The significant role of simulation in satellite development and verification

Abstract

The development of a satellite requires a successful and efficient design, integration and verification of a highly complex system comprising many internal interactions on various levels. Moreover, due to the particular operations requirements of a satellite, high autonomy and reliability have to be achieved. On the other hand realistic testing is difficult due to the specific satellite environment. This is complicated by the existence of considerable economic pressure which enforces the reduction of engineering costs and time while maintaining a high quality standard. In order to successfully resolve this kind of problem, it is imperative that an effective development and verification process is defined and technically supported by an appropriate simulation environment. EADS Astrium has therefore developed an integrated concept called “Model-based Development and Verification Environment” (MDVE). The use of the MDVE promotes the following basic objectives: – Consistent use of models, data bases and procedures for various purposes throughout all project phases (B, C/D, E) and across different projects. – Integration of engineering disciplines (operations, dynamics (attitude and orbit control), data handling, electrical power, thermal control). – Consistent process for harmonised development and verification of • satellite H/W and S/W, • flight procedures, • system simulator (for ground segment). The development process can be characterised by the following steps: – System Simulation (pure simulation) • development and verification of system design, • development and verification of check-out procedures. – Software Verification Facility (SVF) • verification of on-board S/W. – Real-Time Testbed (RTB) and FlatSat • O/B computer H/W and S/W in-the-loop (incl. H/W-JS/W compatibility), • additional equipment in the loop (FlatSat), • functional validation of O/B computer and additional equipment, • mission simulation test, • flight procedure development. – Support of System Level Tests. – Operations Support (system simulator for ground segment, S/W maintenance facility). This paper reports on advances in the area of the optimised development process for satellite design and verification and the supporting environment.