Aircraft Tug Remote Power Switch for Collision Avoidance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Communication breakdowns between wing walkers and aircraft tug operators often lead to ground accidents, resulting in injuries and costly damage due to delayed or ineffective collision avoidance.
Innovation Solution
A remote power control system for aircraft tugs, comprising a receiver, relay, and a handheld remote control component with a transmitter and switch, allowing wing walkers to remotely control the tug's power and brake systems to prevent collisions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If wing walkers use vocal communication or hand signals to alert tug operators of potential collisions, then the system remains simple and easy to operate, but communication effectiveness deteriorates due to noise, distance, or misunderstanding
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical communication system (vocal signals and hand gestures) with an electronic remote control system. The handheld remote control device transmits electronic signals to the tug's receiver, which activates relays to control the motor and brakes. This substitution eliminates communication breakdowns caused by noise and distance while maintaining operational simplicity through intuitive controls.
2Measurement precision
If wing walkers are positioned closer to the aircraft to improve monitoring, then collision detection effectiveness improves, but the risk of injury from potential collisions increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces the remote control device as an intermediary between the wing walker and the tug operator. This allows the wing walker to maintain a safe distance from the aircraft while still having direct control over the tug's movement. The electronic signal transmission enables precise collision detection and immediate response without exposing the wing walker to physical danger.
3Loss of time
If the tug operator manually controls the aircraft tug, then the system remains simple and cost-effective, but reaction time to prevent collisions deteriorates due to communication delays
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the wing walker to directly control the tug's movement through the handheld remote control device, eliminating the need for communication with the tug operator. The device allows the wing walker to independently activate the tug's motor or brakes by pressing buttons, providing immediate response to potential collisions while maintaining ease of operation through intuitive controls.
Data Source
AI summary
This disclosure relates generally to aircraft tugs, which assist in the movement of small aircraft. More specifically, this disclosure relates to a remote power switch, which may also be referred to as an emergency tug shutoff (ETSO) switch, for remotely stopping movement of an aircraft tug. Systems that include such an aircraft tug and at least one remote power switch are also disclosed, as are methods for remotely stopping an aircraft tug.