Snippet Based Electronics Design for Spacecraft Avionic Controllers

Abstract

In this paper, we introduce an alternative approach for design, development and testing of electronics for space applications based on the reuse of tested and qualified design elements. Electronics for space applications have long development cycles due to mission specific design, part level qualification, functional verification and unit level testing. We try to reduce the recurrent work by reusing and testing design elements on circuit level. Associated with the recurrent work are overlooked design flaws and long test campaigns leading to risks for budget and schedule. To mitigate these shortcomings, we propose an alternative approach for development, implementation and testing based on the reuse of circuit-level layout elements, which we call Snippets. Besides schematic and PCB layout, simulation models, test results and documentation can be added on the same level. Limiting Snippets to a single function allows simple functional verification and maximizes reusability. The advantages of early testing include the elimination of parts unsuitable for the mission, validation of the expected functionality and verification of the PCB layout.