Augmentation Apparatus for In-Flight Mission Data Updates
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current embedded aircraft control systems are inefficient in updating mission data, requiring manual and time-consuming processes that divert pilots' attention, and lack integration of advanced commercial computing technologies, such as mobile computing and wireless communications, due to the need for extensive re-certification of existing hardware and software.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a mission system interface unit, user interface unit, and mobile display unit that allows in-flight mission re-planning, off-board data receipt and storage, and transmission, enabling rapid updates to embedded control systems without modifying existing avionics or mission system software, utilizing commercial off-the-shelf hardware and software development processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual data entry and paper maps are used for mission planning updates, then existing embedded control systems can be operated, but the process is time-consuming and diverts pilot attention from flight duties
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical data entry processes with automated electronic data transmission. A wireless communication system receives mission data updates electronically and automatically transmits them to the embedded control system, eliminating the need for manual keying-in of data and paper map consultations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service mission data updates by allowing the aircraft's own communication equipment to receive and process mission data automatically. The pilot initiates the update process through simple commands rather than performing tedious manual data entry, and the system handles the complex data transmission and integration automatically.
2Adaptability or versatility
If commercial off-the-shelf hardware and software are integrated into aircraft systems, then technology advancement is accelerated, but extensive re-certification of existing hardware and software is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary wireless communication system that bridges commercial off-the-shelf technology and the certified embedded control system. This intermediary layer receives data from commercial sources and transmits it through approved interfaces to the embedded system, allowing technology integration without requiring re-certification of the core flight control software.
Solution Approach 2:
The system segments the mission data update function into separate modules: a commercial wireless communication component for data reception, an interface layer for data processing, and the certified embedded control system for execution. This segmentation allows the commercial components to be updated independently without affecting the certification status of the core flight control system.
3Ease of operation
If pilots manually enter mission data changes during flight, then real-time updates can be made, but physiological disturbances such as spatial disorientation may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical action of manual data entry with automated electronic data transmission. The wireless communication system automatically receives and inputs mission data changes, eliminating the need for pilots to physically reach forward, tilt their heads, or perform awkward movements that could cause spatial disorientation.
4Productivity
If ground-based mission planning systems are updated frequently, then operational capabilities improve, but embedded control systems cannot keep pace due to certification requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The wireless communication system serves as an intermediary that allows ground-based mission planning systems to be updated independently and frequently. Commercial off-the-shelf communication hardware can receive these updates immediately and transmit them to the aircraft, bypassing the lengthy certification process that would otherwise be required for every system update.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates dynamic adaptability by allowing the mission planning software to evolve independently on ground-based systems while the aircraft receives updates through flexible wireless communication channels. This dynamic approach decouples the update cycles of ground systems from the rigid certification schedules of embedded systems.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present invention provide an augmentation apparatus, program product, and methods for providing updated mission control data to an embedded control system of an aircraft or other vehicle. This augmentation can include a mission system interface unit, a user interface unit, and a display unit. The mission system interface unit can interface with the embedded control system and can exchange data and control signals with the embedded control system. The user interface unit can couple to the mission system interface unit and the display unit to provide a user a direct interface with embedded control system and to supplement the displays of the embedded control system.