A computer program translates Unified Modeling Language (UML) representations of state charts into source code in the C, C++, and Python computing languages. ("State charts" signifies graphical descriptions of states and state transitions of a spacecraft or other complex system.) The UML representations constituting the input to this program are generated by using a UML-compliant graphical design program to draw the state charts. The generated source code is consistent with the "quantum programming" approach, which is so named because it involves discrete states and state transitions that have features in common with states and state transitions in quantum mechanics. Quantum programming enables efficient implementation of state charts, suitable for real-time embedded flight software. In addition to source code, the autocoder program generates a graphical- user-interface (GUI) program that, in turn, generates a display of state transitions in response to events triggered by the user. The GUI program is wrapped around, and can be used to exercise the state-chart behavior of, the generated source code. Once the expected state-chart behavior is confirmed, the generated source code can be augmented with a software interface to the rest of the software with which the source code is required to interact.
This program was written by Kenneth Clark, Garth Watney, Alexander Murray, and Edward Benowitz of Caltech for NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory. For more information, download the Technical Support Package (free white paper) 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-41951.
This Brief includes a Technical Support Package (TSP).
State-Chart Autocoder
(reference NPO-41951) is currently available for download from the TSP library.
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Overview
The document is a Technical Support Package for the State-Chart Autocoder, identified by NASA Tech Brief NPO-41951, developed by NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) in Pasadena, California. It is part of NASA's Commercial Technology Program, which aims to disseminate results from aerospace-related developments that have potential applications beyond their original context.
The State-Chart Autocoder is a new software application designed to facilitate the development and implementation of state-chart models, which are used in various engineering and software development processes. State charts are a visual representation of states and transitions in a system, making them useful for modeling complex behaviors in software and systems engineering.
The document emphasizes the importance of compliance with U.S. export regulations, indicating that the information may contain proprietary data and is subject to export control. Users are advised to adhere to all applicable regulations when utilizing the information provided.
For those seeking further assistance or information regarding research and technology in this area, the document provides contact details for the Innovative Technology Assets Management team at JPL. This includes a mailing address, telephone number, and email address, allowing interested parties to reach out for additional support or inquiries.
The document also includes a notice stating that it was prepared under the sponsorship of NASA and clarifies that neither the U.S. Government nor any representatives assume liability for the use of the information contained within. It also notes 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 resource for understanding the State-Chart Autocoder and its potential applications in various fields, while also providing necessary legal and contact information for users interested in exploring the technology further. The document reflects NASA's commitment to sharing innovative technologies that can benefit a wider audience beyond aerospace applications.
