Abstract: A system for providing flight interval management (FIM) instructions to a pilot of an aircraft includes a module coupled to a display device and configured to communicate with a FIM avionics device. The module generates a first output when input data from the FIM avionics device indicates that the aircraft is within 30 nautical miles of another aircraft, and a second input when a lack of valid input data indicates that the module has lost connectivity to the FIM avionics device. The first input is to the display device to present at least an indication of a paired mode of the module with the FIM avionics device, and a commanded speed reported by the FIM avionics device. The second output is to remove any information presented by the display device and present a blank screen, and then present a status message indicating the lost connectivity to the FIM avionics device.

Abstract: An embodiment of an open data network system facilitates communication between applications related to operation of a vehicle, such as an aircraft, and re-use of components in different systems and implementations. A switch/router communicates data between on-board systems. A server communicates with the switch/router and provides at least one of processing services and storage services to the on-board systems via the switch/router. A network manager communicates with the switch/router to direct the switch/router in selectively allowing access between the on-board systems. In other embodiments, an avionics interface unit communicates with the switch/router and enable communications between at least one avionics system and at least one of the on-board systems.

Abstract: Remotely performed maintenance of a transportation unit such as an aircraft is disclosed, wherein the maintenance is performed utilizing a networked environment. In one implementation, a first network, located within the mobile transportation unit, is accessed from a second network, located externally to the mobile transportation unit. Having remotely assessed the first network, communication with one or more assets of the mobile transportation unit, which are connected to the first network, is possible. Maintenance operations are then performed by exchanging data and commands with the assets of the mobile transportation unit.