Onboard Processor for Real-Time Aircraft Flight Test Data Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current aircraft test systems have limited processing capabilities and architectures, leading to delayed and costly certification processes due to the need for post-flight data processing, which is inefficient and time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus comprising a memory and processor unit configured to process raw information from sensors and systems in real-time, allowing for immediate data analysis and determination of additional tests needed during aircraft operation, utilizing a shared memory and storage system to manage and send data efficiently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If data processing is performed after flight using traditional systems, then processing can be done with simpler equipment, but the certification process becomes time-consuming and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing data processing during flight operations rather than after. The onboard processor continuously receives raw data from sensors, processes it in real-time to generate processed information, and transmits results to ground systems. This eliminates the post-flight processing bottleneck and accelerates the certification timeline without requiring overly complex ground-based processing infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an onboard processor as an intermediary between data collection and ground-based analysis. This intermediate processing unit performs initial data reduction and analysis during flight, transforming raw sensor data into meaningful processed information that can be efficiently transmitted and further analyzed on the ground, thereby reducing overall processing time without overwhelming ground systems.
2Productivity
If real-time data processing is implemented during flight, then certification speed increases, but the processing system becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the data processing function into two distinct components: an onboard processor that performs real-time processing during flight, and ground-based systems that conduct detailed post-flight analysis. This segmentation allows real-time processing to be performed with a dedicated, relatively simple onboard unit while the complex analytical work is distributed to ground facilities, thereby achieving high processing speed without concentrating all complexity in one system.
Solution Approach 2:
The onboard processor is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a data collection hub and a real-time processing unit. It receives raw data from multiple sensors, processes this data during flight operations, and simultaneously prepares processed information for transmission to ground systems. This universal design consolidates multiple functions into a single unit, reducing the need for separate specialized equipment and managing system complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus are present for processing information. Raw information is received from a sensor network and a number of systems in an aircraft during a test of the aircraft performed during operation of the aircraft. The raw information is placed in a memory and is processed using processes run by a processor unit that accesses the memory to form processed information while new raw information is being received in the memory. The raw information and the processed information are both present in the memory. The raw information and the processed information are stored in a storage system. A determination is made as to whether additional tests are needed for the aircraft using the processed information prior to a conclusion of the operation of the aircraft. At least one of the raw information and the processed information are sent to a remote location using a wireless communications link.