HPCCP/Numerical Propulsion System Simulation
Configuration Management File Manager

Objective: To provide a common and consistent way to manage applications, data and engine simulations. The Numerical Propulsion System Simulation (NPSS) Configuration Management (CM) File Manager integrated with the Common Desktop Environment (CDE) window management system is the tool that provides a common look and feel for configuration management of data, applications and engine simulations for the US engine companies. Additionally, the CM File Manager provides configuration management tools to manage a simulation. Features include managing input files, output files, textual notes and any other material normally associated with simulation. The CM File Manager includes a generic Configuration Management Application Program Interface which is adaptable to the configuration management repositories in place at each of the US engine companies.

Approach: Guided by emerging desktop standards, a team consisting of LeRC personnel and representatives from US engine and airframe companies has defined, developed and implemented a standard Graphical User Interface windowing system used for launching and administering simulations through the use of configuration management access functions and file management tools. The NPSS CM File Manager contains a common windowing system based upon CDE that contains the necessary tools an engineer requires for conducting design and analysis studies of engines. The software was developed following I. Jacobson's Object-Oriented Design methodology and implemented in C++.

Accomplishments: The NPSS CM File Manager produced Beta releases in March and June of 1996. In September of 1996, Version 1.0 of the CM File Manager with Documentation was released to the US engine Companies.

Significance: The development of the NPSS CM File Manager provides to the US Aeropropulsion Industry a common tool needed to manage the creation and modification of the industries' engine simulations. Since the CM File Manager was built upon a desktop standard CDE, NPSS has provided an easy way for the engine companies to use, accept and manage this tool and other tools built compatible with CDE. Additionally, the US engine companies are positioned to save millions of dollars by standardizing on tools in pre-competitive areas.

Status/Plans: During FY1997, NPSS will accept enhancements and modifications to the CM File Manager. The modifications will be done by a third party software vendor positioned for long term software support.

Contact: Gregory J. Follen
         NASA Lewis Research Center
         gfollen@lerc.nasa.gov
         (216)433-5193