Case Study about Line Replaceable Units (LRU)
At present, Line Replaceable Units (LRU) are often equipped with a common label, which contains information about the unit,
especially the unit number. A correct LRU identification requires direct line of sight, which is not always easy. In order to optimize
maintenance additional LRU relevant information is necessary from a central database. Especially for trouble shooting, information
about the unit history are essential. Direct access of global databases is also not always possible within aircrafts.
Intended Outcomes
Record birth, LRU information and maintenance history are directly available in the aircraft during repair without access to databases.
No direct line of sight is necessary for LRU identification. Maintenance personnel can work completely offline from network
and IT systems. Data synchronization is done, when maintenance is finished and a reconnection to the network is possible.
The Challenge
Maintenance of LRU is done globally all around the world. The solution
must be compliant to worldwide standards and regulatory of RFID. Necessary information must be stored in the user memory of the RFID chip. Access to this information is restricted for users and protected by passwords.
Solution Overview
A user and role based client/server application handles all necessary information. When a new unit is born, the application
creates a new record in a central database. Maintenance personnel are using a handheld device to access and change maintenance
information offline from the network. Bidirectional data synchronization between handheld device and central database
guarantees consistency and uniqueness.
Time Schedule
A pilot installation with <10 handheld devices can be installed within
a month. It takes about 2 month from project initiation to customer
acceptance.
Key Components
The key to this solution is the use of RFID standard compliant software,
which guarantees worldwide access to RFID technology. Complex data
management mechanisms for handling the data of the user memory
on the RFID chip ensure, that data management is save and reliable.
Technology & Delivery
The solution uses Class1 Gen2 RFID chips, a
Gen2 certified reader, RP1.1 and TDT 1.0 certified
software. Software packages for handheld,
client and server are shipped on installation CD.
Regulatory Environment
FCC part 15.247, ETSI EN 300-220, ETSI EN 302-
208,
Hong Kong 920-925 MH, Taiwan 922-928
MHz, Japan 952-954 MHz
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