Holding Pattern Computer Wind Correction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Pilots face challenges in efficiently converging to the correct holding pattern due to the lack of precise guidelines for wind correction and timing, leading to a high number of circuits required to achieve the desired holding pattern solution, especially under varying wind conditions.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method and system that determines the holding pattern solution by calculating the inbound wind correction angle, outbound heading, and outbound time using windspeed ratio and relative wind direction, providing an analytic solution independent of the aircraft's position, and incorporating a 'Smart-Convergence' algorithm to minimize the number of circuits needed to converge to the correct pattern.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the bracketing method is used to converge to the holding pattern solution, then the pilot can eventually achieve the correct pattern, but the number of circuits required increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary calculations of the holding pattern solution using wind data and aircraft performance parameters before the pilot enters the holding pattern. This pre-computed solution includes the optimal outbound time and wind correction angles, allowing the pilot to execute the pattern correctly on the first attempt rather than requiring multiple corrective circuits
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a computer-based holding pattern computer as an intermediary between the pilot and the holding pattern execution. This device processes wind data, aircraft performance parameters, and holding pattern requirements to compute the optimal solution, serving as a mediator that translates complex aerodynamic relationships into actionable flight parameters for the pilot
2Loss of information
If the pilot attempts to troubleshoot or review the approach plate prior to executing the approach, then understanding is improved, but the pilot workload increases considerably
Solution Approach 1:
The holding pattern computer provides self-service by automatically computing and displaying the holding pattern solution based on input parameters. The system performs all necessary calculations and presents the results in a clear, actionable format, eliminating the need for the pilot to manually troubleshoot or perform complex computations, thereby reducing workload while maintaining or improving understanding
3Ease of operation
If traditional holding pattern methods are used with rules of thumb for wind correction, then simplicity is maintained, but precision and reliability decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from using fixed rules of thumb to dynamically calculated parameters based on actual wind data and aircraft performance. The holding pattern computer computes precise outbound times and wind correction angles specific to each flight condition, replacing generic guidelines with customized, accurate parameters that adapt to changing environmental and aircraft performance conditions
Data Source
AI summary
A holding pattern determination system and method assists a pilot with visualizing, entering, and flying a holding pattern. An exact solution to the holding pattern problem simplifies the entry to and flight of a holding pattern with minimal circuits, regardless of the wind direction and speed. Utilizing a windspeed ratio and relative wind direction, at least an inbound wind correction angle, an outbound heading, and an outbound time that begins at the outbound heading independent from an abeam point is provided. An entry pattern graphic and a holding pattern graphic may be provided with turn by turn heading and timing instruction to ensure precise entry and holding pattern flight.