Avionics display system and method for generating flight information pertaining to neighboring aircraft

TECHNICAL FIELD

0001The present invention relates generally to vehicular display systems and, more particularly, to an avionics display system and method for visually expressing flight information pertaining to a neighboring aircraft, such as the flight path and wake turbulence created by a neighboring aircraft.

BACKGROUND

0002Avionics display systems deployed aboard aircraft have been extensively engineered to visually convey a considerable amount of flight information in an intuitive and readily comprehendible manner. In conventional avionics display systems, the majority of the information visually expressed on a display, such as a primary flight display, pertains to the host aircraft's flight parameters (e.g., the heading, drift, roll, and pitch of the host aircraft), nearby geographical features (e.g., mountain peaks, runways, etc.), and current weather conditions (e.g., developing storm cells). Aside from a neighboring aircraft's current detected position, conventional avionics display systems typically provide little, if any, visual information pertaining to neighboring aircraft. This may be due, in part, to current air traffic management ("ATM") practices wherein air traffic management is generally managed by personnel stationed within air traffic controllers and other ground-based control facilities. However, conventional control facility-based ATM systems are inherently limited in the volume of air traffic that they can effectively manage during a given time period. For this reason, the United States has commenced the development and implementation of a modernized ATM system (commonly referred to as the "Next Generation Air Transportation System" or, more simply, "NextGen") in which air traffic management will be largely handled by individual flight crews utilizing data compiled from a constellation of computerized systems onboard satellites and neighboring aircraft. Europe has also begun the development and implementation of a similar program commonly referred to as the "Single European Sky ATM Research," or "SESAR," program.

0003In view of the above described trend toward aircrew-centric traffic management, it is desirable to provide an avionics display system and method for visually expressing one or more flight characteristics pertaining to neighboring aircraft. In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, these flight characteristics may include the wake turbulence created by a neighboring aircraft, the current flight plan of the neighboring aircraft, and the neighboring aircraft's error-compensated airspace; i.e., the airspace in which the neighboring aircraft's detected position should reside to ensure that the neighboring aircraft's actual position remains within the neighboring aircraft's currently-assigned airspace. It would also be desirable if, in certain embodiments, the avionics display system and method were capable of displaying such flight characteristics when the neighboring aircraft is in a non-flight phase, such as during taxi. It would be feasible that the neighboring aircraft could be in-flight or on the ground. Other desirable features and characteristics of the present invention will become apparent from the subsequent detailed description of the invention and the appended claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and this background of the invention.

BRIEF SUMMARY

0004Embodiments of a process are provided suitable for implementation by an avionics display system deployed on a host aircraft and including a monitor. In one embodiment, the process includes the step of receiving air traffic data indicative of a first flight characteristic pertaining to a neighboring aircraft. The first flight characteristic is selected from the group consisting of: (i) the wake turbulence created by the neighboring aircraft, (ii) the current flight plan of the neighboring aircraft, and (iii) the airspace in which the neighboring aircraft's current detection position should reside to ensure that the neighboring aircraft's actual position resides within the an airspace currently assigned to the neighboring aircraft. A visual representation of the first flight characteristic is generated on the monitor.

0005Embodiments of an avionics display system are further provided for deployment onboard an aircraft including an air traffic data source. The air traffic data source provides the avionics display system with data indicative of at least one flight characteristic pertaining to a neighboring aircraft. In one embodiment, the avionics display system includes a monitor and a processor operatively coupled to the monitor. The processor is configured to receive air traffic data from the air traffic data source indicative of a first flight characteristic pertaining to a neighboring aircraft, and to generate on the monitor a three dimensional visual representation of the first flight characteristic. The first flight characteristic is selected from the group consisting of: (i) the wake turbulence created by the neighboring aircraft, (ii) the neighboring aircraft's flight plan, and (iii) the airspace in which the neighboring aircraft's current detection position should reside to ensure that the neighboring aircraft's actual position resides within the neighboring aircraft's currently assigned airspace.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

0006At least one example of the present invention will hereinafter be described in conjunction with the following figures, wherein like numerals denote like elements, and:

0007<figref idref="f0001">FIG. 1</figref> is functional block diagram of a generalized avionics display system in accordance with an exemplary embodiment;

0008<figref idref="f0002">FIG. 2</figref> is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary process that may be performed by the avionics display system shown in <figref idref="f0001">FIG. 1</figref>;

0009<figref idref="f0003">FIG. 3</figref> is a snapshot of a three dimensional perspective display that may be generated on the monitor included in the avionics display system shown in <figref idref="f0001">FIG. 1</figref> via the performance of the exemplary process illustrated in <figref idref="f0002">FIG. 2</figref>;

0010<figref idref="f0004">FIGs. 4</figref>, <figref idref="f0005">5</figref>, and <figref idref="f0006">6</figref> are flowcharts illustrating first, second, and third exemplary algorithms, respectively, that may be performed during the exemplary process illustrated in <figref idref="f0002">FIG. 2</figref> to generate visual representations of one or more flight characteristics pertaining to a neighboring aircraft;

0011<figref idref="f0007">FIG. 7</figref> conceptually illustrates the manner in which a neighboring aircraft's error-compensated airspace may be determined as a function of the neighboring aircraft's currently-assigned airspace and an error characteristics attributed to the data source utilized to determine the neighboring aircraft's detected position; and

0012<figref idref="f0008">FIG. 8</figref> is a snapshot of a two dimensional moving map display that may be generated on the monitor included in the avionics display system shown in <figref idref="f0001">FIG. 1</figref> via the performance of the exemplary process illustrated in <figref idref="f0002">FIG. 2</figref>.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

0013The following Detailed Description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the invention or the application and uses of the invention. Furthermore, there is no intention to be bound by any theory presented in the preceding Background or the following Detailed Description.

0014<figref idref="f0001">FIG. 1</figref> is a functional block diagram of a generalized avionics display system <b>20</b> in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. Avionics display system <b>20</b> includes at least one processor <b>22</b> and at least one monitor <b>24,</b> which is operatively coupled to processor <b>22.</b> During operation of avionics display system <b>20,</b> processor <b>22</b> drives monitor <b>24</b> to produce a graphical display <b>26</b> that visually provides a pilot and crew with navigational informational pertaining to the host aircraft and to neighboring aircraft within a predetermined vicinity of the host aircraft. Graphical display <b>26</b> may include visual representations of one or more of flight characteristics pertaining to a neighboring aircraft, as described more fully below. Processor <b>22</b> may generate display <b>26</b> in a two dimensional format (e.g., as a moving map display), in a three dimensional format (e.g., as a perspective display), or in a hybrid format (e.g., in a picture-in-picture or split screen arrangement).

0015Processor <b>22</b> may comprise, or be associated with, any suitable number of individual microprocessors, flight control computers, navigational equipment, memories, power supplies, storage devices, interface cards, and other standard components known in the art. In this respect, the processor <b>22</b> may include or cooperate with any number of software programs (e.g., avionics display programs) or instructions designed to carry out the various methods, process tasks, calculations, and control/display functions described below. In a preferred embodiment, processor <b>22</b> is included within a Flight Management Computer of the type commonly deployed within a Flight Management System (FMS).

0016Image-generating devices suitable for use as monitor <b>24</b> include various analog (e.g., cathode ray tube) and digital (e.g., liquid crystal, active matrix, plasma, etc.) display devices. In certain embodiments, monitor <b>24</b> may assume the form of a Head-Down Display (HDD) or a Head-Up Display (HUD) included within an aircraft's Electronic Flight Instrument System (EFIS). Monitor <b>24</b> may be disposed at various locations throughout the cockpit. For example, monitor <b>24</b> may comprise a primary flight display (PFD) and reside at a central location within the pilot's primary field-of-view. Alternatively, monitor <b>24</b> may comprise a secondary flight deck display, such as an Engine Instrument and Crew Advisory System (EICAS) display, mounted at a location for convenient observation by the aircraft crew but that generally resides outside of the pilot's primary field-of-view. In still further embodiments, monitor <b>24</b> may be worn by one or more members of the flight crew.

0017Processor <b>22</b> includes one or more inputs operatively coupled to one or more air traffic data sources. During operation of display system <b>20,</b> the air traffic data sources continually provide processor <b>22</b> with navigational data pertaining to neighboring aircraft. In the exemplary embodiment illustrated in <figref idref="f0001">FIG. 1</figref>, the air traffic data sources include a wireless transceiver <b>28</b> and a navigation system <b>30,</b> which are operatively coupled to first and second inputs of processor <b>22,</b> respectively. Navigation system <b>30</b> includes an onboard radar 32 and various other onboard instrumentation <b>34,</b> such as a radio altimeter, a barometric altimeter, a global positioning system (GPS) unit, and the like. In a preferred embodiment, navigation system <b>30</b> may be included within a FMS; and onboard radar <b>32</b> may be included within a Terrain Awareness and Warning System (TAWS), such as an Enhanced Ground Proximity Warning System (EGPWS).

0018With continued reference to <figref idref="f0001">FIG. 1</figref>, wireless transceiver <b>28</b> is considered an air traffic data source in that transceiver <b>28</b> receives navigational data from external control sources and relays this data to processor <b>22.</b> For example, wireless transceiver <b>28</b> may receive Traffic Information Services-Broadcast (TIS-B) data from external control sources, such as satellite and various ground-based facilities including Air Traffic Control Centers, Terminal Radar Approach Control Facilities, Flight Service Stations, control towers, and the like. In addition, wireless transceiver <b>28</b> may periodically receive Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) data from neighboring aircraft. TIS-B data, ADS-B data, and other such external source data is preferably formatted to include air traffic state vector information, which may be utilized to determine a neighboring aircraft's current position. Furthermore, in accordance with embodiments of the present invention, the TIS-B data and/or the ADS-B may also be formatted to include additional information useful in determining other flight characteristics of the neighboring aircraft including the wake turbulence created by the neighboring aircraft, the neighboring aircraft's current flight plan, and the neighboring aircraft's error-compensated airspace as described more fully below in conjunction with <figref idref="f0002 f0003 f0004 f0005 f0006 f0007">FIGs. 2-7</figref>.

0019<figref idref="f0002">FIG. 2</figref> is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary main process <b>40</b> that may be carried out by processor <b>22</b> to generate a three dimensional display on monitor <b>24</b> including a visual representation of one or more flight characteristics pertaining to a neighboring aircraft, and <figref idref="f0003">FIG. 3</figref> is a snapshot of an exemplary three dimensional perspective display <b>50</b> that may be generated pursuant to main process <b>40.</b> To commence main process <b>40</b> (STEP <b>44,</b><figref idref="f0002">FIG. 2</figref>), processor <b>22</b> first determines the position of the closest neighboring aircraft utilizing data provided by at least one of the air traffic data sources, such as signals provided from onboard radar <b>32,</b> TIS-B data provided from one or more external control sources and received via wireless transceiver <b>28,</b> and/or ADS-B data provided from the neighboring aircraft and also received via wireless transceiver <b>28.</b> If the data received during STEP <b>44</b> indicates that a neighboring aircraft is not within a predetermined distance of the host aircraft (STEP <b>46</b><figref idref="f0002">FIG. 2</figref>), processor <b>22</b> returns to STEP <b>44</b> and the process repeats. If, instead, the data indicates that a neighboring aircraft is within a predetermined distance of the host aircraft, processor <b>22</b> generates a graphic indicative of the neighboring aircraft's current detected position on monitor <b>24</b> (STEP <b>48).</b> For example, and with reference to <figref idref="f0003">FIG. 3</figref>, processor <b>22</b> may generate a three dimensional rendered model <b>51</b> representing the neighboring aircraft's current detected position.

0020After generating a graphic indicative of the neighboring aircraft's current detected position (STEP <b>48,</b><figref idref="f0002">FIG. 2</figref>), processor <b>22</b> advances to STEP 52 wherein processor <b>22</b> models and generates a visual representation of at least one flight characteristic pertaining to the neighboring aircraft. To this end, processor <b>22</b> may execute one or more of the following algorithms during STEP <b>52:</b> (i) a neighboring aircraft wake turbulence algorithm <b>54;</b> (ii) a neighboring aircraft flight plan algorithm to <b>56;</b> and (iii) a neighboring aircraft error-compensated airspace algorithm <b>58.</b> As described below in conjunction with <figref idref="f0004">FIG. 4</figref>, neighboring aircraft wake turbulence algorithm <b>54</b> is utilized to model and generate a visual representation of the wake turbulence created by the neighboring aircraft; as described below in conjunction with <figref idref="f0005">FIG. 5</figref>, neighboring aircraft flight plan algorithm <b>56</b> is utilized to model and generate a visual representation of the immediate leg of the neighboring aircraft's current flight plan; and, as described below in conjunction with <figref idref="f0006">FIG. 6</figref>, neighboring aircraft error-compensated algorithm <b>58</b> is utilized to model and generate a visual representation of the neighboring aircraft's error-compensated airspace (i.e., the airspace in which the neighboring aircraft's current detection position should reside to ensure that the neighboring aircraft's actual position remains within the neighboring aircraft's currently assigned airspace).

0021<figref idref="f0004">FIG. 4</figref> illustrates, in greater detail, exemplary algorithm <b>54</b> that may be performed during STEP <b>52</b> of main process <b>40</b> (<figref idref="f0002">FIG. 2</figref>) to generate a visual representation of the wake turbulence created by the neighboring aircraft on monitor <b>24</b> (<figref idref="f0001">FIG. 1</figref>). After initializing algorithm <b>54</b> (STEP <b>60,</b><figref idref="f0004">FIG. 4</figref>), processor 22 determines if additional data indicative of the wake turbulence created by the neighboring aircraft is available from the air traffic data sources (STEP <b>62,</b><figref idref="f0004">FIG. 4</figref>). Wake turbulence data may include any data parameters useful in modeling the wake turbulence created by the neighboring aircraft; e.g., data indicative of the location, spread, ferocity, or other characteristics of the wake turbulence created by the neighboring aircraft. For example, the wake turbulence data received during STEP <b>62</b> may describe various physical characteristics of the neighboring aircraft, such as the neighboring aircraft's engine type (e.g., propeller or jet engine) and/or the neighboring aircraft's wing type (e.g., whether fixed wing or rotary wing, whether winglets are present, wing shape, wingspan, etc.). The wake turbulence data received during STEP <b>62</b> may also describe the current flight characteristics of the neighboring aircraft, such as the neighboring aircraft's current heading, speed, acceleration, and/or location. Notably, in certain embodiments, onboard radar <b>32</b> may be utilized to approximate a neighboring aircraft's size, heading, and/or speed even when external source data (e.g., ADS-B data provided from the neighboring aircraft or TIS-B data provided from an external control source) is currently unavailable. After receiving wake turbulence data during STEP <b>62,</b> processor <b>22</b> utilizes the wake turbulence data to construct a virtual model of the wake turbulence created by the neighboring aircraft (STEP <b>64,</b><figref idref="f0004">FIG. 4</figref>).

0022The foregoing has provided a list of various data parameters that may be received during STEP <b>62</b> and utilized to construct a virtual model of neighboring aircraft wake turbulence; however, it is emphasized that the foregoing list is non-exhaustive and that the wake turbulence data received during STEP <b>62</b> may include other information useful in predicting the wake turbulence created by the neighboring aircraft in addition to, or in lieu of, the data parameters listed above. For example, in an alternative group of embodiments, processor <b>22</b> may receive information identifying the neighboring aircraft's make and model during STEP <b>62.</b> Processor <b>22</b> may then utilize a two-dimensional look-up table to recall a predetermined wake turbulence model associated with the neighboring aircraft's particular make and model. In certain embodiments, processor <b>22</b> may determine the neighboring aircraft's make and model utilizing the neighboring aircraft's alphanumeric registration number (commonly referred as to the "tail number" or, within the United States, the Federal Aviation Administration "N number") as related by ADS-B data provided by the neighboring aircraft or by TIS-B data provided by a control source and received via wireless transceiver <b>28.</b>

0023If, during STEP <b>62,</b> processor <b>22</b> determines that the air traffic data sources have not provided any data indicative of the neighboring aircraft's wake turbulence, processor <b>22</b> assigns a default wake turbulence model to the neighboring aircraft (STEP <b>66,</b><figref idref="f0004">FIG. 4</figref>). After modeling the neighboring aircraft's wake turbulence (STEP <b>64,</b><figref idref="f0004">FIG. 4</figref>) or assigning a default wake turbulence model to the neighboring aircraft (STEP <b>66,</b><figref idref="f0004">FIG. 4</figref>), processor <b>22</b> may adjust the neighboring aircraft's wake turbulence model in accordance with weather conditions (STEP <b>68,</b><figref idref="f0004">FIG. 4</figref>). More specifically, processor <b>22</b> may gather data from the air traffic data sources or from instrumentation onboard the host aircraft indicative of current weather conditions, such as wind speed and direction, and adjust the neighboring aircraft's wake turbulence accordingly; e.g., if a strong tail wind is present with respect to the neighboring aircraft, the aft travel of the neighboring aircraft's wake turbulence model may be decreased as a function of the magnitude of the tail wind. In addition, processor <b>22</b> may utilize data regarding the neighboring aircraft's position with respect to terrain and adjust the neighboring aircraft's wake turbulence accordingly; e.g., to take into account ground effects.

0024To complete algorithm <b>54,</b> processor <b>22</b> generates a visual representation of the neighboring aircraft's wake turbulence model on monitor <b>24</b> (STEP <b>70,</b><figref idref="f0004">FIG. 4</figref>). Although the visual representation of the wake turbulence may be relatively realistic, it is generally preferred that the visual representation of the wake turbulence assumes the form of a relatively simple graphic to maintain display clarity. <figref idref="f0003">FIG. 3</figref> illustrates an exemplary wake turbulence graphic <b>72,</b> which assumes the form of a series of co-axial rings projecting aft of the neighboring aircraft. The co-axial rings increase in size and proximity to the ground as they move further from the aircraft's rear to emulate the typical flow pattern of air turbulence. In this particular example, wake turbulence graphic <b>72</b> generally represents the summation of all turbulent airflow (e.g., wingtip vortices, jet wash, prop wash, and the like) created by the neighboring aircraft. In alternative embodiments, the wake turbulence graphic may visually represent only the most significant component of the wake turbulence created by the neighboring aircraft, which will typically be the wingtip vortices. In still further embodiments, the wake turbulence graphic may visually represent only the wake turbulence created by the neighboring aircraft that is deemed potentially disruptive to the host aircraft. In embodiments wherein the wake turbulence graphic <b>72</b> comprises a series of co-axial rings, the intensity of the wake turbulence may be represented by the closeness of neighboring rings. Alternatively, a color coding scheme may be utilized to indicate the intensity of the wake turbulence; e.g., the portion of the wake turbulence corresponding to wake turbulence of the greatest intensity may be color coded red, the portion of the wake turbulence corresponding to wake turbulence of an intermediate intensity may be color coded yellow, and the portion of the wake turbulence corresponding to wake turbulence of a low intensity may be color coded green. After the performance of STEP <b>70,</b> processor <b>22</b> completes algorithm <b>54</b> and advances to STEP <b>112</b> of main process <b>40</b> (<figref idref="f0002">FIG. 2</figref>) as described more fully below.

0025<figref idref="f0005">FIG. 5</figref> illustrates an exemplary embodiment of neighboring aircraft flight plan algorithm <b>56</b> that may also be performed by process <b>22</b> during STEP <b>52</b> of main process <b>40</b> (<figref idref="f0002">FIG. 2</figref>). After commencing performance of algorithm <b>56</b> (STEP <b>74,</b><figref idref="f0005">FIG. 5</figref>), processor <b>22</b> determines if a baseline flight for the neighboring aircraft is available ((e.g., stored in a memory associated with processor <b>22</b> (STEP <b>76,</b><figref idref="f0005">FIG. 5</figref>)). If a baseline flight plan is not available (stored in memory), processor <b>22</b> constructs a baseline flight plan utilizing data provided from the air traffic data sources (STEP <b>78,</b><figref idref="f0005">FIG. 5</figref>); e.g., ADS-B data provided from the neighboring aircraft and/or TIS-B data provided by external control sources, such as ground stations. If a baseline flight plan for the neighboring aircraft is stored in memory, processor <b>22</b> checks for any updates to the neighboring aircraft's baseline flight plan as indicated by ADS-B data provided from the neighboring aircraft or by TIS-B data provided by a ground station or other external control source (STEP <b>80,</b><figref idref="f0005">FIG. 5</figref>). If available, processor <b>22</b> amends the neighboring aircraft baseline flight plan to accord with the received updates. In this manner, processor <b>22</b> may identify and visually notify the host aircraft's aircrew to recent alterations that have been implemented to the neighboring aircraft's baseline flight plan as a result of developing circumstances, such as weather conditions, traffic re-routing, flight crew request, onboard emergency, or control command issued from Air Traffic Control or the Federal Aviation Administration.

0026To complete algorithm <b>56</b> (<figref idref="f0005">FIG. 5</figref>), processor <b>22</b> generates a visual representation of at least a portion (e.g., the immediate leg) of the neighboring aircraft's current flight plan on monitor <b>24</b> (STEP <b>82,</b><figref idref="f0005">FIG. 5</figref>). With reference to <figref idref="f0003">FIG. 3</figref>, the visual representation of the immediate leg of the neighboring aircraft's flight plan may include a plurality of waypoint markets <b>84</b> connected by successive line segments <b>86.</b> Although not shown in <figref idref="f0003">FIG. 3</figref>, a graphic representation of the neighboring aircraft's immediate projected flight path may also be generated during STEP <b>82</b> based upon state vector information contained within TIS-B or ADS-B data received via wireless transceiver <b>28</b> as previously described. The graphical depiction of the flight plan could also be in the form of a 3-dimensional representation on the display. After the performance of STEP <b>82,</b> processor <b>22</b> completes algorithm <b>56</b> and advances to STEP <b>112</b> of main process <b>40</b> (<figref idref="f0002">FIG. 2</figref>) as described more fully below.

0027<figref idref="f0006">FIG. 6</figref> is flowchart illustrating an exemplary embodiment of neighboring aircraft error-compensated airspace algorithm <b>58</b> that may be performed in addition to, or in lieu of, the other algorithms performed during STEP <b>52</b> of main process <b>40</b> (<figref idref="f0002">FIG. 2</figref>); i.e., algorithm <b>54</b> described above in conjunction with <figref idref="f0004">FIG. 4</figref>, and algorithm <b>56</b> described above in conjunction with <figref idref="f0004">FIG. 4</figref>. After commencing performance of algorithm <b>58</b> (STEP <b>88,</b><figref idref="f0006">FIG. 6</figref>), processor <b>22</b> receives data from at least one air traffic data source indicative of the airspace currently assigned to the neighboring aircraft (STEP <b>90,</b><figref idref="f0006">FIG. 6</figref>). If the neighboring aircraft is flying within an airspace specified by a flight plan, processor <b>22</b> may receive data indicative of the neighboring aircraft's flight plan during STEP <b>90</b> (<figref idref="f0001">FIG. 1</figref>) and identify the neighboring aircraft's currently assigned airspace by establishing the particular segment of the airway in which the neighboring aircraft is expected to reside at the current time. In instances wherein an airway is not accounted for by a flight plan (e.g., as may occur during navaid or direct routing), processor <b>22</b> may identify the assigned airspace based upon the neighboring aircraft's flight rules, traffic congestion, the accuracy of data provided by ground-based navigational devices (e.g., distance measuring equipment), and other such criteria.

0028Next, at STEP <b>92</b> (<figref idref="f0006">FIG. 6</figref>), processor <b>22</b> attributes an error characteristic to the data source utilized to determine the neighboring aircraft's detected position during STEP <b>44</b> of main process <b>40</b> (<figref idref="f0002">FIG. 2</figref>). Processor <b>22</b> may attribute an error characteristic to the relevant data source by recalling (e.g., from a memory included within processor <b>22)</b> an error characteristic associated with the relevant position-determining data source. For example, if processor <b>22</b> utilizes data provided by onboard radar <b>32</b> to determine the host aircraft's detected position, processor <b>22</b> may utilize a two-dimensional lookup table to recall a pre-determined error characteristic associated with onboard radar <b>32</b> (e.g., ±100 vertical feet and ±50 horizontal feet). The error characteristic attributed to the air traffic data source during STEP <b>92</b> of algorithm <b>58</b> may be adjusted in relation to external criteria. For example, if the neighboring aircraft's current detected position was determined utilizing a global positioning system (GPS) unit deployed aboard the neighboring aircraft and subsequently broadcast to the host aircraft as ADS-B data, processor <b>22</b> may first attribute a pre-determined error characteristic to the GPS unit and then adjust the predetermined error characteristic in relation to the number of available satellites, the positioning of available satellites, weather conditions (e.g., humidity), and other such criteria. Alternatively, data indicative of an error characteristic may be included within the information wirelessly provided to processor <b>22</b> by an external control source or a neighboring aircraft.

0029After attributing an error characteristic to the air traffic data source utilized to estimate the neighboring aircraft's current position (STEP <b>92,</b><figref idref="f0006">FIG. 6</figref>), processor <b>22</b> establishes an error-compensated airspace as a function of the currently-assigned airspace and the error characteristic attributed to the data source (STEP <b>94,</b><figref idref="f0006">FIG. 6</figref>). <figref idref="f0007">FIG. 7</figref> conceptually illustrates one manner in which processor <b>22</b> may establish the error-compensated airspace during STEP <b>96.</b> In the context of <figref idref="f0007">FIG. 7</figref>, larger wireframe box <b>98</b> represents the outer boundaries of the aircraft's currently-assigned airspace, smaller wireframe box <b>106</b> represents the outer boundaries of the error-compensated airspace, disc-shaped marker <b>100</b> represents the aircraft's expected nominal position, and line segments <b>102</b> and waypoint markers <b>104</b> collectively represent a leg of the aircraft's planned flight path. As can be seen in <figref idref="f0007">FIG. 7</figref>, the expected nominal position (disc-shaped marker <b>100)</b> resides at a given location along neighboring aircraft's planned flight path (line segments <b>102)</b> and is encompassed by the error-compensated airspace (smaller wireframe box <b>106).</b> The error-compensated airspace (smaller wireframe box <b>106)</b> is, in turn, encompassed by the currently-assigned airspace (larger wireframe box <b>98).</b> In this particular example, the aircraft's assigned airspace and the error-compensated airspace each have a boxed (i.e., a regular hexahedron) geometry. This example notwithstanding, the currently-assigned airspace (larger wireframe box <b>98)</b> and the error-compensated airspace (smaller wireframe box <b>106)</b> may assume other polygonal shapes, as well as spherical and conical shapes, in other contexts. Furthermore, the error-compensated airspace may not always assume the same form as does the currently-assigned airspace.

0030As previously stated, and as indicated in <figref idref="f0007">FIG. 7</figref> by arrows <b>108,</b> the neighboring aircraft's error-compensated airspace (smaller wireframe box <b>106)</b> is derived as a function of the currently assigned airspace (larger wireframe box <b>98)</b> taken in conjunction with the error characteristic attributed to data source or sources utilized to estimate the neighboring aircraft's current position. To continue the simplified example introduced above, if the position of the host aircraft is detected utilizing onboard radar <b>32,</b> and processor <b>22</b> attributes an error characteristic to onboard radar <b>32</b> of ±100 vertical feet and ±50 horizontal feet, then processor <b>22</b> may establish the outer boundaries of the error-compensated airspace in the following manner. If the total vertical clearance of the assigned airspace is 1,000 feet, processor <b>22</b> will determine the upper boundary of the assigned airspace to be 500 feet above the aircraft's expected nominal position, as taken along a first axis. Processor <b>22</b> will further determine the upper boundary of the error-compensated airspace to be 100 feet below this position or, stated differently, 400 feet above the expected nominal position of the host aircraft, as taken along the first axis. Similarly, processor <b>22</b> may determine the lower boundary of the error-compensated airspace to be 100 feet above the lower boundary of the assigned airspace or 400 feet below the expected nominal position of the host aircraft, as taken along the first axis. Furthermore, if the forward-aft length of the assigned airspace is 10,000 feet, processor <b>22</b> may determine the forward and aft boundaries of the error-compensated airspace to each be 4,450 feet from the expected nominal position of the host aircraft, as taken along a second axis perpendicular to the first axis. Finally, if the left-right width of the assigned airspace is 5,000 feet, processor <b>22</b> may determine the left and right boundaries of the error-compensated airspace to each be 2,450 feet from the aircraft's expected nominal position, as taken along a third axis orthogonal to the first and second axes.

0031To complete algorithm <b>58</b> (<figref idref="f0006">FIG. 6</figref>), processor <b>22</b> generates a visual representation of the neighboring aircraft's error-compensated airspace on monitor <b>24</b> (STEP <b>96,</b><figref idref="f0006">FIG. 6</figref>). For example, and as indicated in <figref idref="f0003">FIG. 3</figref>, the outer boundaries of neighboring aircraft's error-compensated airspace may be visually indicated by three dimensional wireframe box <b>110.</b> Furthermore, at least a portion of the spatial volume contained within wireframe box <b>110</b> may be shaded or semi-opaque; e.g., the entire volume of the error-compensated airspace may be shaded or semi-opaque. Of course, other symbology may also be employed; e.g., in alternative embodiments, only the outer surfaces of the error-compensated airspace may be shaded or semi-opaque.

0032After performing one or more of algorithms <b>54, 56,</b> and <b>58</b> during STEP <b>52</b> of main process <b>40</b> (<figref idref="f0002">FIG. 2</figref>), processor <b>22</b> advances to STEP <b>112.</b> During STEP <b>112,</b> processor <b>22</b> produces on monitor <b>24</b> (<figref idref="f0001">FIG. 1</figref>) additional graphics included in the graphical display. The graphics produced on monitor <b>24</b> during STEP <b>112</b> will inevitably vary amongst different embodiments. In the exemplary case of three dimensional perspective display <b>50</b> (<figref idref="f0003">FIG. 3</figref>), processor 22 may generate on monitor <b>24</b> various navigational symbols including a flight path symbol <b>115,</b> which indicates the track of the host aircraft (i.e., the direction in which the aircraft is actually traveling), and an attitude symbol <b>117</b> (e.g., two horizontal marks representing the aircraft wings), which indicates the host aircraft's attitude with respect to the heading angle. Furthermore, processor <b>22</b> may generate on monitor <b>24</b> three dimensional rendered or "synthetic" terrain, such as mountain range graphic <b>119</b> and horizon graphic <b>121.</b>

0033Next, at STEP <b>114</b> (<figref idref="f0002">FIG. 2</figref>), processor <b>22</b> establishes the host aircraft's time-projected flight path utilizing data provided from navigation system <b>30.</b> Processor <b>22</b> may determine the host aircraft's time-projected flight path as a function of the host aircraft's current flight parameters (e.g., heading and speed), the host aircraft's flight plan, and wind conditions. Processor <b>22</b> then advances to STEP <b>116</b> of process <b>40</b> wherein processor <b>22</b> determines if the host aircraft's time-projected flight path transects one or more of the neighboring aircraft flight characteristics established during STEP <b>52</b> via the performance of algorithms <b>54, 56,</b> and/or <b>58.</b> If the host aircraft's time-projected flight path does not transect any of the neighboring aircraft flight characteristics generated during STEP <b>52,</b> processor <b>22</b> advances to STEP <b>118</b> described below. If, instead, the host aircraft's time-projected flight path transects one or more of the neighboring aircraft's flight characteristics, processor <b>22</b> generates a first alert (STEP <b>120,</b><figref idref="f0002">FIG. 2</figref>). The first alert may be visual, audible, and/or haptic and preferably indicates which of the neighboring aircraft flight characteristics the host aircraft's projected flight path transects. For example, the first alert may include an alteration in the appearance of visual representation of the particular flight characteristic of transected by the host aircraft's projected flight path; e.g., if the host aircraft's time-projected flight path transects the wake turbulence created by the neighboring aircraft, processor may cause wake turbulence graphic <b>72</b> to flash or change to a first warming color (e.g., red). Alternatively, the first alert may be text message such as "WAKE TURBULENCE WARNING," displayed on monitor <b>24</b> (<figref idref="f0001">FIG. 1</figref>). After generating the first alert (STEP <b>120,</b><figref idref="f0002">FIG. 2</figref>), processor <b>22</b> returns to STEP <b>44</b> and main process <b>40</b> is repeated.

0034If, during STEP <b>120,</b> processor <b>22</b> determines that the host aircrafts' time-projected flight path does not transect any of the neighboring aircraft's flight characteristics, processor <b>22</b> next determines whether the host aircraft's time-projected flight path comes within a predetermined distance of any of the neighboring aircraft's flight characteristics (STEP <b>118,</b><figref idref="f0002">FIG. 2</figref>). If the host aircraft's time-projected flight path does not come within the predetermined distance of any of the neighboring aircraft's flight characteristics, processor <b>22</b> advances to STEP <b>44</b> and repeats performance of main process <b>42.</b> However, if the host aircraft's time-projected flight path comes within the predetermined distance of the neighboring aircraft's flight characteristics, processor <b>22</b> generates a second alert indicating which of the neighboring aircraft flight characteristics has been identified as posing a low priority threat (STEP <b>122,</b><figref idref="f0002">FIG. 2</figref>). Like the first alert, the second alert may be visual, audible, and/or haptic. However, the second alert need not convey the same level of urgency as does the first alert. In a preferred embodiment, the second alert includes alteration in the appearance of the graphic representing the appropriate neighboring aircraft flight characteristic; if the host aircraft's projected flight path transects the wake turbulence created by the neighboring aircraft, processor may cause wake turbulence graphic <b>72</b> to change to a second warming color (e.g., yellow). Processor <b>22</b> then returns to STEP <b>44,</b> and the process is repeated. Notably, in alternative embodiments, warning alerts may also be generated based upon the proximity of the host aircraft's time-projected error-compensated airspace relative to the neighboring aircraft flight characteristic or characteristics; as one example, if the host aircraft's time-projected error-compensated airspace overlaps with the neighboring aircraft's error-compensated airspace, a high priority alert may be generated.

0035The foregoing exemplary embodiment was discussed above in conjunction with a three dimensional display generated as a perspective view originating from the host aircraft's cockpit; however, embodiments of the foregoing method may also be utilized to generate a three dimensional isometric display originating from various other vantage points (e.g., from conceptual chase plane located outside of the host aircraft's error-compensated airspace) or a two dimensional display, such as moving map display. Further emphasizing this point, <figref idref="f0008">FIG. 8</figref> illustrates an exemplary two dimensional moving map display <b>132</b> that may be generated on monitor <b>24</b> (<figref idref="f0001">FIG. 1</figref>) pursuant the performance to main process <b>40</b> (<figref idref="f0002">FIG. 2</figref>). As can be seen in <figref idref="f0008">FIG. 8</figref>, moving map display <b>130</b> includes: (i) a neighboring aircraft graphic <b>132</b> representing the current detected position of a neighboring aircraft and generated during STEP <b>48</b> of main process <b>40,</b> (ii) a wake turbulence graphic <b>134</b> visually representing the wake turbulence created by the neighboring aircraft (more specifically, two sets of dashed lines representing the wingtip vortices) and generated during STEP <b>52</b> of main process <b>40</b> via the performance of neighboring aircraft wake turbulence algorithm <b>54,</b> (iii) a visual representation of the current leg of the neighboring aircraft's flight plan as indicated by waypoint markers <b>136</b> and line segments <b>138</b> and generated during STEP <b>52</b> of main process <b>40</b> via the performance of neighboring aircraft flight plan algorithm <b>56,</b> and (iv) a projected flight path graphic <b>140</b> indicating the neighboring aircraft's immediate projected flight path and also generated during STEP 52 of main process <b>40.</b> Moving map display <b>130</b> also includes the following graphics, each of which may be produced on monitor <b>24</b> during STEP <b>112</b> of main process <b>40:</b> (i) a host aircraft graphic <b>142</b> indicating the current detected position of the host aircraft, (ii) a visual representation of the current leg of the host aircraft's flight plan as indicated by waypoint markers <b>144</b> and line segments <b>146,</b> and (iii) a range ring graphic <b>148</b> visually indicating the general scale of moving map display <b>130.</b>

0036In view of the foregoing, there has been provided an exemplary embodiment of an avionics display system and method for visually expressing flight characteristics pertaining to neighboring aircraft in an intuitive and readily comprehendible manner. In the above-described exemplary embodiments, the neighboring flight characteristics included the wake turbulence created by a neighboring aircraft, the neighboring aircraft's current flight path, and the neighboring aircraft's error-compensated airspace; i.e., the airspace in which the neighboring aircraft's detected position should reside to ensure that the neighboring aircraft's actual position remains within the neighboring aircraft's currently-assigned airspace. While the foregoing exemplary embodiment was described above in the context of a fully functioning computer system (i.e., avionics display system <b>20</b> shown in <figref idref="f0001">FIG. 1</figref>), those skilled in the art will recognize that the mechanisms of the present invention are capable of being distributed as a program product (i.e., an avionics display program) and, furthermore, that the teachings of the present invention apply to the program product regardless of the particular type of computer-readable media (e.g., floppy disc, hard drive, memory card, optical disc, etc.) employed to carry-out its distribution. Furthermore, although described above in the context of an aircraft, embodiments of the method and system are equally applicable to spacecraft. Furthermore, although described above in the context of an in-flight aircraft, embodiments of the method and system are equally applicable to all phases of flight including takeoff, climb-out, final approach, and landing.

0037While at least one exemplary embodiment has been presented in the foregoing Detailed Description, it should be appreciated that a vast number of variations exist. It should also be appreciated that the exemplary embodiment or exemplary embodiments are only examples, and are not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or configuration of the invention in any way. Rather, the foregoing Detailed Description will provide those skilled in the art with a convenient road map for implementing an exemplary embodiment of the invention. It being understood that various changes may be made in the function and arrangement of elements described in an exemplary embodiment without departing from the scope of the invention as set-forth in the appended claims.