Abstract

An adaptive interrogation method is provided, the method including determining application of an adaptive whisper shout interrogation sequence. The determination may be predictive and based on an anticipation of garbled replies or may be reactive and based on a plurality of replies to an initial ATCRBS interrogation, there being interference between the replies such that the replies are unable to be properly decoded. The adaptive whisper shout interrogation sequence includes adapting a subsequent ATCRBS interrogation. The adaptation may be a change in an amplitude difference between an interrogation pulse and a suppression pulse of the subsequent ATCRBS interrogation (i.e. a bin width), as compared to the initial ATCRBS interrogation; or the adaptation may be a change in a power of the subsequent ATCRBS interrogation as compared to the initial ATCRBS interrogation. The subsequent ATCRBS interrogation is then transmitted, and one or more replies are received.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01S 13/78 - Systems using reradiation of radio waves, e.g. secondary radar systems; Analogous systems wherein pulse-type signals are transmitted discriminating between different kinds of targets, e.g. IFF-radar, i.e. identification of friend or foe
• G01S 7/28 - RADIO DIRECTION-FINDING; RADIO NAVIGATION; DETERMINING DISTANCE OR VELOCITY BY USE OF RADIO WAVES; LOCATING OR PRESENCE-DETECTING BY USE OF THE REFLECTION OR RERADIATION OF RADIO WAVES; ANALOGOUS ARRANGEMENTS USING OTHER WAVES - Details of systems according to groups , , of systems according to group - Details of pulse systems
• G01S 13/76 - Systems using reradiation of radio waves, e.g. secondary radar systems; Analogous systems wherein pulse-type signals are transmitted
• G01S 13/933 - Radar or analogous systems, specially adapted for specific applications for anti-collision purposes of aircraft or spacecraft

Abstract

There is presented systems and methods to present air traffic and other related hazards on a flight deck display in a manner that presents relevant aircraft that may be of interest to flight deck personnel at a future time, accompanied with decluttering the display by removing information pertaining to aircraft that are of lesser impact to the safe navigation of an ownship aircraft. The improved avionics system of the present invention can make decisions that are more intelligent on how to best present traffic information to a flight crew in a manner that improves upon the prior hardware processes and increases efficiency of operation of the avionics hardware and processing system by presenting relevant information and suppressing unnecessary computation and modification of display elements.

IPC Classes  ?

• G08G 5/04 - Anti-collision systems
• G08G 5/00 - Traffic control systems for aircraft
• G01C 23/00 - Combined instruments indicating more than one navigational value, e.g. for aircraft; Combined measuring devices for measuring two or more variables of movement, e.g. distance, speed or acceleration
• G06N 3/08 - Learning methods

Abstract

There are provided systems and methods for providing a barometric altitude monitor that assist pilots by providing alerts when a barometric altitude of the ownship aircraft is may be incorrect. Various embodiments of the present invention determine whether significant errors in barometric altitude occur though comparisons to alternate altitude information sources. Through aspects of the present invention, errors arising from manual entry of barometric pressure information by a pilot may be identified before safety issues arise, thus helping to prevent events such as controlled flight into terrain (CFIT).

IPC Classes  ?

• G01C 5/00 - Measuring height; Measuring distances transverse to line of sight; Levelling between separated points; Surveyors' levels
• G01C 23/00 - Combined instruments indicating more than one navigational value, e.g. for aircraft; Combined measuring devices for measuring two or more variables of movement, e.g. distance, speed or acceleration

Abstract

There are provided systems and methods for enhancing wake turbulence situational awareness in the cockpit of an aircraft. In one aspect, transmissions from a lead aircraft are received and stored by a trailing aircraft to allow the trailing aircraft to create a history of the lead aircraft's position for the purposes of, among other things, determining the relative positioning of the lead and the trailing aircraft (or trailing aircraft's) flight paths and relative altitudes. From this determination, better situational information can be displayed to the flight crew to aid in wake turbulence avoidance.

IPC Classes  ?

• G08G 5/00 - Traffic control systems for aircraft
• G08G 5/02 - Automatic landing aids, i.e. systems in which flight data of incoming planes are processed to provide landing data

Abstract

Various avionics systems may benefit from repeaters. For example, an ADSB In traffic display repeater system may be useful for, for example, retrofit aircraft. A system, according to certain embodiments, can include a traffic awareness computer of an aircraft. The system can also include an aircraft interface device. The system can further include a data bus configured to convey data from the traffic awareness computer to the aircraft interface device. The data conveyed can be configured to permit repetition of one or more displays of a cockpit of the aircraft on a tablet computer.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06F 3/14 - Digital output to display device
• G06F 3/147 - Digital output to display device using display panels
• G01C 23/00 - Combined instruments indicating more than one navigational value, e.g. for aircraft; Combined measuring devices for measuring two or more variables of movement, e.g. distance, speed or acceleration
• G05D 1/00 - Control of position, course, altitude, or attitude of land, water, air, or space vehicles, e.g. automatic pilot
• G08G 5/00 - Traffic control systems for aircraft

Abstract

Various communication systems may benefit from suitable architectures. For example, L-band radio frequency (RF) architectures may be beneficial to systems including avionics systems. A system can include a mode-s function as well as a traffic alert and collision avoidance system function separate from the mode-sunction. The system can further include a directional antenna in reception and transmission connection with the traffic alert and collision avoidance system function. The system can additionally include an omni-directional antenna in reception and transmission connection with the mode-s function.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01S 13/78 - Systems using reradiation of radio waves, e.g. secondary radar systems; Analogous systems wherein pulse-type signals are transmitted discriminating between different kinds of targets, e.g. IFF-radar, i.e. identification of friend or foe
• G01S 13/93 - Radar or analogous systems, specially adapted for specific applications for anti-collision purposes
• G08G 5/04 - Anti-collision systems
• G01S 13/76 - Systems using reradiation of radio waves, e.g. secondary radar systems; Analogous systems wherein pulse-type signals are transmitted
• H01Q 1/28 - Adaptation for use in or on aircraft, missiles, satellites, or balloons
• H01Q 21/28 - Combinations of substantially independent non-interacting antenna units or systems

Abstract

Various communication systems may benefit from suitable use of redundancy. For example, surveillance systems in avionics applications may benefit from having functional redundancy. A system can include a collision avoidance or alerting system function in wired connection to a directional antenna. The system can also include a first mode-S transponder function in wired connection to the directional antenna. The system can further include a second mode-S transponder function in wired connection to the directional antenna, wherein the first mode-S transponder function is independent from the second mode-S transponder function.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01S 13/93 - Radar or analogous systems, specially adapted for specific applications for anti-collision purposes
• G08G 5/04 - Anti-collision systems
• H04B 7/185 - Space-based or airborne stations
• G08G 5/00 - Traffic control systems for aircraft
• G05D 1/00 - Control of position, course, altitude, or attitude of land, water, air, or space vehicles, e.g. automatic pilot

Abstract

Various communication systems may benefit from enhanced reception methods. For example, various transponders and surveillance systems may benefit from reception methods that can distinguish between overlapping pulses from multiple sources. A method can include receiving, at an antenna, a first series of pulses from a first source. The method can also include receiving, at the antenna, a second series of pulses from a second source. The first series and the second series can at least partially overlap each other. The method can further include de-interleaving the first series from the second series using at least one non-time-domain technique.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01S 13/78 - Systems using reradiation of radio waves, e.g. secondary radar systems; Analogous systems wherein pulse-type signals are transmitted discriminating between different kinds of targets, e.g. IFF-radar, i.e. identification of friend or foe
• G01S 7/285 - Receivers

Abstract

An autonomous distress tracking system for an aircraft is described. The system can include a transponder configured to transmit radio frequency (RF) emissions and an RF detector unit configured to detect the RF emissions. The system can further include an alert system that is in communication with the RF detector unit and be configured to activate a distress radio beacon if no RF emissions are detected within a predetermined period of time.

IPC Classes  ?

• G08G 5/00 - Traffic control systems for aircraft
• G01S 5/00 - Position-fixing by co-ordinating two or more direction or position-line determinations; Position-fixing by co-ordinating two or more distance determinations
• G01S 5/02 - Position-fixing by co-ordinating two or more direction or position-line determinations; Position-fixing by co-ordinating two or more distance determinations using radio waves
• G01S 19/17 - Emergency applications
• B64D 45/00 - Aircraft indicators or protectors not otherwise provided for

Abstract

Various wireless systems may benefit from suitable sharing of antennas and related equipment. For example a various avionics systems may benefit from systems and methods for providing a distance measurement equipment L-band shared antenna. Circuitry can include an interface to a bottom omni-directional antenna. The circuitry can also include a radio frequency splitter in switchable communication with the interface to the bottom omni-directional antenna. The circuitry can further include an interface between the radio frequency splitter and a distance measurement equipment receiver. The circuitry can additionally include an interface between the radio frequency splitter and a surveillance receiver.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01S 13/78 - Systems using reradiation of radio waves, e.g. secondary radar systems; Analogous systems wherein pulse-type signals are transmitted discriminating between different kinds of targets, e.g. IFF-radar, i.e. identification of friend or foe
• G01S 13/93 - Radar or analogous systems, specially adapted for specific applications for anti-collision purposes
• G01S 7/03 - RADIO DIRECTION-FINDING; RADIO NAVIGATION; DETERMINING DISTANCE OR VELOCITY BY USE OF RADIO WAVES; LOCATING OR PRESENCE-DETECTING BY USE OF THE REFLECTION OR RERADIATION OF RADIO WAVES; ANALOGOUS ARRANGEMENTS USING OTHER WAVES - Details of systems according to groups , , of systems according to group - Details of HF subsystems specially adapted therefor, e.g. common to transmitter and receiver
• G01S 5/00 - Position-fixing by co-ordinating two or more direction or position-line determinations; Position-fixing by co-ordinating two or more distance determinations
• G08G 5/00 - Traffic control systems for aircraft

Abstract

Various communication systems may benefit from suitable antenna systems. For example, unmanned aircraft may benefit from systems and methods for providing a distributed airborne collision avoidance system antenna array. An apparatus can include a transceiver configured to transmit and receive avionics signals at a host vehicle. The apparatus can also include an interface configured to communicate with an array of a plurality of avionics receivers, wherein the avionics receivers are configured to receive the avionics signals at the host vehicle.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01S 13/93 - Radar or analogous systems, specially adapted for specific applications for anti-collision purposes
• G01S 13/78 - Systems using reradiation of radio waves, e.g. secondary radar systems; Analogous systems wherein pulse-type signals are transmitted discriminating between different kinds of targets, e.g. IFF-radar, i.e. identification of friend or foe

Abstract

Various aviation systems may benefit from appropriately configured systems and methods for communication. For example, aircraft situational awareness systems and helideck systems may benefit from helideck surveillance transceiver systems and methods. An apparatus can include a transceiver and at least one data link antenna operably connected to the transceiver. The transceiver and the at least one data link antenna can be configured to obtain and distribute helideck information regarding a helideck to at least one helicopter.

IPC Classes  ?

• G08G 5/00 - Traffic control systems for aircraft
• G08B 25/10 - Alarm systems in which the location of the alarm condition is signalled to a central station, e.g. fire or police telegraphic systems characterised by the transmission medium using wireless transmission systems
• H04B 7/00 - Radio transmission systems, i.e. using radiation field
• H04B 7/185 - Space-based or airborne stations

Abstract

Various antennas and systems of antennas can benefit from meta-material construction. For example, avionics antennas including weather antennas may benefit from being constructed of meta-materials. A method includes electronically scanning, by an antenna of an aircraft, an environment of the aircraft. The electronically scanning includes transmitting or receiving an electrical frequency over the antenna. The antenna includes a negative index of refraction meta-material. The electronically scanning also includes applying an electric field to control a dielectric constant of the antenna.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01Q 3/44 - Arrangements for changing or varying the orientation or the shape of the directional pattern of the waves radiated from an antenna or antenna system varying the electric or magnetic characteristics of reflecting, refracting, or diffracting devices associated with the radiating element
• G01S 13/95 - Radar or analogous systems, specially adapted for specific applications for meteorological use
• G01S 13/42 - Simultaneous measurement of distance and other coordinates
• H01Q 1/28 - Adaptation for use in or on aircraft, missiles, satellites, or balloons
• G01S 7/00 - RADIO DIRECTION-FINDING; RADIO NAVIGATION; DETERMINING DISTANCE OR VELOCITY BY USE OF RADIO WAVES; LOCATING OR PRESENCE-DETECTING BY USE OF THE REFLECTION OR RERADIATION OF RADIO WAVES; ANALOGOUS ARRANGEMENTS USING OTHER WAVES - Details of systems according to groups , ,
• G01S 7/03 - RADIO DIRECTION-FINDING; RADIO NAVIGATION; DETERMINING DISTANCE OR VELOCITY BY USE OF RADIO WAVES; LOCATING OR PRESENCE-DETECTING BY USE OF THE REFLECTION OR RERADIATION OF RADIO WAVES; ANALOGOUS ARRANGEMENTS USING OTHER WAVES - Details of systems according to groups , , of systems according to group - Details of HF subsystems specially adapted therefor, e.g. common to transmitter and receiver
• H01Q 15/00 - Devices for reflection, refraction, diffraction or polarisation of waves radiated from an antenna, e.g. quasi-optical devices

Abstract

Computer assistance in interval management may be beneficial in a number of ways. For example, digital communication of interval management instructions or information related to interval management may beneficially be communicated to aircraft with respect to other aircraft. This information may be communicated overlaid on air traffic control (ATC) communications, or otherwise. A method can include, for example, obtaining a spacing goal for an aircraft relative to a target aircraft. The method can also include determining clearance instructions for the aircraft, wherein the speed guidance is based on the spacing goal. The method can further include transmitting the clearance instructions in a computer-readable format to the aircraft. The instructions can be provided by an overlay-modulated signal of a provided modulated ATC signal. The instructions can be configured to enable control of the aircraft to achieve the spacing goal.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04L 5/02 - Channels characterised by the type of signal
• H04L 27/18 - Phase-modulated carrier systems, i.e. using phase-shift keying
• H04L 27/32 - Carrier systems characterised by combinations of two or more of the types covered by groups , , , or
• H04L 25/49 - Transmitting circuits; Receiving circuits using three or more amplitude levels
• H04L 27/26 - Systems using multi-frequency codes
• H04L 27/10 - Frequency-modulated carrier systems, i.e. using frequency-shift keying
• G08G 5/04 - Anti-collision systems
• G08G 5/00 - Traffic control systems for aircraft
• G01S 7/00 - RADIO DIRECTION-FINDING; RADIO NAVIGATION; DETERMINING DISTANCE OR VELOCITY BY USE OF RADIO WAVES; LOCATING OR PRESENCE-DETECTING BY USE OF THE REFLECTION OR RERADIATION OF RADIO WAVES; ANALOGOUS ARRANGEMENTS USING OTHER WAVES - Details of systems according to groups , ,
• G01S 13/76 - Systems using reradiation of radio waves, e.g. secondary radar systems; Analogous systems wherein pulse-type signals are transmitted
• G01S 13/78 - Systems using reradiation of radio waves, e.g. secondary radar systems; Analogous systems wherein pulse-type signals are transmitted discriminating between different kinds of targets, e.g. IFF-radar, i.e. identification of friend or foe
• H04L 27/34 - Amplitude- and phase-modulated carrier systems, e.g. quadrature-amplitude modulated carrier systems
• G08G 5/02 - Automatic landing aids, i.e. systems in which flight data of incoming planes are processed to provide landing data

Abstract

Multipath mitigation can be performed in a surface environment by various systems and methods. For example, antenna beams from multiple antennas can be used to reduce the impact of multipath on a received signal. Thus, a method can include monitoring for a signal on at least one upper antenna beam of an aircraft. The method can also include monitoring for the signal on at least one lower antenna beam of the aircraft while monitoring on the at least one upper antenna beam. The method can further include processing the signal received by the at least one upper antenna beam and/or the at least one lower antenna beam.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04B 7/185 - Space-based or airborne stations

Abstract

Spoof detection can be performed by various systems and methods. The systems and methods can provide for detection by passive listening, active interrogation, and other techniques. Moreover, systems and methods can also provide for reporting and displaying information relating to detected spoofing. For example, a method can include receiving, on a device, a signal providing a report for an aircraft. The method can also include determining, with the device, a first parameter for the aircraft from information in the report. The method can further include determining, with the device, a second parameter for the aircraft from at least one signal characteristic of the signal. The method can additionally include determining, with the device, a validity status of the report based on comparing the first parameter and the second parameter.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01S 19/21 - Interference related issues
• G08G 5/00 - Traffic control systems for aircraft

Abstract

The use of dynamic collision avoidance parameters in connection with automatic dependent surveillance, broadcast, as well as for other purposes in systems and methods may assist collision avoidance and/or advisory systems in properly identifying intruders for reporting to pilots. For example, a method can include monitoring for a triggering event with respect to at least one of geographic coordinates and a flight path of an aircraft. The method can also include detecting the triggering event. The method can further include altering at least one characteristic of at least one of a traffic alerting system and an advisory system based on detecting the triggering event.

IPC Classes  ?

• G08G 5/00 - Traffic control systems for aircraft

Abstract

Systems and methods are delineated in which dynamic thresholds may be employed to detect and provide alerts for potential conflicts between a vehicle and another vehicle, an object or a person in an aircraft environment. Current systems for airport conflict detection and alerting consider one or more alerting boundaries which are independent of the amount of traffic present at any one time or over the course of time. Because nuisance alerts rates depend to a large extent on the amount of traffic, and because alert detection thresholds are often set based on a desire to limit nuisance alerts to a specific threshold, adapting those thresholds based on, among other things, the amount of traffic can result in earlier alerting in some crash scenarios and can even result in providing an alert in a crash scenario where no alert would have otherwise been generated.

IPC Classes  ?

• G08G 5/06 - Traffic control systems for aircraft for control when on the ground
• G08G 5/00 - Traffic control systems for aircraft

Abstract

An embodiment of the present invention sets forth a method for modulating a signal to include broadcast data, modulating the signal to include an overlay message comprising an address and data for an intended recipient, and transmitting the modulated signal including both the broadcast data and the overlay message including the address and data for the intended recipient. Another embodiment of the present invention sets forth a method for modulating a plurality of signal transmissions to include broadcast data, modulating the plurality of signal transmissions with an overlay message wherein the overlay message comprises a respective plurality of data segments, and transmitting the plurality of signal transmissions including both the broadcast data and the overlay message including the respective plurality of data segments. Further embodiments of the present invention set forth additional methods and related systems.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04L 25/49 - Transmitting circuits; Receiving circuits using three or more amplitude levels
• H04L 27/18 - Phase-modulated carrier systems, i.e. using phase-shift keying
• G01S 13/78 - Systems using reradiation of radio waves, e.g. secondary radar systems; Analogous systems wherein pulse-type signals are transmitted discriminating between different kinds of targets, e.g. IFF-radar, i.e. identification of friend or foe

Abstract

A system according to aspects of the present invention includes a processor, a user interface (including a display) in communication with the processor, and a memory in communication with the processor. The processor executes instructions stored in the memory to present a first symbol on the display of the user interface that indicates the bearing to an off-scale vehicle, and to present a second symbol on the display that indicates the path of travel of the off- scale vehicle. The present invention provides a more accurate representation of the bearing and track of off-scale traffic compared to conventional traffic display systems.

IPC Classes  ?

• G08G 5/04 - Anti-collision systems

Abstract

Embodiments of the present invention disclose systems and methods for providing an enhanced data link using overlaid modulation. Through embodiments of the present invention, existing ATC (or other) modulated signals using existing standard frequencies may be utilized to transmit (e.g., from an aircraft transponder) additional information in a manner that does not render the transmitted signal unrecognizable by legacy ATC equipment. Legacy equipment will be able to demodulate and decode information that was encoded in the transmitted signal in accordance with preexisting standard modulation formats, and updated equipment can also extract the additional information that was overlaid on transmitted signals.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04L 27/32 - Carrier systems characterised by combinations of two or more of the types covered by groups , , , or
• G01S 7/00 - RADIO DIRECTION-FINDING; RADIO NAVIGATION; DETERMINING DISTANCE OR VELOCITY BY USE OF RADIO WAVES; LOCATING OR PRESENCE-DETECTING BY USE OF THE REFLECTION OR RERADIATION OF RADIO WAVES; ANALOGOUS ARRANGEMENTS USING OTHER WAVES - Details of systems according to groups , ,
• G01S 13/76 - Systems using reradiation of radio waves, e.g. secondary radar systems; Analogous systems wherein pulse-type signals are transmitted
• G01S 13/78 - Systems using reradiation of radio waves, e.g. secondary radar systems; Analogous systems wherein pulse-type signals are transmitted discriminating between different kinds of targets, e.g. IFF-radar, i.e. identification of friend or foe
• G08G 5/00 - Traffic control systems for aircraft

Abstract

A method according to an aspect of the present invention includes determining if terrain presents a hazard to an aircraft based on the current position of the aircraft and the intended flight plan for the aircraft and providing an alert if it is determined that the terrain presents a hazard to the aircraft. The method may be employed in any situation to achieve any result, such as when the aircraft is in a low-RNP environment to prevent nuisance terrain alerts.

IPC Classes  ?

• G08G 5/04 - Anti-collision systems

Abstract

An embodiment of the present invention provides a collision avoidance system for a host aircraft comprising a plurality of sensors for providing data about other aircraft that may be employed to determine one or more parameters to calculate future positions of the other aircraft, a processor to determine whether any combinations of the calculated future positions of the other aircraft are correlated or uncorrelated, and a collision avoidance module that uses the correlated or uncorrelated calculated future positions to provide a signal instructing the performance of a collision avoidance maneuver when a collision threat exists between the host aircraft and at least one of the other aircraft.

IPC Classes  ?

• G08G 5/04 - Anti-collision systems

Abstract

There is presented a system and method for providing aircraft runway guidance. One delineated runway alert system for a host aircraft comprises: a processor for executing one or more instructions that implement one or more functions of the runway alert system; a data storage device including geographical runway information; a receiver for obtaining current location data of the host aircraft; an apparatus to provide a current heading of the host aircraft; a data entry device for receiving data indicating a desired runway; memory for storing the one or more instructions for execution by the processor to implement the one or more functions of the runway alert system to: receive the identity of the desired runway; provide an indicia of: the desired runway; and the position of the host aircraft in relation to the desired runway.

IPC Classes  ?

• G08G 5/02 - Automatic landing aids, i.e. systems in which flight data of incoming planes are processed to provide landing data
• G08G 5/06 - Traffic control systems for aircraft for control when on the ground

Abstract

A method according to an aspect of the present invention includes determining a phase offset by simultaneously providing a calibration signal to a first element of an antenna and a second element of the antenna opposite the first element. The method further includes receiving an intermix signal by a third element of the antenna, measuring an amplitude characteristic for the intermix signal, and determining a phase offset based on the amplitude characteristic. The phase offset can be used to adjust a signal provided to the first element so that it is in phase with the signal provided to the second element. This method can account for phase errors due to the construction or design of the antenna, and allows antenna elements to be calibrated without the need for phase detector devices.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01Q 1/26 - Supports; Mounting means by structural association with other equipment or articles with electric discharge tube
• G01S 13/78 - Systems using reradiation of radio waves, e.g. secondary radar systems; Analogous systems wherein pulse-type signals are transmitted discriminating between different kinds of targets, e.g. IFF-radar, i.e. identification of friend or foe
• G01S 13/93 - Radar or analogous systems, specially adapted for specific applications for anti-collision purposes

Abstract

The present invention allows quick detection of actual hazardous windshears while ignoring the effects of normal turbulence. A system according to one aspect of the present invention comprises a signal processor configured to determine a presence of hazardous windshear based on: (a) whether a measured windshear is beyond a first predetermined threshold, and (b) whether a measured turbulence level is beyond a second predetermined threshold.

IPC Classes  ?

• G05D 1/06 - Rate of change of altitude or depth

Abstract

Embodiments of the present invention disclose systems and methods for providing an ATC Overlay data link. Through embodiments of the present invention, existing ATC (or other) modulated signals using existing standard frequencies may be utilized to transmit (e.g., from an aircraft transponder) additional information in a manner that does not render the transmitted signal unrecognizable by legacy ATC equipment. Legacy equipment will be able to demodulate and decode information that was encoded in the transmitted signal in accordance with preexisting standard modulation formats, and updated equipment can also extract the additional information that was overlaid on transmitted signals.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04L 5/02 - Channels characterised by the type of signal
• H04L 27/18 - Phase-modulated carrier systems, i.e. using phase-shift keying
• H04L 27/32 - Carrier systems characterised by combinations of two or more of the types covered by groups , , , or
• H04L 25/49 - Transmitting circuits; Receiving circuits using three or more amplitude levels
• H04L 27/26 - Systems using multi-frequency codes
• H04L 27/10 - Frequency-modulated carrier systems, i.e. using frequency-shift keying
• G08G 5/04 - Anti-collision systems

Abstract

Embodiments of the present invention provide methods, computer programs, and apparatus for adjusting a speed target of an aircraft. In particular, the adjustment of the speed target of the aircraft may allow that aircraft to maintain merging and spacing constraints with respect to a leading aircraft. According to one embodiment of the present invention, the speed target of an aircraft may be adjusted by obtaining a speed target, obtaining own ship track data for the aircraft, obtaining lead ship track data for a leading aircraft, and calculating a speed target adjustment based on the speed target, the own ship track data, the lead ship track data and merging and spacing constraints.

IPC Classes  ?

• G08G 5/02 - Automatic landing aids, i.e. systems in which flight data of incoming planes are processed to provide landing data

Abstract

There are presented various approaches to monitor performance of RF systems and circuitry such as those used in aircraft transponders. Such monitoring may be designed to verify operational performance of transponders as set forth by FAA regulations, or may be used to periodically or continually monitor integrity of transponder performance. Data may be collected by such periodic or continual monitoring, and may be analyzed to identify potentially troublesome trends in transponder performance, allowing early intervention or repair, if warranted.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01S 13/78 - Systems using reradiation of radio waves, e.g. secondary radar systems; Analogous systems wherein pulse-type signals are transmitted discriminating between different kinds of targets, e.g. IFF-radar, i.e. identification of friend or foe

Abstract

A method according to the present invention includes transmitting a Mode S interrogation and receiving a response from an aircraft that has received the Mode S interrogation. A range to the aircraft is determined based on a time period between transmitting the Mode S interrogation and receiving the response. The method further includes receiving information from one or more data sources and determining at least one of a bearing to the aircraft and a position of the aircraft using the determined range and the information from the one or more data sources. Information can be received from any number (or type) of data sources, such as ADS-B-equipped aircraft.

IPC Classes  ?

• G08G 5/04 - Anti-collision systems
• G01S 13/93 - Radar or analogous systems, specially adapted for specific applications for anti-collision purposes

Abstract

There is provided an avionics system that provides several avionics functions within a single LRU. In one embodiment, the system comprises a software-configurable RF assembly, one or more processor assemblies that are configured to provide multiple TAWS/TCAS/Mode S/ADS- B/ATC functions, interfaces to allow connections to aircraft electronics and data loaders, and multipurpose antennas. In one embodiment, a common processor architecture allows generic avionics processors to be configured to operate a number of TAWS/TCAS/Mode S/ADS-B/ATC functions without the need for multiple LRUs, and software-defined RF functions allow RF circuitry that interfaces to the processors to handle current and future communication needs.

IPC Classes  ?

• G08G 5/04 - Anti-collision systems

Abstract

A collision avoidance system is delineated comprising a TCAS transmitter having a feed forward path with a plurality amplifiers for providing to a TCAS transmitter output a TCAS transmitter output transmission, a feedback path coupled to the TCAS transmitter output for providing a feedback signal, and a controller for receiving the feedback signal and generating control signals for providing to one or more of the plurality of amplifiers for controlling the respective outputs of the one or more amplifiers to drive the TCAS transmitter output transmission to a predefined level.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01S 13/93 - Radar or analogous systems, specially adapted for specific applications for anti-collision purposes

Abstract

Measurements of frequency and/or phase are taken at the signal ports (S1-S4) of an ISS device (10). These measurements are used to determine phase errors within the ISS device, and phase errors due to the antenna cables (C1-C4). On port, (e.g., S1) is selected as the reference port and then, based on these determined phase errors, offsetting phase errors are determined to correct the phase for the other ports (e.g., S2, S3, S4) with respect to the reference port. The signals at the antenna ports (A1- A4) are then in phase when an omnidirectional antenna pattern is desired from the TCAS antenna array (16). One in embodiment the frequency of the calibration signal is fixed; in another embodiment two different, fixed frequencies are used; and in still another embodiment the frequency is swept to achieve a predetermined measured phase difference.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01Q 3/00 - Arrangements for changing or varying the orientation or the shape of the directional pattern of the waves radiated from an antenna or antenna system

Abstract

A TCAS receiver includes an antenna, an analog to digital converter (ADC), and a FPGA. The antenna receives an ADS-B squitter signal. The ADC converts the signal to digital signal. The FPGA uses matched filters for matching at least a portion of the digital signal to a message, thereby increasing ADS-B squitter sensitivity.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01S 13/78 - Systems using reradiation of radio waves, e.g. secondary radar systems; Analogous systems wherein pulse-type signals are transmitted discriminating between different kinds of targets, e.g. IFF-radar, i.e. identification of friend or foe

Abstract

The present invention provides an apparatus, method, and computer-executable prog :ram for detecting antenna failures in directional antennas. In particular, the present invention compares a bearing calculated from received positional data concerning a target to the bearing of the target determined using the directional antenna. If the calculated bearing and the determined bearing differ by greater than a predetermined amount, it is determined that there is an antenna failure. In this way, bearing information determined by the directional antenna is compared against a piece of known data in order to determine if the antenna is functioning properly.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01S 7/40 - Means for monitoring or calibrating
• G01S 13/93 - Radar or analogous systems, specially adapted for specific applications for anti-collision purposes

Abstract

A system determines bearing for situational awareness. The system may include a receiver, a processor, and a memory comprising an engine for performing a method. The method includes receiving signals using directional reception; receiving positional data; calculating a correction amount; and applying the correction amount to subsequent uncorrected bearings to provide corrected bearings. Positional data may be received in any conventional format including data link, ADS-B, and MODE S. Positional data may be determined in the target using a global positioning system. The system may provide a signal to display the corrected bearing and/or provide traffic alerting and collision avoidance advisories.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01S 13/93 - Radar or analogous systems, specially adapted for specific applications for anti-collision purposes

Abstract

A transmitter provides a plurality of output signals. The transmitter includes a processor, a modulator, a first circuit, and a second circuit. The modulator provides a modulated signal responsive to the processor. The modulated signal includes an amplitude modulated radio frequency for transmitting a pulse. The first circuit provides a first output signal, responsive to and with higher power than the modulated signal. The first output signal has a first phase during transmitting of the pulse. The second circuit provides a second output signal, responsive to and with higher power than the modulated signal. The second output signal has a second phase during transmitting of the pulse. The second phase is controlled by the second circuit in accordance with the first phase, the second phase, and indicia of a third phase provided by the processor.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01S 7/40 - Means for monitoring or calibrating

Abstract

An aircraft control system is delineated for a host aircraft, the system comprising a processor for executing one or more instructions that implement one or more functions of the aircraft control system, a transceiver for transmitting information from and receiving information for the host aircraft, and memory for storing the one or more instructions for execution by the processor to implement the one or more functions of the aircraft control system to: receive from the transceiver information from another aircraft, and generate from the received information a signal for use in the host aircraft to control separation between the host aircraft and the other aircraft while the aircraft are within a predefined range of a location where the aircraft plan to land.

IPC Classes  ?

• G08G 5/02 - Automatic landing aids, i.e. systems in which flight data of incoming planes are processed to provide landing data
• G01S 13/91 - Radar or analogous systems, specially adapted for specific applications for traffic control
• G01S 5/00 - Position-fixing by co-ordinating two or more direction or position-line determinations; Position-fixing by co-ordinating two or more distance determinations

Abstract

A delineated collision avoidance system may comprise a processor for executing one or more instructions that implement one or more functions of the collision avoidance system, a transceiver for transmitting information from and receiving information for the host aircraft, and memory for storing the one or more instructions for execution by the processor to implement the one or more functions of the collision avoidance system to: receive from the transceiver information from another aircraft, generate from the received information a track for the other aircraft, and determine whether the track will intersect within a predefined period of time a region of interest around the host aircraft. In a variation, the system may include a display and the memory may include instructions to: determine whether a predefined condition is satisfied and change an appearance of a symbol shown on the display to indicate that the predefined condition is satisfied.

IPC Classes  ?

• G08G 5/04 - Anti-collision systems
• G08G 5/06 - Traffic control systems for aircraft for control when on the ground
• G01S 13/93 - Radar or analogous systems, specially adapted for specific applications for anti-collision purposes
• G01S 7/04 - Display arrangements