GPS-Guided Runway Cleaner for Precise Rubber Removal
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing runway cleaning methods face challenges in efficiently removing rubber buildup without overcleaning or undercleaning, which can lead to runway damage and safety risks, particularly in busy airports with limited maintenance windows.
Innovation Solution
A GPS-directed ultra-high pressure washer system with a touchscreen interface and GNSS precision, allowing operators to map cleaning paths and control vehicle steering to achieve a 25 mm overlap, storing cleaning progress for precise resumption, and using a triple spray head for zero overlap coverage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If manual tracking of cleaning progress is used, then operator flexibility is maintained, but cleaning precision deteriorates leading to overcleaning or undercleaning
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual visual tracking and operator judgment with an automated GPS-based guidance system. The system uses satellite positioning to automatically guide the cleaning vehicle along predetermined paths, eliminating reliance on operator skill and attention while maintaining precise cleaning boundaries.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a GPS receiver and control system as an intermediary between the operator and the cleaning vehicle. This intermediary automatically calculates and enforces the cleaning path, acting as a mediator that prevents both overcleaning and undercleaning by objectively determining when cleaning should start and stop.
2Productivity
If cleaning operations are performed at night when runway activity is lowest, then productivity is improved, but detection precision deteriorates due to poor visual contrast
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces visual detection methods with GPS-based positional detection. Instead of relying on operators to visually distinguish cleaned from uncleared surfaces, the system uses satellite positioning to precisely track vehicle location and enforce cleaning boundaries, making visual conditions irrelevant to cleaning accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The GPS system automatically performs the function of visual monitoring by continuously tracking position and comparing it against the predetermined cleaning path. The system self-regulates the cleaning process without requiring operator intervention or visual assessment, enabling uninterrupted operation during night maintenance windows.
3Reliability
If frequent runway vacating is required to allow aircraft landings, then safety is improved, but productivity deteriorates due to interrupted cleaning operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-programming the complete cleaning path and boundaries before operation begins. The GPS system stores the entire route in advance, allowing the vehicle to automatically resume at the exact interruption point without requiring manual tracking or reassessment, thereby minimizing productivity loss from interruptions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides continuous feedback through GPS positioning that displays the vehicle's location relative to the cleaning path. This real-time feedback enables the operator to immediately resume cleaning at the precise interruption point after runway vacating, maintaining both safety and productivity.
4Reliability
If overlap cleaning is increased to ensure complete coverage, then cleaning reliability is improved, but harmful factors increase due to runway surface damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the principle of partial action by using GPS precision to achieve exactly the required cleaning coverage without excessive overlap. The system calculates the precise cleaning boundaries and maintains consistent lateral spacing between passes, providing sufficient coverage for completeness while avoiding the excessive action that causes surface damage.
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
Enhances cleaning efficiency, reduces runway damage and Foreign Object Damage (FOD) risks, and ensures consistent friction levels by minimizing overcleaning and undercleaning, thereby improving safety and maintenance speed.
Implementation Method 1
A GPS receiver is provided which receives signals from GPS satellites
Implementation Method 2
vehicle mounted ultra-high pressure water with vacuum recovery
Implementation Method 3
Ultra-high pressure water is very effective in the removal of rubber
Data Source
AI summary
A GPS directed vehicle for cleaning airport runway surfaces. The vehicle uses an ultra-high pressure washer for cleaning rubber off the surfaces of the runway, and a vacuum system for the collection of debris. A GPS device allows an operator to track a cleaning line so as to allow no more than 25 mm overlap of surfaces to be cleaned. An iPad can be used to highlight Google maps for calculating a runway area to be treated. Recording allows the exact location of last treated surface area to allow exact location of an untreated surface area.