Patent ID: 6671589
Filing Date: 2003-12-30
Classification: G06F,H04B,H04L,H04W

Abstract:
A method to route and remotely upload software updates to ARINC 615 compliant LRUs on an aircraft which comprises:Connecting all avionics computers that accept ARINC 615 operational program software, operational program configuration files and performance databases to an electronic apparatus which provides a means to complete an electrical connection between said apparatus and any loadable target on-aircraft computer for the purpose of uploading software files remotely or by means of commands stored in said apparatus; Initiating a software upload, software upload request or configuration request to the electrical apparatus from an on-board or ground-based network client, said apparatus in the form of a server/router/switch with display capability, installed in the flight deck compartment of an aircraft; Converting received ARINC 615 communication from a loadable target computer as a result of a software upload, to any number of standard network-based protocols for storage of pertinent feedback information and further transmission to requesting network clients, this information comprising of: Updated software part number or part numbers generated and transmitted by the target LRU or LRUs to the apparatus upon successful completion of a software upload and collected and stored in the electrical apparatus, whereby the software upload, software upload request or configuration request is initiated by network devices including: a) remote client devices operatively connected to the aircraft LAN using wired Ethernet, fiber-optic connectivity or a cabin or aircraft wireless spread spectrum connection configured as an wireless access point, b) remote client devices operatively connected to the airport WAN, typically located in an appropriate ground-based network operations center, which provides data content for subscribing aircraft.