Configurable Avionics Interfaces for Plug-and-Play Transducers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Avionics networks, particularly those compliant with Part 7 of ARINC 664, face challenges in reducing wiring mass, certification requirements, and maintenance complexity due to the need for extensive reconfiguration and recertification of hardware and software when integrating new transducers, which can lead to delays and increased costs.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a configurable interface unit with local signal processing capabilities that connects transducers directly to the avionics network, allowing for operation in different modes such as application session, data-loading, and maintenance modes, and utilizing a modified avionics network with sampling ports to reduce queuing and enhance communication efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional avionics networks are used with extensive wiring and centralized processing, then system reliability is maintained through established architectures, but wiring mass increases and maintenance complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the traditional centralized avionics architecture into distributed modular units (aviionics modules) that can be independently connected to the network. Each module contains specific functional components (processors, transducers, interfaces) that are segmented and distributed throughout the aircraft, reducing the need for extensive point-to-point wiring while maintaining system reliability through modular redundancy and standardized network connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical wiring harness system with an electronic network-based communication system. Instead of using extensive physical wiring to connect every component, the invention uses digital network protocols and standardized interfaces to transmit signals and data electronically, significantly reducing wiring mass while maintaining communication reliability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If new transducers are integrated into traditional avionics networks, then functionality is enhanced, but recertification of hardware and software is required causing delays
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates universal avionics modules with standardized interfaces and configurations that can accommodate multiple types of transducers and sensors. These modular units are designed with generic communication protocols and configurable parameters that allow different transducer types to be integrated without requiring custom certification processes, enabling plug-and-play functionality across various aircraft systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables dynamic reconfiguration of avionics modules through parameter changes rather than physical hardware modifications. The system allows software-based configuration of transducer parameters, communication protocols, and operational modes, enabling new transducers to be integrated by changing software parameters rather than requiring hardware recertification, thus reducing integration time and delays.
3Ease of repair
If configurable interface units with local processing are implemented, then maintenance is simplified and plug-and-play functionality is enabled, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions (signal processing, data formatting, communication protocols, diagnostics) into integrated avionics modules with standardized interfaces. By merging these functions into unified modular units, the system simplifies maintenance operations despite the internal complexity of each module, as technicians can replace entire functional units rather than troubleshooting individual components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-diagnostic and self-configuration capabilities within the avionics modules. The interface units automatically detect transducer types, configure appropriate parameters, and perform basic diagnostics without requiring extensive manual setup or complex maintenance procedures. This self-service functionality reduces maintenance complexity by enabling automated configuration and fault detection.
4Reliability
If extensive reconfiguration is required for new transducer integration, then system adaptability is reduced, but certification requirements are maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic reconfiguration capabilities that allow the avionics system to adapt to new transducers in real-time through software parameter changes rather than static hardware configurations. The system can dynamically adjust communication protocols, data formats, and operational parameters to accommodate different transducer types while maintaining certification compliance through automated validation routines that ensure reconfigured systems meet required standards.
Data Source
AI summary
An aircraft control system including transducers connected by interface units to an avionics network, such as an AFDX network. Each transducer is directly connected to an interface unit local to the transducer. Each interface unit is a configurable unit and has a signal processing module converting data to a format suitable for transmission over the network. Each interface unit may be configurable, via software commands, to operate in an application session mode, a data-loading mode, or a maintenance mode. Each interface unit may be directly associated with one of the software applications of the aircraft control system. The network may include a lower bandwidth part where data communication is conducted over sampling ports only. Interface units may be configured or installed using a plug and play method.