Avionics Route Optimization Integration via Segmented DAL Architecture
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current avionics systems face high development costs and complexity when integrating new navigation functions, particularly due to the need for increased software development levels and hardware modifications, which complicates the integration of constrained route optimization services into existing architectures while maintaining safety standards.
Innovation Solution
A method for functionally and physically integrating a constrained aircraft route optimization application into an avionics onboard system with a DAL+ digital core computer and a DAL− peripheral computer, decomposing the application into elementary functions and optimizing their distribution to minimize development and maintenance costs, while ensuring the overall DAL level is maintained.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If new navigation functions are integrated into existing avionics systems, then system functionality is improved, but development cost and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the avionics system into a core module (FMS/PA) and a peripheral module (new navigation function). The core module maintains its existing high DAL certification, while the peripheral module operates at lower DAL levels. This segmentation allows new functions to be added without requiring the entire system to be re-certified at higher safety levels, thereby reducing development cost and complexity while maintaining system functionality.
2Adaptability or versatility
If new navigation functions are integrated into existing avionics systems, then system functionality is improved, but hardware modifications and wiring costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the new navigation function with the existing FMS/PA computer by integrating it as a peripheral module that communicates through standardized digital interfaces (ARINC 429, 629, 717). This approach eliminates the need for separate hardware installations and extensive wiring modifications, as the new function leverages the existing computer's processing power and communication infrastructure.
3Adaptability or versatility
If new navigation functions are integrated into existing avionics systems, then system functionality is improved, but training load and error risk increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the peripheral module to interact with the core FMS/PA system through universal standardized interfaces and protocols. This universality ensures that the new navigation function operates seamlessly with existing system architectures, maintaining consistent operational procedures and interfaces that pilots and maintenance personnel are already familiar with, thereby minimizing training requirements and reducing error risk.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for integrating a constrained aircraft route(s) optimization application is implemented in an avionics onboard system comprising a DAL+ core computer and a DAL− peripheral computer for managing the application. The method of integration determines an optimal functional and physical distribution of the elementary functions OPT_RTE_FU(i) of the application within the onboard avionics system over the set of possible distributions which minimizes a global cost criterion CG, dependent on several parameters, including at least the additional development cost of the elementary functions integrated within the DAL+ digital core computer, and carries out the integration of the application.