초록 ▼

A method for reducing the turnaround time of an aircraft having at least one self-propelled undercarriage wheel comprising the step of: moving the aircraft to a required location using at least one self-propelled undercarriage wheel; wherein thrust equipment, (e.g. turbines) are turned on only when

A method for reducing the turnaround time of an aircraft having at least one self-propelled undercarriage wheel comprising the step of: moving the aircraft to a required location using at least one self-propelled undercarriage wheel; wherein thrust equipment, (e.g. turbines) are turned on only when needed for takeoff or prior to landing, and are turned off until takeoff or after landing; whereby departing equipment, arriving equipment, and turnaround equipment are not at risk from operating thrust equipment, (e.g. turbines). An apparatus for reducing the turnaround time of an aircraft is disclosed comprising a control unit for facilitating voice communication between a pilot and ground staff. Said control unit may further comprise a control arm for inputting the required direction of movement of said nosewheel; means for transmitting direction information to said self-propelled nosewheel; means for receiving direction information at said self-propelled nosewheel; and means for controlling the direction of said nosewheel. The control unit may also comprise means for turning on and off an APU, parking brakes, and other aircraft features.

대표청구항 ▼

The invention claimed is: 1. A landing system for reducing a turnaround event time of an aircraft at an airport, comprising:(a) an aircraft having thrust equipment for flight and at least one undercarriage wheel;(b) arriving, departing, and turnaround equipment at said airport; and(c) means for cont

The invention claimed is: 1. A landing system for reducing a turnaround event time of an aircraft at an airport, comprising:(a) an aircraft having thrust equipment for flight and at least one undercarriage wheel;(b) arriving, departing, and turnaround equipment at said airport; and(c) means for controlling the movements of said aircraft;(d) an external control unit comprising:(i) control means for inputting the required speed and/or direction of said nosewheel;(ii) means for transmitting speed and/or direction information to said self-propelled nosewheel; the apparatus further comprising:(iii) means for receiving speed and/or direction information at said self-propelled nosewheel; and(iv) means for controlling the speed and/or direction of said nosewheel;said system characterized by said undercarriage wheel being self-propelled and able to move said aircraft without the use of said thrust equipment, said system further characterized by said arriving, departing and turnaround equipment positioned in close proximity to said aircraft prior to said turnaround event without risk of damage.