Universal Aircraft Cabin Interface Modules for Flexible Electrical Connections
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing system for electrically connecting cabin equipment in aircraft requires a complex and inflexible layout due to numerous specific cables and connectors, making it difficult to change or modify the equipment positions without reconfiguring the entire layout, which complicates production and installation.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising universal host and equipment interface modules that convert data and power signals to a standardized protocol, connected by a cable, allowing for flexible and adaptable electrical connections between cabin equipment and aircraft control systems and power sources, with optional radiofrequency communication for data exchange in case of cable interruptions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If specific cables and connectors are used for each piece of cabin equipment, then reliable electrical connection is achieved, but the layout becomes complex and inflexible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by replacing multiple specific connectors with a single universal connector design. The standardized connector can accommodate different cable types and configurations, allowing the same connector to serve multiple functions for different cabin equipment. This eliminates the need for unique connectors for each equipment piece, thereby reducing layout complexity while maintaining connection reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of connector specificity to universality. By standardizing connector dimensions, pin configurations, and mounting patterns, the system allows flexible cable routing and equipment positioning without requiring redesign of the electrical connection system. This parameter change enables layout flexibility while preserving reliable electrical connections.
2Adaptability or versatility
If equipment positions are changed in the aircraft cabin, then adaptability is improved, but the entire layout must be reconfigured
Solution Approach 1:
The standardized connector design enables universal interfacing across different equipment types and positions. When equipment positions need to be changed, the same connector and cable assembly can be used without modification, allowing rapid reconfiguration. This universality maintains adaptability while simplifying production and installation processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic flexibility by enabling easy reconfiguration of the electrical connection system. The standardized interface allows cables to be routed along different paths and equipment to be repositioned without permanent structural modifications. This dynamic capability improves adaptability while reducing the complexity of production and installation.
3Reliability
If numerous specific cables and connectors are used, then proper signal transmission is ensured, but installation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The standardized connector design allows installation teams to use the same connector and cable assembly for multiple equipment connections. This reduces the variety of components that need to be handled during installation, speeding up the installation process while maintaining signal transmission reliability through proven connector designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple specific cable and connector requirements into a single standardized solution. By combining the functions of various specific connectors into one universal design, the system reduces the number of installation steps and components, thereby increasing installation speed without compromising signal transmission quality.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for electrically connecting a piece of cabin equipment of an aircraft to a control system and to at least one electrical power supply source of the aircraft. The connection system comprises a host interface module to which the control system and the at least one electrical power supply source are connected. The host interface module ensures the conversion of data signals originating from the control system and a transfer of voltages of the at least one power supply source to power supply/data signals that conform to a given protocol. An interface module integrated in the cabin equipment ensures the conversion of the power supply/data signals conforming to the given protocol to data signals for controlling at least one electrical service element of the cabin equipment and the transfer of the voltages of the at least one power supply source to the at least one electrical service element.