Software- in –the loop based end to end validation methodology for aerospace software development

Paper number

IAC-09.D5.1.2

Author

Mrs. Prasada Kumari, ISRO Satellite Centre (ISAC), India

Year

2009

Abstract

ISRO Satellite Centre (ISAC) is the lead centre of the  Indian Space Research Organisation  in the development and operationalisation  of satellites for communication , navigation and remote sensing applications. In  all these  spacecrafts , highly  advanced  embedded systems  carryout  variety of mission critical functions . A typical example of  such a  system is the satellite Attitude and Orbit Control System –the on board computer  which is the  brain of the satellite. As per  existing practices, testing of  on board  software  to confirm its  functioning  in a simulated dynamic environment takes place only when the software  is integrated with  OBC hardware and system level tests  in closed loop  mode are conducted. On the contrary,by  the new  technique  called the Software In  Loop  Simulation (SILS) test  method ,  the on-board software can be fully tested in  a  software simulated  dynamic environment   without  OBC  hardware .  

This   method of closed loop  flight software validation   is demonstrated with   CARTOSAT-2  AOCS  software  using SILS test bed. The results very well demonstrate the effectiveness of the technique in early performance prediction and assessment of  flight software . This validation  philosophy  will be  followed  for   future spacecraft GNC systems. 

In a development environments where software requirements are too complex and  requirements changes  are to be  incorporated even during final stages of development, this technique offers an excellent solution  in  fully validating  on board software at source code level before it gets integrated with  target hardware. This  additional  validation  step  not only   improves  software quality but also enhances  productivity and   reduces  system  turnaround time.

Abstract document

IAC-09.D5.1.2.pdf

Manuscript document

IAC-09.D5.1.2.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).

To get the manuscript, please contact IAF Secretariat.