Software radios for highly integrated system architecture

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This project aims to establish new design methods and digital signal processing techniques for robust and efficient universal navigation and communication equipment in the fields of aeronautics and aerospace. New avionic standards are under study and strong arguments exist for the adoption of software defined radios (SDR) at this point in time. The project anticipates the integration of multiple navigation and communication systems in a single hardware element. Such integration minimizes system footprint and avionic weight, reduces part count, and will incorporate more efficient new airspace management system (ADS-B), thereby reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the framework of international environmental initiatives. The aeronautic and aerospace industries have interest in a single generic reprogrammable and universal communication system used to replace multiple and burdensome radios/antennas presently used in aircrafts. The proposed system will allow for multiple radios that are simultaneously accommodated and have numerous functionalities, and will be implemented on a flexible integration platform suitable to future applications. The project will consist of integrating DME, Mode S transponder and wideband digital radio, built with novel software defined architecture proximal to the antenna. The architecture enables the capability to redeploy functionality based on phase of flight and minimizes connectors, antennas, cable length, electromagnetic interference (EMI) and system footprint. The goal is to digitize the radiofrequency (RF) signal in proximity to the antenna and to transmit the baseband signal to a generic radio for further digital signal processing. The proof-of-concept demonstrator will be evaluated in-laboratory and in-flight using simulation equipment and a flight test platform under real operating conditions in order to characterize protocols and system performance. The project will contribute to international initiatives for the definition of new standards and contribute to Canadian efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and create new employment opportunities for the team of highly qualified personnel. The developed technologies will also be applicable to ground or airborne infrastructure.