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Aircraft-level health management requires effective management of data flow. As future aircraft adopt conditioned base maintenance (CBM) and/or integrated vehicle health management (IVHM) protocols, there is need to manage infinitely more data communication on and off the aircraft. This paper explores the idea of employing an Electronic Power Distribution System (EPDS) as a “network backbone” for aircraft-level prognostics. Using EPDS to capture and distribute this data provides a practical solution that minimizes system hardware on future CBM/IVHM enabled aircraft. Employing the Electronic Circuit Breaker (ECB) in a more enhanced sensor state and as a data communication tool, provides tremendous value given its multipurpose capability.

The development of the microprocessor controlled power MOSFET switch, as a circuit protection device for aircraft electrical power systems, has led to significant improvements in packaging, performance and thermal efficiencies over traditional thermal/mechanical systems. The electronic circuit breaker (ECB) inherently provides multiple functions (protect, sense, diagnose, and control). Employing the ECB as a “live” switching element in the system for active control, provides for significant integration of functions, previously requiring separate LRUs, additional wiring and more power to operate. This paper proposes an optimized electrical power distribution via intelligent control of electronic circuit breakers to provide maximum integration of existing utility management functions (i.e. window heat, de-icing, thrust reversers, etc.), reduction in aircraft wiring, reduced system weight and complexity.

This paper presents a design for a low loss long life high current contactor consisting of a mechanical contactor teamed with an electronic circuit that eliminates switching stress on the mechanical contacts. A design for a practical 115V 3 phase double throw current protected Hybrid Contactor is presented, along with laboratory and field test data. The idea for a hybrid contactor is not a new one, having been applied since electronic devices became readily available in the 1960s. The key concept is to parallel the mechanical contacts with electronic devices (thyristors or FETs) to handle the current during mechanical contact transition. The mechanical contactor is specially designed to provide low conduction losses without needing to withstand arcing events. The contactor also includes bus control and over-current protection features.

Linear actuators can be controlled and monitored by an Electronic Power Distribution System with no additional sensors or wiring. Laboratory and field test results are provided showing how common faults can be detected and annunciated, and potential faults can be detected before becoming hazardous. Results of these tests are extrapolated to other types of motors, such as pumps and fans.

This paper discusses the merits of using an Electronic Power Distribution System (see Ref. 1) to support real-time prognostics data acquisition and analysis. Examples and actual data are presented on the analysis of actuator, motor and pump loads from Voltage and current data collected by the EPDS. Trend monitoring and operation time monitoring are discussed. The methodology of detection and location of arc faults from available data is also discussed.

This paper presents several possible topologies for Electronic Power Distribution Systems. A discussion is presented on the advantages and drawbacks of each topology. Weight savings, reliability increase, diagnostics and prognostics capabilities are discussed. Trade study results are presented to back up the discussion. The paper also presents some options on communication between the power system and the avionics systems.

This paper will discuss using Astronics “Smart Panel” illuminated control panels to control an electronic power distribution system. A discussion of wiring simplification, automatic control possibilities and real time load monitoring is presented. The challenges of retrofitting the system into older aircraft will be covered as well. The paper also explains Electronic Circuit Breaker technology, arc fault protection, panel lighting technologies, control bus options, displays, and human input technology (buttons and knobs).