Runway Condition Reporting via Brake Control System Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for evaluating runway conditions during aircraft landing in inclement weather are subjective and unreliable, as they rely on pilot perceptions, leading to potential hazards due to inconsistent assessments of braking friction.
Innovation Solution
A system that utilizes data from the aircraft's brake control and anti-skid systems to objectively assess braking effectiveness, generating a comprehensive and objective runway condition report using sensors and processing data to provide a more reliable assessment of landing conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If pilot subjective evaluation is used to assess runway conditions, then the method is simple to implement, but the reliability and consistency of the assessment deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/pilot-based subjective evaluation system with an automated electronic system that uses brake control data, anti-skid sensor measurements, and computer processing to objectively assess runway conditions. This substitution eliminates pilot subjectivity while maintaining ease of implementation through automated data collection and analysis.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary computer system that processes brake control data and sensor measurements to generate objective runway condition assessments. This intermediary translates raw technical data into meaningful runway condition evaluations, removing the need for pilot subjective judgment while preserving implementation simplicity.
2Measurement precision
If automated brake control system data is used to assess runway conditions, then the measurement precision and reliability improve, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the brake control system multi-functional by enabling it to perform both its primary braking function and secondary runway condition assessment function. The same sensors and processors used for brake control are repurposed to collect and analyze runway friction data, eliminating the need for separate dedicated measurement equipment and reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The brake control system performs self-service by using its own existing sensors and data processing capabilities to assess runway conditions. The system leverages data it already collects during normal operation (brake pressure, wheel speed, anti-skid sensor readings) to generate runway condition assessments without requiring additional external measurement devices.
Data Source
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AI summary
A system and method for objectively evaluating an airport runway condition, where conditions pertaining to aircraft landing factors are compiled and used to determine a runway braking condition. One set of conditions pertains to aircraft landing factors, including brake metered pressure, wheel speed, and aircraft deceleration, and a second set of factors relate to pilot controlled parameters. A condition report is generated and made available to pilots of subsequently landing aircrafts prior to landing.