Method and system for bi-directional exchange of data based on user-defined policies for the selection of a preferred datalink

摘要

A communications channel selection device aimed at solving the problems associated with selecting a preferred channel for two-way communication between an aircraft and the ground over TCP/IP packet-based networks. The device provides a means whereby policies for the selection of a preferred datalink are associated with the communications from aircraft-based applications so that communications are effected over the preferred channel according to a pre-defined set of policies. The device overcomes the challenges presented by the dynamic assignment of IP addresses to onboard systems by providing a method for: the discovery of dynamically assigned IP addresses (thereby enabling ground-initiated communications with an IP addressable entity) where such addresses relate to the preferred datalinks for active policies; queuing connect requests pending establishment of a connection to a ground-based system over a selected datalink; forwarding data over the selected datalink; mapping between the TCP/IP connection established and the connection over which the communicating application is communicating; defining policies such that they are understood by air-based and ground-based systems; a ground-based registry with which each onboard connecting application registers its currently preferred IP points of attachment for defined policies; a method for suitable authorised systems to retrieve the current IP address for a particular aircraft; and managing datalink connectivity.