Analysing AFDX Networks Using End-to-end Response Time Analysis

In this paper, we present a novel real-time analysis framework for AFDX (Avionics Full Duplex Switched Ethernet) networks. The framework, based on end-to-end response time analysis, calculates not only delay bounds, but also the maximum jitter for each VL (Virtual Link) at each hop, which is necessary according to the AFDX standard. Moreover, the framework supports multicasting, i.e., VLs with several paths, and VLs with arbitrary delay bounds, i.e., shorter, longer, or equal to their periods. An analysis method to calculate the worst-case buffer population is included in the framework, as it is important to guarantee that no buffer-overflow occurs. With a performance surpassing that of Network Calculus and comparable with Trajectory Approach, our framework presents a good choice due to its many features and its foundation in well-accepted analysis methods.Accepted Dec. 2014 and published online Feb. 2015. According to the publisher, it has the publication year 2013 instead.