AURORA is a research project that provides enhanced tools and processes for building and validating critical auto-coded flight software products. Its main characteristics are:
-Model orientation: system models are used to design the software at a high abstraction level.
-Auto-coding: source code is automatically generated from models.
-Support for validation of software based on models.
TASTE (
https://taste.tools(si apre in una nuova finestra)) the ESA development environment for embedded real-time SW, have been used as a basis for integrating the tools making up the AURORA tool suite, and for supporting the auto-code life cycle.
The following technologies have been studied in the project:
-Code generators. QGen has been selected as a code generator for Simulink models. The integration of QGen with TASTE has been analysed and enhanced within the project.
-Component models. Different execution platforms were analysed to identify their functionalities and the most important design patterns associated with them. AURORA extended the TASTE languages to represent a component model, with more emphasis given to NASA Core Flight System (cFS).
-Flight software auto-coding life cycle. The Space software standard was taken a basis for defining a life cycle for auto-coded embedded software. The AURORA life cycle was defined in an incremental way, with MIL (model-in-the-loop), SIL (software-in-the-loop), CIL (component-in-the-loop), and PIL (execution platform-in-the loop) characterisations.
The auto-coding technology and the enhanced toolset have been demonstrated using two different systems.
-Euclid Attitude and Orbit Control System. Euclid is an ESA mission for space exploration that was launched on July 1st, 2023. A subset of the auto-generated Euclid AOCS software has been used as a technology evaluator.
-UPMSat-2 is an experimental satellite fully designed and built at UPM, which was launched in 2020. The UPMSat-2 Attitude Control System SW has been rebuilt using the AURORA tools and life cycle.
The results of using the AURORA tools on both demonstration systems have been analysed in order to assess the TRL (Technology Readiness Level) of the tool set. The conclusion is that TRL 7, “System prototype demonstration in operational environment”, has been achieved. AURORA has demonstrated the viability of a reduction in the efforts and planning of the SW life cycle at incorporating Autocoding technologies in the process: (1) A general increase in productivity: reduction of development effort by 60% and (2) a reduction of testing campaign: reduction in testing time by 30%.
The AURORA Tool suite contributes to the development of Critical Space Technologies for European Non-Dependence and Competitiveness. With this tool, Europe has its own technology and is in a competitive position in the space market.
