Atmospheric Density Anomaly Sensing Through Signal Refraction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for detecting atmospheric anomalies, such as clear air turbulence, are inadequate in accuracy and real-time capabilities, relying on pilot reports and lacking the ability to provide timely data, which poses risks to aviation safety.
Innovation Solution
A system and method utilizing a network of ground-based nodes and a constellation of satellites to transmit signals, receive and aggregate data, determine signal characteristics, and identify atmospheric anomalies, enabling real-time adjustments to flight plans.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If pilot reports are used to detect atmospheric anomalies, then detection capability is provided, but real-time detection capability and accuracy are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical reporting system (pilots manually reporting to ATC) with an automated electronic detection system using satellites and ground-based nodes that continuously monitor atmospheric conditions and automatically transmit anomaly data to aircraft, eliminating detection delays and improving accuracy through objective measurement
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables aircraft to autonomously receive and process atmospheric anomaly information from the satellite-ground network, allowing aircraft to self-adjust flight paths based on real-time data without relying on pilot reports or ATC mediation
2Reliability
If a network of ground-based nodes and satellites is deployed for real-time detection, then detection accuracy and real-time capability are improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The detection system is segmented into functionally independent components: satellites for signal transmission, ground-based nodes for atmospheric sensing, and aircraft receivers for data processing. Each segment operates autonomously with standardized interfaces, allowing the complex system to be developed, deployed, and maintained in modular fashion while achieving high reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The satellite constellation and ground-based nodes serve multiple functions: atmospheric anomaly detection, signal transmission, and data relay to multiple aircraft simultaneously. This multi-functionality reduces overall system complexity by consolidating capabilities that would otherwise require separate dedicated systems for each function
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Provides accurate, real-time detection of atmospheric anomalies, enhancing flight safety and planning by identifying and adjusting flight paths to avoid turbulent regions.
Implementation Method 1
System and method for atmospheric air density anomaly sensing using refraction
Data Source
AI summary
A systema and method for atmospheric anomaly detection is disclosed. The method may include performing a time synching between a network of ground-based nodes and a plurality of satellites of a constellation. The method may include directing a transmission of signals between the network and the plurality of satellites, where the signals are configured to be aimed along a plurality of paths through an atmospheric space between the network and the satellites. The method may also include receiving and aggregating signal data corresponding to the signals via at least one of the network or the satellites, determining signal characteristics based on the signal data, identifying one or more atmospheric anomalies based on the signal characteristics, and adjusting a flight plan based on the one or more atmospheric anomalies.