Wireless Flight Data Logging via Portable Unit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current flight data recording systems, such as flight data recorders or black boxes, are inadequate for analyzing and evaluating flight crew operations from takeoff to landing, and implementing quick access recording systems is costly and impractical for most aircraft operators.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a line replaceable processing unit (LRU) connected via databuses to various aircraft sensors, a wireless router, and a portable data unit that receives and records flight data in real-time, allowing for efficient and inexpensive data logging and analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If traditional flight data recorder systems are used, then flight data can be recorded at terminal stage, but the data does not provide valuable tool for analyzing and evaluating flight crew operation from takeoff to landing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the data recording function from the traditional black box system and implements it separately through portable data units that can be independently connected to aircraft systems via auxiliary ports. This allows comprehensive flight data collection without requiring modification of the core flight data recorder system.
Solution Approach 2:
The portable data unit serves multiple functions: it records flight parameters, monitors crew operations, stores data locally, and enables data transfer through multiple interfaces. This multi-functional approach replaces the need for separate specialized systems while providing comprehensive flight operation analysis capability.
2Loss of information
If quick access recording system is implemented, then real-time flight data recording is achieved, but it is beyond the expense that most aircraft operators are willing to incur
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs portable, inexpensive data units that can be easily manufactured and replaced. These units use standard commercial off-the-shelf components including portable computers, wireless routers, and memory devices, avoiding the need for expensive custom-built aviation-grade recording systems.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of implementing a completely new expensive recording system, the patent creates a complementary system that copies and supplements flight data from existing aircraft systems. The portable units receive data copies through auxiliary ports, providing real-time recording capability without duplicating the entire flight data acquisition infrastructure.
3Loss of information
If comprehensive flight data logging is performed, then analysis and evaluation of flight crew operation is enabled, but the implementation becomes difficult and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the data logging function into modular portable units that can be independently configured and operated. Each unit handles specific data collection and processing tasks, and multiple units can work in parallel. This segmentation reduces overall system complexity while enabling comprehensive data collection through distributed functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for performing efficient, inexpensive data logging of aircraft sensor data. An example system on board an aircraft includes a plurality of data sources that provide sensor data associated with a plurality of avionic components, a line replaceable processing unit that is in signal communication with the plurality of data sources via one or more databuses, a wireless router connected to the line replaceable processing unit via a data cable and a portable data unit in wireless data communication with the wireless router. The wireless router receives at least a portion of the sensor data from the line replaceable processing unit and sends the received sensor data to the portable data unit.