XCALIBR (XML Capability Analysis LIBRary) is a set of Extensible Markup Language (XML) database and spreadsheet-based analysis software tools designed to assist in technology-return-on-investment analysis and optimization of technology portfolios pertaining to outer- space missions. XCALIBR is also being examined for use in planning, tracking, and documentation of projects. An XCALIBR database contains information on mission requirements and technological capabilities, which are related by use of an XML taxonomy. XCALIBR incorporates a standardized interface for exporting data and analysis templates to an Excel spreadsheet. Unique features of XCALIBR include the following:

  • It is inherently hierarchical by virtue of its XML basis.
  • The XML taxonomy codifies a comprehensive data structure and data dictionary that includes performance metrics for spacecraft, sensors, and spacecraft systems other than sensors. The taxonomy contains >700 nodes representing all levels, from system through subsystem to individual parts.
  • All entries are searchable and machine readable.
  • There is an intuitive Web-based user interface.
  • The software automatically matches technologies to mission requirements.
  • The software automatically generates, and makes the required entries in, an Excel return-on-investment analysis software tool.
  • The results of an analysis are presented in both tabular and graphical displays.

This program was written by Raphael R. Some, Anil K. Agrawal, Akos J. Czikmantory, Charles R. Weisbin, and Hook Hua of Caltech and Jon M. Neff, Mark A. Cowdin, Brian S. Lewis, Juana Iroz, and Rick Ross of The Aerospace Corp. for NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory.

This software is available for commercial licensing. Please contact Karina Edmonds of the California Institute of Technology at (626) 395-2322. Refer to NPO-41911.

Topics:
Computer software and hardware Data management Documentation Optimization Software Standardization Terminology
This Brief includes a Technical Support Package (TSP).
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Spreadsheets for Analyzing and Optimizing Space Missions

(reference NPO-41911) is currently available for download from the TSP library.

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NASA Tech Briefs Magazine

This article first appeared in the March, 2009 issue of NASA Tech Briefs Magazine (Vol. 33 No. 3).

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Overview

The document titled "Spreadsheets for Analyzing and Optimizing Space Missions" (NPO-41911) is a Technical Support Package from NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) that outlines the capabilities and applications of the XCALIBR (XML Capability Analysis LIBRary) tool. Developed under the New Millennium Program, XCALIBR is a hierarchical XML database designed to assist in technology return on investment (ROI) analysis and technology portfolio optimization for space missions.

The core functionality of XCALIBR lies in its ability to relate mission requirements to technology capabilities through a comprehensive XML taxonomy. This taxonomy serves as a standardized data dictionary that encompasses various levels of space mission components, including systems, subsystems, and technologies, with over 700 nodes for detailed categorization. The database is not only searchable and machine-readable but also features an intuitive web-based user interface that enhances user experience.

One of the key features of XCALIBR is its capability to automatically match technologies to specific mission requirements, streamlining the analysis process. Additionally, it generates and populates Excel-based ROI analysis tools, allowing users to derive technology benefits and visualize data through both tabular and graphical displays. This functionality addresses the need for quantitative, auditable, and verifiable technology benefit analysis, making it a valuable resource for project planning, tracking, and documentation.

The document emphasizes the importance of having user-friendly tools for capturing and analyzing mission and technology data, which is critical for effective decision-making in aerospace projects. It also highlights the potential for broader applications of the technology beyond NASA, suggesting its relevance to various sectors interested in aerospace-related developments.

For further inquiries or assistance, the document provides contact information for the Innovative Technology Assets Management team at JPL, as well as an email address for direct communication.

In summary, the Technical Support Package serves as a comprehensive guide to the XCALIBR tool, detailing its features, applications, and the significant role it plays in optimizing technology investments for space missions. It underscores NASA's commitment to advancing aerospace technology and making its findings accessible for wider technological, scientific, and commercial applications.