High Performance Conflict Detection and Resolution for Multi-Dimensional Objects

Abstract

4D-trajectory based operations is one of the big enabler for future high-capacity, efficient and environmentally friendly air traffic management. Every aircraft is scheduled to fly along a predicted 4D path that can be calculated from gate to gate pre-flight. 4D trajectories are optimized individually for aircraft taking into account performance models, routes, weather conditions and airline preferences. However, individual calculation of trajectories does not ensure conflict-freeness with surrounding traffic. This work describes an efficient algorithm detecting conflicts for large traffic scenarios. Conflict detection is performed between aircraft trajectories, also taking into account environmental constraints like severe weather zones and restricted areas. Basic idea is an N-dimensional bisection of airspace allowing a significant reduction of complexity. Thus, potential conflicts are identified very fast. A slower high precision conflict check is performed on potential conflicts only. On average, conflicts of one 4D-trajectory can be detected in a European traffic sample holding more than 33 000 flights in less than 2.5 ms on standard PC hardware. Fast detection times are predestined for trial-and-error conflict resolution. Different conflict resolution methods are illustrated, taking into account the major key performance areas in air traffic management, e. g., safety, efficiency, and predictability. As an example, deconfliction is performed on an optimized version of aforementioned European traffic sample holding 33 000 flights.