Waveguide Interconnection for Aircraft Electronic Cabinets
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current aircraft electronic enclosures rely heavily on bulky and costly electrical wiring for interconnection, which results in significant weight and space inefficiencies, as well as complex and time-consuming reconfiguration procedures for network architecture changes.
Innovation Solution
A radiofrequency wireless communication system integrated into the enclosure using waveguides that serve as both ventilation ducts and structural elements, with invariant interfaces and transceivers for equipment items, eliminating the need for traditional connectors and cables.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional electrical wiring with standardized connectors is used for interconnection, then reliable electrical connection is achieved, but weight and space efficiency deteriorate significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical electrical wiring system with a radiofrequency wireless communication system. Instead of using physical connectors and cables for data transmission, the invention uses wireless radiofrequency signals to communicate between equipment items, thereby eliminating the heavy mechanical interconnection infrastructure while maintaining reliable communication.
Solution Approach 2:
The waveguide structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a structural support element of the enclosure, provides ventilation channels for cooling equipment, and functions as a waveguide for radiofrequency signal transmission. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated wiring harnesses, reducing overall weight while maintaining system reliability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional electrical wiring with standardized connectors is used for interconnection, then established connection standards are met, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the complex mechanical connector system with a simplified wireless radiofrequency communication system. Instead of requiring precise mechanical alignment and connection of heavy standardized connectors, the invention uses wireless signals that can penetrate through the enclosure structure, dramatically reducing interconnection complexity while maintaining adaptability through standard radiofrequency communication protocols.
3Reliability
If traditional electrical wiring is used for interconnection, then point-to-point connections are established, but reconfiguration time and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic reconfigurable wireless communication system where radiofrequency signals can be easily redirected and reconfigured through software control without physical rewiring. The system can dynamically adjust communication paths between equipment items by changing signal routing in the waveguide, allowing rapid reconfiguration while maintaining connection stability through established wireless communication protocols.
4Weight of moving object
If waveguide is used for wireless communication, then weight and complexity are reduced, but signal transmission through enclosure structure must be ensured
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the enclosure's existing structural walls and partitions as waveguides for radiofrequency signal transmission. By designing the enclosure structure itself to function as the waveguide, the invention eliminates the need for separate dedicated signal transmission paths, reducing weight while ensuring reliable signal transmission through proper waveguide design that accounts for the enclosure's structural requirements.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution simplifies installation and reconfiguration, reduces weight and cost by eliminating cables and connectors, while ensuring secure interconnection, power supply, and efficient ventilation within the enclosure.
Implementation Method 1
a radiofrequency wireless communication system integrated into the enclosure using waveguides
Implementation Method 2
said holes being dimensioned to form a screen to the passage of wireless communication radiofrequency waves
Implementation Method 3
said at least one waveguide further constitutes a ventilation duct for equipment items of said enclosure
Data Source
AI summary
An electric cabinet provided with an interconnection system for devices such as computers received in the cabinet. The interconnection system includes at least one waveguide forming part of the frame of the cabinet. The waveguide is provided with openings disposed facing housings for receiving the aforementioned devices. The openings being dimensioned to form a barrier to the passage of radio-frequency wireless communication waves to be transmitted through the waveguide and to form a barrier to external waves.