Failsafe digital bus to analog protocol converter system
US5377109A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 31, 1992 |
| Grant date | Dec 27, 1994 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 31, 2012 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG06J1/00
- WIPO fieldComputer technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A failsafe avionics interface unit serves as a protocol converter system for translating data for control purposes from a digital communication bus to an analog control channel as an upgrade or interface to an existing analog control system. The avionics interface unit includes digital interface bus logic, a digital data processor module, an analog interface, and a mode selection circuit. Data communicated over the digital interface bus is periodically translated into equivalent analog control signals. For safety purposes, the avionics interface unit ensures the integrity of the system by repetitively looping back or wrapping the digital equivalents of the analog output signals and comparing them to commanded digital control values. The protocol converter system additionally monitors communications over the digital data bus for data continuity. If the difference between a wrapped digital equivalent of an analog output signal and an expected value exceeds tolerable limits or if communication fails, the system disconnects its interface from control using redundant software and hardware and returns control to the analog control system.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.