General Mode Controller for Software on Artificial Satellite with Model-Based Validation Tool

High quality and flexibility are strongly required for embedded software on artificial satellites. High quality is very important because any single halt is not allowed over 15 years operation period without any significant maintenance. Flexibility is also important to adapt customer requirements which may vary after operation experiences. A quick and reliable way to modify the software functions is required. The model-based approach will contribute to solve this problem. Mitsubishi Electric Corporation, one of the representing artificial satellite suppliers in Japan, is now implementing a General Mode Controller on on-board software of satellites. We noticed functions related to modes and sequences are often required to modify from previous projects. The General Mode Controller can modify them in a reliable way by changing control parameters without modifying Source code. The control parameters are verified by using a model-based tool. Matlab Simulink and Stateflow, to enable quick and low risk modifications.