TPF-C Technology Plan - Exoplanet Exploration Program - NASA

Integrated Modeling and Model Validation
• Scalability to amplitude: link nm test validation to infer pm performance when
ground disturbances or measurement sensors do not meet TPF-C performance
specifications
• Scalability to size and geometry: partial or full-scale component testing
• Scalability to the level of assembly: validate component models on subsystem tests,
and validate interface models at system tests.
5. Development and validation of multi-disciplinary model uncertainty propagation
methods.
Testbeds and breadboards needed to validate these most critical modeling technology risks are
defined herein. The testbeds will also be used to demonstrate the error budget allocation and
validation process, including propagation of modeling uncertainties, and to refine test/analysis
correlation techniques. As the design of TPF-C matures, test/analysis validation of the actual
hardware and instruments will be defined in more detail in the V&V matrix, culminating with the
final I&T at the highest level of assembly possible.
5.2 Technology Goals
The primary goal of the Modeling and Model Validation (M&MV) Technology element on TPF-
C is to demonstrate the efficient and accurate end-to-end (e2e) predictive capability within
prescribed modeling error tolerances (uncertainties). The main metrics of interest are contrast
and WFE, and thus contributions from all subsystems and physics impacting the e2e prediction
of these metrics are included in the technology development plan.
In demonstrating this goal, approaches will be developed and validated to scale and stitch
together ground test results for e2e flight system performance prediction, and analysis tools will
be developed which meet TPF-C specific needs.
The two derived goals of the M&MV technology development effort are: (1) to provide inputs to
the system engineer/architect for acceptance criteria for model verification and delivery, and (2)
to provide inputs to the design team for selecting design options that reduce modeling
uncertainties by building a system that is predictable and/or controllable, and which avoids overdesigning
the system by implementing e2e design optimization and margin management.
5.3 Modeling Methodology Validation
Each M&MV methodology on TPF-C falls into one of three broad and distinct categories, each
of which represent the individual technologies required for successful delivery of a validated
system model:
1. Development and validation of analysis tools
2. Characterization and validation of basic physics models
3. Validation of models and scalability on component testbeds.
Each of these M&MV technology areas is described in more detail below, as well as the
approach by which it will be validated. Although there may appear to be overlap in the sub-
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