SEMPER - Part I

Welcome to Wired!

As airframes and airframe systems age and fewer new platforms are under development, the needs of the operator for more efficient aircraft and systems dictate that these needs be met by modifications to legacy aircraft currently in flying service. For aircraft avionics, the needs for technological currency are also compounded by the mandates to operate within the safety boundaries of the national and international air transportation system requirements. The result is a "full plate" for many flight operations, integration engineers and maintenance managers in establishing a rational plan to acquire and install updated systems in the aircraft they are managing. ASIG has defined an approach to this avionics planning process that is described as the SEMPER model (System Evolution/Modernization Planning, Execution & Realization). The model process shows how to incorporate avionics requirements and modification planning into an effective and integrated plan that considers technical and business case issues. Concepts such as the development of an overall avionics migration strategy, the application of open systems and the use of life cycle cost in the decision process are shown to be key elements of the SEMPER process.

Throughout the next several weeks I will endeavor to explain the SEMPER model so that our readers are best equipped to understand the standards and variables associated with the planning, integration design and execution of avionics platform upgrades regardless of aircraft type/model/series or fleet size. Because of our collaborative approach to integration and program management we encourage our readership, colleagues, customers or industry experts to let us know your thoughts and positions as we delve further into the business of "Born-Again" aircraft.

Until the next edition stay 5x5, Mission Ready & Wired!