Modular Avionics System with Parallel Processor Links
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing avionics systems face bottlenecks due to the use of central data buses, which can lead to data conflicts and require complex tools for deterministic data traffic management, limiting flexibility and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A modular avionics system utilizing parallel processors, such as transputers, with multiple core processor modules and input/output modules that communicate independently via direct links, eliminating the need for a central data bus and reducing data conflicts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a central data bus is used for data exchange between modules, then device complexity is reduced, but data conflicts occur and deterministic data traffic management becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the centralized data bus into multiple independent communication links between processor modules and I/O modules. Each link operates independently, eliminating data conflicts while maintaining deterministic traffic. This is achieved through a mesh-like interconnection topology where each core processor module can communicate directly with each I/O module via dedicated links.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces crossbar switches as intermediary devices that manage data traffic between processor modules and I/O modules. These crossbar switches act as intelligent mediators that can establish direct communication paths without conflicts, enabling deterministic data traffic while eliminating the need for a shared central bus.
2Ease of manufacture
If a central data bus is used, then ease of manufacture is improved, but productivity is reduced due to bottlenecks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single centralized bus into multiple parallel communication channels. Each channel provides dedicated bandwidth between specific processor and I/O module pairs, eliminating bottlenecks and enabling simultaneous data exchanges. This segmentation dramatically improves productivity while the modular nature of the links maintains ease of manufacture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a one-dimensional centralized bus architecture to a two-dimensional mesh-like interconnection network. This dimensional change allows multiple independent data paths to coexist, increasing overall system throughput and productivity without significantly complicating the manufacturing process.
3Reliability
If deterministic data traffic is enforced on a central bus, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases due to management tools
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables deterministic data traffic through the inherent structure of the distributed architecture rather than complex external management tools. The crossbar switches and independent links automatically provide conflict-free communication paths, making the system self-managing and reducing the need for external deterministic traffic control mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular avionics system includes several cabinets arranged at various locations in an aircraft and interconnected in a network. The cabinets are used for controlling or processing signals from and to sensors, actuators and other systems of the aircraft. The system includes parallel processors, for example transputers. The cabinets comprise at least two core processor modules (CPM1, CPM2) and at least two input/output modules (IOM1, IOM2). The input/output modules (IOM1, IOM2) serve as interfaces to the systems to be controlled, and serve for the control and intermediate storage of the data flowing into and out of the cabinet. Each core processor module (CPM1, CPM2) communicates independently with each IOM module and CPM module by way of links; and in each core processor a number of independent system programs works under the control of an operating system.