Reconfigurable Satcom Avionics Radio for Weight Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current satellite communication systems for aircraft are limited to non-safety critical applications and lack the capability to efficiently support both safety and non-safety critical data connectivity, particularly in oceanic and polar routes, where legacy HF radios add weight and volume, and existing Satcom systems are not certified for safety-critical aerospace applications.
Innovation Solution
A software-defined radio (SDR) main radio unit configured to provide both safety-certified and non-safety channels, capable of generating signals for different communication protocols, with an interface to convert between cockpit and satellite communication protocols, and RF units for transmission and reception, allowing simultaneous operation with multiple Satcom systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If legacy HF radios are used for oceanic and polar routes, then safety critical communication is maintained, but device volume and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines safety critical communication and non-safety critical cabin services into a single integrated Satcom radio unit. The SDR architecture allows one radio to perform functions that previously required separate HF and cabin entertainment systems, reducing overall equipment weight and volume while maintaining safety critical capabilities through software configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The Satcom radio unit is designed with multi-functionality to handle both safety critical aviation communication protocols (ACARS, Voice) and non-safety critical cabin services (internet, phone, entertainment). The SDR can be configured via software to support multiple communication protocols and modes, making a single device replace multiple specialized radios.
2Adaptability or versatility
If existing Satcom systems are used for cabin services, then non-safety critical connectivity is provided, but safety critical certification is unavailable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements logical segmentation within a single radio unit, separating safety critical channels from non-safety critical channels. The SDR can be configured to allocate specific frequency channels, time slots, or signal processing paths for safety critical communications that require certification, while other resources handle non-safety critical cabin services. This segmentation allows the system to meet certification requirements for safety functions while providing versatile communication services.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamic configuration capabilities where the SDR can switch between different communication protocols, modes, and certification levels as needed. The radio can be reconfigured via software to operate in safety critical mode with appropriate certification when required, and switch to non-safety critical modes for cabin services, providing adaptability across different operational requirements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate radios are deployed for safety and non-safety services, then service coverage is comprehensive, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple radio functions into a single integrated Satcom unit with SDR architecture. Instead of deploying separate HF radios for safety critical communication and separate Satcom systems for cabin services, one unified radio unit handles both roles through software configuration, reducing the number of physical devices and interconnections required in the aircraft.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated Satcom radio unit provides universal functionality to support multiple communication protocols and services. The SDR can be configured to handle ACARS, voice communications, internet access, phone services, and entertainment through a single device, eliminating the need for multiple specialized radios and reducing system complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment, a main radio unit for an avionic communication system is provided. The main radio unit includes a software defined radio (SDR) configured to simultaneously provide at least one safety certified channel for a cockpit of an aircraft and at least one other channel for cabin services of the aircraft, wherein the SDR is configurable such that the SDR can generate signals corresponding to different communication protocols. The main radio unit also includes an interface for the at least one safety certified channel, wherein the interface is configured to convert signals between a protocol for hardware in the cockpit and a satellite communication protocol used by the SDR for the at least one safety certified channel; and wherein the SDR is configured to communicate with an RF unit for transmission and reception of signals over an antenna.