Aircraft Turn Point Control for Interval Spacing and Fuel Efficiency
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for controlling aircraft movement in flight do not effectively maintain or improve operating efficiency while achieving desired spacing between aircraft for interval management, which is crucial for efficient air traffic flow and fuel conservation.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that determine a desired turn point for an aircraft using a performance gain factor to balance the effects of turning and speed changes, allowing for precise control of spacing between aircraft, either through turning or speed adjustments, or a combination of both.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If aircraft control systems mandate speed changes to achieve desired spacing, then spacing accuracy is improved, but operating efficiency and fuel consumption deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the parameter being controlled from speed to turn point location. Instead of adjusting speed to achieve desired spacing, the system adjusts the lateral position where the aircraft executes its turn, which naturally results in the desired spacing outcome without speed penalties.
2Measurement precision
If aircraft control systems mandate turning to achieve desired spacing, then spacing accuracy is improved, but flight path deviation and operational complexity worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary calculation of the optimal turn point location before the aircraft reaches the decision point. By pre-determining where the turn should occur based on current position, speed, and desired spacing parameters, the aircraft can execute a straightforward turn without complex real-time adjustments.
3Ease of operation
If current flight management systems are used, then operational simplicity is maintained, but spacing control precision and operating efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system introduces a turn point calculator as an intermediary component between the flight management system and the pilot. This calculator automatically determines the optimal turn point based on inputs from the FMS and desired spacing parameters, then presents a simple recommendation to the pilot, bridging the gap between complex control needs and simple operation.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A method and apparatus of turning an aircraft for interval management. Interval management information identifying a desired spacing between the aircraft and a target aircraft is received. Turn information is determined using a performance gain factor. The turn information identifies a turn point for the aircraft. The performance gain factor identifies a desired portion of achieving the desired spacing due to turning the aircraft at the turn point and a desired portion of achieving the desired spacing due to changing speed of the aircraft. The turn information is used to turn the aircraft at the turn point.