Avionics LRU Backplane Connector System for Interconnect Isolation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional line replaceable units (LRUs) lack enhanced flexibility, reliability, and cost-effectiveness, with complex interconnect systems that can lead to interference and inefficiencies in avionics systems, particularly in aircraft applications.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a backplane connector system that allows direct electrical connections between critical function circuit card assemblies and avionics, eliminating intermediate interconnect cards for improved isolation and communication, using d-connectors and ARINC tray/connector configurations for efficient and compact integration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If conventional interconnect systems with intermediate interconnect cards are used, then connection flexibility is maintained, but system complexity and potential for interference increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes intermediate interconnect cards from the signal path, allowing critical function circuit card assemblies to connect directly to the backplane. This extraction of unnecessary components reduces system complexity and eliminates potential sources of interference, thereby improving reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system segments connections by providing dedicated backplane connectors directly to each critical function circuit card assembly, eliminating the need for shared intermediate interconnect cards. This segmentation isolates signal paths and reduces cross-talk between different functions.
2Reliability
If multiple critical function circuit card assemblies are connected through shared interconnect cards, then connectivity is achieved, but electrical isolation and communication reliability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
Each critical function circuit card assembly is provided with its own dedicated backplane connectors, segmenting the electrical connection paths. This ensures that each assembly is electrically isolated from others except through the structured backplane interface, improving communication reliability while maintaining manageable complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If intermediate interconnect cards are used for connection, then adaptability is maintained, but weight and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates intermediate interconnect cards from the system architecture. By connecting critical function circuit card assemblies directly to the backplane through dedicated connectors, the system reduces weight while maintaining adaptability through the standardized backplane interface that supports various card types.
4Ease of manufacture
If conventional connector arrangements are used, then ease of manufacture is maintained, but production costs and assembly complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes intermediate interconnect cards and their associated complex wiring harnesses, simplifying the overall interconnection system. This reduction in components decreases assembly steps and manufacturing complexity while lowering production costs, as fewer parts need to be procured, managed, and assembled.
Data Source
AI summary
The subject invention is directed to a new and useful line replaceable unit (LRU) including an LRU case defining an interior compartment for housing critical function circuit card assemblies and including a back plane wall and opposed interface wall. At least one critical function circuit card assembly (CCA) is housed within the LRU case. The critical function CCA includes an input output connector mounted in proximity to the interface wall, as well as a backplane connector. The LRU includes a backplane CCA operatively connected to each backplane connector of the at least one critical function CCA. The backplane CCA is configured and adapted to provide operative communication among multiple critical function CCA's. The critical function CCA's can be mounted to the LRU case proximate the interface wall and the backplane wall to be mechanically and electrically isolated from one another except for connections provided by the backplane CCA.