|
Objective
Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) has developed a unique avionics simulation
capability by integrating several existing MSFC avionics testbeds. The NASA
Federal Laboratory Review Task Force has declared this simulation system the
best throughout the world for the aerospace community. The unique capability to
unite Marshall’s avionics simulation laboratories to perform extensive end-to-end
avionics system testing in an environment not previously available makes this a
“world class” facility.
MSFC’s avionics simulation capability is fully operational and is being used to
support several advanced initiatives such as the X-33 program, the international
Space Station, and the Automatic Rendezvous and Capture program.
Description
Recent developments in high speed, high bandwidth fiber-optic networks have
allowed Marshall to “tie” three avionics laboratories together. These fiber-optic
capabilities allow MSFC to test an avionics system in a mission environment that
includes prelaunch operations, launch, orbital maneuvers, rendezvous, docking/
berthing, and landing.
Marshall Avionics System Testbed (Launch Vehicle Development)
Three laboratories make up the Marshall Avionics System Testbed, bridging the gap between technology development and implementation.
The Vehicle Simulation Laboratory provides a tool for the demonstration of advanced vehicle avionics technologies such as flight computers, navigation systems, fault tolerant components, autonomous guidance, navigation, and control algorithms, automated software generation, and verification and validation products.
The Engine Simulation Laboratory consists of high fidelity real-time simulations of rocket engine systems with models of high frequency pumps, combustion devices, propellant lines, actuators, valves, and sensors.
The Actuator Test Laboratory, operated by the MSFC Propulsion Laboratory, is used in the design, development, and testing of actuation systems, ranging from small solenoids to large thrust vector control actuators.
Flight Robotics Laboratory (Orbital Operations, Rendevous, and
Docking)
The Flight Robotics Laboratory (FRL) was developed to provide a single lab in which avionics and robotic hardware and software could be tested in a full 6-Degree of Freedom, closed-loop simulation. The facility is centered around a 44-foot by 86-foot precision air bearing floor – the largest of its kind. The Air Bearing Spacecraft Simulator, used on the air bearing floor, will hold a 400 pound payload and is capable of 6-Degree of Freedom motion. Overhead, the Dynamic Overhead Target Simulator is capable of holding a 1000 pound payload, with an 8-Degree of
Freedom motion. A computer system allows the overhead payload to act as either a target or the rendezvous vehicle.
The FRL also has one of the most advanced global positioning simulation systems in the country. This device provides navigation data to the simulation vehicles, as if they were separate, moving vehicles in Earth orbit.
Contact Dynamics Simulation Laboratory (Docking Mechanisms)
The Contact Dynamics Simulation Laboratory (CDSL) allows engineers to simulate how a docking or berthing mechanism would behave in Earth orbit under a variety of conditions. Simulations in the CDSL reveal the stress a device will experience once in space through the use of force and torque data recorded on the system’s SGI Challenge X/L simulation computer.
Benefits
Testing with commercial applications include: test suspension hardware for the automotive industry, pilot training and hardware testing for flight simulation, and automatic landing simulation for commercial aircraft using one of the most advanced global positioning system simulation capabilities in the country.
Current Capabilities
In addition to the NASA programs supported by MSFC’s avionics simulation
capability, commercial applications include the automotive and trucking industries,
flight simulation, space commercialization, and the commercial aircraft industry.
Technical Basics
Three laboratories make up the Marshall Avionics System Testbed. They are: The Vehicle Simulation Laboratory, the Engine Simulation Laboratory, and the Actuator Test Laboratory.
Potential Application(s)
MSFCs avionics simulation capability is fully operational and is being used to support several advanced initiatives such as the X-33 program, the International Space Station and the Automatic Rendezvous Capture program.
Contact
If your company is interested in this technology please contact:
Sammy Nabors
NASA/Marshall Space Flight Center
Phone: (256) 544-5226
FAX: (256) 544-3151
E-mail: sammy.a.nabors@nasa.gov
Public Release Date: 12/1/1999
Reference Number: TOP8-6
|
