On-board energy recovery assistance for time-constrained descents

Abstract

This paper presents the concept and design of an on-board decision support tool for planning energy recovery strategies in time-constrained descents. The recovery advisories generated by the tool enables crew to capture altitude and speed targets at selected constraint points along the descent using a combination of adjustments in both the vertical and lateral flight trajectories. The energy recovery problem is formulated as a parameter optimization problem that allows consideration for various maneuvers, including speed adjustments, changes in aerodynamic configuration, and alterations to the remaining flight distance. The resulting problem is then solved using static optimization techniques. The results show that a feasible recovery solution is always identified and large energy deviations can be recovered with minimal violation of arrival time at the fix.