Real-time validation of an ADS-B based aircraft conflict detection system

In the framework of future surveillance systems, ADS-B devices are assuming a primary role. This paper describes the real time validation of an ADS-B based application for conflict detection algorithms in order to support future self-separation as well as collision avoidance systems. In particular, the paper first presents an overview of the proposed system architecture including a brief description of the software modules and, then, provides a description of the hardware-in-the-loop architecture that has been used for the validation of the system. Finally, some real-time simulation tests are described and discussed. The results reported in the paper emphasize that the proposed conflict detection system, based on the use of ADS-B data, is suitable for real-time implementation and, therefore, can be considered for the implementation on-board vehicles for on-line application during the flight.