Dynamic Flight Parameter Scale Display for Aircraft Guidance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current aircraft display systems do not effectively support pilot understanding of guidance modes and flight parameter behavior, requiring extensive training to interpret textual summaries and lacking dynamic visual cues for real-time guidance.
Innovation Solution
A method and device for displaying flight parameters on an aircraft's PFD screen, where guidance modes are highlighted through reduced scales and dynamic graphical representations, indicating adherence or deviation from guidance instructions, and providing contextual animations for capturing and protection modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If a textual summary of guidance modes is displayed on the PFD screen, then the pilot has a complete view of the guidance system behavior, but the pilot requires extensive training to interpret the textual labels and their meanings
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses graphical icons and visual symbols that copy or represent the actual behavior and state of the guidance system. Instead of abstract textual labels, the system displays visual representations (such as graphical icons showing the aircraft symbol, trajectory, and guidance mode visualization) that directly mirror the system's operational state, making interpretation intuitive without requiring memorization of textual codes
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs color coding to indicate different guidance modes, engagement states, and system statuses. Visual elements change color or intensity based on the active guidance mode and engagement state, providing immediate visual feedback that replaces the need for interpreting textual labels. For example, different colors may indicate armed versus engaged modes, or different guidance modes entirely
2Loss of information
If the entire scale is displayed for all flight parameters, then the pilot has complete information about current and characteristic values, but the important information is lost among less important information
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different visual properties (such as scaling, highlighting, or graphical emphasis) to different portions of the display based on their importance. The scale associated with the active guidance mode is visually enhanced or expanded, while other scales are minimized or shown in a condensed format. This creates local visual quality differences that guide the pilot's attention to the most relevant information without completely hiding other parameters
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the display information based on the active guidance mode. The display is divided into primary information (related to the active guidance mode and its associated parameter) and secondary information (other flight parameters). The primary information is displayed with full scale and detail, while secondary information is displayed in a condensed or summarized format, allowing the pilot to quickly identify the most important information
3Ease of operation
If the scale is reduced to show only the holding range, then the important information stands out clearly, but the complete range of values is no longer visible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic scaling system where the displayed scale range automatically adjusts based on the active guidance mode and engagement state. When a guidance mode is engaged, the scale dynamically reduces to highlight the holding range or acceptable deviation. When the mode is armed or when requested by the pilot, the scale dynamically expands to show the complete range. This dynamic adaptation allows the same display element to serve multiple information needs at different times
Data Source
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AI summary
The method involves performing a check to verify whether motion of an aircraft is consistent with a guidance setpoint relating to a flight parameter. A part of a scale e.g. speed scale (14), starting from a current value of the flight parameter is displayed in the direction of motion of the aircraft if the motion of the aircraft is consistent with the guidance setpoint. The scale is unravelled in two opposite directions with respect to the current value of the flight parameter if the motion of the aircraft is not consistent with the guidance setpoint. An independent claim is also included for a device for displaying flight parameters on an aircraft.