In-Flight Diagnosis and Anomaly Detection

In flight diagnosis and anomaly detection is a difficult challenge that requires sufficient observation and real-time processing of health information. Our approach uses formalized attributes that are available as selectable and enforceable properties necessary for diagnosis based on principles of model based engineering (MBE). Using this information, two strategies are proposed. The first is to use the concept of perfect detectors as executable assertions to verify at run-time correct operating envelope behavior. This information is used to check for correct behavior status or identify entry into a chain of events that could have failure impact. The proposed Phase I effort uses a combination of tool support to analyze the system, identify the properties to be checked, and the failure path information needed by the in-flight diagnosis service. This approach, is relevant to lowering the cost of systems since and provides important benefits related to V&V of complex systems.

As systems move toward complex, distributed architectures, the demand for diagnostic tools for fault tolerance and dependability is a technology with broad application with relevance to commercial markets for ecommerce, automotive, industrial, and medical, and distributed system/testbed/simulation applications. It has recognized applications in all manner of distributed information processing systems that are the basis for the information age. The dependability technology is well established but has not yet matured to the point where it offers an appropriate framework and associated set of services. WWTG's strategy for entering this market is based on using its extensive experience and strong background in system monitoring and successful fault tolerant/diagnostic systems developments focused on facilitating commercialization.

WWTG is a subcontractor on the CEV Orion program to Honeywell which is responsible for avionics and health monitoring. This offers a high profile NASA application with an excellent opportunity to transition results of this project. We are also working with NASA/LaRC on opportunities for advancing the integration and use of formal methods and proven fault tolerance algorithms. WWTG's on-line diagnosis algorithms were used use in LaRC's research and successfully proven using formal methods. IVHM technologies have the potential to substantially improve aviation safety, hence supporting the safe implementation of the Next Generation Air Transportation System (NGATS). Data from the FAA and NTSB points out that subsystem and component failures and hazards together contribute 24% to on-board fatalities, and are under lying factors in many of the 26% of the accidents caused by loss-of-control in-flight. We expect results of this research will help accelerate the introduction of health management technologies into commercial aircraft, while also providing benefit to the military and NASA's Space Exploration program. This project directly addresses the IVHM Project goal to improve the safety of both the near-future and next-generation air transportation systems.

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 6) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.

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