PyCraft is a computer program that provides an interactive, workbench-like computing environment for developing and testing algorithms for multibody dynamics. Examples of multibody dynamic systems amenable to analysis with the help of PyCraft include land vehicles, spacecraft, robots, and molecular models. PyCraft is based on the Spatial-Operator-Algebra (SOA) formulation for multibody dynamics. The SOA operators enable construction of simple and compact representations of complex multibody dynamical equations. Within the PyCraft computational workbench, users can, essentially, use the high-level SOA operator notation to represent the variety of dynamical quantities and algorithms and to perform computations interactively. PyCraft provides a Python-language interface to underlying C++ code. Working with SOA concepts, a user can create and manipulate Python-level operator classes in order to implement and evaluate new dynamical quantities and algorithms. During use of PyCraft, virtually all SOA-based algorithms are available for computational experiments.
This program was written by Abhinandan Jain of Caltech for NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory. For further information, access the Technical Support Package (TSP) free online at www.techbriefs.com/tsp under the Software category.
This software is available for commercial licensing. Please contact Karina Edmonds of the California Institute of Technology at (626) 395-2322. Refer to NPO-42891.
This Brief includes a Technical Support Package (TSP).
Computational Workbench for Multibody Dynamics
(reference NPO-42891) is currently available for download from the TSP library.
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Overview
The document is a Technical Support Package for the "Computational Workbench for Multibody Dynamics," identified by NASA Tech Brief NPO-42891. It outlines a new software application called PyCraft, which serves as a computational tool for multibody dynamics analysis. This workbench is developed under the auspices of NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) and is part of the Commercial Technology Program aimed at disseminating aerospace-related technological advancements that have potential applications beyond the aerospace sector.
The document emphasizes the importance of compliance with U.S. export regulations, indicating that the information may contain proprietary data from Caltech/JPL. It serves as a resource for individuals and organizations interested in leveraging the results of NASA's research and technology developments. The Technical Support Package is designed to facilitate access to innovative technologies and foster partnerships that can lead to commercial applications.
For further inquiries or assistance, the document provides contact information for the Innovative Technology Assets Management office at JPL, including a mailing address, telephone number, and email. This office is responsible for managing the dissemination of NASA's innovative technologies and can provide additional information regarding research and technology in the field of multibody dynamics.
The document also includes a notice stating that the U.S. Government, nor any representatives acting on its behalf, assumes liability for the use of the information contained within. It clarifies that any mention of trade names or manufacturers is for identification purposes only and does not imply official endorsement by NASA.
Overall, the Technical Support Package serves as a comprehensive guide to the capabilities and applications of the PyCraft software, highlighting its significance in advancing the field of multibody dynamics and its potential for broader technological and commercial use. It reflects NASA's commitment to innovation and collaboration in the aerospace industry and beyond, encouraging the exploration of new technologies that can benefit various sectors.
