Task requirements for rocket propulsion test preparations of the test stand facilities drive the need to model the test facility propellant systems prior to constructing physical modifications. The Propellant System Modeling Environment (PSME) is an initiative designed to enable increased efficiency and expanded capabilities to a broader base of NASA engineers in the use of modeling and simulation (M&S) technologies for rocket propulsion test and launch mission requirements. PSME will enable a wider scope of users to utilize M&S of propulsion test and launch facilities for predictive and post-analysis functionality by offering a clean, easy-to-use, high-performance application environment.

PSME Interactive Schematic (IS) is an innovative function that augments PSME’s client application to become more efficient by increasing intuitive operation in the model configuration phase. IS diagrams of propellant system components are tied to primary parameter values of a given model configuration. Changes to parameter values are integrated with components of the diagram, dynamically depicting corresponding changes within the diagram. This serves as a visual confirmation of the configuration change made.

The Pressurant Tank IS enables the representation of editable liquid propellant Rocket Propulsion Test Analysis (RPTA) core model configuration parameters as textbox controls, annotating a graphical Pressurant Tank schematic. Edits made within the text boxes reflect dynamically in a changed visual state of the schematic. This enables a first-ever means for editing RPTA model configuration parameters in a visual context of the configuration component being affected.

The prototype development of schematic interaction utilizes Excel’s pre-defined graphics called auto-shapes, requiring no other coding or external licensing of other software. The new interactive schematic function, designed as a top layer skin, enables rapid development and customization with little change to the underlying Model Configuration Editor (MCE). PSME’s client application interactive schematics design allows for quick and efficient customizations that may be required in support of mission activities.

This work was done by David Coote and Harry Ryan of Stennis Space Center, and Kenneth Burton, Lee McKinney, Don Woodman of Computer Sciences Corporation. For more information, call the Innovative Partnerships Office at 228-688-1929. SSC-00351