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Integrated Multi-Mode Automation for Trajectory Based Operations
Completed
TRL 4 (started at 2, targeting 4)
Description
Air Traffic Management's lack of support for aircraft with different capabilities is a long standing and persistent issue that can limit the ability of the National Airspace System (NAS) to take full advantage of advanced aircraft capabilities. To fully utilize the variety of Trajectory Based Operations (TBO) concepts planned for the NAS, some of which utilize advanced aircraft capabilities for implementing trajectories, an air traffic controller (ATC) must be able to simultaneously support a variety of TBO concepts using different aircraft automation systems to fly the desired trajectory. To accomplish this, the ATC needs automation support to simplify the inherent complexities of using a variety of different BO concepts and trajectory implementation strategies and provide the controller with the tools needed to execute the desired trajectories, maintain situational awareness at all times, and support off-nominal situations. IMMA (Integrated Multi-Mode Automation) provides the automation to simplify the inherent complexities of using multiple TBO concepts by focusing the controller interactions on common core functions (e.g., the initial clearance, compliance monitoring) that all TBO concepts must support.
Benefits
Support NASA TBO research using IMMA DST to allow study of how to utilize advanced TBO automation system for future ATC (2030+ timeframe) integrated with current TBO technologies.
- FAA - Implement IMMA Decision Support Tool (DST) to allow TBFM automation platform to implement multiple TBO technologies currently available but not currently integrated into the National Airspace System (NAS) - Airline Operations Centers - IMMA Decision Support Tool to assist Airline Dispatchers who must now manually integrate many data sources
Details
| Technology area | Propulsion Systems > Aero Propulsion > Integrated Systems and Ancillary Technologies |
| Program | Small Business Innovation Research/Small Business Tech Transfer (SBIR/STTR) |
| Lead organization | Architecture Technology Corporation, Eden Prairie, MN |
| Start date | 2017-04-14 |
| End date | 2019-04-13 |
Project contacts
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How to get involved
This is early/mid-stage (TRL 4) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.
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