One idea I had was to use GPS and a simple ethernet network topology to
allow planes to do some of the work themselves.

Each plane, large or small would have a computer onboard that would take the
GPS position data and broadcast it with some additional info such as
heading, airspeed, ground speed, altitude, etc. Using ethernet technology
each plane would send and receive information from all other active aircraft
in the area. In remote areas were transponders don't work well they could
even relay packets plane to plane. Rather then worry about transponder
codes, the computer would accept the aircraft call sign and broadcast it so
everyone who sees it can call them up if they have to. Ethernet technology
is sofisticated enough to pass large amounts of data between hundreds of
computers on a single network with minimal collisions and was originally
designed to be wireless. It also includes error correction so that the data
received can be reliablely decoded.

The incoming packets would be entered into the on-board computer and project
on the screen the image of a plane complete with a 5 min line (= to the
distance the plane will fly in 5 min.) on the intended flight path. If two
lines intersect, at least one of the planes will have a 5 min warning and
can change course. You could even do a security bubble where you have a
variable size bubble around the plane and if two bubbles touch you have a
warning message come up. With the current processing capability of an Intel
CPU, performing one task only, this should not be a problem. Not to mention
that you have multiple computers each looking around each plane for possible
threats.

On the ground each plane would be able to see where the other active
aircraft are on an airport diagram and even see if one is on a takeoff roll
the pilot waiting to cross the threshold could see that the plane is in
position and either ready to roll or rolling. He could then act as a backup
for ATC, and catch possible mistakes before they become bigger.

The system could even be used to provide WX info to the appropriate agency.
Imagine if the system could provide true airspeed and ground speed as well
as heading and the difference between heading and the way the plane is
pointing. A computer on the ground could calculate wind speed aloft all
along the flight path. I am sure the weather service would love it and be
willing to help with the cost.

A very simple idea really.


"Morgans" wrote in message
...

Scott D wrote

With this incorporated into the transponder,
the system would see which transponder sent the signal and change the
lights as so required. So it could be accomplished, I would just hate
to see what the cost would be to do something like that.

That's why I think there would have to be a system that would use
existing,
already installed equipment. We need to get creative for this one,
everyone!
--
Jim in NC