Integrated Modular Avionics

Integrated Modular Avionics (English Integrated Modular Avionics , IMA for short ) refers to an airworthy, modular computer electronics unit made up of standardized components and interfaces in hardware and software for communication between the various systems in an aircraft . The IMA concept was developed by the French defense company Thales in cooperation with the German Diehl Aerospace .

principle

The consistent use of the IMA concept for the various systems within the aircraft also enables multiple use of computer units for different systems, and thus reduces the number of separate computer units previously required. The standardized computer units and the data network technology (e.g. AFDX ) provide the user software with a uniform interface for the various systems. Aircraft manufacturers benefit from weight and energy savings, lower operating and maintenance costs, and the reduced number of computer units to be certified.

commitment

The IMA concept was first used by Boeing in the 777 and then by Airbus in the A380 . It is also used in the A400M military transporter and the A350 . In the A400M, a more robust structure ensures increased vibration resistance, improved lightning protection and increased EMC to meet the stricter requirements of the military version of IMA.

The avionics of all newly developed passenger aircraft , such as the Airbus A220 , the Comac C919 and the Irkut MS-21, are now based on the IMA concept.

future

The IMA concept is now a catchphrase for many developments in modular avionics that go far beyond the original concept. Technologies are being developed which will standardize not only the hardware but also the software interfaces. Well-known examples are ARINC 653 and STANAG 4626 .