The Model-Based Mission Control System


K. Bradbury
bradbury@logica.com
Logica UK Ltd.

Abstract:
The Model Based Mission Control System Study (MBMCS) is sponsored by the
European Space Agency to analyse the application of comprehensive domain
modelling within future mission control systems.  It consolidates previous work,
producing a conceptual model architecture for use in a model-based MCS (the
model architecture will be applied in the development of the ATOS-4 MCS
prototype).  This paper describes the architecture of the Mission Model proposed
by MBMCS, including both its static structure and its behavioural aspects, and
how a Mission Model may be used in operations, for example by planning,
scheduling and diagnostic applications. The paper then describes the MBMCS
Prototype Model Editor which is used by engineers to graphically produce
Mission Models.  The Editor allows a user to create a Model from generic
components, allowing a user to express engineeering information in a natural
way, which will reduce human error and promote software re-use.

Keywords: ATOS, components, KBS, MBMCS, mimic, model, reuse, sharing, software