The SEE HLA Starter Kit: enabling the rapid prototyping of HLA-based simulations for space exploration

摘要

Modeling & Simulation (M&S) is nowadays considered a pillar of modern engineering. Indeed, the analysis of several systems, processes and physical phenomena is only practicable by developing simulation models and executing them on suitable computing systems. New M&S techniques, methods and tools are emerging that take advantage of distributed simulation environments. One of the most mature and popular standard for distributed simulation is the IEEE 1516-2010 - High Level Architecture (HLA) that, although originally developed for military applications, is increasingly exploited in a great variety of application domains due to its capabilities to enable the interoperability and reusability of distributed simulation components. Today, the development of full-fledged simulation models, based on the IEEE 1516 standard, is still a challenging task because it requires a considerable effort in terms of both time and cost. In this context, the paper presents a software development kit that aims at easing the development of HLA-based simulations in the space exploration domain. The effectiveness of the Kit is proven by its concrete exploitation in the context of the Simulation Exploration Experience (SEE), a project led by NASA and which involves as partners several U.S. and European Institutions.