Computing platform architectures for robust operation in the presence of lightning and other electromagnetic threats

The electromagnetic environment (EME) produces (is a form of) electrical energy of the same type that is used by electrical/electronic equipment to process and transfer information. As such, this environment represents a fundamental threat to the proper operation of systems that depend on such equipment. For electrical/electronic systems providing functions that can affect the safe flight and landing of an aircraft (level A systems), the EME threat translates to a threat to the airplane itself. When protection against EME effects is being developed, architectural techniques should be applied, particularly to achieve the high margin of safety needed for level A electrical/electronic systems. The computing platform for the aircraft Information Management System (AIMS) used on the Boeing 777 aircraft and Versatile Integrated Avionics (VIA) technology is an example of the application of an architectural philosophy in the design of the digital engine for such aircraft systems. Another is a prototype computing platform for rapid recovery from “soft faults” (upset, momentary interference, etc.)