Aircraft Power Bus Communication With Adaptive Frequency Selection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional power distribution systems in aircraft face challenges in efficiently managing power distribution and communication due to dynamic load networks and interference from switching power supplies and complex resonances.

Innovation Solution

A smart power distribution system is introduced, featuring a primary communication module and secondary communication modules with integrated transceivers, allowing for data over power transmission. The system dynamically selects communication frequencies based on signal quality measurements to ensure optimal communication integrity.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional power distribution systems are used with dynamic load networks, then power delivery to electrical loads can be achieved, but signal quality deteriorates due to interference from switching power supplies and complex resonances

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecommunication reliabilityVSAvoidsignal interference
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The system continuously monitors signal quality metrics (bit error ratio, signal-to-noise ratio) and uses this feedback to dynamically adjust communication frequency. When interference is detected, the system automatically selects alternative frequencies to maintain reliable communication despite the harsh electromagnetic environment created by switching power supplies and resonances.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The communication system dynamically changes the frequency parameter based on detected signal quality conditions. By sweeping through multiple frequency channels and selecting the optimal frequency, the system adapts to varying interference conditions caused by dynamic load networks and switching power supplies, thereby maintaining communication reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If data over power transmission is implemented, then communication capability is improved, but system complexity increases due to integrated transceivers and frequency management

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecommunication capabilityVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system combines power delivery and data communication functions into a single power distribution infrastructure. By integrating transceivers into existing power distribution nodes and using the power lines themselves as communication channels, the system achieves dual functionality without requiring separate communication wiring, thereby reducing overall system complexity despite the advanced capabilities enabled.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The power distribution system is designed to simultaneously perform multiple functions: power delivery, communication, and frequency management. The same infrastructure and nodes used for power distribution are also used for data transmission, making the system versatile while avoiding the need for dedicated communication hardware in each node.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Measurement precision

If communication frequency is dynamically changed, then signal quality is optimized, but communication stability may be affected by frequency switching

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal qualityVSAvoidcommunication stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs a frequency sweep through multiple candidate channels before selecting the optimal frequency for communication. By preliminarily evaluating available frequencies and choosing the best one in advance, the system ensures stable communication on a suitable frequency while maintaining the ability to optimize signal quality when conditions change.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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

The system effectively manages power distribution and communication in dynamic aircraft environments, providing robust and scalable communication independent of network conditions, while optimizing signal quality and reducing interference.

Implementation Method 1

a transceiver configured to transmit data over a power distribution bus

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic wave propagation: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

determine a signal quality of the communicated data

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSignal quality measurement:

Data Source

PatentUS20250125625A1System and method for operating a power distribution system
Publication Date: 2025.04.17 GE AVIATION SYSTEMS LLC
  • US20250125625A1 patent drawing
  • US20250125625A1 patent drawing
  • US20250125625A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A method and aircraft power distribution system includes a power distribution bus supplying power along an electrical line, a primary communication module including a primary transceiver and a primary controller, and a plurality of secondary communication modules including a secondary transceiver communicatively coupled to the primary transceiver and a secondary controller communicatively coupled to the secondary transceiver.