Quantum Leap in Avionics,
Abstract
Current standardization levels in such program as the F-16 are providing benefits of productivity and growth that have been significant in the success of that program. The ever-increasing drive to performance, multi-use systems and diverse weapons has heavily taxed current avionic resources. In addition, the data transfer requirement is complicated by the high speed data flow that modern computers both feed on an produce; by multiple source-multiple destination video distribution requirement; the need to self-test the system to lower levels; and the desire to dynamically reconfigure from a failure. Fortunately, the technology to achieve solutions to these new problems is evolving in the VHSIC and fiber otpics programs, so that it is possible to rearchitecture the system at the module level as opposed to the LRU level. Module level standardization around a small number of types allows a large number of system level combinations while achieving economies of scale at the module level. The usual objection to standardization, that it freezes innovation, is avoided by technology transparency provisions; while at the same time the objection that standardization obsoletes the present is avoided by downward compatibility provisions. Candidates for standardization in this approach include bus interfaces, the system network, modules and racks. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 01, 1982
- Accession Number
- ADP003584
Entities
People
- W. E. Cantrell
Organizations
- General Dynamics