Aircraft Network Traffic Analysis for System Status Diagnosis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current diagnostic tools for complex systems, such as aircraft, are inadequate for quickly determining the status of system functions during initial power-up or maintenance, as internal health monitoring systems rely on unverified wiring and software, and are often complex and tailored for systems engineers, making it difficult for mechanics to understand and diagnose functional issues in a user-friendly manner.
Innovation Solution
A network analyzer and user interface system that captures and analyzes network traffic to determine the status of selected system functions using predefined rules, providing a user-friendly visual presentation of system status, allowing mechanics to focus on functions requiring attention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If internal health monitoring systems are used to determine system status, then system status can be monitored, but the systems are complex and difficult for mechanics to understand
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary system that translates complex internal health monitoring data into simple visual indicators. A user interface component converts raw system data into color-coded status displays (green for normal, yellow for caution, red for warning), making the information accessible to mechanics without requiring deep system knowledge. This intermediary layer bridges the gap between complex monitoring systems and end users.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates simplified copies or representations of the complex system status through visual metaphors. Instead of presenting raw data streams, the system generates visual copies such as icon-based status indicators, graphical representations of system components, and simplified trend displays that mirror actual system states in an easily interpretable format.
2Reliability
If comprehensive system monitoring is implemented, then all system functions can be tracked, but the complexity of the monitoring system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the comprehensive monitoring system into segmented, modular components. Each system function is monitored independently through separate data collection modules, which then feed into a centralized but organized display system. This segmentation allows comprehensive coverage while maintaining manageable complexity through modular architecture and independent functional blocks.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a universal monitoring platform that handles multiple system functions through a single integrated system. The user interface is designed to display various types of system data (electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, etc.) using consistent visual conventions and interaction patterns, reducing the need for separate specialized monitoring systems for each function.
3Measurement precision
If detailed system diagnostics are provided, then accurate system status can be determined, but the information becomes overwhelming for users
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by providing different levels of information detail in different interface areas. The main display area shows high-level summary information with precise status indicators for critical systems, while allowing users to drill down into specific system areas for more detailed diagnostics when needed. This ensures accurate information is available but not overwhelming in the primary view.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements partial action by selectively displaying only the most relevant system status information based on current operational context, aircraft phase, or detected anomalies. Rather than showing all possible diagnostic data simultaneously, the system prioritizes and displays partial information sets that are most useful at any given moment, reducing cognitive load while maintaining diagnostic accuracy.
Data Source
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AI summary
Status of complex system functions (302) is diagnosed and reported by analyzing traffic on a data network (312) of the complex system (304). The network traffic may be placed on the data network by systems (308) that perform functions for the complex system. A user may make a view selection via a remote user interface (502). The view selection identifies rules for determining a status of a selected subset of the functions or a status of selected ones of the functions for a selected state of operation, such as during initial power-up. The status of the functions may be determined from the network traffic using the rules and presented to the user via the user interface. The user may interact with the presentation to make different view selections. Multiple different view selections made via multiple different user interfaces may be supported simultaneously.