Publications

A series of flight tests were conducted to evaluate the collision avoidance system known as Intermittent Positive Control (subsequently re-named Automatic Traffic Advisory and Resolution Service, ATARS). These tests involved both professional test pilots and subject pilots selected from the aviation community. This report includes analysis of the collision avoidance algorithm, pilot visual acquisition performance, and pilot reaction to avoidance instructions.

Intermittent Positive Control, an automated aircraft collision avoidance system requiring the participation of the aircraft pilots involved, is being evaluated in a series of live flight tests. This document provides an interim summary of the results obtained in these flight tests. Results are given for IPC algorithm design evaluation flights (34) and for pilot interaction evaluation flights (14) flown from Hanscom Field, Bedford, Massachusetts between February and October, 1975.

Intermittent Positive Control is an automated aircraft collision avoidance system requiring the participation of the aircraft pilots involved. The operational interface between pilots and the IPC system is being evaluated in a series of live flight tests. The Lincoln Laboratory DABS Experimental Facility, augmented to include the IPC function, is the test bed for these evaluation flights. This document described the objectives and methods of the IPC flight testing being conducted by Lincoln Laboratory.

The issues in the dual lane runway problem were investigated via computer real time (man in the loop) and fast time (no human input during the simulation run) simulations in order to identify a dual lane runway configuration and determine operation strategies. The real time experiments were conducted using experienced ATC controllers and a pilot to observe the situation at interactive graphics CRT displays. Headsets and microphones were utilized to permit the normal controller/pilot interchanges. Flight strips as used in control tower cabs were employed to further simulate controller workload. Based on information gained during early real time controller experiments, a programmed controller concept (fast time) was adopted. A series of dual lane runway computer simulation experiments were performed to investigate the pertinent dual lane issues: centerline spacing, arrival/departure preference, parallel taxiway, threshold stagger, and hiqh speed exits. In addition, time was spent analyzing operational high density airport terminal facilities. Airport administrative and operations personnel were interviewed to obtain their views on high density operations and the dual lane concept. Peak rush hour periods were sought out to detenTIine control strategies employed indirecting peak period traffic. Air crews utilizing these high density airport terminals were interviewed in the course of their operations into and out of these major hub airports.