Aircraft Platform Approach Trajectory Using Geometric Waypoints
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for aircraft approaching maritime platforms, especially in adverse weather conditions, lack precision and safety due to reliance on manual navigation and lack of consideration for platform geometric specifics, leading to potential errors and risks.
Innovation Solution
A method that constructs an approach trajectory by building a database of platform attributes, including geometric center coordinates and obstacle radius, to facilitate a safe and reliable approach, using a navigation module to determine initial and final approach points and decision points, and integrating with autopilot systems for automated guidance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual navigation is used for aircraft approach to maritime platforms, then the system is simple to operate, but the precision and safety of the approach trajectory are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The approach trajectory is segmented into multiple fixed points (IAF, FAF, MAP) with specific functions. Each point represents a critical phase in the approach process, allowing systematic control and monitoring of the trajectory construction and execution
Solution Approach 2:
The approach trajectory is constructed in advance by the navigation module before the aircraft executes the approach. The system pre-calculates the optimal path considering platform geometry, wind conditions, and safety constraints, then guides the aircraft along this predetermined trajectory
2Reliability
If automated navigation systems are implemented, then the safety and precision of approach are improved, but the pilot workload increases due to constant monitoring requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The navigation module autonomously constructs and manages the approach trajectory without requiring continuous pilot intervention. The system self-monitors the aircraft's progress along the trajectory and automatically adjusts guidance, freeing the pilot from constant monitoring tasks while maintaining high safety standards
3Manufacturing precision
If platform geometric attributes are considered in trajectory construction, then the precision of approach is improved, but the complexity of navigation system increases
Solution Approach 1:
Platform geometric attributes (center coordinates, obstacle radius, landing zone dimensions) are collected and stored in the database in advance. This preliminary data preparation enables the navigation module to automatically construct accurate trajectories without real-time complexity, as all necessary geometric parameters are pre-processed and readily available
4Productivity
If instrument approach is used in adverse weather conditions, then the aircraft can maintain flight, but the crew stress increases and visual acquisition becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces manual visual navigation with automated electronic navigation. The navigation module uses electronic data about platform geometry and pre-calculated trajectories to guide the aircraft, substituting the mechanical/visual process with an electronic automated system that operates effectively in adverse weather conditions without increasing crew stress
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a method for facilitating the approach of a platform (46) with an aircraft, comprising a step of constructing a database including, for each stored platform (46), at least one platform identifier, the coordinates of a geometric center of the platform, a height of the geometric center, and the radius (OR) of a circle in which the platform is inscribed. During a parameterization step, the target platform to be reached, a course to follow, and a height parameter relative to a minimum decision altitude are determined. During a trajectory construction step, the position of an initial approach point (IAF), a final approach point (FAF), and a decision point (MAP) are determined by placing them in a plane offset from the platform.