Enhanced Functions for a Parallel Multicore Ground Proximity Warning System

Abstract

The German Aerospace Center (DLR) is currently developing a Terrain Awareness and Warning System (TAWS) utilizing the worst case execution time (WCET)-Aware PaRallelization of Model-Based Applications for HeteroGeneOus Parallel Systems (ARGO) approach. The basic functions of the TAWS were modelled based on the Enhanced Ground Proximity Warning System (EGPWS) by Honeywell which is installed in DLR's research aircraft ATRA. Moreover, beyond the existing capabilities, "Enhanced" functions are being implemented in order to demonstrate the possibilities that become available through the use of parallelization for multicore platforms and to investigate new approaches to improve the protection against Controlled Flight into Terrain (CFIT) accidents. After introducing the parallel multicore TAWS development, this paper describes the enhanced functions that make use of the Electronic Flight Instrument System (EFIS) for displaying a predictor symbol that represents the aircraft's future position as well as possible terrain conflicts.