Airbus is currently testing technological support tools that aim to enable automatic taxiing. The project, called Optimate, is being conducted by Airbus’ innovation arm, UpNext, and is expected to last three years. The goal is to modify an electric vehicle to serve as an A350 cockpit for testing purposes.
To support taxiing automation, data will be sourced from lidar, cameras, GPS, and inertial sensors for position determination. Airbus will also be exploring the use of quantum-based sensors to provide more accurate position and navigation information. Additionally, the project aims to investigate the use of collaborative maps and virtual flight assistants to help pilots make strategic decisions and interact with air traffic control and airline operations centers.
As part of the project, Airbus plans to demonstrate automated taxiing using an A350-1000 test aircraft later this year. However, much of the initial testing will be done using the electric truck in order to reduce carbon emissions and allow test pilots to focus on other tasks like certification work and aircraft deliveries. The truck will essentially act as a “cockpit on wheels” and replicate the key functions of a real aircraft.
Airbus has a flight-test installation at the rear of the truck that allows engineers to monitor the performance of the systems being tested. According to UpNext chief Michael Augello,
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