Exploring Trade-offs in Concept Design of Integrated Modular Avionic Platform Configurations : Topology Generation, Resource Adequacy, and Dependability

Abstract

Modern aircraft heavily depend on computer systems to carry out various tasks. From managing flight surfaces and engines to processing radar and imagery data and facilitating communication with other aircraft and ground stations, computers are involved in almost every aspect of an aircraft's operation. These computer systems, known as Integrated Modular Avionics (IMA) systems, have long life cycles that span several decades and undergo regular updates. Despite this, a significant portion of the overall life cycle costs is determined very early in the life cycle, in the concept design phase.Thank you, Tâmara and Rodrigo, for your friendship, our ski trips, and for making me feel at home despite being far from our beloved state in southern Brazil. Thank you, Letícia and Natália, for your friendship and for reminding me that I can still feel as young as you are. To my other Brazilian friends, Amanda, André (both), Gustavo, Daiane, Priscila, Fabricio, Carlos, and Bianca, thank you for all the uncountable moments we have shared.To Veronika, Emma, and Irene: I want to express my gratitude for our enjoyable moments. Thank you for providing a much-needed break from my studies and papers.Lastly, I would like to express my gratitude to my friends in Brazil. Despite the great distance, you kept in touch, offered encouragement during difficult times, and were present when I needed you. Thanks to Gabrieli, Camila, Roberta, Giovana, and Gisele for always making the time to meet me when I visit.