Fault Management for Complex Space Systems: Assessing the Use of Rule-Based Systems
Jonathan Rustick, Michael Wisniewski, David A. Termohlen · AIAA Infotech@Aerospace Conference · 2009
Space system complexity and the need for autonomy is increasing. Additionally, the variety of potential mission stakeholders is growing with new business and international interest. Finally, systems are becoming more interdependent (e.g. Mars communication relays). These trends indicate a need for acceptable fault management approaches and embedded fault protection systems that can: 1) be developed successfully with low cost/schedule risk, in a repeatable manner, 2) can be understood by developers and reviewers alike, and 3) are operable by users with a variety of experience levels. Although this need increases as space system design progresses, it seems to be a clear but elusive goal. Historically, ‘rule-based’ approaches have proven simple and robust for many space systems; however, there are limitations to this approach as system complexity and autonomy increases. Orbital Sciences offers insight based on our experience leveraging heritage (rulebased) systems and approaches to the development of an interplanetary space system. Considerations of general limitations and applications of this type of approach, and others in development will be discussed.