Samenvatting

In this paper, conflict probing has been proposed as an element of a UAS self separation concept. Conflict probing consists of predicting the future separation between own ship and hazards for a set of own ship velocity vectors -representing possible combinations of Track, Flight Path Angle (FPA) and Speed- up to a predefined prediction horizon or look-ahead time. The potential solution space generated by conflict probing comprises all possible vectors that will prevent a loss of separation with a pre-defined time within the particular probing dimension. The dimensionality of the solution space is determined by the dimensionality of the probe. The conflict avoidance vector is obtained through a search in the solution space using a set of pre-defined criteria which can include a cost function, rules of the road and thresholds in time or space. The solutions that can be obtained from the proposed conflict probing concept include those that would be generated by the NEXTCAS system.The ability to generate conflict avoidance vectors which remain conflict free for a specified amount of time is obtained through appropriate selection of the alerting time and the look-ahead time. Possible implementations range from the depiction of status information (the conflict areas) to the computation of a single conflict prevention command. At the lowest level of system autonomy, the pilot can derive the maneuvering decision from the location of the conflict areas and other constraints. At a higher system autonomy level, the identified avoidance maneuvers can either be used as suggestions, serving to support the pilot’s decisions, or they can be executed automatically based on predefined authority criteria. This allows a gradual increase in separation system authority as these systems mature and the complexities associated with automatic maneuver selection and execution are better understood. The probing concept is scalable in terms of probe dimensions, types of hazards, prediction algorithms and look-ahead times. This scalability
enables a range of possible implementations, specifically matched to the available data, interfaces and displays.