Abstract
We propose a hybrid discrete-continuous algorithm for flight planning in free flight airspaces. In a first step, our discrete-continuous optimization for enhanced resolution (DisCOptER) method computes a globally optimal approximate flight path on a discretization of the problem using the A* method. This route initializes a Newton method that converges rapidly to the smooth optimum in a second step. The correctness, accuracy, and complexity of the method are governed by the choice of the crossover point that determines the coarseness of the discretization. We analyze the optimal choice of the crossover point and demonstrate the asymtotic superority of DisCOptER over a purely discrete approach.
Highlights
We propose in this paper the novel hybrid algorithm discrete-continuous optimization for enhanced resolution (DisCOptER) that combines the strengths of discrete and continuous approaches to flight planning, and provide a numerical study of its efficiency and accuracy
We evaluated the DisCOptER algorithm for varying graph densities, using the theoretically optimal graph structure of h = l 2, cf. (14)
In this paper we presented the novel DisCOptER algorithm to calculate flight paths in free flight airspaces utilizing a combination of discrete and continuous optimization
Summary
Publisher’s Note: MDPI stays neutral with regard to jurisdictional claims in published maps and institutional affiliations. Flight planning is concerned with the computation of time and fuel efficient flight paths with respect to the weather, see [1] for a comprehensive survey. Wind conditions make a big difference: flying with a headwind of 60 kts increases flight time and fuel consumption of an Airbus A321 by as much as 20% over a tailwind of 60 kts [2]
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