Abstract: A method and system supporting seamless 3-dimensional operations in a multi-dimensional environment using orbiting satellite compatible coordinate references and databases. The system includes a control and management element and an aircraft/surface vehicle element. The two elements utilize a common worldwide coordinate reference frame and a common time reference for its operation. Precise collision detection, navigation and 3-dimensional situational awareness functions are performed using precise vector processing algorithms in combination compatible databases. Seamless air and ground operations are supported in such a fashion that the overall processing mathematics are directly applicable anywhere around the globe, only the specific databases need change for any given site. No regional distance scaling corrections or discontinuity compensations are required from site to site anywhere around the globe. Such a system greatly simplifies the operation of airports and other 4-dimensional environments.

Abstract: A GNSS Based Multi-Dimensional Control and Management System for vehicles operating in a multi-dimensional environment is disclosed. GNSS compatible techniques provide for a seamless airport independent four (4) dimensional vehicular management capability. The system utilizes precise 3-dimensional maps, the Earth Centered Earth Fixed (ECEF) WGS-84 coordinate reference frame, local coordinate frames such as local and state plane grids, zone-based management processing, automated airport lighting control, collision prediction and avoidance processing, 4-dimensional waypoint navigation, and air traffic control and vehicle situational awareness through global management processes that allow for the safe and efficient management of an airport in the air and one the ground. The management methods and processes are also applicable to vehicles and aircraft operating in the airport space envelope as well as other remote user sites with or without the assistance of the air traffic controller.