Applications of microsystems and signal processing for wiring integrity monitoring

Wiring integrity and safety issues have emerged as a major aerospace problem associated with the loss of Swissair 111 and TWA 800. Wiring is the nervous system of every electronic system. Wiring problems have been known to cause loss of signals, system shutdowns, smoke, fires and explosions. In lesser forms, wiring problems cost millions of dollars in troubleshooting and maintenance. Modem technology provides a viable solution. This paper will present how the industry. universities, and government agencies are working to develop in-situ wiring sensor systems to detect, diagnose, predict and prevent wiring related problems in aerospace vehicles. The authors will begin with a brief introduction to wiring related problems and the safety and economic impacts caused by deterioration and abuse. Next, the authors will present how the Navy is funding development of "smart" wiring systems such as arc fault detecting circuit breakers, wiring harnesses and connectors. The paper will present how smart wiring incorporates real time signal processing, rule based reasoning and microsystems and sensor technologies to form an early warning system using web-based information technologies. Next the paper will present plans to install and test smart wiring in new and legacy aircraft. The paper will conclude with a discussion of how smart wiring has far reaching impacts in aerospace systems through application in prognostic health management of engine, avionics, and control systems attached to smart wiring.