Runway Identification via Weather Radar Corner Reflectors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current runway identification systems for aircraft are not automated, require additional equipment, and are inefficient, especially in low visibility conditions, necessitating a rapid and cost-effective solution that utilizes existing aircraft sensors.
Innovation Solution
A runway identification system that employs a weather radar system to process radar returns from corner reflectors placed near the runway ends, determining the runway identification by analyzing the reflected electromagnetic code, thereby providing automated and rapid identification without additional aircraft equipment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If pilots visually determine runway alignment during approach, then runway identification can be achieved, but the system is not automated and is inefficient in low visibility conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/visual determination method with an automated electronic system. The weather radar system transmits electromagnetic signals and processes radar returns to automatically identify the runway, eliminating the need for visual determination and providing automated identification even in low visibility conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces corner reflectors as intermediary objects placed on the runway. These reflectors serve as mediators between the weather radar system and the runway, providing distinct radar return signatures that enable automated identification. The reflectors are positioned at specific locations (threshold and far end) to create identifiable radar patterns.
2Extent of automation
If additional equipment is installed for runway identification, then automated identification capability is achieved, but system cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the weather radar system multi-functional by enabling it to perform both its traditional weather detection function and runway identification function. The same radar transmitter, receiver, and processing equipment are used for both purposes, eliminating the need for separate dedicated runway identification equipment and reducing overall system complexity.
3Speed
If rapid runway identification is implemented, then pilot safety is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-positioning corner reflectors at specific locations on the runway (threshold and far end) before the aircraft arrives. These reflectors are permanently installed and configured to provide identifiable radar signatures. When the aircraft approaches, the radar system can immediately detect and process these pre-positioned reflectors for rapid identification without requiring complex real-time analysis or moving components.
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
Enables rapid and automated runway identification during approach, even in low visibility conditions, using existing weather radar systems, ensuring pilot safety and reducing costs by leveraging existing aircraft sensors.
Implementation Method 1
a weather radar system configured to transmit a radar beam and receive a radar return
Implementation Method 2
a set of runway corner reflectors configured to reflect the radar beam from an aircraft
Implementation Method 3
receiving electromagnetic returns from a beam directed toward the set corner reflectors
Data Source
AI summary
A runway identification system and method utilizes a set of (reflectors or sources). The reflectors or sources can be located in proximity to the end of runway. The method receives electromagnetic energy from the reflectors or sources. A runway identification is determined from the electromagnetic energy. The runway identification can be displayed on a display in the aircraft. The reflectors can be corner reflectors, laser reflectors or other reflective optics.