Aircraft Cabin Central Control for Integrated Subsystem Data Sharing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing aircraft cabin systems lack an efficient and integrated central control system that can manage multiple interior subsystems effectively, leading to redundant sensors and communication lines, and inefficient data sharing among subsystems like water and lavatory systems.
Innovation Solution
A central cabin control system with a central controller that integrates and manages various subsystems, including lavatories, galleys, water systems, and service carts, through a microservices architecture, allowing for efficient data sharing and centralized decision-making, and enabling features like prognostic health monitoring and touchless queuing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If independent subsystems with separate controllers are used, then each subsystem can operate autonomously, but the system complexity increases and communication lines become redundant
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple independent subsystem controllers into a single centralized controller that manages all cabin subsystems. This consolidation reduces the number of separate controllers and communication lines while maintaining subsystem functionality through integrated control architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The centralized controller is designed to perform multiple functions across different subsystems simultaneously. It can control lighting, temperature, entertainment, and other cabin systems through a single multi-functional control unit, eliminating the need for dedicated controllers for each subsystem.
2Ease of operation
If independent subsystems are used, then each subsystem can be managed separately, but data integration becomes inefficient and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines data from all subsystems into a single centralized data repository managed by the main controller. This unified data structure enables efficient integration and sharing of information across all cabin systems, eliminating data silos and improving overall data accessibility.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate controllers are deployed, then subsystem independence is maintained, but the number of parts and engineering costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent consolidates multiple separate controllers into one integrated control system, reducing the total number of parts and associated engineering costs. The unified controller maintains the ability to manage independent subsystems through software-based control logic rather than hardware separation.
Data Source
AI summary
A central cabin control system comprises a central controller in operable communication with various sub-systems in an aircraft cabin. The central controller is configured to provide data of various systems to crew members and/or facilitate interactions with various passengers. The central controller is configured for operable communication with each controller disposed in the aircraft cabin.