An integrated diagnostics approach to embedded and flight-line support systems

The current technology of expert systems affords opportunities for improved onboard and offboard diagnostic systems that are a necessity for future avionics and support systems. A proposed architecture and methodology are discussed that address the requirements for such systems. The concepts discussed include real-time expert system issues; diagnostic-system compatibility issues; and considerations for the development, testing, and fielding of such systems. The authors focus on fault detection and isolation and discuss the concepts and implementation of such a system. It is stressed that in order to achieve the goals of the USAF integrated diagnostics program, emphasis must be placed on providing consistency and compatibility and the support system that complements it