Remote Operating Network for Passenger Boarding Bridge Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
The inefficiency in operating passenger boarding bridges due to underutilization of bridge operators, resulting from substantial waiting times and idle periods, as well as the administrative and security complexities caused by the physical presence of staff within the airport's secure area, particularly during peak and off-peak times and seasonal fluctuations.
Innovation Solution
A remote operating network that consolidates the operations of passenger boarding bridges from multiple airports at a single remote operations center, allowing for location-independent control and automation of docking and undocking processes, reducing the need for physical presence and enabling efficient allocation of operators across different airports.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If bridge operators physically operate at the airport within the secure area, then they can directly control the passenger boarding bridge, but it creates administrative work and security concerns
Solution Approach 1:
A remote operations center is introduced as an intermediary between the bridge operator and the passenger boarding bridge. The operator controls the bridge remotely through communication networks and control systems, eliminating the need for physical presence in the secure area while maintaining operational capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical system of physical presence and manual operation with an automated control system. Sensors, actuators, and control algorithms enable the bridge to respond to operator commands without requiring the operator to be physically present, substituting electronic control for mechanical interaction
2Productivity
If bridge operators are stationed at the airport for peak times, then staffing needs are met during high demand, but idle times occur during off-peaks reducing efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The remote operations center enables bridge operators to perform multiple functions across different airports and different times. A single operator can manage multiple bridges at different locations, and the system can dynamically allocate operators to match demand patterns, eliminating idle time while maintaining peak coverage
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements dynamic resource allocation where bridge operators can be reassigned in real-time based on demand fluctuations. The remote operations center monitors traffic patterns and dynamically adjusts operator assignments to match current needs, transforming the static staffing model into a flexible, responsive system
3Adaptability or versatility
If bridge operators transfer between multiple passenger boarding bridges, then all bridges can be serviced, but switching times increase and reduce efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The remote operations center creates a virtual representation of multiple bridges and their environments. Operators interact with digital models and interfaces that replicate the physical bridge locations, allowing them to switch between different bridge operations instantly without physical travel time, while maintaining the ability to service multiple bridges
Data Source
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AI summary
Method for operating a passenger boarding bridge (7) of an airport (1), wherein operating the passenger boarding bridge (7) comprises the step of moving the passenger boarding bridge from a retracted position into a docking position or from the docking position into the retracted position, the method comprising the following steps: providing a remote operation network (6) comprising at least one remote operation workstation (65), wherein the remote operating workstation (65) comprises an operation interface (67), receiving operations instruction (72) issued by a bridge operator (66) located at the remote operating workstation (65) by the operating interface (67), operating the passenger boarding bridge (7) according to the received operation instructions (72) issued by the bridge operator (66) at the remote operating workstation (65).