We have been developing over twenty years of experience in the realization of SW for EGSE (Electrical Ground Support Equipment). The target is usually the Aerospace industry. All the development phases, from design to final validation, are compliant with the main standards (included ECSS used by ESA). Our software is developed in C++ and is based on a modular architecture, which allow to manage all the communication interfaces mostly used at ground and satellite level:
- SpaceWire
- MILBUS-1553 (both standard and Data Block Transfer Protocol based).
- CANBUS
- Ethernet (TCP-UDP)
- USB
- I²C
- SPI
- ARINC
- RS232/422/485
For the simulation and stimulus of non standard interfaces, our SW is able to pilot specific HW devices (both outsourced or internally made by our HW department).
Communication protocols
We have experiences in several communication protocols used at satellite level, such as PUS pr CCSDS protocol.
We can optimally develop every type of communication protocol specified by the client.
Payload Management
Our software can implement the same remotes/telemetries used at satellite level, basing the structure on the database provided by the customer.
We have experience in database for the definition of communication parameters such as standard SCOS2000.
Remotes
Our SW flexibly implements graphic interfaces for the definition and sending of single telecommunications or sequences. The control and simulation of all the operations that will be carries out by the satellite, is allowed.
Telemetries
Throughout numeric and graphic panels, our software implements interfaces for instruments monitoring, both in real time or in playback. Every telemetry can be analyzed; parameters status can be monitored all over the time.
Scientific data acquisition and analysis
The main purpose of our SW EGSE is the acquisition and memorization of all the scientific data coming from the satellite, in real time and without loss. We also realize ad hoc graphic interfaces able to produce a real time reconstruction of the acquired data in order to have an immediate quick-look.
Data storage
Data storage is a main topic. Our architectures allow data saving in folder organized in work sessions, without data losses. These storages can be run in off-line sessions for post processing and analysis purposes or can be elaborated through third parties SW.
Test sequences
Our SW contains a PLUTO script interpreter and allows to define sequences useful for project validation.
Failure Injection
The possibility to simulate anomalous cases and outliers is fundamental in order to validate a high complex project. Throughout SW EGSE, the simulation of “failures” can be used to verify aerospace systems answers and reactions. Different ad-hoc events can be created through our SW or HW interfaces. In the past years, when needed, we directly cooperated with HW suppliers for the realization of highly customized anomalous events: for example, with StarDundee, we realized specific functionalities concerning failures on SpaceWire; these functionalities have became part of the standard failures currently offered.
Remote Control - CCS
We can implement efficient interfaces for our SW remote monitoring and controlling. These interfaces make possible the direct interaction with superior systems (CCS – Central Control System). In particular, we have experience in the use of interfaces such as EDEN (EGSE Data Exchange Network) or other customized solutions.
High precision sync
Our SW implements high precision sync mechanism: PTP or NTP. This mechanism makes possible the use of EGSE for measures or stimulus which require a high sync coefficient with the environment. We have experience in the realization and use of custom HW devices for the creation or capture of one or more clocks/events external to EGSE system.