5.3.1 Modeling Communication Satellite Protocols with a System Design Automation Tool
Robert Colligan, Thomas Meseroll, Micah Shamash, Tyler Wells, Francis P. Thompson · INCOSE International Symposium · 1998
ABSTRACT 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.