×

Low visibility runway monitor

  • US 4,481,516 A
  • Filed: 09/29/1982
  • Issued: 11/06/1984
  • Est. Priority Date: 10/27/1980
  • Status: Expired due to Fees
First Claim
Patent Images

1. A runway collision avoidance system for use in conjunction with a runway of the type having an elongated landing surface including an approach end, and at least one intersecting taxiway, and defining an aircraft approach path extending from the approach end along the axis of the runway, for providing a warning to aircraft when an obstruction is on the runway, comprising:

  • an electromagnetic wave transmitter having an antenna array positioned beyond one end of the runway, said antenna array being positioned to horizontally cover substantially the full width of the runway, said transmitter and antenna array directing electromagnetic wave energy substantially across the entire width and longitudinally along the entire length of the runway;

    a plurality of electromagnetic wave receivers each having an antenna arranged in a horizontal array at the other end of the runway which covers substantially the entire width of the runway, said array receiving electromagnetic wave energy directed down said runway by said transmitter;

    balance circuit means coupled to the outputs of said receivers for adjusting the outputs of said receivers to a common value in the absence of an obstacle on the runway;

    comparator circuit means coupled to said balance circuit means for generating a warning signal when the output of one or more of said receivers varies beyond a predetermined amount from said common value due to the presence of an obstacle on the runway; and

    light indicator means responsive to said warning signal for providing an indication that an obstruction is present on the runway.

View all claims
  • 0 Assignments
Timeline View
Assignment View
    ×
    ×