This software is a new target for the Spacecraft Health Inference Engine (SHINE) knowledge base that compiles a knowledge base to a language called Tiny C — an interpreted version of C that can be embedded on flight processors. This new target allows portions of a running SHINE knowledge base to be updated on a "live" system without needing to halt and restart the containing SHINE application. This enhancement will directly provide this capability without the risk of software validation problems and can also enable complete integration of BEAM and SHINE into a single application.
This innovation enables SHINE deployment in domains where autonomy is used during flight-critical applications that require updates. This capability eliminates the need for halting the application and performing potentially serious total system uploads before resuming the application with the loss of system integrity. This software enables additional applications at JPL (microsensors, embedded mission hardware) and increases the marketability of these applications outside of JPL.
This work was done by Mark James, Ryan Mackey, and Raffi Tikidjian of Caltech for NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory.
In accordance with Public Law 96-517, the contractor has elected to retain title to this invention. Inquiries concerning rights for its commercial use should be addressed to:
Innovative Technology Assets Management
JPL
Mail Stop 202-233
4800 Oak Grove Drive
Pasadena, CA 91109-8099
E-mail:
Refer to NPO-44547, volume and number of this NASA Tech Briefs issue, and the page number.
This Brief includes a Technical Support Package (TSP).
SHINE Virtual Machine Model for In- Flight Updates of Critical Mission Software
(reference NPO-44547) is currently available for download from the TSP library.
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Overview
The document outlines the SHINE Virtual Machine Model, developed by NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), aimed at enabling in-flight updates of critical mission software. SHINE, which stands for Spacecraft Health Inference Engine, is a multi-mission reusable knowledge base software tool designed for the monitoring, analysis, and diagnosis of spacecraft and ground systems through both forward and backward inference.
One of the primary challenges addressed by SHINE is the limitation of traditional software systems that require halting operations to update knowledge bases. The SHINE model allows for dynamic updates without interrupting the application, which is crucial for applications that require evolving reasoning capabilities, such as learning systems or those needing real-time adjustments during flight. The document highlights the separation between the SHINE interpreter and the C++ cross-compiler, noting that cross-compiling results in a loss of dynamic capabilities due to the static nature of C++. This limitation poses risks for applications that depend on real-time reasoning and adaptability.
The SHINE Virtual Machine introduces a virtual machine-like environment that enhances the efficiency of the SHINE incremental updates. This technology is expected to significantly benefit NASA missions by allowing rule-based applications to be developed and maintained independently of their run-time hardware. The potential applications extend beyond NASA, with implications for military communications, such as the Transformation Communications Satellite (TSAT) System, which aims to provide enhanced bandwidth capabilities for deployed troops.
The document emphasizes the importance of ensuring run-time integrity and safety, as existing workarounds for the limitations of cross-compiling are deemed unreasonable due to validation difficulties and potential safety risks. The SHINE VM is positioned as an enabling technology that will facilitate the integration of various applications, including Policy Based Management (PBM) systems for managing space-borne networks.
In summary, the SHINE Virtual Machine Model represents a significant advancement in aerospace software technology, providing a robust framework for real-time updates and dynamic knowledge management in critical mission applications. This innovation not only enhances the operational capabilities of spacecraft but also opens new avenues for commercial and military applications, thereby benefiting the national interest.
