Aircraft Control Network Using Universal Remote Data Concentrators
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Solution Overview
Problem
Aircraft systems, such as ventilation systems, require redundant control mechanisms due to safety and reliability concerns, leading to the development of dual-lane controllers specifically designed for each system, resulting in a need for multiple, system-specific controllers and increased complexity and wiring.
Innovation Solution
A central processing unit that can connect to multiple generic, single-lane, software-configurable remote data concentrators over a network, allowing selection and instruction of the appropriate data concentrator for system component control, enabling flexible control of various aircraft systems with reduced redundancy and wiring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If dual-lane controllers specifically designed for each aircraft system are used, then safety and reliability are improved through redundant control mechanisms, but device complexity increases and multiple system-specific controllers are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by using a single generic remote data concentrator model that can be configured via software to control multiple different aircraft systems (ventilation, air conditioning, pressurization, etc.), replacing the traditional approach of having separate dedicated controllers for each system. This reduces the total number of controller types while maintaining system-specific control capabilities through software configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics through the dynamic selection mechanism where the central processing unit can autonomously select between multiple remote data concentrators based on real-time system conditions, failure states, and operational requirements. This dynamic allocation allows the system to adapt to failures and optimize resource usage without requiring static dedicated assignments.
2Reliability
If dual-lane controllers with independent processors and memories are implemented, then redundancy for safety-critical functions is improved, but the number of controllers that must be kept in spare parts stores increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent reduces spare parts inventory by using a universal remote data concentrator design that can serve multiple aircraft systems. Instead of maintaining separate spare controllers for ventilation, air conditioning, pressurization, and other systems, the airline needs to stock only the generic concentrator model and system-specific software configurations, significantly reducing the variety of spare parts required.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables recovery and reuse of remote data concentrators across different systems. When a concentrator fails in one system, it can be replaced and the same hardware unit can be reconfigured via software to control a different aircraft system, allowing the spare part to be recovered and reused rather than being system-specific waste.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple system-specific controllers are used to control different aircraft systems, then individual system control requirements are met, but wiring complexity and electrical connection distances increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent reduces wiring complexity by using a single generic remote data concentrator model across all aircraft systems instead of multiple system-specific controller models. This standardization allows for more consistent and simplified electrical connection architectures, as the same hardware interface and communication protocols are used throughout the aircraft regardless of the specific system being controlled.
4Extent of automation
If dedicated centrally located controllers specifically developed for specific system components are used, then automation and control of specific systems are fulfilled, but adaptability to control other aircraft systems is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves full automation and control capabilities in a universal platform by equipping the generic remote data concentrator with software that can be configured to control any aircraft system. The concentrator maintains dedicated control functionality for each system through software configuration while hardware remains standardized, enabling both high automation and cross-system adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables adaptability through software parameter changes and configuration settings rather than hardware modifications. The same physical remote data concentrator can be reconfigured to control different systems by changing software parameters, communication protocols, and control algorithms, allowing full automation capabilities to be adapted to various aircraft systems without dedicated hardware designs.
Data Source
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AI summary
A central processing unit for control of an aircraft system provided on board an aircraft, a control network for control of the aircraft system, an aircraft comprising such a control network, a corresponding method for control of the aircraft system and a computer program for carrying out the method are provided. The central processing unit (1) is connectable to at least two remote data concentrators (3) over a network connection (2) for control of a system component (7, 8) of an aircraft system. The central processing unit (1) is configured to select one of the at least two remote data concentrators for control of the system component (7, 8) and to instruct the selected remote data concentrator (3) to control the system component (7, 8).