Automated Aircraft Trajectory Prediction Based on Formal Intent-Related Language Processing

This paper proposes a new paradigm for the formulation of aircraft trajectory computation and prediction processes. Under this paradigm, an aircraft trajectory can be expressed at different levels of detail using a set of novel intent-related formal languages. These languages can be used for describing different aspects of aircraft motion or the resulting predicted trajectory, ranging from high-level restrictions imposed on the trajectory to details on how the aircraft will be operated at any specific instant. After defining the complete hierarchy of these formal languages, the concept of trajectory language processing engine is introduced. Every engine can perform automated modifications over a trajectory specified at different levels or at the same level considering the language hierarchy. Finally, several engine examples are described, and a complete trajectory computation process is built as an engine composed through the smart interconnection of several engines. Examples of executions of these automated processes are also included.