Method For Stimulating Hardware-in-the-loop In A Distributed Simulation Environment

Simulations and their measurement involve careful experiment design, data gathering and data analysis. The final results obtained from the data analysis only characterize the system behavrior for the range of input parameters covered. Although extrpolation can be used to obtain results for nearby parameter values, it is not possible to ask "what if" questions for arbitrary parameter values. By incorporating actual hardware components into the simulations, the range of input data can be greatly increased withouth having to modify the software that would otherwise simulate the hardware, and the data accuracy is greatly increased since the "live" component is used. The opportunity exists to increase the fidelity, flexibility, and validatiy of the research and develoment (R&D) in the Distributed Interactive Simulation (DIS) environment through the use of an Input/Output Controller for Stimulation (IOCS). Phase I will consist of requirements analysis, interface definition, architecture definition, and impact analysis for the IOCS. Phase II will consist of specification refinement, prototype design and implementation, and feasbility demonstrations. Phase III will consist of full production and commercialization. ANTICIPATED BENEFITS: Component interface definitions for DIS community use. Open system plug and play components. Automobile manufacturing development to add components to vehicle models.