Aircraft Obstacle Avoidance Proximity Sensor Interface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Pilots face challenges in avoiding obstacles, especially in low-light and low-visibility conditions, and existing obstacle avoidance systems relying on Terrain Awareness and Warning Systems are limited by the availability of map data, making it difficult to detect and navigate around obstacles effectively.
Innovation Solution
An obstacle avoidance system equipped with proximity sensors that emit signals to detect obstacles and calculate their distance and direction, combined with a pilot interface device that displays graphical representations and threat levels, providing audio and visual warnings to assist pilots in avoiding collisions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If visual detection is used for obstacle avoidance, then the system is simple and does not require additional equipment, but obstacle detection capability deteriorates in low-light and low-visibility conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/visual detection system with an electromagnetic radiation-based sensor system (laser radar/proximity sensors). These sensors emit electromagnetic signals and detect reflections to identify obstacles, enabling reliable detection in low-light and low-visibility conditions where visual detection fails.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary processing system that receives signals from multiple proximity sensors, determines obstacle locations, and presents this information to the pilot. This intermediary system integrates sensor data and translates it into actionable visual displays, bridging the gap between raw sensor data and pilot decision-making.
2Loss of information
If TAWS map detection is used for obstacle avoidance, then obstacle detection can be performed using stored map data, but the system is limited by the availability and accuracy of map data
Solution Approach 1:
The patent loads map data into memory in advance before flight operations. This preliminary action allows the system to have obstacle information ready for comparison with real-time sensor data, enabling faster obstacle detection and response without relying on real-time data transmission or processing during critical flight moments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the sensor system continuously monitors the environment and compares detected obstacles with stored map data. When discrepancies are found (obstacles not in map data or new obstacles), the system provides feedback to update the obstacle database, improving the system's adaptability and versatility over time.
3Area of stationary object
If multiple proximity sensors are used to detect obstacles in all directions, then obstacle detection coverage is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the detection task among multiple segmented sensor units positioned at different locations on the aircraft (nose, tail, wings). Each sensor covers a specific directional sector, and the system integrates data from all segments to achieve complete 360-degree coverage. This segmentation allows comprehensive monitoring while managing system complexity through modular sensor deployment.
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 pilot awareness and safety by providing real-time obstacle detection and threat assessment, supplementing map data with proximity sensor information to improve obstacle avoidance capabilities in various environmental conditions.
Implementation Method 1
a set of proximity sensors may detect an obstacle near the aircraft by emitting a signal in an area and receiving a reflection of the signal from the obstacle located in the area
Data Source
AI summary
An obstacle avoidance system is provided to assist a pilot in avoiding obstacles. The obstacle avoidance system includes a set of proximity sensors and a pilot interface device. The set of proximity sensors detects nearby obstacles by emitting a signal and receiving a reflected signal from an obstacle. A processor receives an obstacle indication from the set of proximity sensors and detects the obstacle that is in proximity to the aircraft based at least in part on the reflected signal. The processor acquires a distance and a direction to the obstacle and calculates a threat level posed by the obstacle. The pilot interface device is operable to display the following: an ownship icon indicative of the aircraft, a velocity vector icon indicative of a velocity vector of the aircraft, and an obstacle graphic indicative of the distance, direction, and threat level of the obstacle.