This document describes the format for DAVE-ML model definition files. DAVE-ML is a proposed standard method for the interchange of aerospace vehicle flight dynamic models. The intent of DAVE-ML is to significantly expedite the process of "rehosting" a simulation model from one facility to another, as well as an improved method to promulgate changes to a particular model to various facilities.
DAVE-ML is based on the eXtensible Markup Language (XML), a World-Wide Web Consortium (W3C) standard. More information on XML is available here.
Many benefits may be derived from application of XML in general, and DAVE-ML in particular, to the exchange of aerospace vehicle data:
Human-readable, UNICODE text representation of the model
Unambiguous machine-readable model description, suitable for conversion into programming language or direct import into object-oriented data structures
The same source file can be used for computer-aided design and real-time piloted simulation
Based on open, non-proprietary, standards that are language- and facility-independent
Statistical properties, such as confidence bounds and uncertainty ranges, can be embedded, suitable for Monte Carlo or other statistical analysis of the model
Compliant with AIAA draft simulation data standards
Self-contained, complete, archivable data package, including references to reports, wind-tunnel tests, author contact information, data provenance
Self-documenting and easily convertible to on-line and hardcopy documentation
A more complete discussion on the benefits and design of DAVE-ML can be found at the DAVE-ML web site: http://dcb.larc.nasa.gov/utils/fltsim/DAVE