Aircraft Data Network Packet Generator for Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional Aircraft Data Networks (ADN) systems are difficult to test, necessitating an improved testing mechanism and process.
Innovation Solution
The system generates static and sequences of static payloads packaged into Ethernet packets and transmits them on a data network at defined intervals, utilizing a configuration module, payload description module, storage component, processor, network interface, and user interface to distribute data packets to end systems via the ADN, allowing for periodic transmission and simulation of messages.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional ADN systems are used, then the system structure is simple, but the testing and troubleshooting capability is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the aircraft data network environment using software simulation. The system models ADN protocols, network topology, and data packets in a virtualized environment, allowing comprehensive testing without requiring actual aircraft hardware. This copying approach enables realistic testing scenarios while avoiding the complexity and cost of physical aircraft systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The software system is designed to perform multiple testing functions within a single platform. It can simulate various network conditions, generate different types of data packets, model multiple aircraft systems, and provide comprehensive diagnostics. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require multiple separate testing tools and hardware components.
2Measurement precision
If real aircraft LRU components are used for testing, then the test accuracy is high, but the cost is expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive, durable aircraft LRU components with inexpensive software-based virtual representations. These virtual components can be created, modified, and discarded at minimal cost, eliminating the need for expensive physical hardware while maintaining testing fidelity through accurate protocol implementation and behavioral modeling.
3Reliability
If periodic message transmission is implemented, then the network performance evaluation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The software system implements periodic message transmission through scheduled packet generation at defined intervals. This allows simulation of heartbeat messages, keep-alive signals, and periodic data updates that are common in aircraft networks. The periodic action enables realistic performance evaluation including latency measurement, jitter analysis, and reliability assessment under normal operating conditions.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides systems and methods for distributing data packets on an aircraft data network having a plurality of end systems. The systems and methods include retrieving a configuration module, retrieving a payload description module, selecting a network interface component, selecting a port rate for the network interface component, selecting a payload module, generating payload data, generating a data packet from the generated payload data, and transmitting the generated data packet to at least one of the plurality of end systems via the network interface component and the aircraft data network.