DSN Requirement Scheduler is a computer program that automatically schedules, reschedules, and resolves conflicts for allocations of resources of NASA's Deep Space Network (DSN) on the basis of ever changing project requirements for DSN services. As used here, "resources" signifies, primarily, DSN antennas, ancillary equipment, and times during which they are available. Examples of project-required DSN services include arraying, segmentation, very-long-baseline interferometry, and multiple spacecraft per aperture. Requirements can include periodic reservations of specific or optional resources during specific time intervals or within ranges specified in terms of starting times and durations. This program is built on the Automated Scheduling and Planning Environment (ASPEN) software system (aspects of which have been described in previous NASA Tech Briefs articles), with customization to reflect requirements and constraints involved in allocation of DSN resources. Unlike prior DSN-resource scheduling programs that make single passes through the requirements and require human intervention to resolve conflicts, this program makes repeated passes in a continuing search for all possible allocations, provides a best-effort solution at any time, and presents alternative solutions among which users can choose.
This program was written by Bradley Clement and Steve Schaffer of Caltech for NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory. For further information, access the Technical Support Package (TSP) free on-line 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-41313.
This Brief includes a Technical Support Package (TSP).
Scheduling with Automatic Resolution of Conflicts
(reference NPO-41313) is currently available for download from the TSP library.
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Overview
The document titled "Scheduling With Automatic Resolution of Conflicts" (NPO-41313) is a Technical Support Package from NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, dated May 2004. It outlines a new software application designed to enhance scheduling processes by automatically resolving conflicts that may arise during scheduling tasks. This innovation is particularly relevant to aerospace applications, where efficient scheduling is critical for mission success.
The document emphasizes the importance of the software in managing complex scheduling requirements, which can involve multiple stakeholders and resources. By automating conflict resolution, the software aims to streamline operations, reduce manual intervention, and improve overall efficiency in scheduling tasks. This is especially beneficial in environments where time-sensitive decisions are crucial, such as in space missions or research projects.
Additionally, the Technical Support Package is part of NASA's Commercial Technology Program, which seeks to disseminate aerospace-related developments that have broader technological, scientific, or commercial applications. The document serves as a resource for organizations and individuals interested in leveraging NASA's innovations for their own scheduling needs.
For further assistance and information, the document provides contact details for the NASA Scientific and Technical Information (STI) Program Office, including a website link and contact information for inquiries. This allows users to access additional resources and publications related to research and technology in the field of scheduling and conflict resolution.
Overall, the document highlights NASA's commitment to advancing technology in scheduling and conflict management, showcasing the potential benefits of such innovations in various sectors beyond aerospace. It encourages collaboration and exploration of these technologies, aiming to foster partnerships that can lead to further advancements in scheduling methodologies.
