Smart Test Link Dongle LAN Interoperability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional test links for line replaceable units (LRUs) in aircraft lack interoperability with Local Area Networking (LAN) infrastructure due to simplicity in UUT test link software, requiring customized PCs that conflict with IT policies and incur additional costs for development and support.
Innovation Solution
A dongle with an Internet Protocol (IP) module and mode switching capabilities, including a DHCP server, enables standard computers to communicate with UUTs by supplying IP addresses and switching operational modes, eliminating the need for customized PCs and fixed IP addresses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If conventional simple UUT test link software is used, then product development costs are reduced, but interoperability with LAN infrastructure is lost and customized PCs are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a dongle as an intermediary device between the UUT and the PC. The dongle contains an IP module that acts as a mediator, translating and enabling communication between the simple UUT test link software and standard LAN infrastructure, thus resolving the interoperability issue without requiring complex custom software on the UUT side.
Solution Approach 2:
The dongle copies the necessary IP networking functionality into a separate portable device. Instead of implementing full IP stack in the UUT (which would increase cost and complexity), the IP capabilities are copied into the dongle, allowing standard PCs to communicate with the UUT through this portable intermediary.
2Ease of operation
If customized PCs with fixed IP addresses are used, then communication with UUT is enabled, but IT policy compliance is violated and administrative privileges are required
Solution Approach 1:
The dongle serves as an intermediary that handles all IP address management and networking complexity. It contains a DHCP client that automatically obtains IP addresses, eliminating the need for manual fixed IP configuration on PCs. This allows standard PCs without administrative privileges to communicate with UUTs through the dongle.
Solution Approach 2:
The dongle's DHCP client implements self-service by automatically obtaining IP addresses from the network without requiring manual configuration or administrative intervention. This eliminates the need for customized PC configurations and compliance issues with IT policies regarding administrative privileges.
3Device complexity
If UUT test link software lacks IP Suite intelligence, then software complexity is reduced, but compatibility with standard networking equipment is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the IP networking functionality from the UUT test link software and places it in the separate dongle device. This allows the UUT software to remain simple while the dongle handles all IP Suite intelligence, including DHCP client functionality, routing, and network protocol management, thus maintaining compatibility with LAN infrastructure without increasing UUT software complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The dongle acts as an intermediary that contains the full IP Suite intelligence. It translates between the simple UUT communication protocol and standard IP networking protocols, enabling compatibility with LAN infrastructure without requiring the UUT software itself to be complex or IP-aware.
Data Source
AI summary
A dongle for connecting a computerized device to a certified unit under test (UUT) includes a computerized device communication port and a UUT communication port. The dongle also includes a communication module operatively connecting the computerized device communication port and the UUT communication port. The communication module includes an internet protocol (IP) module that supplies an IP address to a computerized device connected to the computerized device communication port, wherein the IP address enables the computerized device to receive signals from and/or send signals to the UUT.