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5.3.1 Modeling Communication Satellite Protocols with a System Design Automation Tool
Author(s) -
Colligan Robert,
Meseroll Thomas C.,
Shamash Micah,
Wells Tyler,
Thompson Francis
Publication year - 1998
Publication title -
incose international symposium
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 2334-5837
DOI - 10.1002/j.2334-5837.1998.tb00059.x
Subject(s) - computer science , payload (computing) , software , automation , construct (python library) , set (abstract data type) , communications satellite , satellite , communications protocol , software engineering , embedded system , systems engineering , operating system , engineering , computer network , programming language , mechanical engineering , network packet , aerospace engineering
Military communication satellites use an extremely complex set of protocols for sending/receiving messages and controlling payload resources. These protocols are typically implemented in software for modern satellites because software is easier to modify than hardware and offers on‐orbit reprogramability. Traditional methods of specifying, designing, implementing, and testing payload software have proven to be expensive and error prone. Recent enhancements in system modeling/simulation tools offer the potential to automate the progression of all these life cycle phases in a “seamless” manner wherein the outputs of one life cycle phase become inputs for the next. This paper describes our evaluation of one of these tools: Statemate Magnum, produced by i‐Logix of Andover, MA. We evaluated the tool by using it to construct a simulation of satellite communication protocols. This simulation is to be used to facilitate the training of new project personnel.