초록 ▼

A Traffic Alert and Collision Avoidance System(TCAS) antenna is mounted on a selected forward portion of an aircraft thereby extending the effective forward range of the TCAS. The antenna and ground plane are tilted relative to conventional TCAS antennas thereby aligning a peak of the antenna's radi

A Traffic Alert and Collision Avoidance System(TCAS) antenna is mounted on a selected forward portion of an aircraft thereby extending the effective forward range of the TCAS. The antenna and ground plane are tilted relative to conventional TCAS antennas thereby aligning a peak of the antenna's radiation pattern along the aircraft's level line of flight. The resulting increased gain directed forward of the aircraft increases the forward range of the TCAS for both receiving and transmitting TCAS signals. The invention is also useful to extend the range of other aircraft systems including transponders. Alternate embodiments include tilting a conventional TCAS antenna mounted on a middle portion of the aircraft.

대표청구항 ▼

[ The embodiments of an invention in which an exclusive property or right is claimed are defined as follows:] [1.] A Traffic Alert and Collision Avoidance System for an aircraft, said system comprising:a) a TCAS computer unit; and,b) an antenna in communication with said computer unit, said antenna

[ The embodiments of an invention in which an exclusive property or right is claimed are defined as follows:] [1.] A Traffic Alert and Collision Avoidance System for an aircraft, said system comprising:a) a TCAS computer unit; and,b) an antenna in communication with said computer unit, said antenna characterized by an elevation radiation pattern having a peak which substantially aligns with said aircraft's level line of flight.