ATB – AOCS Test Bed Simulation Framework
ATB is a software simulation framework modelling orbital and
spacecraft dynamics, environment, and AOCS sensors and actuators.
It is an ideal tool for organisations wanting to increase their
awareness and knowledge of satellite AOCS closed loop systems. It
includes closed-loop functional control models which utilise the
sensor and actuator software models, and is an excellent starting
point for system concept analysis, and attitude and orbit control
algorithm development.
The ATB contains the following features:
- The SIMSAT simulation environment in windows operating system,
providing test script capability, Graphical User Interface (GUI)
and the generic models for orbit and environment (PEM) and dynamics
(SIMDYN)
- An AOCS Functional Control Model providing simple AOCS control
algorithm for communication with the sensors and actuators
- A set of actuator models including: Reaction Wheel,
Magnetotorquer, and Propulsion System
- A set of sensor models including: Sun Sensor, Star Tracker,
GPS, Gyro, and Magnetometer
- Strong heritage and quality in simulation
environment.
ATB is based on the simulation infrastructure SIMSAT used by the
European Space Agency (ESA) for all mission preparation and
operations.
SIMSAT provides the environment for real-time or
faster-than-real-time simulation. It provides the following
facilities:
- Simulation model tree including model data and services
- Alpha-numeric and graphical displays, data recording
- Real-time scheduling and scheduler display
- Logging
- JavaScript engine for running simulator command sequences and
test scripts
Efficient method to develop knowledge in AOCS systems and
Attitude/Orbit Control
ATB offers a cost-efficient and risk-adverse solution to
organisations starting development of AOCS systems and Attitude and
Orbit Control Software. The system provides template models for
typical Earth Observation sensors and actuators, and also a
functional control model handling the closed-loop control of the
system. The closed-loop control includes algorithms for the
following modes of operation:
- De-tumbling, Sun Acquisition, Course and Fine Attitude Control,
Momentum Dumping and Orbital Correction
ATB has been designed to allow users to quickly and simply
install and set-up the system. This means that closed loop control
simulation can be executed immediately when the ATB is
installed.
The user can use the initial template models to learn about the
systems and then configure, customise, modify, or replace the model
algorithms with their own refinements. ATB can then be used to test
the algorithms in a closed-loop real-time (or faster than
real-time) simulation.
Potential to expand simulation to full operational
simulator
ATB provides an excellent platform to develop a full operational
simulator to support satellite programmes. A full operational
simulator includes software models for all satellite systems and
interfaces to the ground system for command and control. A
full satellite simulator provides numerous benefits to the
satellite programme, including:
- Verification and Validation of ground segment systems
- Verification and Validation of operational concepts and
procedures
- Training of operations engineers
- Reduces performance risk of programme through effective means
of operations preparation
- Low-cost, flexible and tailorable approach
Contact VEGA about the ATB – AOCS Test Bed
Simulation Framework