Remote Aircraft Towing Control with Sensor-Based Obstacle Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Aircraft towing operations are complex and require human guidance due to limited visibility for the driver, necessitating multiple personnel, which increases safety risks.
Innovation Solution
An aircraft towing system with remotely operable tractors equipped with sensors that provide real-time visual and telemetric information to a control device, allowing automated control and reducing the need for human intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If aircraft towing is performed with a driver and ramp agents for guidance, then the towing operation can be safely controlled, but the number of personnel required increases and safety risks are heightened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical human guidance system with an automated sensor-based detection and control system. Sensors mounted on the aircraft detect obstacles and transmit data to a control system that automatically guides the towing tractor, eliminating the need for ramp agents and reducing personnel requirements while maintaining or improving safety
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary automated control system that acts as a mediator between the tractor driver and the towing operation. This system processes sensor data and provides guidance commands to the driver, reducing the need for direct human-to-human communication and coordination while improving operational safety and efficiency
2Reliability
If multiple ramp agents are deployed to guide the towing operation, then comprehensive monitoring of the towing zone is achieved, but the complexity of the towing system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the monitoring function into multiple independent sensors positioned at different locations around the aircraft. Each sensor covers a specific zone and transmits data to the central control system, providing comprehensive monitoring coverage while using simple, standardized sensor units that reduce overall system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs universal sensors that can detect multiple types of obstacles (ground equipment, personnel, debris) and provide information in a standardized format. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for specialized detection devices for different obstacle types, reducing system complexity while maintaining comprehensive monitoring capability
3Quantity of substance
If automated sensor systems are implemented for obstacle detection, then the need for ramp agents is reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service automated system where sensors mounted on the aircraft autonomously detect obstacles, process data through a control system, and generate guidance commands without requiring external ramp agents. The system serves itself by integrating detection, processing, and control functions into a cohesive automated architecture that reduces personnel needs while managing complexity through functional integration
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to an aircraft towing system for an airport (1) having at least one towing area (10) for said aircraft (15). The towing system comprises: at least one tractor (21) configured to be operated remotely by means of a wireless connection; a control device intended to be connected to the tractor (21) via the wireless connection and capable of controlling it; and a first sensor (23) intended to equip the towing area (10) and capable of providing information on elements (11A, 11B, 11C) likely to be encountered by the aircraft (15) and/or the tractor (21). The control device is further configured to retrieve the information provided by the at least one first sensor (23) and to use it when commanding the tractor (21) to tow the aircraft (15).