Subterranean Aircraft Pull-Through System for Ramp Congestion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current aircraft handling systems face challenges such as limited slot capacity, ground congestion, environmental concerns, and high operating costs, which hinder the aviation industry's ability to meet growing passenger demands efficiently and within budget.
Innovation Solution
An autonomous subterranean aircraft pull-through system using a sled assembly with a power drive system, tow bar system, and computer control system that moves aircraft linearly through a channel arrangement below the airport terminal, allowing for efficient and simultaneous handling of multiple aircraft without the need for extensive ramp space or manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional aircraft handling systems are used, then aircraft can be moved on the ground, but ground congestion increases and slot capacity is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent moves the aircraft handling system from the ground level to a subterranean dimension. The sled assembly operates in an underground passage system, allowing aircraft to be transported below the terminal building. This dimensional shift eliminates the need for extensive surface ramp space while dramatically increasing aircraft handling capacity, as multiple aircraft can be moved simultaneously through the underground channels.
2Productivity
If more ramp space is provided to handle increased aircraft traffic, then slot capacity increases, but land availability and environmental constraints are violated
Solution Approach 1:
The system utilizes the subterranean space beneath the terminal building to create underground passages for aircraft movement. This allows the airport to handle increased aircraft throughput without expanding its surface footprint, effectively utilizing the third dimension (depth) to resolve the conflict between productivity and land use constraints.
3Productivity
If manual aircraft handling operations are used, then flexibility is maintained, but labor costs increase and operational efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The sled assembly is equipped with autonomous navigation capabilities, including sensors, processors, and control systems that enable it to independently guide aircraft from the ramp to the gate and back. The system can self-navigate, self-position, and coordinate with aircraft systems without requiring manual intervention, thereby reducing labor costs while improving operational efficiency and turnaround time.
4Reliability
If aircraft are moved using traditional tug vehicles, then operational flexibility is maintained, but ground staff injuries and safety risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The autonomous sled assembly eliminates the need for ground staff to physically interact with moving aircraft during transport operations. The system independently performs all maneuvering, positioning, and coupling operations, removing human workers from hazardous zones and significantly reducing the risk of injuries while maintaining high safety standards.
5Productivity
If legacy airport infrastructure is expanded to meet growing passenger demands, then capacity increases, but investment costs and build-out time increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent leverages the existing terminal building structure by constructing underground passages beneath it. This approach allows the airport to expand its aircraft handling capacity without requiring new surface infrastructure or extensive construction projects. The subterranean system can be integrated into the existing building footprint, significantly reducing both investment costs and build-out time compared to traditional expansion methods.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to an autonomous, multi-use, subterranean aircraft pull-through system that connects with an aircraft arriving at the ramp pick-up point and transits through the terminal building, in a unidirectional movement, where the aircraft is serviced, then disconnects from the aircraft at the ramp release point. The autonomous, subterranean aircraft pull-through system receives multiple aircraft in a row, with rows adjacent to each other, where aircraft are nose to tail, and side by side, occupying the smallest footprint in the industry. The autonomous, subterranean aircraft pull-through system is remotely controlled and operates autonomously in a subterranean manner to assist in servicing the aircraft. The system helps to speed up the aircraft handling component of airside operations, improve safety, reduce emissions, and the cost factors borne by both airports and airlines. The autonomous, subterranean aircraft pull-through system design is versatile in handling all code A-F (ICAO) aircraft.