Information flow diagram analysis of a model cyber-physical system: Conflict detection and resolution for airport surface traffic

A complex cyber-physical system was modeled and analyzed using Information Flow Diagrams (IFDs). Specifically, IFD Analysis was introduced to model four alternative conflict detection and resolution architectures for airport surface movement. IFD analysis demonstrated that both automated reconciliation and intent information have positive effects on reducing collision risk probabilities. Of the four architectures considered, only Option C (featuring both automated reconciliation and intent information) resolves all major fault conditions.