Automatic passenger boarding bridge docking system

Abstract

The present invention provides an improved method and apparatus for automatically aligning and connecting a passenger boarding bridge (PBB) with the passenger door of an aircraft or other vessel. A sensory suite module includes cameras and sensors to scan the apron for obstacles and identify an aircraft based on external features. The sensory suite module also includes one or more high-precision active laser line profilers to detect the vertical and lower edges of an aircraft door. A controller module provides precise control and movement of the distal end of the PBB and guides the distal endof the PBB to the passenger door. The system can be activated by a remote triggering panel module.

Description

technical field [0001] The present invention relates to a passenger boarding bridge docking system, in particular to a fully automatic boarding bridge docking system, which uses a high-precision active laser line profiler to determine the position of an aircraft door, thereby detecting its vertical and lower edges. Background technique [0002] In the past, movable stairs were used to allow passengers to get on and off the plane. Passengers travel from an airport terminal along and sometimes across a portion of an airway or runway. This exposes passengers to the outdoor elements and airport traffic, and requires them to climb steep stairs with carry-on luggage. Although some airports still use movable stairs, they have largely been replaced by passenger boarding bridges. [0003] Passenger boarding bridges (PBBs) are enclosed movable connectors that extend from the doors of airport terminals to aircraft and, in some cases, from ports to ships or ships. It allows passenger...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

Additionally, airports will have to maintain traditional PPPs for aircraft without visual markings

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