Abstract: A channel allocation method for a communication network defines a definite purpose channel group that carries signals for definite purpose system devices, such as non-flight critical applications in an aircraft, and a public channel group that carries signals for user devices, such as wireless PDAs, phones and computers used by passengers. By pre-allocating discrete channel groups for different definite purpose system devices and by separating definite purpose channels (for definite purpose system devices) from public channels (for user devices), the invention allows wireless definite purpose system devices and wireless user devices to co-exist in the same operating environment without creating signal interference that could degrade the performance of the devices.

Abstract: An exemplary sensor for an aircraft includes a sensor mountable within an aircraft and operative to communicate wirelessly communications to a distributed aperture antenna. The sensor is operative to harvest energy from the aircraft to power the sensor.

Abstract: An exemplary sensor for an aircraft includes a sensor mountable within an aircraft and operative to communicate wirelessly communications to a distributed aperture antenna. The sensor is operative to harvest energy from the aircraft to power the sensor.

Abstract: A local area network (LAN) includes a computer processing unit (CPU) located within an aircraft cabin. A plurality of radios is connected to the CPU and to a radio frequency (RF) combiner and splitter. The RF combiner and splitter allows for each of the radios to transmit and receive common information over a plurality of different channels. As the number of users within the LAN increases additional radios can be connected to the CPU and the RF combiner and splitter for increased signal coverage and capacity.

Abstract: A channel allocation method for a communication network defines a definite purpose channel group that carries signals for definite purpose system devices, such as non-flight critical applications in an aircraft, and a public channel group that carries signals for user devices, such as wireless PDAs, phones and computers used by passengers. By pre-allocating discrete channel groups for different definite purpose system devices and by separating definite purpose channels (for definite purpose system devices) from public channels (for user devices), the invention allows wireless definite purpose system devices and wireless user devices to co-exist in the same operating environment without creating signal interference that could degrade the performance of the devices.

Abstract: A multi-user wireless communication system for use in an enclosed space includes a distributed aperture antenna having multiple apertures distributed along an outer shield of the antenna. The apertures allow radiated energy to leak from the antenna and form low-power, localized electric fields that can couple receivers to the antenna. The multiple electric fields ensure that the electric field strength is distributed evenly throughout the communication system. The low-power electric fields also reduce the likelihood of electric field leakage that may cause interference with other communication systems outside the enclosed space.