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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 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).