The Architecture Synthesis Tool (AST) is software that automatically synthesizes software and hardware architectures of avionic systems. The AST is expected to be most helpful during initial formulation of an avionic-system design, when system requirements change frequently and manual modification of architecture is time-consuming and susceptible to error. The AST comprises two parts: (1) an architecture generator, which utilizes a genetic algorithm to create a multitude of architectures; and (2) a functionality evaluator, which analyzes the architectures for viability, rejecting most of the non-viable ones. The functionality evaluator generates and uses a viability tree — a hierarchy representing functions and components that perform the functions such that the system as a whole performs system-level functions representing the requirements for the system as specified by a user. Architectures that survive the functionality evaluator are further evaluated by the selection process of the genetic algorithm. Architectures found to be most promising to satisfy the user's requirements and to perform optimally are selected as parents to the next generation of architectures. The foregoing process is iterated as many times as the user desires. The final output is one or a few viable architectures that satisfy the user's requirements.
This program was written by Savio Chau, Joseph Xu, Van Dang, and James F. Lu 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-42607.
This Brief includes a Technical Support Package (TSP).
Automated Synthesis of Architectures of Avionic Systems
(reference NPO-42607) is currently available for download from the TSP library.
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Overview
The document is a Technical Support Package from NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, focusing on the innovation titled "Automated Synthesis of Architectures of Avionic Systems," identified by NTR Number 42607. This innovation is part of NASA Tech Briefs and is aimed at advancing the field of avionics through automation.
The primary objective of this technology is to develop an automatic technique for synthesizing the architecture of avionics systems. This approach is significant as it can streamline the design and integration processes of complex avionic systems, which are critical for modern aerospace applications. By automating the synthesis of these architectures, the technology aims to enhance efficiency, reduce human error, and potentially lower costs associated with the development of avionic systems.
The document emphasizes that the information provided is part of NASA's Commercial Technology Program, which seeks to disseminate aerospace-related developments that have broader technological, scientific, or commercial implications. This initiative reflects NASA's commitment to fostering innovation and collaboration within the aerospace sector and beyond.
Additionally, the Technical Support Package includes references to further assistance and resources available through NASA's Innovative Partnerships Program. It encourages interested parties to explore additional publications and information available from the NASA Scientific and Technical Information (STI) Program Office, which can be accessed online or through direct contact.
The document also includes a disclaimer stating that the United States Government and its representatives do not assume liability for the use of the information contained within, nor do they guarantee that such use will be free from privately owned rights. It clarifies that any mention of trade names or manufacturers is for identification purposes only and does not imply official endorsement by NASA.
In summary, this Technical Support Package serves as a comprehensive overview of a significant technological advancement in avionics system architecture synthesis, highlighting its potential benefits and the resources available for further exploration in this innovative field.
