초록 ▼

A computerized system is provided for automated aircraft traffic control. The system includes a master control unit having stored information identifying and characterizing all aircraft flying in the controlled airspace. A plurality of regional control units are linked for communication with the mas

A computerized system is provided for automated aircraft traffic control. The system includes a master control unit having stored information identifying and characterizing all aircraft flying in the controlled airspace. A plurality of regional control units are linked for communication with the master control unit. Airport terminal and enroute control stations in each region are linked to the regional control unit for that region. Each aircraft flying in the region is equipped with a data-link console for communication with the regional control unit. The aircraft data-link provides identification and flight condition data to the regional control unit, and the regional control unit provides weather data and guidance signals to the aircraft. The guidance signals guide each aircraft along flight paths formed by a plurality of airway grids disposed at fixed angles with respect to each other and at each of a plurality of flight levels. The system improves flight safety by guiding each aircraft along a flight path selected from a multitude of possible flight paths to ensure separation from other aircraft.

대표청구항 ▼

An aircraft guidance method which comprises: (a) storing data uniquely identifying and characterizing each aircraft which may fly through an airspace region; (b) storing, on a real time basis, data representing flight conditions existing in said airspace region; (c) transferring said flight conditio

An aircraft guidance method which comprises: (a) storing data uniquely identifying and characterizing each aircraft which may fly through an airspace region; (b) storing, on a real time basis, data representing flight conditions existing in said airspace region; (c) transferring said flight condition and aircraft data between said aircraft and a regional control unit; and (d) guiding transit of said aircraft through said airspace region in response to said flight conditions along airways which are defined by a plurality of grids angularly disposed at a fixed angle and available at a plurality of vertically spaced flight levels.