The development of optical fibre networks able to transmit digital video and other high bandwidth tasks that generate more than 1Gb/s is the goal of a new consortium.
Existing optical fibre systems on military aircraft typically only run at 100Mb/s. They are used for intercom functions and radio communication because fibres have a high immunity to electromagnetic interference and provide a reduction in electrical wiring. Aircraft can have more than 30km (19 miles) of wires.
The three-year optical fibre research project, known as the Future Optical Network Distribution for Aerospace (FONDA), began this year and ends with a technology demonstration in March 2007.
Andrew Voizey, optical specialist for Westland Helicopters, says that optical fibres provide operational and maintenance savings because "the reduction in weight through cabling reduction, the reduction in cost through common components, combined with improved obsolescence resistance, [all help to] reduce the cost of ownership".
Voizey likens the optical fibre system to Ethernet because it aims to deliver voice, video and data over the same network. He adds that existing operational optical fibre systems have helped engineers understand the practical aspects of installing and integrating optical systems. The project's technology will be applicable to civil and military rotary- and fixed-wing aircraft.
Consortium members include Airbus UK, BAE Systems, General Dynamics United Kingdom and Smiths Aerospace. Optical fibre networks are already used on AgustaWestland's EH101 Merlin and Super Lynx and the Westland Sea King, and are expected to be built into Boeing Chinook HC.3s and the Boeing E-3D Sentry AEW.
Source: Flight International
