Electromagnetic Interference to Flight Navigation and Communication Systems: New Strategies in the Age of Wireless

Abstract

Electromagnetic interference (EMI) promises to be an ever-evolving concern for flight electronic systems. This paper introduces EMI and identifies its impact upon civil aviation radio systems. New wireless services, like mobile phones, text messaging, email, web browsing, radio frequency identification (RFID), and mobile audio/video services are now being introduced into passenger airplanes.FCC and FAA rules governing the use of mobile phones and other portable electronic devices (PEDs) on board airplanes are presented along with a perspective of how these rules are now being rewritten to better facilitate in-flight wireless services. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of NASA cooperative research with the FAA, RTCA, airlines and universities to obtain laboratory radiated emission data for numerous PED types, aircraft radio frequency (RF) coupling measurements, estimated aircraft radio interference thresholds, and direct-effects EMI testing. These elements are combined together to provide high-confidence answers regarding the EMI potential of new wireless products being used on passenger airplanes. This paper presents a vision for harmonizing new wireless services with aeronautical radio services by detecting, assessing, controlling and mitigating the effects of EMI.

Recent advances in electromagnetic interference shielding properties of carbon-fibre-reinforced polymer composites—a topical review

“…Application areas range from scientific instruments and commercial electronic devices, such as mobile phones, medical apparatus and industrial robots, to military and aerospace products, including communication and navigation systems. Increased electromagnetic (EM) radiation emissions from this multitude of electronic devices have raised the problem of electromagnetic interference (EMI), defined as the effect of unwanted energy emitted by electrical circuits under operation, which is demonstrated by performance perturbation or even complete breakdown of the surrounding electrical system [1][2][3][4][5][6]. Modern electronic devices are densely integrated and operate at relatively low voltage, hence are particularly vulnerable to the perturbation caused by EMI.…”

Aerial Locating Method Design for Civil Aviation RFI: UAV Monitoring Platform and Ground Terminal System

“…Aeronautical CNS systems are increasingly dependent on radio and radio spectrum monitoring becoming increasingly important [18]. Many papers pointed out that intermodulation interference is the main cause of interference in navigation aids [19][20][21][22][23].…”

Overview of Electromagnetic Interference Issues in Aircraft

“…The graphical analysis [23] of PED types, airplane types, phase of flight where incidents occurred, aircraft systems affected and degree of severity of the EMI event. Figure 4 shows a comparison of the aircraft system affected by PED EMI.…”