A Simulation-Based Approach for the Conflict Resolution Method Optimization in a Distributed Air Traffic Control System

Abstract

The observed increase in air traffic volume leads to the development of methods like “free flight” aiming at better use of airspace. The expected consequence of the widespread implementation of this concept is the transfer of some air traffic management tasks to the aircraft. The aim of the research was to analyze the conflict resolution method in the airspace with the distributed air traffic control system (DATCS). The 3HC method was proposed, in which one aircraft bypasses the collision point by making a triple heading change. To determine parameters of the method, a conflict model implemented as a dynamic, stochastic, colored Petri Net (DSCPN) was used. Simulation experiments have shown that it is possible to select the parameters of the method that guarantee safety while minimizing the distance covered by the maneuvering aircraft. The starting point of these maneuvers should be selected as late as possible, i.e. when boundary separation is reached. In case of disturbances, however, the distance in which the collision point is omitted should be increased. The applied model and the simulation approach allow determining the relationship between this distance and the starting point of the maneuvers. It has been shown that the 3HC method can be used in DATCS for both free flight systems, where some of air traffic controller functions is performed by the aircraft crew as well as when it is delegated to an autonomous system of both manned or unmanned aircraft.