Aircraft Data Interface Function Virtualization via SNMP
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current aircraft data interface function (ADIF) systems are limited by hardware dependencies, resistance to change, and a fixed capacity for line replaceable units, restricting their ability to serve multiple parameters and requiring physical connections for new units, which hampers their functionality as an aircraft interface device.
Innovation Solution
An ADIF server system with a processing module hosting an aircraft condition monitoring function, including a modifiable database and SNMP agent, configured to interface with avionics systems through a common data network, allowing for flexible parameter collection and service provision over Ethernet, without requiring hardware changes or additional certifications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If all line replaceable units are physically connected to an ADIF server, then the ADIF server can serve parameters from connected units, but the number of line replaceable units that can be served is limited by hardware specifications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the ADIF server functionality through a software-based virtual machine environment. This virtual ADIF server replicates the parameter collection and conversion capabilities of the physical server without requiring additional physical connections to each line replaceable unit. The virtual machine can access parameters through software interfaces and network protocols, effectively copying the server's data gathering function without the hardware constraints.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/physical connection system with an electronic/software-based system. Instead of requiring physical cables and direct hardware connections between the ADIF server and line replaceable units, the system uses software agents, network protocols, and virtualization technologies to establish logical connections. This substitution eliminates the physical connection limitations while maintaining the data interface functionality.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a new line replaceable unit is added to the ADIF server, then the server can serve additional parameters, but physical connections must be done to the ADIF server
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic, software-configurable system where line replaceable units can be added or removed without physical reconfiguration. The virtual ADIF server environment allows for dynamic registration and deregistration of units through software interfaces. When a new unit is added to the aircraft system, the virtual server can automatically detect or be configured to recognize it through network protocols, eliminating the need for manual physical connection processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The virtual ADIF server is designed to be universally compatible with multiple types of line replaceable units and parameter sources. Rather than requiring unit-specific physical connection hardware, the virtual server uses standardized software interfaces and communication protocols that can work with diverse units. This multi-functionality allows the same virtual server instance to serve parameters from various different unit types without requiring dedicated physical connection infrastructure for each unit type.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the ADIF architecture is designed with fixed hardware connections, then the system is stable, but it is resistant to change and hardware dependent
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the ADIF server functionality into a virtualized component that can operate independently from the physical hardware architecture. By separating the data collection, processing, and conversion functions into a virtual machine environment, the system maintains stable core functionalities while allowing the virtual layer to adapt to changes in hardware configuration. This segmentation enables the stable avionics domain to remain unchanged while the virtual ADIF server can be modified, updated, or reconfigured as needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The virtual ADIF server acts as an intermediary layer between the stable avionics systems and the external applications. This intermediary virtual environment provides a buffer that allows changes in external requirements or hardware configurations without directly impacting the stable core avionics systems. The virtual server can be updated, reconfigured, or expanded while the underlying avionics infrastructure remains stable and certified, thus resolving the contradiction between stability and adaptability.
Data Source
AI summary
An aircraft data interface function (ADIF) server system comprises a processing module that hosts an aircraft condition monitoring function, comprising an airline modifiable information database including a history buffer and one or more logic units; a management information base (MIB) database; a parameter snapshot database; and a simple network management protocol (SNMP) agent in communication with the MIB database and parameter snapshot database. A core network unit communicates with the SNMP agent and an SNMP manager in an ADIF client. The SNMP agent sends messages to and receives messages from the SNMP manager through the core network unit. The ADIF server system interfaces with one or more avionics systems through a common data network to obtain and store aircraft parameter information. The ADIF client is configured via the core network unit to interact with the ADIF server system to request and receive the aircraft parameter information.