current flight trajectory systems for aircraft lack the ability to dynamically switch between primary and secondary trajectories, limiting pilot flexibility and error correction capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A method and device that define a main and optional flight trajectory with a shared common point, automatically determine a decision point where the optional trajectory can be activated, and present this information to the pilot, allowing for real-time switching between trajectories using interactive control means.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single main trajectory is provided for aircraft flight, then the flight path is simple to manage and follow, but the pilot lacks flexibility to correct errors or adapt to changing conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The flight trajectory system is segmented into a main trajectory and one or more optional trajectories. Each trajectory is defined as a separate entity with its own sequence of points, allowing the pilot to switch between them. The system divides the trajectory management into distinct components: trajectory definition means, activation means, and decision point determination means, reducing overall complexity through modular organization.
Solution Approach 2:
The trajectory system is made dynamic by allowing switching between main and optional trajectories based on pilot decision. The system transitions from a static single-trajectory approach to a dynamic multi-trajectory approach where the active trajectory can change during flight. The decision point mechanism enables dynamic adaptation while maintaining structured control.
2Ease of operation
If multiple flight trajectories are available for pilot selection, then flight path flexibility and error correction capability are enhanced, but the system complexity and pilot workload increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by automatically determining and presenting decision points to the pilot before the aircraft reaches them. The optional trajectories are pre-defined with their activation points calculated in advance. This preliminary preparation reduces pilot workload during critical decision moments, as the system has already processed the complex calculations of where switching is possible.
Solution Approach 2:
The decision point acts as an intermediary element between the main trajectory and optional trajectories. It serves as a designated switching point where the pilot can transition from the main trajectory to an optional trajectory. This intermediary mechanism simplifies the switching process by providing specific, pre-calculated locations where trajectory changes are permitted, rather than allowing arbitrary switching anywhere along the flight path.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the pilot is given the option to switch trajectories at any point, then flexibility is maximized, but navigation precision and trajectory adherence deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The flight path is segmented into discrete trajectory portions with clearly defined boundaries. Each trajectory (main and optional) consists of a sequence of defined points. By segmenting the continuous flight path into discrete manageable portions with specific switch points, the system maintains precision while allowing flexibility. The aircraft follows one defined segment at a time, ensuring accurate trajectory adherence within each segment.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically determines and manages the trajectory segments and decision points without requiring manual pilot calculation. The device self-services by computing where optional trajectories can be activated, presenting this information to the pilot, and managing the trajectory definitions. This automated management ensures precision is maintained while providing flexibility, as the complex geometric calculations are handled by the system rather than the pilot.
Data Source
AI summary
A device includes a first unit for defining a main trajectory, which is followed by the aircraft, and an optional trajectory which deviates from the main trajectory, which exhibits at least one common point shared with said main trajectory and which is able to be followed by the aircraft if the trajectory is activated. The device also includes a second unit for automatically determining a decision point which indicates the last position of the aircraft along the main trajectory, where the optional trajectory can still be activated so as to allow the aircraft to follow it. The device further includes a third unit for automatically presenting the decision point to a pilot of the aircraft, and an actuatable unit which allows a pilot to activate the optional trajectory.