Implementing AI-ESTATE in a component based architecture, Phase-II

This paper discusses Phase-II of an Air Force funded SBIR R&D project concerned with implementing the IEEE 1232 Standard known as AI-ESTATE in a component based Automatic Test System (ATS). The intent of our Phase-II work is to provide the Air Force with a "working tool" that demonstrates the utility of our architectural approach as well as the utility of AI-ESTATE. The intent of our component based approach to ATS design is to provide a de-coupling of the diagnostic reasoner from the rest of the ATS as well as provide for a true open system at a reduced procurement and maintenance costs. AI-ESTATE is used to provide a standardized interface between the reasoner and the other ATS elements as well as provide standardized information and data model formats. The architecture consists of a COTS Test System (VXI package with LabVIEW), four "domain" type components: Diagnostic Engine Component (DEC), Application Executive Component (AEC), Test System Component (TSC) and Model Editing Component (MEC) that plug into our "Interoperable, Connectivity Enabling Framework" (ICEF) based on COM/DCOM. The four components and framework are discussed in general terms. The DEC implements AI-ESTATE and is further discussed in derail as are the other components. Also discussed are operational uses, diagnostic development, vendor competition and benefits.