Data Link Operational Validation second simulation successfully completed
 

Overview

The DOVE (Data link Operational Validation Experiments) project is a series of experiments designed to meet the needs of the AGC programme. The objective of DOVE is to validate a significant part of the 2nd generation of datalink services. The concept is developed in conjunction with the AGC Focus Group (ODIAC) and is outlined in the COOPATS (Co-operative ATS) document that describes steps towards an advanced datalink environment. The project addresses the operational aspects of COOPATS services.

The DOVE project builds on experience from other data link projects such as LINK2000+, EOLIA and PETAL II and shares synergy with other Air/Ground integration projects e.g. AFAS and CoSpace.

The DOVE 2 real time simulation was the second experiment of the project. The objective was to evaluate the operational impact of the following data link services:

·        DLIC (Datalink Initiation Capability)
between equipped and non-equipped ATC centres

·        ADAP (Automated Downlink of Airborne Parameters)

·        PPD - Pilot Preferences Downlink (speed, level)

·        CAP - Controller Access Parameters (heading, speed, rate of climb and descent, turbulence)

·        FLIPCY - Flight Plan Consistency

·        CPDLC (Controller Pilot Datalink Communication)

·        ACL - ATC Clearance

·        Combined Orders

·        ACM - ATC Communication Management (using PETALII protocols)

·        DYNAV 2D - Dynamic Route Availability

·        COTRAC 2D - Common Trajectory Co-ordination with CWP Trajectory Editor

·        Auto Transfer

 

Note: services in bold had been already evaluated during DOVE 1 in May 2002.

 

A significant reduction in radio channel occupancy was evident as a function of the data link equipage. Data link required a new working method (non-serial communication) and increased the time spent for radar monitoring. Data link appeared as a second communication channel rather than a replacement of the R/T channel.

The ability for the planning controller to perform the same actions, for instance route instructions, as the tactical controller allowed the use of his spare capacity. The controller interface was identified as a key component in the data link system.

Although the system was perceived as providing good situational awareness and supporting good team processes, no consensus on task sharing could be reached during the simulation. The level of information exchange between the controllers had a high impact on the workload demonstrating that a close co-operation is a key element with the introduction of data link.

The EEC report “DOVE 2 Real Time Simulation” should be available by the end of 2003.

Extended Article