Modern avionics platforms increasingly rely on distributed multi-sensor data fusion and coordinated actuation to enable autonomy, survivability, and mission adaptability. However, legacy federated architectures limit scalability, vendor interoperability, lifecycle flexibility, and rapid technology insertion.
This tutorial presents a structured approach to designing Modular Open Systems Architectures (MOSA) for integrated sensing, fusion, decision support, and actuation systems in aerospace platforms. It covers architectural principles, open interface standards, partitioning strategies, real-time constraints, safety considerations, and integration patterns across distributed avionics environments. The tutorial also addresses how AI-enabled fusion modules can be incorporated within MOSA frameworks while preserving determinism, traceability, and certification pathways. AI is treated as an architectural component—not as a replacement for structured system engineering. Participants will gain practical methods for building scalable, vendor-neutral, interoperable multi-sensor systems aligned with modern defense and aerospace acquisition policies emphasizing modularity and open standards.
