Network Forwarding Function for Simultaneous Avionic Data Loading
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current avionic computer architectures require loading data onto multiple computers sequentially using a standard ARINC 615A dataloader, resulting in lengthy loading times due to the need to load identical data on each computer individually.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a network forwarding function that allows multiple computers to share a single dataloader session by designating one computer as the last node in the chain to communicate with the dataloader, suppressing response messages from intermediate nodes, and forwarding messages to ensure all computers receive the same data simultaneously.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If data is loaded onto multiple computers sequentially using a standard dataloader, then each computer receives the complete data set, but the total loading time increases linearly with the number of computers
Solution Approach 1:
The network of computers is segmented into intermediate nodes and a final node. Data is segmented into data units that are forwarded through the network chain. This segmentation allows parallel processing of data across multiple computers simultaneously rather than sequentially.
Solution Approach 2:
Intermediate nodes act as mediators that receive data from the dataloader, forward it to the final node, and also consume it locally. These intermediary computers enable the data to be distributed to multiple nodes simultaneously through a single dataloader connection.
2Reliability
If response messages from all computers are allowed to reach the dataloader, then each computer confirms data receipt, but multiple response messages create protocol conflicts and errors
Solution Approach 1:
Each node has differentiated local quality in terms of response message generation. The final node is configured to generate and send response messages to the dataloader, while intermediate nodes suppress their response messages. This local differentiation eliminates protocol conflicts while maintaining data transfer reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
Intermediate nodes receive and process copies of the data and response messages, consuming them locally without forwarding responses upstream. This copying mechanism allows all nodes to verify data receipt while only one node communicates with the dataloader.
3Productivity
If a network forwarding function is implemented to enable simultaneous data loading onto multiple computers, then loading time is significantly reduced, but the system requires additional forwarding logic and message suppression capabilities
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically configures nodes during the data loading process. The first node is dynamically identified and configured as the final node that sends responses, while other nodes are configured as intermediate nodes that suppress responses. This dynamic configuration allows the system to adapt to different network topologies and computer arrangements.
Solution Approach 2:
Each computer node is designed with multi-functionality, capable of operating either as an intermediate node or the final node depending on configuration. This universality allows any node in the network to assume the response-sending role, providing flexibility and simplifying the overall system architecture.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for multiple computer dataloading using a standard dataloader are provided. In one embodiment, a method for simultaneously uploading duplicate data to a plurality of computers comprises: performing a handshake message exchange with a dataloader to determine a MAC address for a target node; conducting a data transfer between the dataloader and the target node by forwarding a file transfer protocol message having the MAC address for the target node from the dataloader to the target node; forwarding the file transfer protocol message to at least one node other than the target node, wherein the at least one node and the target node both consume the file transfer protocol message; and selectively suppressing one or more response messages generated by the at least one node from reaching the dataloader.