Visual Descent Point Calculation for Non-Precision Approaches
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Solution Overview
Problem
Pilots executing non-precision instrument landings face challenges when the Visual Descent Point (VDP) is not published, leading to increased workload, potential human errors, and risks of steep diving, obstacle collisions, and early descent below the Minimum Descent Altitude (MDA).
Innovation Solution
A method and system that calculate the VDP based on runway altitude data and MDA, using a processor to determine a target downward acceptable glidepath angle, and output alerts via an aircraft display, including symbology on flight plan paths, to guide pilots safely to the runway, while also considering terrain and obstacle data to prevent collisions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If pilots calculate VDP manually when not published, then they can obtain descent guidance, but it increases workload and can induce human errors
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service by automatically calculating and displaying the VDP using onboard navigation equipment and database information, eliminating the need for manual pilot calculation and reducing workload while maintaining accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
Manual calculation methods are replaced with automated electronic computation systems that use processors to calculate VDP based on stored approach procedure data, substituting human mental computation with reliable machine calculation
2Reliability
If pilots manually calculate and execute VDP, then descent guidance is available, but it increases the risk of steep diving and inability to pull up
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides continuous feedback to pilots through visual display of the calculated VDP position and glide path guidance, enabling real-time monitoring and adjustment of descent rate to maintain safe flight parameters
Solution Approach 2:
The VDP is pre-calculated and displayed before the pilot needs to execute the descent, allowing advance planning and preparation of the descent profile, reducing last-minute decision-making complexity
3Loss of information
If pilots manually determine VDP without published data, then descent information is obtained, but human errors in calculations may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The navigation system automatically retrieves and calculates VDP information using onboard computers and database, eliminating manual calculation steps where human errors could occur while providing accurate descent guidance
Solution Approach 2:
Manual calculation processes are replaced with automated electronic computation that retrieves approach data from the avionics database and calculates VDP using programmed algorithms, eliminating human calculation errors
4Productivity
If early descent below MDA is performed, then landing may be achieved sooner, but risk of impacting terrain and obstacles increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-calculates the optimal descent profile and VDP position based on approach data and aircraft performance, providing advance guidance that ensures safe descent rate and timing to avoid terrain and obstacles
Solution Approach 2:
Continuous monitoring and display of descent parameters relative to the calculated VDP and glide path provide real-time feedback to pilots, enabling adjustment of descent rate to maintain safe clearance from terrain and obstacles
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and system for alerting a Visual Decent Point (VDP) in an aircraft system. The methods and systems retrieve runway altitude data and Minimum Descent Altitude (MDA) data from an avionics database for a target runway. Data in the avionics database for the target runway does not include a published VDP. The method includes calculating the VDP based on a difference between the runway altitude data and the MDA so as to achieve a target downward acceptable glidepath angle during final descent from the MDA to the target runway. The method includes outputting an alert of the VDP by an output device of the aircraft system.