Simmonds Precision Products, Inc.

Keith Patrick Darwin

Harold Frederick Clark, Jr

Thomas Edward Rhoads, Ii

Mark Robert Chaffee

Scott Robert Durkee

Bradley F Eid

A computer software architecture for an embedded computer system. The architecture includes a hierarchy of software object classes. One classification includes a common information blackboard object. Data is written to the blackboard object by processes in a protected manner, and is otherwise globally readable by all processes. A run-time executive is provided to schedule and coordinate processes. Processes register with the run-time executive at start-up. One process can know the existence and generation of data by another process. The architecture is layered in increasing levels of system abstraction. In one embodiment, the embedded system is an airborne fuel gauging subsystem.

Blackboard-centric layered software architecture

Blackboard-centric layered software architecture for an embedded airborne fuel gauging subsystem

A universal sensor interface system that utilizes a common hardware and software interface to drive many types of sensors. A variety of stimulation signals are generated that are transmitted to a plurality of sensors. The stimulation signals cause the sensors to generate response signals in the form of parametric measurements, which are then converted into a common format. The sensor response signals are processed and output as usable inputs to a data consuming apparatus. A method of automatically determining the sensor configuration in an aircraft sensor system is also provided. During operation the host computer system or digital signal processor is programmed to analyze sensor response signals to detect sensor faults, help predict sensor failures, and determine if there has been a sensor error. The universal sensor interface system is also capable of notifying a system operator of wiring problems with a particular sensor or if a particular sensor is malfunctioning.

Universal sensor interface system and method

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Ferrisburg, VT, United States of America

Keith Patrick Darwin