Thesis - Leigh Moody.pdf - Bad Request - Cranfield University

Chapter 8 / Simulation
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comprehensive array of time series analysis tools and graphics facilities
complementing those provided in the simulation. The simulation provides
an ASCII output data file with the I/O name and extension “MTB” in a
location defined by the logical pointer MTB_LOC for analysis using
MATLAB. Initially two header records are written to this file, the first is a
list of variable names, the second their units extracted from the GCB text
file. The data records are then written at the prescribed time and frequency,
for example:
TIME CR_PH_SH CR_TH_SH I_PHI_SH
[ SECONDS] [ DEGREES] [ DEGREES] [ DEGREES]
0.00000E+00 0.12561E-2 0.12000E+1 0.12551E-2
0.12500E-01 0.13761E-2 0.12600E+1 0.13753E-2
M M M M
0.10000E+10 0.14961E-2 0.13300E+1 0.14951E-2
The internal SI representation of the data is multiplied by the GCB scaling
factor prior to output. A MATLAB graphical user interface (GUI) has been
created to manipulating the data provided by the research simulation and the
AMIS. MATLAB reads the data in these files, creating a vector for each
output variable, denoted by the original variable name, and a complimentary
vector of units.
8.7 Interactive X-Windows Interface
Competition to secure fixed price contracts has reduced the development
period of missile systems even though the complexity of the modern
weapon systems has increased. Simulations such as the AMIS, developed to
cope with this increase in functionality, must also address the problem of
longer learning curves by automating as many of the housekeeping
functions as possible. Simulations now include a level of functionality that
cannot be controller entirely by external data files alone if rapid
development, analysis, and system assessment is required. To do so would
inevitably lead to excessive learning curves, limit testing, reduce scenario
generation and their analysis. An interactive windows interface enhances
user control and on-line data presentation, maximising its potential for rapid
development and fault finding.
The windows I/F here provides an easy to use “front end” to the core model,
thereby reducing the time taken for familiarisation. Combining the
windows I/F with a GCB makes all the program variables accessible for
automated I/O, statistical analysis and interactive change during program
execution. Interactive control over the program means that it can be stepped
at any one of the clock rates provided, a valuable tool for detailed algorithm
analysis and sub-system interactions.
For this application the Windows interactive and visualisation software is
written in “C++”, a language ideally suited to graphical presentations,
utilising MOTIF X-18 library functions. The interactive interface with the
FORTRAN core models controls the flow of data to and from the
visualisation software using a mouse. The windows are dynamically linked,
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