FADEC Script Loading for Targeted Aircraft Engine Maintenance

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing aircraft engine maintenance testing methods lack the ability to perform custom, targeted tests efficiently, especially in real-time conditions, which can lead to inadequate detection and correction of engine defects.

Innovation Solution

A method utilizing an aircraft maintenance computer to load a script into a full authority digital engine control (FADEC), enabling the FADEC to enter a test mode and perform specific maintenance test sequences, both on-ground and in-air, and implement corrective actions based on detected defects.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If traditional maintenance testing methods are used, then maintenance can be performed at predefined intervals or upon failure, but the ability to perform custom, targeted tests efficiently is lacking

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecustom maintenance test capabilityVSAvoidtesting efficiency

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically loads and executes different test sequences based on real-time engine conditions and maintenance requirements. The FADEC can adaptively select between predefined and custom test sequences, allowing the testing methodology to change dynamically rather than being static

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the operational parameters of the engine control by entering a special test mode that enables execution of custom test sequences. This parameter change allows the system to transition from normal operation to maintenance testing, enabling flexible and targeted diagnostic capabilities

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If comprehensive maintenance testing is performed, then engine defects can be detected, but maintenance downtime increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedefect detection capabilityVSAvoidmaintenance downtime

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs only the necessary portion of maintenance testing based on specific maintenance needs and engine conditions. Rather than executing comprehensive test sequences every time, it selectively runs targeted tests that address specific concerns, reducing unnecessary testing time while maintaining adequate defect detection

Inventive Principle:

Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Solution Approach 2:

The system prepares and loads test sequences in advance, and can perform preliminary assessments before committing to full test execution. This allows for quick evaluation of whether comprehensive testing is truly necessary, reducing maintenance downtime by avoiding unnecessary extensive testing

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS12281960B2Aircraft engine maintenance testing

Publication Date: 2025.04.22 RTX CORP

AI summary

Examples described herein provide a method for aircraft engine maintenance testing for an engine of an aircraft. The method includes causing, by an aircraft maintenance computer, a full authority digital engine control to enter a test mode. The method further includes loading, via the aircraft maintenance computer, a script to the full authority digital engine control, the script defining a specific maintenance test sequence. The method further includes performing, by the full authority digital engine control, the specific maintenance test sequence. The method further includes implementing a corrective action to correct a defect detected by the specific maintenance test sequence.