Directed Antenna Airplane Identification for Docking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for identifying airplanes during parking at airport stands often rely on incorrect data about airplane type and version, leading to potential accidents due to incorrect positioning, as the data in central computer systems is not always accurate and can vary across different versions of the same airplane type.
Innovation Solution
A method utilizing a directed antenna to receive information signals from airplanes, which are used to determine the correct airplane type and version by matching the identification number with a database, ensuring accurate display information for pilots and preventing incorrect docking by integrating this data with the distance measurement system and passenger bridge control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If data about airplane type and version is obtained from central computer systems, then the identification process is simplified, but the accuracy of identification deteriorates due to incorrect data
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary verification system consisting of a directed antenna and database that mediates between the central computer system and the docking process. The antenna receives identification signals from the airplane and cross-references them with a reliable database to verify airplane type and version, rather than directly trusting the central computer system's data. This intermediary layer resolves the contradiction by maintaining simple identification procedures while ensuring accurate verification through an independent data source.
2Productivity
If the stop point is indicated based on incorrect airplane type data, then the docking procedure is faster, but the safety deteriorates due to potential collisions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by verifying the airplane's identification, type, and version against a database before the docking procedure begins. The directed antenna receives identification signals and performs verification in advance, ensuring that the stop point indication is based on correct data. This preliminary verification step prevents safety issues while maintaining efficient docking operations, as the verification is performed automatically before the actual docking process starts.
3Measurement precision
If manual verification of airplane type is performed, then the identification accuracy is improved, but the time required for docking deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual verification processes with an automated electronic identification system. A directed antenna automatically receives identification signals from the airplane's transponder or identification device, and the system automatically cross-references this data with a database to determine airplane type and version. This substitution of manual mechanical verification with automated electronic verification maintains high identification accuracy while eliminating the time loss associated with manual processes.
4Measurement precision
If a directed antenna with database verification is implemented, then the identification accuracy is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing the directed antenna system to perform multiple functions: receiving identification signals, verifying airplane type and version against the database, and providing this verified information to the docking control system. By making the antenna system multi-functional, the patent reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each function, thereby limiting the increase in overall system complexity while achieving accurate identification.
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
This approach ensures accurate identification and positioning of airplanes, reducing the risk of accidents by providing real-time, correct information about the airplane type and version, thus ensuring safe and secure automatic docking procedures.
Implementation Method 1
an antenna (16) in connection to the display (6) is caused to receive information signals (17) from the airplane (5)
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
Method for identifying an airplane and indicate airplane type and version in connection to parking of the airplane at a gate or a stand, for possible connection of a passenger bridge (1) or a loading bridge to a door of an airplane, where the airplane (5) is positioned and stopped at a predetermined position using a touchless measurement of the distance between the airplane and a fixed point, where the distance is indicated on a display (6) mounted in front of the pilot of the airplane on for instance an airport building (7), which display (6) is caused to show to the pilot the position of the airplane (5) in relation to a stop point for the airplane and to show the current airplane type and version, where the said distance measurement and display are caused to be activated by a computer system (20), belonging to the airport, or manually, and wherein an antenna (16) is caused to receive information transmitted by an airplane (5). The invention is characterized in that the information signal (17) which is transmitted by the airplane (5) is caused to be received by a directed antenna (16) which is positioned in connection to said display (6) and directed towards the stand at which an airplane is expected to arrive, in that the antenna (16) is connected to the control system (18) of the docking system, in that at least the identification number of the airplane is extracted from the said information (17), in that information regarding airplane type and version in question for a certain identification number is obtained from a database (14), in which identifications numbers of the airplanes are stored, and is transferred to the said control system (18) which is caused to control the said display (6) at the stand at which an airplane with a read identification number is to park and, on the display, indicate airplane type and version.