Dynamic Vertiport Configuration for Space Utilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Vertiports face challenges in dynamically adjusting their configuration to meet varying usage demands throughout the day, as existing configurations struggle to balance the need for final approach and takeoff pads during peak periods with parking pads during off-peak periods, leading to inefficiencies in space utilization and vehicle operations.
Innovation Solution
A vertiport system that predicts usage based on vehicle routing data and user demand, dynamically updates the configuration by adjusting the number and location of final approach and takeoff pads and parking pads using a lighting pattern to guide vehicles, optimizing space allocation and reducing the need for frequent reconfiguration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the vertiport maintains a fixed configuration with more FATO pads, then takeoff and landing operations during peak periods are improved, but space utilization efficiency deteriorates during off-peak periods
Solution Approach 1:
The vertiport configuration is made dynamic through a configuration manager that automatically adjusts the number and arrangement of FATO pads and parking pads based on real-time demand predictions. The system transitions from a static fixed configuration to a dynamic reconfigurable layout, allowing the vertiport to optimize its footprint for different operational periods without physical reconstruction
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes key configuration parameters such as the number of active FATO pads, parking pad capacity, and taxiway arrangements based on predicted demand. These parameter adjustments are made automatically by the configuration manager using vehicle routing data and user demand forecasts to optimize both productivity and space utilization at different times
2Area of stationary object
If the vertiport frequently reconfigures to meet varying demand, then space utilization efficiency is improved, but operational complexity and risk increase
Solution Approach 1:
The configuration manager operates autonomously to adjust vertiport configuration based on automated demand predictions from the prediction module. The system uses self-service automation where algorithms process vehicle routing data and user demand forecasts to determine optimal configurations without manual intervention, reducing operational complexity despite frequent changes
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements a closed-loop feedback mechanism where the prediction module continuously monitors vehicle routing data and user demand, feeds this information to the configuration manager, which then adjusts the configuration and monitors the results. This automated feedback cycle enables frequent optimizations while managing complexity through systematic decision-making
3Adaptability or versatility
If the vertiport uses a larger overall area to accommodate both FATO and parking pads simultaneously, then all operations are supported, but land consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The vertiport design implements multi-functionality where pads can serve different purposes at different times. Parking pads can be converted to FATO pads when demand requires, and FATO pads can serve as parking areas during low-activity periods. This universal design allows the vertiport to support all operational needs while using a smaller overall footprint, as the same physical space adapts to different functions based on real-time requirements
Data Source
AI summary
A vertiport system dynamically updates configuration of a vertiport based on predicted usage of the vertiport during a given time frame. The vertiport system predicts vertiport usage using flight data and estimated passenger demands and determines a desired number of parking pads and a desired number of final approach and takeoff (FATO) pads for the vertiport during the time frame. Based on the desired number of parking pads and the desired number of FATO pads for the vertiport, the vertiport system determines an updated configuration of the vertiport. According to the updated configuration, the vertiport system updates the configuration of the vertiport for at least a portion of the time frame.