Types of Collision Avoidance Systems
Traffic Collision Avoidance System
The Traffic Collision Avoidance System (TCAS) is an advanced aircraft system designed to mitigate the risk of mid-air collisions. Operating independently of ground-based air traffic control, TCAS provides real-time data on nearby aircraft, identifying potential threats. When a collision risk is detected, TCAS issues auditory and visual alerts to the pilot, suggesting evasive maneuvers to avoid a collision. The system relies on transponders in other aircraft to determine their position and trajectory.
Airborne Collision Avoidance System
The Airborne Collision Avoidance System (ACAS) works similarly to TCAS but includes additional functionalities and international standardizations. It is an integral safety feature on commercial aircraft, enhancing the pilot’s situational awareness by providing information on nearby aircraft and issuing conflict resolution advisories. ACAS integrates seamlessly with other onboard systems such as the Ground Proximity Warning System (GPWS) and the Terrain Awareness and Warning System (TAWS).
Automated Emergency Braking System
In ground vehicles, the Automated Emergency Braking System (AEBS) functions as a crucial safety component to prevent collisions. Using sensors such as radar, LIDAR, and cameras, AEBS can detect imminent collisions with other vehicles, pedestrians, or obstacles. Once a threat is identified, the system automatically applies the brakes to either mitigate the impact or avoid the collision altogether. AEBS is often a part of Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS), which include additional features like Lane Departure Warning Systems, adaptive cruise control, and Anti-lock Braking Systems.
Marine Radar
Marine Radar systems are essential for collision avoidance in maritime navigation. These radar systems operate on X-band or S-band frequencies to detect other ships, land obstacles, and weather formations. Marine radar provides valuable information on the bearing and distance of detected objects, allowing ship operators to navigate safely, even in poor visibility conditions. Advanced marine radar systems often include features such as Automatic Radar Plotting Aids (ARPA), which can track the movement of multiple targets and predict potential collision courses.
Ground Proximity Warning System
The Ground Proximity Warning System (GPWS) is a safety feature in aircraft designed to prevent controlled flight into terrain (CFIT) accidents. By using inputs from various onboard sensors, GPWS monitors the aircraft’s altitude and descent rate relative to the ground. If the system detects an impending collision with the terrain, it provides timely warnings to the pilot, allowing corrective action. Enhanced versions of this system, known as Enhanced Ground Proximity Warning System (EGPWS) or Terrain Awareness and Warning System (TAWS), include digital terrain maps and predictive algorithms.
Kavach (Train Protection System)
The Kavach system, initially known as Train Collision Avoidance System (TCAS), is an innovative safety technology for railways. Developed to prevent train collisions, Kavach employs GPS, radio communication, and onboard sensors to monitor the position and speed of trains. It automatically applies brakes if a collision risk is detected, ensuring the safety of passengers and railway personnel.
Portable Collision Avoidance System
The Portable Collision Avoidance System (PCAS) is a compact version of TCAS designed for smaller aircraft. PCAS provides similar functionalities, alerting pilots about nearby aircraft and potential collision threats. It is particularly useful for private pilots and smaller commercial operators who may not have access to the full TCAS infrastructure.
Obstacle Collision Avoidance System
The Obstacle Collision Avoidance System (OCAS) is designed to alert pilots of potential collisions with stationary obstacles such as towers, wind turbines, and other structures. Using radar and other sensor technologies, OCAS provides critical data on obstacle proximity, reducing the risk of collisions during low-altitude flights.
Automatic Ground Collision Avoidance System
The Automatic Ground Collision Avoidance System (Auto-GCAS) enhances flight safety by automatically steering the aircraft away from the ground in case of a potential collision. Using advanced algorithms and real-time data, Auto-GCAS intervenes when it determines that the pilot has not taken corrective action, thus preventing controlled flight into terrain incidents.