Method for controlling an in-flight entertainment system

Abstract

A method for controlling an in-flight entertainment (IFE) system using network protocols, such as TCP / IP, HTTP, or FTP. Control of a plurality of functions, including in-seat and broadcast audio and video, overhead reading light control, and flight attendant call, are implemented using a network client, a network server, and a network server program, each communicating with network protocols. The network client may be visible or invisible to a user of the in-flight entertainment system, depending on whether a web browser or a virtual web browser is used as a network client. The software for each line replaceable unit (LRU) may be designed, redesigned, or tested independently from other components within the IFE system. Particular functions of the IFE system can be made available only to particular parts of the IFE system, allowing different levels of access to the IFE system for different passenger classes.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] This patent application is a continuation of copending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10 / 145,464, filed May 14, 2002, now allowed, herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0002] The invention generally relates to computer networks, and more particularly relates to a system and method for controlling and operating an in-flight entertainment system using network protocols. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0003] Most commercial aircraft today are equipped with an IFE system. Typically, an IFE system includes a plurality of computers, which are connected to provide various functions. These computers include, for example, audio / video head-end equipment, area distribution boxes, passenger service systems (PSS), and seat electronic boxes. In the modular environment of an aircraft, each of these computers is referred to as a line replaceable unit (“LRU”) since most are “line fit” on an assembly line when an aircraf...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

This approach simplifies the addition and modification of functions, reduces system errors, conserves hardware resources, and allows for easier maintenance and support by leveraging standard software technologies, improving the modularity and flexibility of the IFE system.

Problems solved by technology

An IFE system provider is severely restricted in choosing particular hardware and software components for these reasons.

For even the simplest function to be performed, integration and testing is labor intensive and error-prone.

If additions or changes to the system are later desired, such changes are time consuming and require a high degree of familiarity with the details of the original system design.

Unfortunately, such efforts have resulted in a larger number of system errors and software bugs, and those software bugs have been more difficult to fix since the effects of changes to the software are more difficult to predict when the software runs on multiple types of hardware within the system.

Furthermore, due to the custom nature of the software in conventional IFE systems, as newer models of a system are developed, it becomes difficult for a system provider to support its legacy models.

Engineers who designed older models may have left the system provider, and new engineers may not have the time or ability to learn how the older system was implemented.

Diagnosing and fixing bugs in a system with a proprietary hardware and software architecture requires time and effort simply to learn how the system works.

Maintenance resources are often wasted teaching new engineers how a highly proprietary system works.

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