DGPS-based aircraft flight guidance/test system

Abstract

The utilization of the GPS system for Aircraft Flight Guidance/Test (AFGT) is a research project in China. The paper describes the concepts and the technical realization of such a system, including three components: ground subsystem, on-board subsystem and data communication link using TDMA technique. The purpose of the proposed AFGT system is to calibrate and verify performance of an on-board radar. Therefore, it must meet the requirements of evaluation of radar performances in several areas: accuracy, coverage range, and others. The AFGT System's displays are separately: a Moving Colored Digital Map on which flight trajectories, waypoints, and heights of aircrafts are clearly marked; and a Polar Coordinate Figure on which the bearings, headings, and distances of aircrafts relative to the origin of the ground control center are shown. The AFGT may monitor and guide several aircrafts flying in the pointed airspace. It support airport surface surveillance and air traffic control at the terminal area. A real-time software package RTTEST, which includes tracking display software and on-flight test software for radar evaluation, has conducted simulation with satisfactory position accuracy.