Framework Programme 7

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SANDRA

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SANDRA, where the acronym stands for Seamless Aeronautical Networking through integration of Data links, Radios and Antennas, is a research project that started on 1st October 2009 and will end on 30th September 2013.

This project aims at the definition, the integration, and the validation of a reference communication architecture, SANDRA Airborne Communication Architecture, directly related to the Service Oriented Avionics Architecture envisaged in the Future Communications Study (FAA/EUROCONTROL, 2007)[1].

SANDRA approach consists in pursuing integration at different levels:

  • Service integration. Integration of a full range of applications (ATS,[2] AOC,[2] AAC, APC);
  • Network integration. Based on interworking of different radio access technologies through a common IP-based aeronautical network whilst maintaining support for existing network technologies (ACARS , ATN/OSI, ATN/IPS, IPv4, IPv6);
  • Radio integration. Integration of radio technologies in an Integrated Modular Radio platform (applying IMA concepts to communication avionics);
  • Antenna integration. L-band and Ku-band link antennas will be used to enable an asymmetric broadband link;
  • WiMAX adaptation for integrated multi-domain airport connectivity.

SANDRA pursues the architectural integration of aeronautical communication systems using industry standards like IP, IEEE 802.16 (WiMAX), DVB-S2, Inmarsat SwiftBroadBand, a set of common interfaces, and standard network protocols having IPv6 as final unification point to enable a cost-efficient global and reliable provision of distributed services across all airspace domains and to all aircraft classes.

Since 2009 SANDRA activities have been coordinated with other R&D programs. For instance EUROCAE WG-82 has been committed to develop the appropriate standards relative to new air-ground data link technologies including data links for airport surface named AeroMACS, which is a WIMAX (IEEE 802.16 - 2009). In that context, the WG 82 Group has been set up collaboration with WIMAX Forum, RTCA, SESAR JU and SANDRA members[3].

Finally, the overall SANDRA system will be validated in a common laboratory test-bed and in-flight trials using the German Aerospace Center Airbus A-320. Flight Trials are planned on June 2013.

References

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  1. ^ Future Communication Study -Action Plan 17, Final Conclusions and Recommendations Report (Version 1.1, November 2007);
  2. ^ a b Eurocontrol/FAA, Communications operating concept and requirements for the future radio system, COCR Version 2.0, Technical report, May 2007;
  3. ^ ICAO, Aeronautical Communications Panel (ACP) “Report of activities of EUROCAE WG-82”, March 2012