An Assessment of the 1990 Digital/Electric Airplane

The application of advanced systems technology has shown increasing promise for significant potential gains in airplane performance and efficiency. In late 1983, NASA initiated the integrated Digital/Electric Aicrat (IDEA) study programs to determine the impact of extensive use of advanced electrical and digital systems on future aircraft. The first objective of the IDEA program was the broad evaluation of improvements in airplane performance and economics resulting from the integrated introduction of digital controls and advanced electrical systems. The second program objective was the definition of research and development areas required to achieve the projected improvements. A baseline configuration was compared to the new IDEA configurations in terms of economic performance, fuel efficiency, and significant system and airplane configuration characteristics. Important factors (weight, reliability, maintainability, cost, performance, survivability, and environmental constraints) were determined and compared to form the basis for recommending the research and development necessary to implement IDEA concepts. Based on these developmental needs, research programs were recommended for high-risk, high-payoff areas appropriate for implementation under NASA leadership. The 1990 Baseline configuration represents a 6% to 8% fuel burn improvement over current technology. When compared to the 1990 Baseline airplane, the IDEA airplane systems showed a 1.8% improvement in direct operating cost (DOC) and a 3% improvement in fuel burn performance. In addition, significant economic improvement was apparent when the total operating cost was included.     

Motor drive technologies for the power-by-wire (PBW) program:options, trends and tradeoffs. I. Motors and controllers

The Power-By-Wire (PEW) program involves the replacement of hydraulic and pneumatic systems currently used in aircraft with an all-electric secondary power system. One of the largest loads of the all-electric secondary power system will be the motor loads which include pumps, compressors and Electrical Actuators (EAs). Issues of improved reliability, reduced maintenance and efficiency, among other advantages, are the motivation for replacing the existing aircraft actuators with electrical actuators. The EA system contains the motor, the power electronic converters, the actuator and the control system, including the sensors. This paper and a companion paper give a comparative literature review in motor drive technologies, with a focus on the trends and tradeoffs involved in the selection of a particular motor drive technology. The reported research comprises the induction motor (IM), the brushless dc motor (BLDCM) and the switched reluctance motor (SRM) drive technologies. Each of the three drives has the potential for application in the PEW program. Many issues remain to be investigated and compared between the three motor drives, using actual mechanical loads expected in the PBW program     

Power management and distribution system for a more-electricaircraft (MADMEL)

A five-phase Power Management and Distribution System for a More-Electric Aircraft (MADMEL) program was awarded by the Air Force to Northrop/Grumman Military Aircraft Division in September 1991. The objective of the program is to design, develop, and demonstrate an advanced electrical power generation and distribution system for a More-Electric Aircraft (MEA). The MEA emphasizes the use of electrical power in place of hydraulics, pneumatic, and mechanical power to optimize the performance and life cycle cost of the aircraft. This paper presents an overview of the MADMEL program and a top-level summary of the program results, development and test of major components to date. In Phase I and Phase II studies, the electrical load requirements were established and the electrical power system architecture was defined for both near-term (NT-year 1996) and far-term (FT-year 2003) MEA application. The detailed design and specification for the Electrical Power System (EPS), its interface with the Vehicle Management System, and the test set-up were developed under Phase III. Phase IV, fabrication and testing of the subsystem level hardware, has been completed. Overall system level integration and testing, Phase V, is scheduled to be completed by September 1999     

Replacement strategy for aging avionics computers

With decreasing defense dollars available to purchase new military aircraft, the inventory of existing aircraft will have to last many more years than originally anticipated. As the avionics computers on these aging aircraft get older, they become more expensive to maintain due to parts obsolescence. In addition, expanding missions and changing requirements lead to growth in the embedded software which, in turn, requires additional processing and memory capacity. Both factors, parts obsolescence and new processing capacity, result in the need to replace the old computer hardware with newer, more capable microprocessor technology. New microprocessors, however, are not compatible with the older computer instruction set architectures. This generally requires the embedded software in these computers to be rewritten. A significant savings-estimated in the billions of dollars-could be achieved in these upgrades if the new computers could execute the old embedded code along with any new code to be added. This paper describes a commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS)-based form, fit, function, and interface (F³I) replacement strategy for legacy avionics computers that can reuse existing avionics code “as is” while providing a flexible framework for incremental upgrades and managed change. It is based on a real-time embedded software technology that executes legacy binary code on the latest generation COTS microprocessors. This technology promises performance improvements of 5-10 times that of the legacy avionics computer that it replaces. It also promises a 4× decrease in cost and schedule over rewriting the code and provides a “known good” starting point for incremental upgrades of the embedded flight software. Code revalidation cost and risk are minimized since the structure of the embedded code is not changed, allowing the replacement computer to be retested at the “blackbox” level using existing qualification tests     

FEL system for energy transmission

The use of a free electron laser (FEL) as the power source for transmission from Earth stations to space assets is discussed. Considerations of requirements including net power transmitted, system reliability, system availability, cost, and technical maturity are addressed to determine a reasonable development path to an optimal system. Various applications of transmitted power are examined such as supplementary power to communications satellites, orbit raising through the use of electric and thermal thrusters, supplementary power to manned orbiters and space stations. It is seen that each of these applications leads to different stages of infrastructure development, and that a program following a near optimal development path can lead to a system that has justifiable investments for the services delivered at each stage past the initial technology demonstration     

Parametric cost model for solar space power and DIPS systems

A detailed cost model has been developed to parametrically determine the program development and production cost of photovoltaic, solar dynamic, and dynamic isotope (DIPS) space power systems. The model is applicable in the net electrical power range of 3 to 300 kWe for solar power and 0.5 to 10 kWe for DIPS. Application of the cost model allows spacecraft or space-based power system architecture and design trade studies or budgetary forecasting and cost benefit analyses. The cost model considers all major power subsystems (i.e., power generation, power conversion, energy storage, thermal management, and power management/distribution/control). It also considers system cost effects such as integration, testing, and management. The cost breakdown structure, model assumptions, ground rules, bases, cost estimation relationship format, and rationale are presented, and the application of the cost model to 100-kWe solar space power plants and to a 1.0-kWe DIPS is demonstrated     

GPS guidance system increases projectile accuracy

To meet the size/performance and cost-driven goals required for more advanced projectile and mortar applications, IEC focused its efforts on function consolidation, electronic signal protection, ultra-deep sensor integration, and processing stability. IEC's development has been in the utilization of silicon-based micro-machine technology for the inertial sensor, high levels of processor integration, and hardware function consolidation, making the guidance package inherently immune to the vibration and high G shock effects of the launch. In addition, the size and power are sufficiently reduced to fit the constraints of the fuse well. While a GPS “only”-based guidance system seemed an ideal solution for the lowest cost implementation of smart weapon guidance, the potential for signal jamming meant that a GPS “only” solution would not be able to guide the projectile to the target. To resolve this limitation, an anti-jam (AJ) capability had to be incorporated into the GPS receiver, and a miniature on-board inertial measurement unit (IMU) had to be part of the system. Initial laboratory tests have proven that the GPS/inertial guidance system, enhanced with a robust, low-cost AJ subsystem, performs consistently well under simulated battlefield conditions     

Study on an automatic multi-pin insertion system for preparing Z-pin composite laminates

As a three-dimensional layer enhancement technology, the Z-pin technology is suitable for manufacturing composite prepreg laminates and can also effectively improve their interlaminar properties. In order to manufacture Z-pin composite parts efficiently, this paper proposes a transi- tional insertion system, and according to the technical requirements of the transitional insertion process and the functional requirements of the transitional insertion platform, proposes a transition insertion plan which can insert multiple Z-pins into a carrier. A prototype machine has been designed and made, and a series of function debugging and verification experiments have been car- ried out on the machine. Some problems show up during the experiments, but based on the analysis of the reasons, this paper provides lots of solutions, and finally demonstrates the feasibility and practical value of the system. The results show that the system meets all technical requirements of the Z-pin insertion process. It is capable to insert multiple Z-pins into a foam carrier; as a result, the system is as much as 5 times more efficient than existing equipment, and the deviation for the insertion distance can be controlled within 0.3 mm. This Z-pin transitional insertion platform pro- motes the use of Z-pins in national defense and lays the foundation for commercializing the Z-pin technology.     

High Voltage/High Power for Airborne Applications

The Air Force has requirements for large amounts of electrical power at high voltage (up to hundreds of kilovolts) for certain airborne applications. Because of the severe weight and volume constraints, these systems cannot be realized using conventional technology. The Air Force, therefore, has been heavily involved in the development of lightweight power generation and conditioning equipment. Programs have been undertaken to reduce the weight of rotating machines, transformers, switches, inverters, and capacitors. The advances made in these areas are described, and some aspects of the use of these components in the design of lightweight systems are discussed.     

Avionics cost of ownership

The cost of ownership of avionics includes not only the development and acquisition cost, but also the yearly operating and support (O and S) (maintenance) cost of hardware, software, and support equipment. This paper presents an avionics cost of ownership methodology developed for USAF, its data sources, and business metrics computed for USAF decision makers as we move toward operating avionics as a business. The business model is used to determine which existing avionics are candidates for replacement with new technology and to prioritize the replacements. These avionics are often used on multiple aircraft types which necessitates analysis of the causes of the high cost of ownership on each type. Databases are used to document the processing functions, data flow, and constraints of the item being analyzed. These constraints include physical, environmental, electrical, and data interfaces. Databases containing alternatives are evaluated against standard mission scenarios for aircraft utilizing these high cost avionics to determine their impact on performance, O and S costs, and mission effectiveness. The results of the foregoing analyses steps are then used in life cycle cost analyses which consider different retrofit scenarios for each alternative for each aircraft type against the avionics being analyzed for replacement. The alternatives are prioritized and a risk analysis performed considering technical, schedule, and cost growth risks. The avionics cost of ownership methodology described in this paper processes data from USAF maintenance organizations. This has revealed the very large expenditures being made to support highly unreliable avionics. These methods can be applied to all military and commercial aircraft systems to determine not only the cost of ownership of existing systems, but also the cost of ownership of new systems when they are retrofit     

基于 STC15单片机和 LabVIEW的电参数监测系统设计

电参数的实时监测对保障用电设备的安全和供配电系统的可靠运行具有重要意义。基于 STC15W4K56S4单片机和 LabVIEW相结合的方式,设计了 1种由上位机、主控模块和测量模块组成的无线交流电参数监测系统。测量模块以 STC15W4K56S4单片机为控制器,采用专用电能测量模块 CS5463测量电压、电流等参数,用液晶模块 OLED显示,无线数据传送采用 nRF24L01模块实现,基于 LabVIEW的上位机程序进行电参数信息显示、参数设置等,实现了远程实时监测。该系统具有测量精度高、电路设计简单、监测灵活方便、易于扩展、人机界面友好等特点。     

Aerospace High Voltage Development

High voltage has been used for electrical power system generation, transmission, and distribution for over 75 years and manufacturers have been designing x-rays, radios/television transmitters and receivers for many years with excellent success. High voltage usage in aerospace equipment initiated during World War II with the advent of high power communications and radar for airplanes. About 20 years ago the first high voltage components were built for spacecraft systems. This article is to provide some insight into the status of high voltage for aerospace equipment and the differences between terrestial and aerospace system functions and the attendant problems. What are the basic differences between terrestial/commercial and aerospace equipment? The aerospace environment is defined as that significantly above the Earth's surface: From 5000 feet altitude to deep space. The basic differences are the constraints placed on the user vehicle (airplane, missile, or spacecraft). Constraints include: Atmospheric pressure, temperature, lifting capability, electronic requirements, and volume. Early airplanes needed only radios and mechanical pressurization instruments. Today's sophisticted airplanes require transmitters, receivers, controls, displays, and in the military case, special electronics. The addition of electronic devices has increased the electrical power demand from a few watts (for early aircraft) to well over one megawatt for special applications. There is the need for compact packaging to reduce weight and volume. Spacecraft with booster limitations are ever more restrictive of weight and volume then airplanes while they must maintain complete electrical system integrity for mission durations of several months to years.     

Mission/flight systems integration study: a long-term electronicsplanning project

The objective of the Mission/Flight System Integration Study (M/FSIS) is to identify the requirements and development objectives for electronics systems technologies and conceptual architectures in future weapon system applications (in and around the year 2005), based on analyses of future missions, threats, scenarios, aerospace system concepts, and technology trends. The products are substantiated requirements for future electronics functions, systems, and architecture; technology development objectives and roadmaps; and conceptual electronics architectures and functional definitions. The study outputs will serve to guide laboratory technology development planning and programs; guide weapon system program office long-range electronics planning; illustrate user needs in terms of electronics requirements; and guide air logistics center weapon-system master planning     

The New Horizons Spacecraft

The New Horizons spacecraft was launched on 19 January 2006. The spacecraft was designed to provide a platform for seven instruments designated by the science team to collect and return data from Pluto in 2015. The design meets the requirements established by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Announcement of Opportunity AO-OSS-01. The design drew on heritage from previous missions developed at The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) and other missions such as Ulysses. The trajectory design imposed constraints on mass and structural strength to meet the high launch acceleration consistent with meeting the AO requirement of returning data prior to the year 2020. The spacecraft subsystems were designed to meet tight resource allocations (mass and power) yet provide the necessary control and data handling finesse to support data collection and return when the one-way light time during the Pluto fly-by is 4.5 hours. Missions to the outer regions of the solar system (where the solar irradiance is 1/1000 of the level near the Earth) require a radioisotope thermoelectric generator (RTG) to supply electrical power. One RTG was available for use by New Horizons. To accommodate this constraint, the spacecraft electronics were designed to operate on approximately 200 W. The travel time to Pluto put additional demands on system reliability. Only after a flight time of approximately 10 years would the desired data be collected and returned to Earth. This represents the longest flight duration prior to the return of primary science data for any mission by NASA. The spacecraft system architecture provides sufficient redundancy to meet this requirement with a probability of mission success of greater than 0.85. The spacecraft is now on its way to Pluto, with an arrival date of 14 July 2015. Initial in-flight tests have verified that the spacecraft will meet the design requirements.     

1553B总线在现代飞机自动配电系统中的应用

对1553B总线通讯技术进行了系统的研究。设计了采用80C196KB作为主处理机的1553B通讯接口板，设计并调试成功了1553B的通讯软件，并在双发电通道飞机自动配电系统地面模拟系统中进行了实验。系统模拟实验表明，与通用串行总线(如RS-485总线)相比，军用数据总线1553B有高传输率、高可靠性等特点，为飞机自动配电系统的应用奠定了坚实的基础。     

Aircraft VSCF generator expert system

VSCF (variable-speed constant-frequency) electrical systems are designed using standard modules to reduce the manufacturing cost and improve the product quality and services. An expert system that automatically configures the modules required for a particular application is described. It is a rule-based synthesis system with a domain that encompasses the matrix of standard modules. The module functions include electrical generation, conversion, the control. All the modules must be placed in a proper package to fit the space available inside the particular airplane. The configuration system is built by using a rule-based expert system development tool, OPS5, in a VAX 11/750 computer. It has the domain-specific knowledge necessary to configure the generators embedded in its rulebased and exhibits expertise to place the modules in the proper arrangement based on customer specifications and design criteria. The system can also help the engineers and salespersons to determine the configuration at quotation time and to point out any new design which is required     

某民用飞机显示系统仿真器的设计与实现

航电系统仿真平台以其灵活方便和低成本特点,支持综合航电系统的预先研究、方案设计、详细设计、系统综合,成为综合航电系统研制过程中不可或缺的设计手段。给出了IMA系统仿真平台显示系统仿真器的详细的设计和实现方案,首先介绍了IMA系统仿真平台的组成,接着介绍了显示系统仿真器的组成架构,并对显示系统仿真器的硬件配置、航电网络配置、人机交互界面和逻辑处理进行了详细的介绍。最后经过IMA系统仿真试验样件验收测试程序的测试,验证了显示系统仿真器满足验收测试程序的各项功能和性能要求,满足了该型号显示系统仿真器的试验要求。     

GPS navigation requirements for future mobile ground-based missilesystems

To meet future system requirements, it is envisioned that it will be necessary to incorporate GPS receivers on the launchers and into the missiles. The size, weight, power, performance, number of channels, and cost of these GPS receivers are critical. Capabilities that future GPS receivers will need to meet envisioned US Army missile system requirements are outlined