Wireless avionics

Abstract

Wireless technology has progressed to the point where it is now deemed appropriate to consider utilization of this new interconnection approach for digital avionics systems. An obvious advantage is the elimination of signal and information cabling, which in a typical system (even with fiber optics), may contribute a significant portion to the total avionics weight; limiting effective payload and performance of the vehicle. Other benefits include ease of equipment change-out (lowering support cost while shortening turnaround), placement flexibility, and support of technology insertion for growth and evolution of the system. This paper explores the feasibility of using wireless interconnection for onboard digital avionics and examines the issues related to this unique technology. Emphasis will be given to those wireless techniques that permit reliable and secure digital data interchange between avionics components while maintaining state-of-the-art system information and signal throughput. The paper will include a proposed implementation, supported by a preliminary set of requirements for digital wireless avionics.