Abstract: A method for automatically generating weather alerts in disclosed. Weather related data is automatically collected and processed to detect the presence of storm cells, their location, direction and speed. Alerts are automatically generated when necessary. These alerts contain information related to the nature of the storm cell, its location, the specific geographic areas likely to be affected by the storm cell, and the storm cell's expected time of arrival at each specific geographic area.

Abstract: To improve the quality of the raster scan display on a video monitor or two-dimensional infrared satellite cloud imagery so as to provide it with a three-dimensional appearance, the satellite data is computer processed to first convert from satellite image to Cartesian coordinates and then combined with localized weather information obtained from ground observations and radiosonde data, such weather information including temperatures, humidity readings, pressures and other earth conditions at gridded locations within predetermined global regions. In this fashion, the satellite cloud base and cloud top temperatures are determined and converted into altitude profiles at each of 640.times.480 pixel locations comprising the satellite imagery. The resulting raster scan bit stream is representative of a 3-D display of the cloud formations. By using time-lapse animation, a four-dimensional presentation, i.e., one including time as a factor, can be displayed.

Abstract: A computerized system for examining single engine performance capabilities and developing alternate routes/routings for two-engine aircraft in compliance with FAR 121.19 (driftdown, one engine inoperative) such that an attendant loss of altitude will not result in the aircraft dropping below a net flight path altitude and clearance distance with respect to the earth's surface along a given route between a flight originating point and a destination. Included as a part of the computation are the radius of action fuel capabilities which takes into consideration the "maximum continuous thrust", the power demands on the remaining engine, air density-temperature change attendant with altitude loss, and real time wind conditions.