Aircraft Engine Fault Data Wireless Transfer for Remote Troubleshooting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Aircraft engine troubleshooting in remote locations is hindered by limited network connectivity and the need for wired connections, which restricts access to specific engine fault data for maintenance personnel.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for transmitting engine fault data wirelessly from an on-board computing device to an external electronic device, including obtaining fault data, retrieving associated sensor data, and establishing a secure wireless connection for real-time data transmission, enabling efficient troubleshooting without the need for wired connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If wired connections are used to retrieve engine fault data, then data transmission reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to the need for physical connections 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 cables and connectors while maintaining data transmission capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a wireless communication intermediary (wireless transceiver system) between the data acquisition unit and external devices. This intermediary enables data transmission without direct physical contact, resolving the contradiction between reliability and ease of operation.
2Reliability
If wired connections are required for data retrieval, then data security is improved, but adaptability deteriorates in remote locations with limited network connectivity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic connectivity options that adapt to the operational environment. The system can switch between wired and wireless connection modes depending on availability, with the wireless mode providing adaptability to remote locations while maintaining security protocols.
Solution Approach 2:
The data acquisition unit is designed with multi-functional communication capabilities, supporting both wired and wireless connection methods. This universality allows the system to adapt to different operational contexts, including remote locations with limited network infrastructure.
3Ease of operation
If only generic aircraft data is retrieved, then ease of operation is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates for specific engine fault diagnosis
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements local quality by providing different data granularities for different needs. The system can retrieve both generic aircraft-level data for quick assessments and specific engine-component-level data for precise fault diagnosis, allowing maintenance personnel to access the appropriate level of detail based on the situation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the data retrieval system into multiple levels: generic aircraft data, system-level data, and component-specific engine data. This segmentation enables easy retrieval of high-level information while also providing access to detailed precision data when needed for specific fault diagnosis.
Data Source
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AI summary
A data transmission system and method for an engine (10) of an aircraft (100). Engine fault data indicative of at least one fault condition of the engine (10) is obtained at a computing device (102) provided on-board the aircraft (100). 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 (112), to an electronic device (110) external to the aircraft (100).