PHONAV-a photonic WDM network architecture for next generation avionics systems

Photonic networking has the potential to revolutionise future civil and military avionics systems. Photonic (all-optical) networks, using the virtually limitless bandwidth of the single-mode optical fibre, have the ability to deliver outstanding improvements in the performance, reliability and flexibility of communications systems and represent the next major step forward in lightweight avionics network design. The widespread research and development into photonic network technologies, particularly Wavelength Division Multiplexing (WDM), in the telecommunications environment is set to provide the competitive market for inexpensive and readily available components, rendering the all-optical approach commercially viable within the next decade. However, a direct mapping of techniques and devices from the maturing telecommunications sector is not possible because of the stringent requirements of systems operating in the hostile aerospace environment. This paper outlines such functional and operational requirements, taking into account the envisaged needs of future avionics systems. A high performance, high connectivity photonic architecture for avionics systems communications is then proposed. A novel adaptation of Wavelength Division Multiplexing is applied and the design of nodes based on silica-on-silicon optical waveguide devices is discussed and explained. Key issues such as openness, COTS compliance, Integrated Modular Avionics (IMA), robustness and protocol support are also considered in the discussion.