Signal and model-based fault detection for aircraft systems

Abstract

The paper presents several examples on model and signal based fault detection in aircraft Electrical Flight Control System (EFCS). The examples are taken from past and on-going research projects and actions between Airbus Group and the University of Bordeaux (France). The techniques presented have been tested on highly representative aircraft benchmarks, real flight data, or through realtime implementation on Airbus test facilities and real A380 flight tests. The focus is on specific problems associated with each design when it comes to providing viable technological solutions and mechanization schemes. One of the proposed model-based solutions has received certification on new generation Airbus A350 aircraft. It is a great achievement for SAFEPROCESS academic community as it demonstrates that a model-based fault detection technique is now flying (first commercial flight: January 15, 2015).