Aircraft BPL Module Cover Assembly for Ground Network Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless communication solutions for aircraft are limited by cost and technology constraints, particularly at regional or military airports lacking GateLink™ capabilities, resulting in reduced data speed and efficiency when using portable ground power carts for alternating current power.
Innovation Solution
An integrated Broadband over Power Line (BPL) module cover assembly and system that couples with a stinger connector to a ground power stinger cable, enabling communication with a ground-based network by initiating a BPL link when power is supplied, and updating data stored on the aircraft with data from the network.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If wireless communication networks (cellular/satellite) are used for aircraft communication, then communication capability is provided, but data speed and efficiency are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses the aircraft's existing power infrastructure (power lines) as an intermediary medium to transmit data signals. By modulating data onto power lines that already exist in the aircraft, the system achieves high-speed communication without requiring separate dedicated communication infrastructure, thus improving data speed while avoiding the complexity of multiple communication systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables power lines to serve dual functions: delivering electrical power to aircraft systems and simultaneously transmitting data signals. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate communication infrastructure, reducing device complexity while maintaining high data speeds through the integrated Broadband over Power Line system.
2Ease of manufacture
If portable ground power carts are used to provide AC power to aircraft, then power supply is enabled, but component costs increase and data speed decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the aircraft's existing power infrastructure to serve itself by using the power lines already present in the aircraft for both power delivery and data transmission. This self-service approach eliminates the need for expensive portable ground power carts with integrated communication equipment, reducing component costs while maintaining high data speeds through the BPL system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the power supply function and data communication function into a single integrated system using the aircraft's power infrastructure. By combining these functions, the system eliminates the need for separate expensive communication equipment in portable power carts, reducing overall component costs while achieving high data speeds through the unified BPL approach.
3Adaptability or versatility
If GateLink network is used for aircraft communication, then high-speed data communication is enabled, but cost and technology limitations prevent availability at many airports
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universally applicable communication solution by using the aircraft's existing power infrastructure, which is present in all aircraft regardless of airport type. This approach eliminates the need for airport-specific GateLink infrastructure, making the system adaptable to any airport including regional and military airfields, while reducing infrastructure requirements to only what already exists in the aircraft.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses the aircraft's power lines as an intermediary that already exists in all aircraft, eliminating the need for airport-specific communication infrastructure like GateLink. This intermediary approach enables universal deployment across all airports regardless of their technological capabilities or budget constraints, while keeping infrastructure requirements minimal.
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 efficient and cost-effective broadband communication for aircraft, reducing component costs and improving data speed by utilizing the aircraft's power infrastructure, even in environments without traditional 400Hz power, and can be easily installed or retrofitted.
Implementation Method 1
Broadband over Power Line (BPL) provides a high-bandwidth solution for commercial airports that utilize 'wired' 400Hz aircraft power infrastructure
Data Source
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AI summary
Methods, systems, and an integrated Broadband over Power Line (BPL) module cover assembly for communicating data between an aircraft and a ground-based network are provided. The assembly includes a power receptacle cover plate and a BPL module coupled to said power receptacle cover plate.