Patent · US Expired

Bezier curve flightpath guidance using moving waypoints

US7228227B2 · kind B2 · utility

30Cited by
3References
48Claims
0Family size

Assignee

Inventor

Key dates

Filing dateJul 7, 2004
Grant dateJun 5, 2007
Priority date
Expiry dateDec 7, 2024

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
  • CPC primaryB64U2201/10
  • WIPO fieldControl
  • WIPO sectorInstruments

Abstract

A flightpath guidance system and method is disclosed for using moving waypoints for a curved route plan such as a Bezier curve. The actual location of a vehicle and a leading target point along the path are used to provide commanded guidance of the vehicle along the path and to correct for disturbances from the intended route. Waypoints along the path may be moving with respect to the reference frame in which the vehicle is measured. Curved flightpath guidance using moving waypoints may be used for aerial rendezvous and refueling, multiple vehicle applications such as formation flying and battlefield formation grouping, and carrier landing. Further application includes air traffic control and commercial flight guidance systems.

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.