Parallel Aircraft Test System Assembly via Master Network
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current test systems for aircraft are limited in scalability and computing power, making it difficult to test multiple systems under test in parallel, and are typically designed for single system testing with fixed allocations, which hinders joint testing of different systems.
Innovation Solution
A test system assembly featuring multiple individual test systems connected via a master network (Data Distribution Layer) for data exchange and centralized control, allowing for parallel testing of multiple systems under test, with each test system simulating specific electrical environments and capable of independent activation and deactivation to create various test scenarios, and featuring switches for signal routing and data storage for measuring results.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a single test system is used for testing, then the system structure is simple and easy to operate, but the testing capacity is limited to one system at a time and scalability is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The test system is divided into multiple independent test systems (first test system, second test system, etc.), each capable of testing a specific system under test. These segmented test systems are connected through a master network, allowing parallel testing while maintaining individual system simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The master network provides a universal communication infrastructure that enables data exchange between different test systems and the workstation. This universal network layer allows the system to test multiple different systems under test with varying complexities without requiring dedicated infrastructure for each.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple test systems are connected in parallel, then the testing capacity and scalability are improved, but the data exchange and control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The master network acts as an intermediary layer between multiple test systems and the workstation. It standardizes data exchange protocols and provides a common communication language, reducing the complexity of direct point-to-point connections between numerous test systems.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of creating a complex mesh network where each test system connects to every other system, the invention introduces a new dimensional layer - the master network - that provides centralized data exchange capabilities. This transforms the network topology from a potentially complex multi-dimensional connection problem into a simpler star topology with the workstation at the center.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed allocation between test systems and systems under test is used, then the system design is simple, but the adaptability to different test scenarios is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from a static, fixed allocation model to a dynamic configuration model. Test systems can be dynamically activated or deactivated based on the specific test scenario requirements. The master network enables dynamic routing and data exchange patterns that adapt to different testing needs without requiring physical reconfiguration.
Data Source
AI summary
Modern high-end technology products such as aircraft consist of a number of individual systems that are controlled by independent electronic control units and increasingly interconnected. According to one exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a test system assembly for testing several such systems for an aircraft in parallel is disclosed, wherein a master network is provided in order to exchange data between the individual test systems and a control unit, and wherein original electrical wiring is provided between the test systems in order to directly interconnect the tested systems. The flexibility of system tests for aircraft may be increased in this fashion.