Relational time-space data structure to enable strategic de-confliction with a global scope in the presence of a large number of 4D trajectories

Abstract

This paper introduces an innovative framework for the design and implementation of new ATM decision support tools for strategic de-confliction. The main key implementation aspects to support an efficient state space analysis of more than 4000 4D Trajectories in the entire European ATM is described. The paper focuses on the innovative aspects developed to improve Spatial Data Structures, i.e. the paper focuses on the new Relational Space Data Structures and Time-Space Data Structures concepts, that allow supporting strategic Conflict Detection (CD) between a large number of 4D trajectories and a wide airspace region. Results have been tested in the WP-E project STREAM, whose aim is to coordinate the entire European ATM traffic at strategic and tactical levels, thus requiring the processing of large number of trajectories under heavy traffic conditions. The new and efficient CD algorithms presented in this paper may contribute to increase airspace capacity in the SESAR framework for the period up to 2020.