A modular distributed avionics architecture for launch vehicles

The architecture and design of a Modular Distributed Avionics System (MDAS) for launch vehicles are presented which attempt to lower costs in several ways: use of commercial components and processes; common module design which includes flexible sensor signal conditioning and flexible valve control; reduction of cabling cost and weight; elimination of power conditioning requirements; reduction of battery requirements; use of ISO 11898 CAN serial command and data bus; total programmability via umbilical; standard software with all commands and functions that are customized to a specific timeline via an overlay of a high-level of the operational sequence and timeline.