The Next Generation of Aircraft Systems: Meet CERTIFICATE

What is CERTIFICATE?

Systems Technology, Inc. (STI) is excited to announce the continuation of the CERTIFICATE project, which stands for Certification and Safety of In-Flight Multi-Objective Decision Making (MODM) Algorithm Techniques. This initiative, funded by NASA’s Phase II SBIR program, aims to develop an innovative tool for certifying Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) systems. This project is a collaboration among STI, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Purdue University, and the University of Maryland (UMD). The outcome of this effort will be a cutting-edge product designed to support verification and validation processes crucial for certifying the next generation of aircraft.

How Does CERTIFICATE Work?

As we move towards more AAM concepts, many future aircraft will feature sophisticated fly-by-wire flight control systems, advanced envelope protections, and Simplified Vehicle Operations (SVO) for pilot control. In addition, advancements in autonomy are expected to play a significant role in the cockpit, enhancing pilot support. To ensure these systems are safe and effective, it is important that control systems are both explainable and secure, especially when dealing with adaptive or non-linear controls and Multi-Objective Decision Making (MODM) algorithms.

CERTIFICATE is designed to address these challenges by establishing a comprehensive certification framework and advanced software toolset for MODM autonomous technologies. By integrating new Envelope Protection (EP) schemes, neural control certificates, and correct-by-construction software paradigms, CERTIFICATE ensures a rigorous validation process for emerging autonomous systems.

Our platform creates a versatile Vehicle Model Under Test (MUT) environment, tailored with certification rules and requirements specific to the vehicle’s mission. This adaptability supports the wide-scale adoption of novel AAM and Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) platforms.

CERTIFICATE has been designed with ease of integration in mind, allowing future users to incorporate their software seamlessly. The system’s design emphasizes realistic task performance, testing MODM algorithms against mission scenarios within the National Airspace. This approach ensures that algorithms are thoroughly evaluated under realistic conditions and operational missions. STI is integrating proposed Handling Qualities (HQTE) and Automation Qualities Task Elements (AQTE) as part of the system solution.

Ready to explore future methods of vehicle testing and software verification?

Contact our team today to learn more: https://www.systemstech.com/contact/.

About Systems Technology Inc.: Systems Technology Inc. (STI) is a technology company at the forefront of innovation, specializing in aviation and simulation solutions. With a mission to advance safety and efficiency in aviation, STI develops cutting-edge technologies to meet the evolving needs of the aerospace industry.