Distributed Open Software (DOS) Architectures for Control Systems
Bhal Tulpule, Alireza Behbahani · 2011
In recent years the need for development of and the potential benefits of distributed control system architectures has been widely described in the literature {1,3}. Nowhere has this need been felt more acutely than in the area of Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC) used to control propulsion controls systems of varied size and complexity. The single biggest impediment to the development of distributed FADEC systems has been the lack of High Temperature capable electronic components. However, the portfolio of components is rapidly expanding primarily driven by the energy exploration industry. The distributed architectures of the future will consist of “Smart Nodes” which manage the real world devices such as sensors and actuators and communicate over data buses with higher elements of the echelon such as Data Concentrators and supervisory FADEC. While this process will naturally require a slow and methodical approach in order ensure that the high level of criticality, reliability, durability and fault tolerance needed are preserved, the transition to distributed hardware architecture FADEC systems has begun and can be expected to be a reality in the not too distant future. In order to maximize the benefits of this hardware architecture we are proposing a Network centric Distributed Open Software (DOS) architecture in which all information generated by the producers is posted to the Network and the consumers of the information can access the information from the Network as needed for their use. Every parameter in the information set is governed by a TEDS type data sheet. The challenge for the designers of future control systems therefore lies in the efficient use of this open distributed software architecture and the development of adaptable, fault tolerant distributed control algorithms and tools that can support the development, integration and certification of this DOS architecture system.