Aircraft Engine Fault Data Wireless Retrieval for Remote Maintenance
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Aircraft engine maintenance in remote locations is hindered by limited network connectivity and the need for wired connections to access and transmit engine fault data, often resulting in generic data retrieval rather than specific fault information.
Innovation Solution
A wireless data transmission method and system that enables an on-board computing device to obtain engine fault data, retrieve relevant sensor data, and transmit it to external devices via a wireless connection, eliminating the need for wired connections and providing specific fault information for troubleshooting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If wired connections are used to access engine fault data, then data transmission reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to the need for physical connectors and cables
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical wired connection system with a wireless communication system. The data acquisition unit transmits engine fault data wirelessly to external computing devices, eliminating the need for physical connectors and cables while maintaining data transmission capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a wireless communication intermediary (wireless transmission system) between the data acquisition unit and external devices. This intermediary enables data transfer without direct physical contact, resolving the contradiction between reliable transmission and ease of operation.
2Productivity
If network connectivity is available, then data transmission capability is improved, but adaptability deteriorates in remote locations with low connectivity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by enabling the data acquisition unit to store engine fault data locally in memory before transmission. This allows the system to function in remote locations without immediate network connectivity, as data can be retrieved and transmitted when connectivity becomes available.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies dynamics by making the data transmission system adaptable to varying connectivity conditions. The system can operate in different modes depending on network availability - storing data when connectivity is poor and transmitting when connectivity is available - thus adapting to remote location constraints.
3Ease of operation
If generic aircraft data is retrieved, then ease of operation is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates for specific fault diagnosis
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the data retrieval process into two distinct levels: generic aircraft data for broad troubleshooting and specific engine fault data for precise diagnosis. The system allows users to selectively access engine-specific fault codes and sensor data from the data acquisition unit, providing both ease of operation and measurement precision through differentiated data access.
Data Source
AI summary
A data transmission system and method for an engine of an aircraft. Engine fault data indicative of at least one fault condition of the engine is obtained at a computing device provided on-board the aircraft. Sensor data associated with the at least one fault condition is retrieved based on the engine fault data. The engine fault data and the sensor data are transmitted, through a wireless connection, to an electronic device external to the aircraft.