Vertical Situation Display Profile Segmentation for Fuel Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current vertical situation displays (VSDs) in aircraft lack sufficient information for pilots to make informed decisions about intercepting the recommended vertical profile during descent and approach, leading to inefficient fuel consumption and emission management.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that provides a computed vertical profile display with intuitive symbols representing different flight path segments, allowing pilots to select and visualize markers associated with these segments, such as idle path, geometric path, airbrake segment, constant speed segment, and flight path angle, to assist in managing fuel consumption and energy profile.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If the VSD displays only the optimized strategic path, then the display remains simple and clear, but insufficient information is provided for pilots to make informed decisions to intercept the recommended vertical profile
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the vertical profile information into multiple discrete elements: the optimized strategic path, intercept paths, and various flight parameters are displayed as separate but integrated components. This allows comprehensive information to be presented in an organized, non-overwhelming manner that maintains clarity while providing full situational awareness
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a lateral dimension to the traditional vertical display by showing both the vertical profile and lateral intercept paths simultaneously. This multi-dimensional approach provides pilots with comprehensive spatial awareness without requiring multiple separate displays, thus increasing information density while maintaining display simplicity
2Adaptability or versatility
If the aircraft diverts from the recommended path due to operational situations, then operational flexibility is maintained, but fuel consumption and emissions increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides continuous feedback to the pilot by displaying the recommended intercept paths and associated fuel savings. This feedback loop enables pilots to make informed decisions about path selection, allowing operational flexibility while minimizing fuel consumption through data-driven decision-making
Solution Approach 2:
The patent calculates and displays multiple intercept paths in advance, along with their associated fuel consumption metrics. This preliminary preparation allows pilots to select the most efficient path before executing the maneuver, reducing overall fuel consumption while maintaining operational flexibility
3Ease of operation
If additional information is provided on the VSD to help pilots intercept the vertical profile, then situational awareness is improved, but the display becomes more complex and difficult to interpret
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by providing different types of information at different locations on the display. Critical intercept paths and fuel savings information are highlighted in specific areas, while other flight parameters are displayed in less prominent locations. This selective emphasis maintains ease of operation by directing pilot attention to the most relevant information
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method provides situation awareness for a pilot to appropriately configure the aircraft as well as intercept the flight management system computed vertical profile in order to reduce fuel consumption, emission and better manage aircraft energy for safer operations. Markers are displayed on a vertical situation display suggesting a profile that the pilot may select involving aircraft configuration and actual flown trajectory versus the computed vertical profile, especially when aircraft is off the computed vertical profile.