Abstract: A method for wireless communication between an aircraft and a passenger boarding bridge includes assigning an aircraft to a parking space adjacent to the passenger boarding bridge. The aircraft includes a signal-transmitting module for use in automated bridge alignment operations and has a unique aircraft identifier code associated therewith. The step of assigning includes providing the unique aircraft identifier code to an automated bridge alignment system of the passenger boarding bridge. Signals transmitted between the aircraft and the passenger boarding bridge are encoded with the unique aircraft identifier code for transmission between the aircraft and the automated bridge alignment system.

Abstract: A vehicle guidance and parking system that continuously guides the operator of a vehicle to a pre-determined parking position by using two laser beams impinging on a forward or rearward surface. The two lasers beams project to a substantially vertical surface to which a vertical line has been applied and the vehicle is guided by the operator such that the two laser beams are kept equidistantly horizontally centered around the line during the vehicle approach to maintain the correct lateral position in the pre-determined parking position. When the two laser beams converge on the vertical line, the vehicle is longitudinally positioned to the pre-determined parking position. Temperature compensation, due to the wide temperature of potential use range, is provided by the laser emitting device used in the vehicle guidance and parking system.

Abstract: Method and device for assisting in the navigation of an airplane on the ground at an airport. The device (1) comprises means (14) for transmitting an alarm signal, at least if an airplane position is not on a routing zone of the airport or if the orientation bearing-wise of the airplane on this routing zone does not correspond to a particular traffic direction.

Abstract: A system for aligning an aircraft-engaging end of a passenger boarding bridge to a doorway along a lateral surface of an aircraft includes an imager disposed at a location that is remote from the aircraft for capturing an image of a portion of the lateral surface of the aircraft and for providing image data relating to the captured image. A receiver is located aboard the aircraft for receiving a signal including the image data relating to the captured image. In addition, a display device also is located aboard the aircraft and in communication with the receiver, the display device for receiving the image data from the receiver and for displaying to a user aboard the aircraft the image data in a human intelligible form. A user interface located aboard the aircraft is provided for receiving from the user an input signal including an indication of a location of the doorway relative to the displayed image data, and for providing data relating to the input signal.

Abstract: A system to identify junctions of restricted areas to approaching vehicles, including at least one warning signal generator adapted to transmit the warning signal into areas traversed by the vehicles approaching the restricted areas, a receiver in each of the vehicles receiving the transmitted warning signals when the vehicle approaches one of the restricted areas, and an alarm responsive to the warning signal, which produces an alarm signal detectable by a vehicle operator.

Abstract: A method for guiding an aircraft toward a stopping position within an aircraft stand of an airport comprises using a visual docking guidance system (VDGS) associated with the aircraft stand for displaying first instructions for guiding the aircraft toward the stopping position. The first instructions are based on an initial determination of the aircraft-type and on first sensed positional information of the aircraft. Aircraft-type data that is stored in a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag carried by the aircraft is then read. Using the VDGS, second instructions are displayed for guiding the aircraft toward the stopping position based on the aircraft-type data and based on second sensed positional information of the aircraft.

Abstract: The field of the invention is that of optoelectronic taxiing-aid devices for aircraft, comprising a so-called head-up display enabling information to be presented in the visual field of the pilot. It applies more particularly to large civilian aircraft of the Boeing 747 or Airbus A380 type. The purpose of the invention is to present, in the display, a set of ergonomic symbols for informing the pilot of the path to be followed in a turn and the exact situation of his vehicle on the taxiway, enabling him to taxi in total safety, including in bad weather conditions. These symbols comprise lateral safety marks, represented by posts of variable height, representing the limit of the taxiway, positioned at regular intervals and located either side of the center line of the taxiway and equidistant from the latter. When the taxiing conditions are such that these posts are no longer visible in the display, a view from above of the situation of the aircraft on the taxiway is displayed.

Abstract: A system for conveying a gate assignment at an airfield to an air crew in an aircraft includes: (a) a ground station; (b) a mobile station carried with the aircraft and configured for communicative coupling with the ground station; and (c) a display unit carried with the aircraft and coupled with the mobile station. The ground station transmits the gate assignment to the mobile station. The display unit receives the gate assignment from the mobile station and presents a graphic representation of the gate assignment to the air crew.

Abstract: The present invention is a method and system of aircraft surface operations guidance on a head up display. An aircraft surface operations guidance method includes the following steps. At time t1, a taxi guidance cue and a trend vector are displayed on a head up display of an aircraft. The taxi guidance cue represents a desired position of an aircraft control point of the aircraft at time t2. The trend vector represents a predicted path of the aircraft control point from time t1 to time t2 based on a state of the aircraft at time t1. The trend vector includes a tip representing a predicted position of the aircraft control point at time t2. The tip is maintained within the taxi guidance cue so that the aircraft control point may reach the desired position at time t2.

Abstract: Many day-to-day driving situations require that an operator of a motor vehicle guide the motor vehicle along a specific course and bring the vehicle to a stop at a specific location, for example in a parking bay or at a loading platform. To assist a vehicle operator in such situations, a method and a suitable device for implementing this method, include detecting the potential target objects in the image data of an image sensor and identifying the potential target objects as potential destinations in a multi-stage exclusionary method, whereupon a trajectory describing an optimized travel path is computed at least in relation to the most proximate destination. By using the multi-stage exclusionary method according to the present invention, it is possible to reliably identify potential destinations in complex image scenarios solely on the basis of their geometric form, even when the destinations have not been encoded by specific symbols.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for displaying appropriate identifiers on aircraft taxiways on an aircraft flight deck display. Data representative of taxiway segments, in which each taxiway segment at least partially defines the aircraft taxiway, are supplied. At least a portion of the taxiway segments that define the aircraft taxiway are rendered on the flight deck display. The rendered taxiway segments include identified segments and non-identified segments. The identified segments have the identifier associated with the aircraft taxiway rendered thereon. The non-identified segments do not have the identifier associated with the aircraft taxiway rendered thereon.

Abstract: A vision system and method for use on a refueling tanker to assist a boom operator in performing an airborne refueling operation on a receiver aircraft. The system includes a digital camera system, a sensor subsystem and a processing system that receives information from the sensor system and the camera system. The processing system includes video processing capability and a graphics generator that generates a two dimensional graphics symbology set that is displayed on a display terminal along with a real time image of the boom and the receiver aircraft. The graphics symbology set includes a plurality of graphic symbols that indicate the position of the refueling boom and the position of the receiver aircraft relative to a desired contact zone within which physical contact between the boom tip and a refueling receptacle on the receiver aircraft can be made. The graphics symbology set also makes use of various colors to indicate warning conditions to the boom operator.

Abstract: A vision system and method for use on a refueling tanker to assist a boom operator in performing an airborne refueling operation on a receiver aircraft. The system includes a digital camera system, a sensor subsystem and a processing system that receives information from the sensor system and the camera system. The processing system includes video processing capability and a graphics generator that generates a two dimensional graphics symbology set that is displayed on a display terminal along with a real time image of the boom and the receiver aircraft. The graphics symbology set includes a plurality of graphic symbols that indicate the position of the refueling boom and the position of the receiver aircraft relative to a desired contact zone within which physical contact between the boom tip and a refueling receptacle on the receiver aircraft can be made. The graphics symbology set also makes use of various colors to indicate warning conditions to the boom operator.

Abstract: A system for multi-modal cockpit interface during surface operation of an aircraft comprises a head tracking device, a processing element, and a full-color head worn display. The processing element is configured to receive head position information from the head tracking device, to receive current location information of the aircraft, and to render a virtual airport scene corresponding to the head position information and the current aircraft location. The full-color head worn display is configured to receive the virtual airport scene from the processing element and to display the virtual airport scene. The current location information may be received from one of a global positioning system or an inertial navigation system.

Abstract: According to an example embodiment, a method includes receiving data about an aircraft that is moving on a surface using at least a first wheel, the data descriptive of physical characteristics of the aircraft, calculating a first path of the first wheel along the surface using the data, and displaying the first path in relation to a boundary between a first area of the surface and a second area of the surface, the first area safe for the aircraft, the second area unsafe for the aircraft.

Abstract: A system and method are provided for the efficient entry and display of ground taxi routes on an electronic airport map display. The system may include a touchscreen entry device, a display device, a computer, a map database, a vehicle position sensor and a transmitter/receiver. The system may be configured to check the ground taxi entries to ensure that each successive segment is contiguous with the last or next segment, and any gaps or discontinuities in the displayed taxi instructions may be annunciated. An intelligent display of next possible segments may be incorporated into the system.

Abstract: A rearview system component for a vehicle including a housing for attachment to the vehicle, a camera positioned in the housing to have a first axial direction, a first sensor positioned in the housing to have a second axial direction, and a second sensor positioned in the housing to have a third axial direction, wherein the first, second and third axial directions are in different directions.

Abstract: A system for aligning one end of a passenger loading bridge to an aircraft having a doorway is provided. A transmitter is disposed within a space of a side-wall of an aircraft, the side-wall including an inner wall defining an interior surface of the side-wall and an outer wall defining an exterior surface of the side-wall, the inner wall and the outer wall disposed in a spaced-apart arrangement one relative to the other, so as to define the space therebetween. The transmitter is for providing an electromagnetic signal including a homing signal for use during an operation for aligning the one end of the passenger loading bridge to the doorway of the aircraft. A receiver is disposed about a point having a known location relative to the one end of the passenger loading bridge, for receiving the electromagnetic signal transmitted from the transmitter, and for providing an electrical output signal relating to the electromagnetic signal.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method and system for aligning a door of an aircraft to a passenger loading bridge. A final parking position of the aircraft is defined as being immediately adjacent to a position of the passenger loading bridge, such that when the aircraft is stopped at the final parking position, the passenger loading bridge requires only a telescopic extension of less than about 1 meter to complete the alignment operation. To this end, an indicating device that works cooperatively with an aircraft-engaging end of the passenger loading bridge is provided for displaying human intelligible instructions for use by a pilot of the aircraft to guide the aircraft to the final parking position.

Abstract: An automatic controlling apparatus of a boarding bridge to match a position of the boarding bridge with an airplane, includes: a light irradiator, an optical sensor, and an actuator. The light irradiator irradiates a light to the airplane. The optical sensor can detect a reflection wave of the light reflected from the airplane. The actuator moves the boarding bridge such that a position of the boarding bridge is matched with the airplane, based on a detection result of the reflection wave detected by the optical sensor.

Abstract: A guidance system guides a driver to drive a service vehicle, such as a baggage loading vehicle, into a prescribed parking position adjacent to an aircraft without colliding with the aircraft. The guidance system includes at least two indicator markers, preferably marker lights, arranged spaced apart from one another on the aircraft. The two markers present a prescribed visual pattern, e.g. an alignment of the two markers, along a line of sight defining a safe approach path. If the driver steers along this safe approach path so that he sees the prescribed visual pattern of the markers, then a collision between the vehicle and the aircraft will be avoided. Alternatively, a projector projects a light pattern such as a projected boundary marker line onto the ground surface adjacent to the aircraft to mark a safe collision-free approach path.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for tracking aircraft wingtip position during taxi operations to prevent wingtip ground incursion. A patterned illumination source is attached proximal the wingtips to project a readily discernable target pattern in the direction of taxi travel. At least a portion of the target pattern is reflected off of any obstructions that lie in the straight-line direction of travel, such that the pilot can maneuver to avoid striking the obstruction. By way of example, the patterned illumination source comprises a laser module positioned with the navigation and/or strobe light of the aircraft. The device may be retrofitted to existing aircraft without additional wiring with the control of activation being selectable via power cycling of existing aircraft lighting controls. One aspect of the invention provides a tip tracking module bulb that may be retrofitted into existing light sockets to simplify system installation.

Abstract: Pilot Director Lights (PDLs) mounted on the exterior of a refueling tanker aircraft (10) utilize light emitting diodes (LEDs) (213) as a light source to provide visual information to the pilot of an approaching aircraft (30). The PDLs may include a plurality of light emitting devices (200) arranged in arrays (123 and 124), each light emitting device (200) being configured to illuminate a particular symbol/pattern. Each light emitting device (200) may include a plurality of modular banks (210) of LEDs (213), which are configured to emit light through a clear lens (230) within a particular field of view. The PDL arrays (123 and 124) may provide visual feedback regarding the elevational and fore-aft position of the approaching aircraft (30) relative to the boom envelope (14) of the tanker aircraft (10).

Abstract: A method and system for parking aircraft at an airport terminal having a plurality of passenger loading bridges is disclosed. According to the invention, a parking space is defined at the terminal for an aircraft of a known type, such that at least a desired clearance is maintained between the aircraft of the known type and all other aircraft parked at the terminal. To this end, a passenger loading bridge associated with the defined parking space is moved so as to accommodate the known type of an aircraft at the defined parking space while maintaining the at least a desired clearance to all other aircraft parked at the terminal. In particular, at different instances of time for different instances of the known type of an aircraft, the associated passenger loading bridge is moved to substantially different locations to accommodate different defined parking spaces.

Abstract: An aircraft ground power unit (GPU) is equipped with a device that warns personnel with a flashing light and a siren when the unsafe condition exists of the GPU being connected to both the tug and the aircraft at the same time. Similar devices can be used on other towed vehicles that can cause damage to vehicles or structures if towed away while still attached to the vehicle or structure.

Abstract: A method is provided for controlling operations in a video guidance sensor system wherein images of laser output signals transmitted by the system and returned from a target are captured and processed by the system to produce data used in tracking of the target. Six modes of operation are provided as follows: (i) a reset mode; (ii) a diagnostic mode; (iii) a standby mode; (iv) an acquisition mode; (v) a tracking mode; and (vi) a spot mode wherein captured images of returned laser signals are processed to produce data for all spots found in the image. The method provides for automatic transition to the standby mode from the reset mode after integrity checks are performed and from the diagnostic mode to the reset mode after diagnostic operations are carried out. Further, acceptance of reset and diagnostic commands is permitted only when the system is in the standby mode. The method also provides for automatic transition from the acquisition mode to the tracking mode when an acceptable target is found.

Abstract: A laser range finder (LRF) is used to identify an aircraft approaching a gate. The LRF is directed at the aircraft, and from the echoes, a profile is derived and compared to known profiles. To distinguish among aircraft with similar profiles, the LRF is directed at a volume in which a feature such as an engine is expected and at another volume in which the engine is not expected. The echoes from the two volumes are used to determine whether the engine is in its expected location. If so, the aircraft is identified as the correct type and is allowed to dock at the gate. Otherwise, the aircraft is stopped. The nose height can be used as yet another identifying criterion.

Abstract: A parking guidance and management system. The system provides graphical information regarding the relative availability of parking spaces within a parking garage or other large facility. The system relies on a pair of sensors in each space which combine to provide highly reliable information regarding whether spaces in the facility are occupied or not. The information is gathered by a series of aisle controllers, which communicate with a central computer. The information is displayed at strategically located displays along the way to available spaces. The displays contain advertising messages adjacent to the information about space availability. The information obtained from the sensors at each parking space may be used to provide information to the manager of the facility regarding space utilization. Information regarding the occupancy status of each space may also be used as a check on receipts of parking fees and to identify abandoned vehicles.

Abstract: The present invention achieves an accurate and quick centerline identification in a docking guidance system and further a verification of a centerline configuration. Heretofore, it is proposed to scan (S1) an apron in front of a docking stand (16) with a range finder (22) and to register a reflection intensity and position for each scanned point. Then, a centerline (14) is identified (S2) in front of the docking stand (16) by using differences in reflection intensity between the centerline (14) and the apron surface surrounding the centerline (14). Further, at least two centerline definition points (38, 40) are defined (S3) in compliance with the centerline layout.

Abstract: Disclosed is a system and method for automatically aligning an end of a passenger loading bridge with a doorway of an aircraft. A beacon is transmitted from the doorway of the aircraft. The location is sensed and from the sensed beacon a direction for moving of the end of the passenger loading bridge is determined. The passenger loading bridge is then moved according to the determined direction. The process is iterated until the docking of the bridge to the aircraft is completed.

Abstract: Disclosure is a system and method for automatically aligning an end of a passenger loading bridge with a doorway of an aircraft. A beacon is transmitted from the doorway of the aircraft. The beacon is sensed and from the sensed beacon a direction for moving of the end of the passenger loading bridge is determined. The passenger loading bridge is then moved according to the determined direction. The process is iterated until the docking of the bridge to the aircraft is completed.

Abstract: A method and system for parking aircraft at an airport terminal having a plurality of passenger loading bridges is disclosed. According to the invention, a parking space is defined at the terminal for an aircraft of a known type, such that at least a desired clearance is maintained between the aircraft of the known type and all other aircraft parked at the terminal. To this end, a passenger loading bridge associated with the defined parking space is moved so as to accommodate the known type of an aircraft at the defined parking space while maintaining the at least a desired clearance to all other aircraft parked at the terminal. In particular, at different instances of time for different instances of the known type of an aircraft, the associated passenger loading bridge is moved to substantially different locations to accommodate different defined parking spaces.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method and apparatus for automatically aligning a passenger bridge to a door of an aircraft. The apparatus includes a sensor in the form of a laser range finder, a local computer for receiving signals from the sensor and for controlling bridge movement in dependence thereof, and memory storage for storing data relating to features of aircraft models with which the bridge is to be connected. Automated bridge alignment proceeds under the control of the local computer in dependence upon a determined error factor exceeding a predetermined minimum threshold value, which value is one of a default value and a value specified by a user of the apparatus. Accordingly, the instant invention permits different airlines to accept varying levels of risk associated with automatic bridge alignment.

Abstract: Device for determining the position of an aircraft (11) at an airport, includes a plurality of sensors (5) for detecting at least one radio signal originating from a vehicle (11), in which the plurality of sensors (5) are preferably positioned at regular intervals from one another on parts (2, 3) of the airport which are accessible to the vehicle (11). The present device is preferably used for detecting the position of an aircraft (11) on the runway system of an airport. The sensors (5) are preferably fitted in light positions of runway lighting provided at the airport on taxiways, take-off and landing runways (2, 3) and on plat-forms. The signal originating from a radio altimeter (12) of an aircraft (11) is preferably used as the radio signal.

Abstract: Disclosed is a system and method for automatically aligning an end of a passenger loading bridge with a doorway of an aircraft. A beacon is transmitted from the doorway of the aircraft. The beacon is sensed and from the sensed beacon a direction for moving of the end of the passenger loading bridge is determined. The passenger loading bridge is then moved according to the determined direction. The process is iterated until the docking of the bridge to the aircraft is completed.

Abstract: A docking system for airport terminals has a docking station subsystem and a docking station for each gate. The docking station subsystem is connected via a communication network to a central working position (control device). The docking station subsystem includes an airfield situation monitoring and processing segment ASMPS, at least one advisor and guidance display segment AGDS, a data and status handler segment DSHS having at least one video camera for each center line of the gate, and at least one ground operation panel segment GOPS. The docking station subsystem has an auxiliary subsystem connected to it, by which information relating to aircraft models and the gate can be entered in the docking station subsystem. A docking guidance system is connected to other systems of an airport and includes a docking guidance subsystem for each gate of the airport.

Abstract: An airport ground control system controls the movement of vehicles over a network of pathways and intersections that make up the airport. The system includes detectors, directional signals and a programable logic controller. The programable logic controller directs the route of vehicles based on input from a control touch screen video monitor, the detectors and output to the directional signals. The specific route selection is determined by progressive solution logic.

Abstract: The present invention achieves an accurate and quick centreline identification in a docking guidance system and further a verification of a centerline configuration. Heretofore, it is proposed to scan (S1) an apron in front of a docking stand (16) with a range finder (22) and to register a reflection intensity and position for each scanned point. Then, a centreline (14) is identified (S2) in front of the docking stand (16) by using differences in reflection intensity between the centreline (14) and the apron surface surrounding the centreline (14). Further, at least two centreline definition points (38, 40) are defined (S3) in compliance with the centreline layout.

Abstract: A docking system for airport terminals has a docking station subsystem and a docking station for each gate. The docking station subsystem is connected via a communication network to a central working position (control device). The docking station subsystem includes an airfield situation monitoring and processing segment ASMPS, at least one advisor and guidance display segment AGDS, a data and status handler segment DSHS having at least one video camera for each center line of the gate, and at least one ground operation panel segment GOPS. The docking station subsystem has an auxiliary subsystem connected to it, by which information relating to aircraft models and the gate can be entered in the docking station subsystem. A docking guidance system is connected to other systems of an airport and includes a docking guidance subsystem for each gate of the airport.

Abstract: A system for detecting, identifying and docking aircraft using laser pulses to obtain a profile of an object in the distance initially scans the area in front of the gate until it locates and identifies an object. Once the identity of the object is known, the system tracks the object. The system also monitors an area of the apron near the object to detect obstacles such as ground service vehicles. The system also analyzes the laser pulses to determine whether they are reflected from a solid object or from fog or other condensation or precipitation to avoid misidentifying condensation or precipitation as a solid object.

Abstract: A docking system for airport terminals has a docking station subsystem and a docking station for each gate. The docking station subsystem is connected via a communication network to a central working position. The docking station subsystem includes an airfield situation monitoring and processing segment ASMPS, at least one advisor and guidance display segment AGDS, a data and status handler segment DSHS having at least one video camera (9, 10) for each center line of the gate, and at least one ground operation panel segment GOPS. The docking station subsystem has an auxiliary subsystem connected to it, by which information relating to aircraft models and the gate can be entered in the docking station subsystem. A docking guidance system is connected to other systems of an airport and includes a docking guidance subsystem for each gate of the airport.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for tracking aircraft wingtip position during taxi operations to prevent collisions with nearby obstructions. A patterned illumination source is attached proximal the wingtips to project a readily discernable target pattern in the direction of taxi travel. At least a portion of the target pattern is reflected off of any obstructions that lie in the straight-line direction of travel, such that the pilot can maneuver to avoid striking the obstruction. By way of example, the patterned illumination source comprises a laser module positioned with the navigation and/or strobe light of the aircraft that is configured to project a circular pattern in front of the wingtip. The device may be retrofitted to existing aircraft without additional wiring with the control of activation being selectable via power cycling of existing aircraft lighting controls.

Abstract: A method and associated device and management system for automatically guiding an aircraft to a parking position in a parking zone. The aircraft is detected by at least one video camera located in the parking zone which outputs video signals. The video signals are then supplied from the video camera to an evaluation unit, in which the current position of the aircraft is determined from the video signals. In addition, correction instructions for direction and speed of the aircraft are determined from the video signals in the evaluation unit. The correction instructions are transmitted to a control of the aircraft. Furthermore, in the evaluation unit, the video signals are processed into video sequences and non-aircraft objects are identified from the video signals. Finally, the correction instructions and the video sequences are displayed on a control monitor together with additional monitoring data.

Abstract: A process and a device for automatically supported guidance of aircraft to a parking position permitting a required increase in safety and organized and largely centralized monitoring and control. This process automatically transmits correction instructions for direction and speed to a control of an aircraft. An aircraft located at a parking position situated within a detection area of at least one video camera is detected by the video camera. The signals supplied by the video camera are processed in an evaluation unit to determine the current position of the aircraft and the correction instructions to reach a predefined position. The signals are also processed into video sequences. The correction instructions are transmitted to the aircraft control. The video sequences are made available for integrated display on a control monitor together with additional monitoring data. The video sequences are stored on a storage medium so as to be recallable.

Abstract: A docking system for airport terminals has a docking station subsystem and a docking station for each gate. The docking station subsystem is connected via a communication network to a central working position. The docking station subsystem includes an airfield situation monitoring and processing segment ASMPS, at least one advisor and guidance display segment AGDS, a data and status handler segment DSHS having at least one video camera (9, 10) for each center line of the gate, and at least one ground operation panel segment GOPS. The docking station subsystem has an auxiliary subsystem connected to it, by which information relating to aircraft models and the gate can be entered in the docking station subsystem. A docking guidance system is connected to other systems of an airport and includes a docking guidance subsystem for each gate of the airport.

Abstract: A laser range finder (LRF) is used to identify an aircraft approaching a gate. The LRF is directed at the aircraft, and from the echoes, a profile is derived and compared to known profiles. To distinguish among aircraft with similar profiles, the LRF is directed at a volume in which a feature such as an engine is expected and at another volume in which the engine is not expected. The echoes from the two volumes are used to determine whether the engine is in its expected location. If so, the aircraft is identified as the correct type and is allowed to dock at the gate. Otherwise, the aircraft is stopped. The nose height can be used as yet another identifying criterion.

Abstract: A power-line carrier airport facilities monitor system, comprising a host station and respective terminal for monitoring individually the object facilities via a rubber transformer are connected in series to a power line derived from a fixed current generator, wherein the host station and respective terminal create a control command for respective terminal/monitoring signal of the object facilities as text data and, on the other hand, injections said text data to the power line by FSK modulation based on the zero cross detection of the power line power source waveform.

Abstract: A visual parking aid comprising a laser pointer supported by a mounting bracket configured for removable attachment to the interior of a vehicle's windshield. The mounting bracket houses the laser power source such that the laser is only made operational when it is correctly positioned upon the mounting bracket. In use, the laser is focused forward from the vehicle so that it displays an image on the wall surface in front of the moving vehicle. As the vehicle approaches the wall, the image on the wall surface descends until it reaches a predetermined stopping point, informing the driver that they have reached the proper parking position.

Abstract: For guiding an airplane to a docking station in an airport, a two-dimensional thermal IR image of a station approach zone is formed from a determined point close to said docking station, Entrance of an airplane into the approach zone and locations of IR features of the landing gear of the airplane are detected on arrival of an airplane. The distance between the airplane and the station is computed from stored characteristics of the landing gear of the airplane expected at the station and from the locations as well as any difference between a current path followed by the airplane and a set path for the airplane to arrive at the docking station in a determined orientation. A system for implementing the method and displaying instructions for the aircraft pilot is also disclosed.

Abstract: A synchronized target subsystem for use in an automated docking or station keeping system for docking a chase vehicle with a target vehicle wherein the chase vehicle is provided with a video camera which provides adjacent frames each having a predetermined time duration. A light source mounted on the target vehicle flashes at a frequency which has a time duration which is a multiple of the duration time of the frames, the light being on for at least one frame duration and being off for the remainder of the cycle. An image processing unit is connected to the camera for receiving signals from the camera and subtracting one of the adjacent frames from the other to detect whether the light appears in one frame, both frames or neither frame. If the target light appears in both frames or neither frame, the image processing unit feeds a signal to a timing circuit to advance the video camera one frame.