System and method for enhanced data mode in data recorders

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a system and method for triggering data transmission in a Data Recorder using an Enhanced Data Mode. In this mode, as described in the context of aircraft flight data by way of example and not limitation, one or more discrete signals, such as, but not limited to, Weight on Wheels (WoW) or Engine Speed, are derived directly from the flight data bitstream, eliminating the need for dedicated wiring to external sensors. A special purpose device, such as a Field-Programmable Gate Array, processes the bitstream to detect these discrete signals and switches the recorder to a transmit state when all conditions are satisfied. The recorder then transmits flight data via a communication medium, such as a cellular network. This system reduces cost, weight, and installation complexity, particularly in retrofit applications, and ensures reliable and timely transmission of flight data.

Description

[0001] SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ENHANCED DATA MODE IN DATA RECORDERS

[0002] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0003] 0001. The present application is a non -provisional utility patent application claiming the benefit of priority to prior filed US Provisional Patent Application Number 63 / 589,349 filed on October 11, 2023, currently pending, which is incorporated by reference as if fully set forth herein.

[0004] STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED-RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

[0005] 0002. None.

[0006] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0007] 0003. The present invention generally relates to communications systems, and more particularly relates to using an enhanced data mode that derives at least one discrete signal, or condition, from an aircraft's existing flight data bitstream, without requiring dedicated wiring for each signal or condition.

[0008] BACKGROUND

[0009] 0004. Data Recorders are employed in aircraft to capture non-accident-related flight data, which is commonly transmitted wirelessly to a ground-based system after landing. Traditionally, Data Recorder systems use various “modes” to decide when to initiate data transmission, such as “Data Mode”, based on the absence of data, and “Discrete Mode”, which relies on physical signals from discrete sensors physically located throughout the aircraft (e.g., “door open” or “weight on wheels” sensors).

[0010] 0005. In existing systems, discrete signals are typically detected through external sensors, such as, but not limited to, door sensors, weight-on-wheels switches, or engine power sensors, each of which requires dedicated wiring to connect each sensor to the Data Recorder system. This wiring adds significant complexity, weight, and cost to the installation. These challenges are particularly pronounced in retrofit installations, where the aircraft may not have pre-existing wiring for the required signals, making it impractical or costly to install new wiring for each sensed condition. While these methods are functional, they are additionally limited by reliance on external sensors, which may fail or introduce inaccuracies.

[0011] 0006. Currently, there is an urgent need in the art for an enhanced data mode that derives one or more discrete signals directly from the existing flight data bitstream, without requiring dedicated wiring for each signal or condition, that additionally overcomes the limitations of existing systems, protocols, and methods.

[0012] SUMMARY

[0013] 0007. Disclosed herein is an improved solution to the limitations of existing Data Recorder systems by introducing an Enhanced Data Mode that eliminates the need for dedicated wiring. Instead of relying on physical wiring to detect discrete conditions (e.g., Weight on Wheels (WoW), door open, etc.. .), a system using the Enhanced Data Mode disclosed and described here derives one or more of these signals directly from the aircraft's existing flight data bitstream.

[0014] 0008. Embodiments of the disclosed system and method significantly reduce the cost, weight, and installation complexity, particularly in retrofit installations where running new wires would be impractical. By processing data already present in the bitstream, the system avoids the need for additional wiring or sensor infrastructure, making it an ideal solution for upgrading older aircraft or for installations where space, weight, time, and cost are critical factors. 0009. An embodiment of the system utilizes, by way of example and not limitation, a Field- Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) to identify (synchronize) and process subframes in an ARINC 717 bitstream and detect at least one required discrete signal. Then at least one signal is used to switch the Data Recorder to a transmit state, initiating the wireless transmission of flight data via a communication mode such as, but not limited to, a cellular module. The system significantly reduces the cost, weight, and installation complexity, particularly for retrofit installations where running new wires is undesirable or impractical.

[0015] 0010. This enhanced system improves reliability, reduces the cost and complexity of installation, and eliminates the need for additional wiring or additional sensors.

[0016] 0011. Other embodiments of the present disclosure include a related system and computer program product comprising a non-volatile storage means for storing computer program instructions that, when executed on a processor or equivalent device, carry out any of the method steps disclosed and discussed herein.

[0017] 0012. Other embodiments of the present disclosure include various bitstream encodings, such as, but not limited to, ARINC 429, RS-232, RS-422, Ethernet, AFDX, etc. where data is transferred that embeds the information required to enable Transmit State. ARINC 717, a commonly used flight data recording format, is used as a representative, non-limiting, example in this disclosure.

[0018] 0013. The disclosure provided herein includes a method, and a system within which to carry out the steps, that is preferably adapted for and complement aviation data and communications systems. The system is thus configured to provide an improvement over the current state of initiating transmissions and providing data to Data Recorders. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0019] 0014. In the accompanying figures, like reference numerals refer to identical or functionally similar elements throughout the separate views. The accompanying figures, together with the detailed description below are incorporated in and form part of the specification and serve to further illustrate various embodiments and to explain various principles and advantages all in accordance with the present invention.

[0020] 0015. FIG. 1 : Diagram showing the Enhanced Data Mode, where the Data Recorder derives the discrete signals directly from the flight data bitstream, eliminating the need for dedicated wiring.

[0021] 0016. FIG. 2: Diagram illustrating the synchronization process in the bitstream.

[0022] 0017. FIG. 3: Diagram illustrating the isolation of the discrete signals in the bitstream.

[0023] 0018. While the invention as claimed can be modified into alternative forms, specific embodiments thereof are shown by way of example in the drawings and will herein be described in detail. It should be understood, however, that the drawings and detailed description thereto are not intended to limit the invention to the particular form disclosed, but on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents and alternatives falling within the scope of the present invention.

[0024] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0025] 0019. Before describing in detail embodiments that are in accordance with the present invention, it should be observed that the embodiments reside primarily in combinations of method steps and system components related to systems and methods for placing computation inside a communication network. Accordingly, the system components and method steps have been represented where appropriate by conventional symbols in the drawings, showing only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present invention so as not to obscure the disclosure with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the description herein. Thus, it will be appreciated that for simplicity and clarity of illustration, common and well-understood elements that are useful or necessary in a commercially feasible embodiment may not be depicted in order to facilitate a less obstructed view of these various embodiments.

[0026] 0020. In this regard, each block in a flowchart or block diagrams may represent a module, segment, or portion of code, which comprises one or more executable instructions for implementing the specified logical function(s). It should also be noted that, in some alternative implementations, the functions noted in the block may occur out of the order noted in the figures. For example, two blocks shown in succession may, in fact, be executed substantially concurrently, or the blocks may sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality involved. It will also be noted that each block of the block diagrams and / or flowchart illustration, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and / or flowchart illustration, can be implemented by special purpose hardware-based systems that perform the specified functions or acts, or combinations of special purpose hardware and computer instructions.

[0027] 0021. Though an embodiment may be disclosed as including several features, other embodiments of the invention may include fewer than all such features. Thus, for example, a claim may be directed to less than the entire set of features in a disclosed embodiment, and such claim would not include features beyond those features that the claim expressly recites. 0022. The present disclosure is not a literal description of all embodiments of the invention(s).

[0028] Also, the present disclosure is not a listing of features of the invention(s) which must be present in all embodiments.

[0029] 0023. Non-Limiting Definitions

[0030] 0024. The title of the present application and headings of sections provided in the present application are for convenience only, and are not to be taken as limiting the disclosure in any way.

[0031] 0025. The following non-limiting definitions are provided as a guide to interpreting the present invention:

[0032] 0026. The term “product” means any machine, manufacture, and / or composition of matter, unless expressly specified otherwise. A “product” may also be a “computer program product” as disclosed herein.

[0033] 0027. The term “process” means any process, algorithm, method or the like, unless expressly specified otherwise.

[0034] 0028. Each process (whether called a method, algorithm, or otherwise) inherently includes one or more steps, and therefore all references to a “step” or “steps” of a process have an inherent antecedent basis in the mere recitation of the term “process” or a like term. Accordingly, any reference in a claim to a “step” or “steps” of a process has sufficient antecedent basis.

[0035] 0029. The term “invention” and the like mean “the one or more inventions disclosed in this application”, unless expressly specified otherwise. 0030. The terms “an embodiment”, “embodiment”, “embodiments”, “the embodiment”, “the embodiments”, “one or more embodiments”, “some embodiments”, “certain embodiments”, “one embodiment”, “another embodiment” and the like mean “one or more (but not all) embodiments of the disclosed invention(s)”, unless expressly specified otherwise.

[0036] 0031. The term “variation” of an invention means an embodiment of the invention, unless expressly specified otherwise.

[0037] 0032. A reference to “another embodiment” in describing an embodiment does not imply that the referenced embodiment is mutually exclusive with another embodiment (e.g., an embodiment described before the referenced embodiment), unless expressly specified otherwise.

[0038] 0033. The terms “including”, “comprising” and variations thereof mean “including but not limited to”, unless expressly specified otherwise.

[0039] 0034. The terms “a”, “an” and “the” mean “one or more”, unless expressly specified otherwise.

[0040] 0035. The term “plurality” means “two or more”, unless expressly specified otherwise.

[0041] 0036. The term “herein” means “in the present application, including anything which may be incorporated by reference”, unless expressly specified otherwise.

[0042] 0037. The phrase “at least one of’, when such phrase modifies a plurality of things (such as an enumerated list of things) means any combination of one or more of those things, unless expressly specified otherwise. For example, the phrase “at least one of a widget, a car and a wheel” means either (i) a widget, (ii) a car, (iii) a wheel, (iv) a widget and a car, (v) a widget and a wheel, (vi) a car and a wheel, or (vii) a widget, a car and a wheel. The phrase “at least one of’, when such phrase modifies a plurality of things does not mean “one of each of’ the plurality of things.

[0043] 0038. Numerical terms such as “one”, “two”, etc... when used as cardinal numbers to indicate quantity of something (e.g., one widget, two widgets), mean the quantity indicated by that numerical term, but do not mean at least the quantity indicated by that numerical term. For example, the phrase “one widget” does not mean “at least one widget”, and therefore the phrase “one widget” does not cover, e.g., two widgets.

[0044] 0039. The phrase “based on” does not mean “based only on”, unless expressly specified otherwise. In other words, the phrase “based on” describes both “based only on” and “based at least on”. The phrase “based at least on” is equivalent to the phrase “based at least in part on”.

[0045] 0040. The term “represent” and like terms are not exclusive, unless expressly specified otherwise. For example, the term “represents” does not mean “represents only”, unless expressly specified otherwise. In other words, the phrase “the data represents a credit card number” describes both “the data represents only a credit card number” and “the data represents a credit card number and the data also represents something else”.

[0046] 0041. The term “e.g.” and like terms mean “for example”, and thus does not limit the term or phrase it explains. For example, in the sentence “the computer sends data (e.g., instructions, a data structure) over the Internet”, the term “e.g.” explains that “instructions” are an example of “data” that the computer may send over the Internet, and also explains that “a data structure” is an example of “data” that the computer may send over the Internet. However, both “instructions” and “a data structure” are merely examples of “data”, and other things besides “instructions” and “a data structure” can be “data”. 0042. A “processor” means one or more microprocessors, central processing units (CPUs), computing devices, microcontrollers, digital signal processors, or like devices or any combination thereof, regardless of the architecture (e.g., chip-level multiprocessing / multi-core, RISC, CISC, Microprocessor without Interlocked Pipeline Stages, pipelining configuration, simultaneous multithreading).

[0047] 0043. The term “respective” and like terms mean “taken individually”. Thus if two or more things have “respective” characteristics, then each such thing has its own characteristic, and these characteristics can be different from each other but need not be. For example, the phrase “each of two machines has a respective function” means that the first such machine has a function and the second such machine has a function as well. The function of the first machine may or may not be the same as the function of the second machine.

[0048] 0044. The term “i.e and like terms mean “that is”, and thus limits the term or phrase it explains. For example, in the sentence “the computer sends data (i.e., instructions) over the Internet”, the term “i.e.” explains that “instructions” are the “data” that the computer sends over the Internet.

[0049] 0045. Any given numerical range shall include whole and fractions of numbers within the range. For example, the range “1 to 10” shall be interpreted to specifically include whole numbers between 1 and 10 (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, . . . 9) and non- whole numbers (e g., , 1.1, 1.2, . . . 1.9).

[0050] 0046. Where two or more terms or phrases are synonymous (e.g., because of an explicit statement that the terms or phrases are synonymous), instances of one such term / phrase does not mean instances of another such term / phrase must have a different meaning. For example, where a statement renders the meaning of “including” to be synonymous with “including but not limited to”, the mere usage of the phrase “including but not limited to” does not mean that the term

[0051] “including” means something other than “including but not limited to”.

[0052] 0047. The term “determining” and grammatical variants thereof (e.g., to determine a price, determining a value, determine an object which meets a certain criterion) is used in an extremely broad sense. The term “determining” encompasses a wide variety of actions and therefore “determining” can include calculating, computing, processing, deriving, investigating, looking up (e.g., looking up in a table, a database or another data structure), ascertaining and the like. Also, “determining” can include receiving (e.g., receiving information), accessing (e.g., accessing data in a memory) and the like. Also, “determining” can include resolving, selecting, choosing, establishing, and the like. The term “determining” does not imply certainty or absolute precision, and therefore “determining” can include estimating, extrapolating, predicting, guessing and the like. The term “determining” does not imply that mathematical processing must be performed, and does not imply that numerical methods must be used, and does not imply that an algorithm or process is used. The term “determining” does not imply that any particular device must be used. For example, a computer need not necessarily perform the determining.

[0053] 0048. The term “computer-readable medium” refers to any medium, a plurality of the same, or a combination of different media, that participate in providing data (e.g., instructions, data structures) which may be read by a computer, a processor or a like device. Such a medium may take many forms, including but not limited to, non-volatile media, volatile media, and transmission media. Non-volatile media include, for example, optical or magnetic disks and other persistent memory. Volatile media include dynamic random access memory (DRAM), which typically constitutes the main memory. Transmission media include coaxial cables, copper wire and fiber optics, including the wires that comprise a system bus coupled to the processor. Transmission media may include or convey acoustic waves, light waves and electromagnetic emissions, such as those generated during radio frequency (RF) and infrared (IR) data communications. Common forms of computer-readable media include, for example, a floppy disk, a flexible disk, hard disk, magnetic tape, any other magnetic medium, a CD-ROM, DVD, any other optical medium, punch cards, paper tape, any other physical medium with patterns of holes, a RAM, a PROM, an EPROM, a FLASH-EEPROM, any other memory chip or cartridge, a carrier wave as described hereinafter, or any other medium from which a computer can read.

[0054] 0049. Computing

[0055] 0050. It will be readily apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that the various processes described herein may be implemented by, e.g., appropriately programmed general purpose computers, special purpose computers, and computing devices. Typically a processor (e.g., one or more microprocessors, one or more microcontrollers, one or more digital signal processors) will receive instructions (e.g., from a memory or like device), and execute those instructions, thereby performing one or more processes defined by those instructions. Instructions may be embodied in, e.g., one or more computer programs, or one or more scripts.

[0056] 0051. Thus a description of a process is likewise a description of an apparatus for performing the process. The apparatus that performs the process can include, e.g., a processor and those input devices and output devices that are appropriate to perform the process.

[0057] 0052. Further, programs that implement such methods (as well as other types of data) may be stored and transmitted using a variety of media (e.g., computer readable media) in a number of manners. In some embodiments, hard-wired circuitry or custom hardware may be used in place of, or in combination with, some or all of the software instructions that can implement the processes of various embodiments. Thus, various combinations of hardware and software may be used instead of software only.

[0058] 0053. Various forms of computer readable media may be involved in carrying data (e.g. sequences of instructions) to a processor. For example, data may be (i) delivered from RAM to a processor; (ii) carried over a wireless transmission medium; (iii) formatted and / or transmitted according to numerous formats, standards or protocols, such as Ethernet (or IEEE 802.3), SAP, ATP, Bluetooth, and TCP / IP, TDMA, CDMA, and 3G; and / or (iv) encrypted to ensure privacy or prevent fraud in any of a variety of ways well known in the art.

[0059] 0054. Thus a description of a process is likewise a description of a computer-readable medium storing a program for performing the process. The computer- readable medium can store (in any appropriate format) those program elements which are appropriate to perform the method.

[0060] 0055. Just as the description of various steps in a process does not indicate that all the described steps are required, embodiments of an apparatus include a computer / computing device operable to perform some (but not necessarily all) of the described process.

[0061] 0056. Likewise, just as the description of various steps in a process does not indicate that all the steps described are required, embodiments of a computer-readable medium storing a program or data structure include a computer-readable medium storing a program that, when executed, can cause a processor to perform some (but not necessarily all) of the described process.

[0062] 0057. Various embodiments can be configured to work in a network environment including a computer that is in communication (e.g., via a communications network) with one or more devices. The computer may communicate with the devices directly or indirectly, via any wired or wireless medium (e.g. the Internet, LAN, WAN or Ethernet, Token Ring, a telephone line, a cable line, a radio channel, an optical communications line, commercial on-line service providers, bulletin board systems, a satellite communications link, a combination of any of the above). Each of the devices may themselves comprise computers or other computing devices that are adapted to communicate with the computer. Any number and type of devices may be in communication with the computer.

[0063] 0058. In this disclosure, where a process is described, in embodiments the process operates without any user intervention. Specifically, embodiments of the present disclosure provide an improvement over the prior art in that, once installed, it specifically does not require any human interaction, confirmation, or load on flight crew, ground crew, or other personnel.

[0064] 0059. General System Overview:

[0065] 0060. By way of example and not limitation, the disclosed system provides a new method for triggering data transmission in an Enhanced Data Mode Data Recorder that addresses the limitations of existing systems. The system removes the need for dedicated wiring for discrete signals (such as Weight on Wheels (Wow) and Engine Power( Nl)) by detecting these signals directly from the existing flight data bitstream. In this way, the invention provides a technological improvement over existing aviation data systems.

[0066] 0061. In existing systems, each discrete signal (e.g., door open, weight on wheels) would typically require separate wiring, increasing installation cost, weight, and complexity. This is particularly problematic in retrofit installations, where aircraft may not have pre-installed wiring for these signals, making installation cumbersome or prohibitively expensive. The embodiments of the system and method disclosed solves this problem by deriving these signals from data that is already present in the aircraft's flight systems and already fed into the recorder, thereby eliminating the need for additional wiring.

[0067] 0062. A possible embodiment of the system includes the following components:

[0068] 0063. Data Reception Module: Receives flight data in a bitstream format (such as, but not limited to, ARINC 429, ARINC 717, etc. . .) from the aircraft’s systems.

[0069] 0064. Signal Detection Module: A device such as, but not limited to, a Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), ASIC, micro-processor, CPU, computer, computer program product, or other processing component. The signal detection module processes the bitstream to detect discrete signals such as WoW and N 1. The signal detection module eliminates the need for dedicated wiring by detecting these signals directly from the data stream.

[0070] 0065. Communications Module: A wired or wireless module configured to transmit data. The communications module may be any combination of hardware and software components and systems as would be known by a person skilled in the art of data transmission. Preferably, embodiments of the disclosed system employ a communications module configured with a Cellular LTE Module (CM) or other similar wireless component that facilitates wireless transmission of flight data to a secure, ground-based storage facility after the aircraft has landed.

[0071] 0066. Enhanced Data Mode:

[0072] 0067. In the Enhanced Data Mode, the system identifies critical flight conditions by analyzing discrete signals embedded within the aircraft's flight data bitstream. These signals, such as WoW and Nl, are processed without the need for external hardware switches or dedicated wiring, which reduces the complexity and cost of system installation, especially in retrofit scenarios. 0068. By eliminating the need for additional wiring, the Enhanced Data Mode addresses both cost and weight issues, while ensuring that reliable flight data transmission occurs automatically at the appropriate times.

[0073] 0069. This mode offers several advantages over existing Data Mode and Discrete Mode operations:

[0074] 0070. Cost Savings: No need to install dedicated wiring or additional sensors.

[0075] 0071. Time Savings: No need to ground the airplane for longer than an overnight stop.

[0076] 0072. Weight Reduction: The system avoids adding weight associated with wiring harnesses, improving fuel efficiency and reducing load.

[0077] 0073. Ease of Retrofit: The system is ideal for retrofitting existing aircraft, particularly where running new wires is impractical.

[0078] 0074. Process of Discrete Detection:

[0079] 0075. The signal detection module is configured to detect synchronization patterns in the flight data bitstream. Once synchronization is established, the signal detection module counts subframes and words to locate the discrete signals such as, but not limited to, WoW and Nl. These signals are processed using a bitwise AND mask operation, and compared to preset values.

[0080] 0076. When the desired signal or signals are detected, the system transitions to a transmit state, at which point the flight data is wirelessly transmitted via the cellular module.

[0081] 0077. Exemplary Embodiments: 0078. In an embodiment of the Enhanced Data Mode, the system detects one or more discrete signals, such as the Weight on Wheels (WoW) signal or the Engine Power (Nl) signal, directly from the aircraft's flight data bitstream. The Data Recorder system processes these signals using a Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), which synchronizes with the bitstream and locates the required discrete signals without the need for dedicated wiring to external sensors (see FIG. 1, Diagram showing the Enhanced Data Mode, where the Data Recorder derives the discrete signals directly from the flight data bitstream, eliminating the need for dedicated wiring).

[0082] 0079. To locate these signals, the FPGA detects synchronization frames within the bitstream. Once synchronization is achieved, the FPGA counts the relevant frames to identify at least one discrete signal, such as WoW or Tx. This process is performed automatically, ensuring accurate signal detection in real-time. When the required discrete signals are detected, the Data Recorder system enters the transmit state, and the flight data is wirelessly transmitted via the cellular module (see FIG. 2, bitstream synchronization and FIG.3, discrete scanning).

[0083] 0080. By processing these signals directly from the bitstream, the system eliminates the need for additional wiring, significantly simplifying installation, especially in retrofit aircraft.

[0084] 0081. When the signal detection module, in this example an FPGA, detects that both the WoW and Nl signals meet the preconfigured conditions, the system switches the Data Recorder into a transmit state. This ensures that the flight data is transmitted only when the aircraft is in an appropriate (safe) state, such as when it is on the ground and certain conditions are met, and at the same time timely, because there is no unnecessary delay. After landing, there is a short limited time before the aircraft electronics are shut down and the flight data must be uploaded to the receiving ground system in this time. The system and method disclosed thus allows for fast, accurate, and safe uploading of the flight data without the need for human interaction. Additionally, the signal detection module’s ability to be configured to detect and use multiple discrete sensed conditions ensures high accuracy in state detection, further enhancing the reliability of the system.

[0085] 0082. By detecting one or more discrete signals from the flight data bitstream without requiring external wiring, the system significantly simplifies installation, reduces weight, and lowers costs, particularly in retrofitted aircraft where dedicated wiring for discrete sensors may not exist.

[0086] 0083. In further embodiments, the system architecture includes:

[0087] 0084. a data reception module that receives the flight data bitstream, encoded according to the 717 standard;

[0088] 0085. a signal detection module configured to detect synchronization patterns and locate at least one discrete signal in the bitstream, such as, but not limited to, WoW or Nl;

[0089] 0086. a communications module, such as but not limited to a wireless cellular module, that transmits the flight data once the Data Recorderenters the transmit state; and

[0090] 0087. a controller that manages the overall operation of the system, ensuring that the Data Recordertransitions to the transmit state when the appropriate signals are detected (see FIG. 1).

[0091] 0088. The controller coordinates the detection of one or more discrete signals from the bitstream, triggering data transmission only when the necessary conditions are met. For example, the controller may require that both the WoW signal and a low engine power setting be detected before allowing the Data Recorder to transition to the transmit state, ensuring the data is transmitted under appropriate (safe) conditions. 0089. The foregoing discloses exemplary systems and methods for using an enhanced data mode that derives discrete signals from the flight data bitstream, without requiring dedicated wiring for each condition, according to embodiments of the present invention. The system is only one example of a suitable system and is not intended to limit the scope of use or functionality of embodiments of the present invention described above. The system is operational with numerous other general purpose or special purpose computing system environments or configurations. Examples of well-known computing systems, environments, and / or configurations that may be suitable for use with the information processing system include, but are not limited to, personal computer systems, server computer systems, thin clients, thick clients, hand-held or laptop devices, multiprocessor systems, microprocessor-based systems, set top boxes, programmable consumer electronics, network PCs, minicomputer systems, mainframe computer systems, clusters, and distributed cloud computing environments that include any of the above systems or devices, and the like.

[0092] 0090. The system may be described in the general context of computer-executable instructions, being executed by a computer system. The system may be practiced in various computing environments such as conventional and distributed computing environments where tasks are performed by remote processing devices that are linked through a communications network. In a distributed computing environment, program modules may be located in both local and remote computer system storage media including memory storage devices.

[0093] 0091. As will be appreciated by one skilled in the art, aspects of the present invention may be embodied as a system, method, or computer program product at any possible technical detail level of integration. The computer program product may include a computer readable storage medium (or media) having computer readable program instructions thereon for causing a processor to carry out aspects of the present invention.

[0094] 0092. The computer readable storage medium can be a tangible device that can retain and store instructions for use by an instruction execution device. The computer readable storage medium may be, for example, but is not limited to, an electronic storage device, a magnetic storage device, an optical storage device, an electromagnetic storage device, a semiconductor storage device, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. A non-exhaustive list of more specific examples of the computer readable storage medium includes the following: a portable computer diskette, a hard disk, a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or Flash memory), a static random access memory (SRAM), a portable compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), a digital versatile disk (DVD), a memory stick, a floppy disk, a mechanically encoded device such as punch-cards or raised structures in a groove having instructions recorded thereon, and any suitable combination of the foregoing. A computer readable storage medium, as used herein, is not to be construed as being transitory signals per se, such as radio waves or other freely propagating electromagnetic waves, electromagnetic waves propagating through a waveguide or other transmission media (e.g., light pulses passing through a fiber-optic cable), or electrical signals transmitted through a wire.

[0095] 0093. Accordingly, aspects of the present invention may take the form of an entirely hardware embodiment, an entirely software embodiment (including firmware, resident software, microcode, etc.) or an embodiment combining software and hardware aspects that may all generally be referred to herein as a “circuit,” “module” or “system.” Furthermore, aspects of the present invention may take the form of a computer program product embodied in one or more computer readable medium(s) having computer readable program code embodied thereon. 0094. Any combination of one or more computer readable medium(s) may be utilized. The computer readable medium may be a computer readable signal medium or a computer readable storage medium. A computer readable storage medium may be, for example, although not limited to, an electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor system, apparatus, or device, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. More specific examples (a non-exhaustive list) of the computer readable storage medium would include the following: an electrical connection having one or more wires, a portable computer diskette, a hard disk, a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or Flash memory), an optical fiber, a portable compact disc read-only memory (CD- ROM), an optical storage device, a magnetic storage device, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. In the context of this document, a computer readable storage medium may be any tangible medium that can contain, or store a program for use by or in connection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device.

[0096] 0095. A computer readable signal medium may include a propagated data signal with computer readable program code embodied therein, for example, in baseband or as part of a carrier wave. Such a propagated signal may take any of a variety of forms, including, although not limited to, electro-magnetic, optical, or any suitable combination thereof. A computer readable signal medium may be any computer readable medium that is not a computer readable storage medium and that can communicate, propagate, or transport a program for use by or in connection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device.

[0097] 0096. Computer readable program instructions described herein can be downloaded to respective computing / processing devices from a computer readable storage medium or to an external computer or external storage device via a network, for example, the Internet, a local area network, a wide area network and / or a wireless network. The network may comprise copper transmission cables, optical transmission fibers, wireless transmission, routers, firewalls, switches, gateway computers and / or edge servers. A network adapter card or network interface in each computing / processing device receives computer readable program instructions from the network and forwards the computer readable program instructions for storage in a computer readable storage medium within the respective computing / processing device. Computer readable program instructions for carrying out operations of the present invention may be assembler instructions, instruction-set-architecture (ISA) instructions, machine instructions, machine dependent instructions, microcode, firmware instructions, state-setting data, configuration data for integrated circuitry, or either source code or object code written in any combination of one or more programming languages, including an object oriented programming language such as Smalltalk, C++, or the like, or an interpreted, interactive, object-oriented programming language such as Python, or procedural programming languages, such as the “C” programming language or similar programming languages. The computer readable program instructions may execute entirely on the user’s computer, partly on the user's computer, as a stand-alone software package, partly on the user's computer and partly on a remote computer or entirely on the remote computer or server. In the latter scenario, the remote computer may be connected to the user’s computer through any type of network, including a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN), or the connection may be made to an external computer (for example, through the Internet using an Internet Service

[0098] Provider). In some embodiments, electronic circuitry including, for example, programmable logic circuitry, field-programmable gate arrays (FPGA), or programmable logic arrays (PLA) may execute the computer readable program instructions by utilizing state information of the computer readable program instructions to personalize the electronic circuitry, in order to perform aspects of the present invention.

[0099] 0097. Aspects of the present invention have been discussed above with reference to flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams of methods, apparatus (systems) and computer program products according to various embodiments of the invention. Tt will be understood that each block of the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, can be implemented by computer program instructions.

[0100] 0098. These computer program instructions may be provided to a processor of a general purpose computer, special purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions, which execute via the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus, create means for implementing the functions / acts specified in the flowchart and / or block diagram block or blocks. These computer program instructions may also be stored in a non-transitory computer readable storage medium that can direct a computer, other programmable data processing apparatus, or other devices to function in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer readable medium produce an article of manufacture including instructions which implement the function / act specified in the flowchart and / or block diagram block or blocks.

[0101] 0099. The computer program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer, other programmable data processing apparatus, or other devices to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer, other programmable apparatus or other devices to produce a computer implemented process such that the instructions which execute on the computer or other programmable apparatus provide processes for implementing the functions / acts specified in the flowchart and / or block diagram block or blocks.

[0102] 0100. The flowchart and block diagrams in the figures illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementations of systems, methods, and computer program products according to various embodiments of the present invention. In this regard, each block in the flowchart or block diagrams may represent a module, segment, or portion of instructions, which comprises one or more executable instructions for implementing the specified logical function(s). In some alternative implementations, the functions noted in the blocks may occur out of the order noted in the Figures. For example, two blocks shown in succession may, in fact, be executed substantially concurrently, or the blocks may sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality involved. It will also be noted that each block of the block diagrams and / or flowchart illustration, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and / or flowchart illustration, can be implemented by special purpose hardware-based systems that perform the specified functions or acts or carry out combinations of special purpose hardware and computer instructions.

[0103] 0101. The description of the present application has been presented for purposes of illustration and description but is not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the invention in the form disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention and the practical application, and to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand various embodiments of the present invention, with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A method for triggering data transmission in a Data Recorder, comprising: receiving a flight data bitstream from an aircraft; detecting by a signal detection module, within the flight data bitstream, at least one discrete signal indicating a non-flight condition; upon detecting the non-flight condition, determined by the at least one discrete signal, switching the Data Recorder to a transmit state; and transmitting the flight data from the Data Recorder to a remote storage system via a communications module, wherein the Data Recorder does not require dedicated wiring for the detection of the discrete signals to switch to the transmit state.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the flight data bitstream comprises 717 format data.

3. The method of claim 1, further comprising detection of synchronization patterns in the flight data bitstream.

4. The method of claim 1, further comprising isolating subframes and words in the flight data bitstream to locate at least one discrete signal.

5. The method of claim 3, wherein the detection of synchronization patterns comprises using a Field-Programmable Gate Array to perform processing of the flight data.24SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)6. The method of claim 4, wherein the isolating subframes and words in the flight data bitstream to locate at least one discrete signal comprises using a Field-Programmable Gate Array to perform processing of the flight data.

7. The method of claim 1, wherein techniques such as, but not limited to, bitwise AND- masking and value comparisons are used to determine the state of the discrete signals.

8. The method of claim 6, where one or more discrete signal states are combined using combinatorial and / or sequential logic to produce one single “Transmit Active” signal.

9. A Data Recorder system for transmitting flight data, comprising: a data reception module configured to receive flight data in a bitstream format; a signal detection module configured to detect one or more discrete signals in the incoming bitstream; a communications module configured to transmit flight data when the Data Recorder system is in a transmit state; and a controller that switches the Data Recorder to the transmit state upon detection of the correct combination of one or more discrete signals by the detector, wherein the Data Recorder does not require dedicated wiring for discrete signal detection.

10. The system of claim 9, wherein the bitstream is in 717 format.11 . The system of claim 9, wherein the signal detection module detects synchronization patterns within the bitstream before counting subframes and locate one or more discrete signals.25SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)

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