The DNA of SkySoft is about simplifying complexity and focusing on users. The current ATM system that is used in Switzerland for one of the most complex airspaces in the world has been designed by SkySoft following the above approach.
As the world of IT moves to the Cloud and using Big Data and Artificial Intelligence, SkySoft felt that there was a need to reapply our approach to next-generation ATM human-machine interface (HMI) and develop what is now called A-CWP (Advanced – Controller Working Position).
The company started this journey with the development of Swiss ANSP Skyguide’s operational CWP. This HMI is human-centered, developed with ATCOS for ATCOs, giving them the feel-at-home concept through personal set-ups. The kernel is used for several implementations as the system has been designed for use in multiple environments, such as operational, simulation, research, or validation.
Over time the most advanced ATCO support tools have been integrated into the CWP such as conflict detection and resolution, monitoring tools, and silent coordination. Thanks to the open architecture of the Swiss system, incremental implementation has been possible.
A co-development approach to developing HMIs presents an opportunity to improve safety and efficiency Johan Orsingher, head of sales & marketing, SkySoft
Augmented controller work positions
These principles remain true in the development of the next-generation product A-CWP (Augmented-CWP) a renewal of our existing product. A-CWP remains user-oriented with the highest standards in ergonomics boosted by new technologies. The A-CWP needs to be able to work with various operating systems. Enhancing maintainability and monitoring is instrumental in ensuring adoption by users, not only for controllers but also for maintenance and supervision purposes.
SkySoft has been involved in SESAR from the beginning of the development phase and we have contributed to many projects with the European ATM community. The result of this is an understanding of the value of the solutions designed in this environment, allowing us to develop solutions compatible with SESAR recommendations, for example, standard ADSP Interfaces. Following closely the work of EUROCAE in this field, we are developing a system matching the needs of our users and the requirements of standardization bodies.
We believe the next-generation system should be cloud-ready. This means that we offer a solution that can be deployed, fully on the cloud, on-site, or with hybrid implementation. The user can shape the system to meet their own vision.
Enabling future technologies
In the development of A-CWP, we are considering the future of ATM. Our intention is to enable future deployment. It seems likely that with the pressure on the environmental impact of aviation the display of “green indicators” will be of critical importance to ANSPs, supervisors, and even controllers. We are working with SITA and OptiATC functions for controllers to give direct routings, based on environmental impact with the possibility to track the actual result versus the initial flight plans and optimal possible routing.
In addition, we are deploying advanced support tools for controller decision-making that sorts or present the information simply and intuitively. The suite is for now composed of four applications. CORA (COnflict Resolution Advisory) uses historical data and behaviors based on specifics such as current real traffic or weather or military exercises to suggest conflict resolution for ATCOs that can be implemented or ignored.
The same AI engine also provides ADA, which assists ATCOs in detecting anomalies in behavior in the airspace. R4 (Ready for) provides safe and efficient solutions in nominal conditions – climbs/descents/transfers – while reducing an ATCO’s cognitive workload. Finally, for now, FEED highlights enable a supervisor to identify early future hotspots and proposes efficient resolutions.
These are just some of the features of the current development of A-CWP, the design is enriched by our customers along the way. Skysoft believes in co-development and using agile methodology, so is constantly interacting with product owners to align developments with the needs, “For the ATCOs, with the ATCOs”.