Avionics Data Transmission Architecture with Direct Peripheral Links

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current data transmission architectures for on-board avionics lack direct connectivity between peripheral networks, relying on a main network for data exchange, which can lead to reduced reliability and increased complexity.

Innovation Solution

A data transmission architecture that includes a main network with integrated functional nodes connecting peripheral networks, allowing direct data transmission between peripherals without passing through the main network, with features such as redundant supports, switches, looped or star networks, and programmable nodes for enhanced reliability and autonomy.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If peripheral networks are connected through a main network for data exchange, then system integration is achieved, but transmission reliability and communication efficiency deteriorate due to single points of failure and network congestion

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata transmission reliabilityVSAvoidnetwork architecture complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The network is segmented into a hierarchical structure with a main network and multiple peripheral networks. Each peripheral network can operate independently, segmenting the overall system to eliminate single points of failure and improve reliability while maintaining manageable complexity through modular design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a spatial dimension to network connectivity by establishing direct peer-to-peer connections between peripheral networks in addition to their connections with the main network. This creates a multi-dimensional network topology that provides alternative transmission paths and improves reliability without significantly increasing operational complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Productivity

If all data transmissions route through the main network, then centralized control is maintained, but communication efficiency and transmission speed deteriorate due to bottlenecks

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata transmission efficiencyVSAvoidnetwork control simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The network traffic is segmented into different paths: critical data can route directly between peripheral networks while less critical data uses the main network. This segmentation eliminates bottlenecks and improves transmission efficiency while maintaining simplified centralized control through selective routing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The network dynamically selects transmission paths based on data priority and network conditions. High-priority communications can bypass the main network through direct peripheral connections, while lower-priority traffic uses the centralized path, optimizing efficiency without complicating operational control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Reliability

If redundant transmission paths are added between peripheral networks, then reliability improves, but system complexity and infrastructure requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem integrityVSAvoidnetwork infrastructure components
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The main network serves multiple functions: it provides centralized control, carries lower-priority traffic, and acts as a backup path for peripheral network communications. This multi-functionality reduces the need for dedicated redundant infrastructure while maintaining system integrity and reliability.

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

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of providing full redundancy between all peripheral network pairs, the patent implements partial redundancy where the main network serves as a backup path for selected critical communications. This partial redundancy approach improves reliability for essential functions without requiring excessive infrastructure components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Data Source

PatentUS10027509B2Bridge-based data transmission architecture, in particular for use in on-board avionics
Publication Date: 2018.07.17 THALES SA
  • US10027509B2 patent drawing
  • US10027509B2 patent drawing
  • US10027509B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A data transmission architecture, in particular for use in on-board avionics is disclosed. The data transmission architecture includes at least one main data transmission network with integrated functional nodes for connecting a plurality of peripheral data transmission networks to the main network, in order to provide data transmission between the networks. The data transmission architecture also includes a direct connection of peripheral networks to one another so as to allow the transmission of data directly between the peripheral networks without passing through the main network. The main network includes a plurality of associated sub-networks.