I successfully developed an Aircraft Modern Black Box System for our BSc (Hons) Software Engineering Degree Program final project. This marks my inaugural venture into the aviation field. The project incorporates 12 electronic modules comprising sensors and actuators, along with software and hardware integrated on a PCB. This modern black box system enables real-time monitoring of flights via radio communication, facilitated by a computer application.
The Aircraft Modern Black Box System is an innovative IoT solution designed for aircraft monitoring. This system enables comprehensive monitoring of flight operations and data recording via an SD card module. Developed using Printed Circuit Board (PCB) technology and a C# computer application, it represents a significant advancement in aviation technology. The system comprises two main components: the black box, which houses sensors, actuators, and a radio signal transceiver, and the receiver module, responsible for receiving data from the black box. The receiver module then transmits this data to the computer application via cable connection. The receiver module is directly linked to the computer for data transmission. The primary objective of this system is to accurately monitor and manage the entire flight process. By utilizing this system, flight crashes and malfunctions can be controlled, and recorded data can be promptly analyzed to ensure flight safety and efficiency.
The modern aircraft black box system offers numerous benefits that prove invaluable to the aircraft department. In the congested airspace, where multiple flights operate simultaneously, this system's unique radio signal ID ensures seamless data transfer, enabling the receiver module to swiftly access flight data. Equipped with GPS functionality, the control panel can accurately track the aircraft's position, monitor engine and structural health, and identify any malfunctions without the need for manual testing. In unfortunate instances of aircraft crashes, the system aids engineers in quickly pinpointing the precise location of the aircraft. Its primary objective is to ensure flight control and facilitate emergency landings at the nearest airport. Additionally, the project's application features a narrator option, which alerts control panel operators of any detected anomalies through voice messages. This functionality enables maintenance personnel to anticipate the aircraft's condition and make informed decisions promptly.
The black box system consists of two primary components: the main device, known as the black box, and the receiver device, which retrieves data from the main device. The system incorporates 8 sensors, including Tilt angle, Vibration, GPS, DHT11, MQ2 Gas sensor, IR speed sensor, DS temperature sensor, and Gyro sensor. Additionally, it is equipped with 5 actuators, such as a 433MHz Transmitter, Arduino Nano, Atmega328p PU IC, DC Motor, and SD card reader module. These sensors and actuators are securely mounted on a Printed Circuit Board (PCB) for integration.
This is the schematic diagram of the system's circuit, depicting the placement of all components and headers in their respective positions.
I developed the C# computer application dashboard for this project. The receiver device is responsible for transmitting all data from the black box to this computer application. The application boasts a plethora of features designed to enhance functionality and usability. Among these features are a voice narrator, providing real-time vocal alerts and updates, an emergency button for immediate response to critical situations, and comprehensive data analysis tools, enabling in-depth examination and interpretation of flight data for enhanced decision-making and performance evaluation.