Radar-Optical Obstacle Detection for Non-Cooperative Aircraft Hazards
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current flight control systems are inadequate for detecting and avoiding non-cooperative obstacles, such as birds and small aircraft, as they rely on costly radar arrays and are not economically viable for smaller aircraft, and existing systems like TCAS require cooperative targets to function effectively.
Innovation Solution
A system that combines radar and optical sensors to detect and classify obstacles, assigning a threat level and generating an obstacle-avoidance navigational route, which can be communicated to the flight control system, enabling automatic navigation around stationary and moving obstructions without the need for cooperative transponders.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If costly radar arrays are used to detect non-cooperative obstacles, then detection capability is improved, but device cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines radar sensor data with optical sensor data (cameras) to create a hybrid detection system. The radar provides long-range detection and tracking of non-cooperative obstacles, while optical sensors provide high-resolution imaging for classification. This merging allows the system to achieve radar-level detection capability without the full cost and complexity of dedicated radar arrays, as the optical sensors can be integrated with existing aircraft systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses multi-functional sensors that can serve multiple purposes. The optical sensors not only detect obstacles but also classify them (identifying birds, aircraft, terrain features). The radar system serves both obstacle detection and tracking functions. This multi-functionality reduces the need for specialized expensive equipment, as standard optical cameras and moderate-cost radar systems can fulfill multiple detection and classification roles.
2Measurement precision
If TCAS is used to avoid collisions, then cooperative obstacle detection is improved, but adaptability to non-cooperative obstacles deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the obstacle detection problem into two distinct parts: cooperative obstacle detection (using TCAS and transponder data) and non-cooperative obstacle detection (using radar and optical sensors). By separating these functions, the system can maintain TCAS for cooperative targets while adding independent radar-optical detection capabilities for non-cooperative targets like birds, small aircraft without transponders, and terrain features. This segmentation allows each subsystem to optimize for its specific function without being constrained by the other.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces radar and optical sensors as intermediary systems that bridge the gap between cooperative and non-cooperative obstacle detection. These sensors act as mediators by detecting obstacles that TCAS cannot detect (non-cooperative targets) and providing data that complements TCAS information. The radar-optical system independently identifies and tracks non-cooperative obstacles, then integrates this information with TCAS data to provide comprehensive obstacle awareness, enabling the aircraft to avoid both cooperative and non-cooperative obstacles effectively.
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
This solution provides a cost-effective and efficient method for detecting and avoiding non-cooperative obstacles, enhancing safety and reducing the burden of certification and recertification, making it accessible to both large and small aircraft.
Implementation Method 1
scanning a first airspace using a radar system to generate radar information
Implementation Method 2
imaging a second airspace using an optical sensor to generate optical information at a second resolution that is higher than the first resolution
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for tracking non-cooperative obstacles during operation of a vehicle is provided. The system may include a radar system, an optical sensor, and a processor. The radar system can be coupled to the vehicle and configured to scan a first airspace and generate radar information having a first resolution. The optical sensor can be coupled to the vehicle and configured to image a second airspace and generate optical information at a second resolution that is higher than the first resolution, where the second airspace is within said first airspace and includes a non-cooperative obstacle. The processor can be configured to identify the non-cooperative obstacle within the first airspace based at least in part on the radar information, and direct the optical sensor toward a location of the non-cooperative obstacle using the radar information.