Graphical Layout Selection for Aircraft Display Configuration
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for managing graphical displays on aircraft are complex, requiring multiple controls and locations with inconsistent operations, leading to high training times and substantial pilot workload.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that present multiple layout options and icons corresponding to applications, allowing users to select and preview layouts and icons compatible with the chosen layout, using a processor and memory with executable program code to simplify the configuration process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple controls and locations are used to manage display formats, then the system provides comprehensive control options, but the device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent consolidates multiple display format controls into a single control display unit (CDU) interface. Instead of requiring pilots to access multiple separate controls and locations throughout the aircraft, all display format management functions are merged into one centralized location, reducing system complexity while maintaining comprehensive control capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The CDU serves multiple functions including display format selection, application launching, and system configuration. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for separate dedicated controls for each function, reducing overall device complexity while providing versatile control options for display management.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple controls and locations are used to manage display formats, then the system provides comprehensive control options, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
By merging all display format controls into a single CDU interface, the system improves ease of operation. Pilots no longer need to physically move to multiple locations or remember controls distributed throughout the aircraft, making the operation simpler and more intuitive while still providing access to comprehensive control options.
Solution Approach 2:
The graphical user interface on the CDU acts as an intermediary between the pilot and the complex display management system. It presents simplified visual options and handles the complexity of system interactions in the background, making operation easier while maintaining access to comprehensive control capabilities.
3Reliability
If existing controls are not intuitive, then the system maintains current functionality, but the loss of time for training increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical or button-based controls with a graphical user interface that uses visual icons and touch interactions. This substitution makes the system more intuitive by allowing pilots to see and select display formats visually, dramatically reducing training time while maintaining full system functionality through the software-based interface.
4Ease of operation
If substantial heads-down operation is required, then the pilot can manage display configurations, but the safety and workload situation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
By replacing physical controls with a touch-sensitive graphical interface, the system allows pilots to manage display configurations with minimal heads-down time. The visual presentation of options and direct touch selection reduces the time and cognitive load required for display management, improving safety by keeping pilots' heads up while maintaining full display management capability.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure is directed to a method for managing a graphical interface viewable on a display. The method may include the step of presenting a plurality of layout options, a layout option is at least one of a full window layout or a divided window layout. The method may also include the step of receiving a selection of a layout option from the plurality of layout options. A further step of the method includes presenting a preview of the selected layout option on the display. The method also includes the step of presenting a plurality of icons, each icon corresponding to an application. A further step of the method includes receiving a selection of an icon for display within the selected layout option, the selected icon being compatible for display in the selected layout option.