FMS Vertical profile

Smiths Industries investigates a method for providing a 3-D graphical representation of the flight management system (FMS) vertical profile.

A simple profile view of the fight management system (FMS) vertical flight plan can be provided using current cathode ray tube (CRT) electronic horizontal situation indicator (EHSI) with a software program in the FMS when the map is in the plan mode. A 3-D graphical representation of the FMS vertical profile can be provided by introducing a multipurpose higher-resolution flat-panel display and through integration with the Terrain Awareness and Warning System (TAWS). Ultimately, an enhanced configuration is preferred that integrates both 3-D and horizontal views with high-resolution terrain on the primary flight displays.

The FMS provides flight-planning facilities that include standard instrument departures, standard terminal area routes, and approaches as well as the newer area navigation approach procedures. A fully integrated lateral/vertical trajectory allows proper operation of higher-level functions such as 3-D area navigation approaches. An aircraft performance model provides both idle descent and specified gradient descent operation and guarantees flyable paths with reliable performance predictions. To make the most use of these profiles, it is important to provide a suitable display of the vertical situation to the flight crew. New technology is now available that can be used to improve the current vertical situation display.