Vertical Speed Indicator Bug Display for Target V/S Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current aircraft display systems do not effectively present the computed target vertical speed (V/S) to pilots, limiting their situational awareness and ability to manage vertical flight paths.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a navigation data source, pilot interface system, flight director system, image generator, and display system that acquires actual and target V/S data, and generates image data to present both values in a unified vertical speed indicator (VSI), allowing pilots to view and manage computed target V/S alongside actual V/S.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If the FMS computes a target V/S automatically, then vertical flight path management is improved, but the target V/S value is not presented to the pilot
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary display element (the VSI with bug indicator) that mediates between the FMS computation system and the pilot. The VSI receives the computed target V/S data from the FMS and presents it visually through a bug indicator on the dial, bridging the gap between automated computation and pilot awareness without requiring direct digital display intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a visual copy of the target V/S value through the bug indicator on the VSI. Instead of displaying the raw numerical data directly, the system creates a graphical representation (the bug positioned at the corresponding V/S value on the dial) that replicates the information in a form easily consumable by the pilot during flight operations.
2Loss of information
If multiple V/S data sources are integrated, then situational awareness is improved, but display complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple V/S data sources (actual V/S from the VSI and target V/S from the FMS) into a single unified display interface. The bug indicator on the VSI dial combines both pieces of information in one location, allowing the pilot to view both actual and target values simultaneously without switching between multiple displays or instruments.
Solution Approach 2:
The VSI is enhanced to serve multiple functions: it continues to display the actual V/S rate while also presenting the computed target V/S through the bug indicator. This multi-functional approach allows a single instrument to provide both real-time feedback and target guidance, reducing the need for separate display systems.
3Adaptability or versatility
If manual and automated flight modes are integrated, then flight control flexibility is improved, but navigation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the bug indicator continuously shows the target V/S computed by the FMS, providing the pilot with constant feedback about the automated system's intended vertical path. This allows the pilot to easily compare the actual V/S (VSI needle position) with the target (bug position) and make informed decisions about whether to switch between manual and automated modes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates an equipotential interface where both manual and automated flight modes operate from the same display reference point (the VSI with bug indicator). Whether the pilot is flying manually or using FMS automation, the target and actual V/S information is presented in the same format and location, making mode transitions seamless and reducing cognitive load during mode changes.
Data Source
AI summary
A system, device, and method for generating a vertical speed indicator (VSI) are disclosed. The VSI generating system may include a source of first vertical speed (V/S) data, a source of second V/S, an image generator (IG), and a display system. The IG may be configured to acquire first V/S data; acquire second V/S data; and generate image data as a function of the first V/S data and the second V/S data. The first V/S data could include actual V/S, and the second V/S data could include a target V/S other than a manually-selected V/S. The image data could be representative of an image of an aircraft VSI comprised of at least one indication of the actual V/S, and at least one indication of the target V/S other than a manually-selected V/S.