The database concepts, tools, and runtime software described in this article provide a methodology for creating advanced avionics human-machine interfaces (HMIs), such as those found in modern flat-panel display systems. The key innovation described is the ability to treat the avionics displays as databases rather than as compiled and linked software. This new technology facilitates the goals of open architecture for avionics, a key avionics industry trend.

Figure 1. An example of an advanced cockpit.

A key trend in avionics is change. Increasingly, avionics systems have to deal with new regulatory guidance and technologies being developed to address such issues as:

• Capacity of the Air Transport Management system (RNP, CNS/ATM)
• Integrated Hazard Awareness and new traffic management systems (ADS/B, TCAS, TAWS)
• Improved Flight Deck Communications (CPDLC)

Adapting to such change invariably impacts the HMI of the flight deck system. Multifunction controllers in the system require the ability to adapt and grow to meet new requirements. At the same time, the methods used to build these systems have not kept pace. Increasing complexity has led avionics systems to be more complex and resistant to change. New methods to create avionics HMIs are required to address these emerging needs.

Avionics Display Development

An HMI is composed of dynamic graphical content that displays data and may control user interaction. The development of HMIs typically involves coding the HMI graphical constructs and user-interaction elements using APIs that reference standard libraries such as graphics and windowing libraries. An HMI may need to run on an embedded system with limited resources, making the correct implementation a difficult task. Writing HMI code by hand is tedious and error-prone.