Aircraft BPL Data Modules Using Power Line Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
The rapid growth of software and data in aircraft information systems necessitates efficient, secure, and robust data transfer between aircraft and external networks, which is hindered by the limitations of existing Wi-Fi and cellular technologies, including high costs, unreliable connectivity, and security concerns, especially at airports with inconsistent infrastructure.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing broadband over power line (BPL) technology, combined with Wi-Fi, cellular, and Ethernet modules, managed by a communication link manager to select the most suitable transmission method based on cost, availability, speed, and security, ensuring efficient and secure data transfer through standardized electrical power cables when aircraft are parked at gates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If Wi-Fi or cellular links are used for data transmission, then data transfer can be performed, but the cost is high and reliability is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an electrical power cable as an intermediary medium for data transmission. Instead of relying on wireless Wi-Fi or cellular links, the system uses the existing power cable infrastructure to carry both electrical power and data signals. This intermediary approach provides a more reliable and secure connection that is not susceptible to wireless interference or security breaches.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrical power cable is made multi-functional by enabling it to carry both electrical power and data transmission simultaneously. This eliminates the need for separate dedicated data cables and utilizes the existing power infrastructure for dual purposes, reducing cost while improving reliability through a established physical connection.
2Reliability
If multiple communication modules are provided for data transmission, then reliability and adaptability improve, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple communication functions into a single integrated system. The BPL module integrates wireless communication capabilities with wired power line communication, allowing the system to switch between or combine these modes through one unified device rather than requiring separate independent modules for each communication method.
Solution Approach 2:
The communication system is made dynamic through the link manager, which automatically selects and switches between different communication modules based on real-time conditions such as availability, cost, and performance requirements. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to maintain reliability without requiring all modules to be actively managed simultaneously, reducing operational complexity.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If BPL technology is used through electrical power cables, then cost and security improve, but the system requires standardized cable infrastructure
Solution Approach 1:
The system leverages the universality of standardized electrical power cables that are already widely deployed in the aviation industry. By making these existing cables multi-functional (power + data), the system achieves cost-effectiveness and security improvements without requiring new infrastructure, as the cables are already standardized and compatible across different aircraft and ground equipment.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution provides a robust, secure, and cost-effective data transfer method that leverages standardized electrical power cables for BPL communication, reducing reliance on expensive and unreliable airport Wi-Fi and cellular networks, ensuring high-speed data exchange while maintaining data security within controlled airport areas.
Implementation Method 1
The broadband over power line module is inductively coupled to an electrical power cable
Data Source
AI summary
Provided are methods and systems for terrestrial data transmission between aircrafts and external networks, such as airline and/or airport computer systems. When an aircraft is parked at the gate, the aircraft is connected to and powered by an electrical cable, such as a stinger cable. This cable may be also be used for wired data transmission between the aircraft and the gate using broadband over power line (BPL) technology. The gate and the aircraft are each equipped with a BPL module. The aircraft may include other communication modules, such as a Wi-Fi module, a cellular module, and/or an Ethernet module. These other modules can be also used for data transmission in addition to or instead of communication through the BPL module. A communication link manager may be used to select one or more communication modules depending on availability of communication links, costs, speed, and other parameters.