Avionics Switch Virtual Segregation for Weight Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current avionics communication systems require multiple physical components to ensure segregation of different networks, leading to bulk and weight issues in aircraft due to the need for separate switches and transmission means for segregated networks.
Innovation Solution
A mixed-type switch that uses a combination of routing matrices and an allocation interface to segregate frames of different types within the same physical communication system, allowing for the sharing of components while maintaining segregation through predetermined routing configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If physically separate switches and transmission means are used for each segregated avionics network, then data segregation and operational security are ensured, but the bulk and weight of the communication system increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple segregated avionics networks into a single physical switch by implementing virtual switching instances that logically separate traffic. Each virtual switch instance handles a specific avionics network type (e.g., AFDX, Ethernet), allowing physical consolidation while maintaining logical segregation through virtualization layers.
Solution Approach 2:
The switch is designed with multi-functionality to handle multiple types of avionics networks simultaneously through a single device. It implements multiple virtual switching instances that can process different network protocols and segregation requirements, making one physical component serve multiple segregated functions.
2Reliability
If physically separate switches are used for each segregated avionics network, then network isolation is ensured, but the number of physical components and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The single physical switch is segmented into multiple virtual switching instances, each responsible for a specific avionics network type. This virtual segmentation creates logical isolation between networks while maintaining physical consolidation, reducing the number of physical components needed.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple virtual switching instances are merged within a single physical switch device, allowing network isolation to be achieved through software/virtualization rather than physical separation. This combining approach reduces component count while maintaining isolation through virtual boundaries.
3Reliability
If multiple physical components are used for segregated networks, then data segregation is maintained, but the volume occupied by the communication system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple segregated network functions into a single physical switch volume by implementing virtual switching instances. This merging eliminates the need for multiple separate physical devices, thereby reducing the total volume occupied while maintaining data segregation through virtualization.
4Reliability
If separate physical switches are used for each network type, then operational security is ensured, but adaptability and ease of configuration decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The switch implements dynamic configuration capabilities where virtual switching instances can be created, modified, or deactivated based on operational requirements. This dynamic approach allows the system to adapt to different network configurations and security requirements without physical reconfiguration, enhancing both security and flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The single physical switch is designed with universal functionality to support multiple avionics network types and segregation schemes through its virtual switching instances. This multi-functionality allows flexible configuration for different operational scenarios while maintaining security through virtual isolation mechanisms.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a switch comprising a plurality of input ports, a plurality of output ports, and a first routing component (31) capable of routing each frame of the first type according to a first protocol between at least one input port and one output port associated with this component. The switch further comprises a second routing component (32) capable of routing each frame of the second type according to a second protocol between at least one input port and one output port associated with this component, and an allocation interface (33) capable of associating each input port and each output port with the first or second routing component (31, 32), according to a predetermined configuration.