Matrix algebra translator and executor /MATE/ takes equations describing structural control system environmental interaction problem for flexible spacecraft components and loads them into self programming computer

Gaitens, M. J.

English

NASA Technical Reports Server

October 1971
	 Brief 71-10382 
NASA TECH BRIEF 
Marshall Space Flight Center
	 . 
NASA Tech Briefs announce new technology derived from the U.S. space program. They are issued to encourage 
commercial application. Tech Briefs are available on a aubscription basis from the National Technical Information 
Service, Springfield, Virginia 22151. Requests for individual copies or questions relating to the. Tech Brief program may 
be directed to the Technology Utilization Office, NASA, Code KT, Washington, D. f. 20546. 
Study-Simulation of Space Station Dynamics 
The problem: 
To mathematically simulate the structural/control 
system/environmental interaction problem for large 
flexible spacecraft. Sufficiently general equations 
for such a system do not exist because of the numer-
ous possible representations and the uncertain com-
plexity of a particular configuration. 
The solution: 
The matrix algebra translator and executor 
(MATE) which takes the equations describing the 
system components and loads them directly into the 
computer. The computer then programs itself. 
How it's done: 
The translator program of the MATE system func-
tions as a compiler that reads the equations, devises 
a computing sequence from the equations, and then 
generates the machine instructions required to perform 
the computing sequence. 
The executor takes the sequence of elementary 
matrix and vector operations generated by the 
compiler and performs the actual numerical process-
ing. The executor also performs data management 
and bookkeeping services. It monitors the current
size and type of all matrices defined in the problem, 
manages the core resources of the computer, and 
automatically goes to auxiliary external storage devices 
when the core is full. 
Notes: 
1. This program is written in FORTRAN IV for use 
on the IBM-7094 computer, and may easily be 
adapted for use on other systems. 
2. Requests for further information may be directed 
to:
COSMIC 
112 Barrow Hall 
University of Georgia 
Athens, Georgia 30601 
Reference: B71-10382 
Patent status: 
No patent action is contemplated by NASA. 
Source: M. J. Gaitens of

Space Systems Division

General Electric Co.

under contract to

Marshall Space Flight Center

(MFS-2 1227) 
Category 09 
This document was prepared under the sponsorship of the National 
Aeronautics and Space Administration. Neither the United States 
Government nor any person acting on behalf of the United States
Government assumes any liability resulting from the use of the 
information contained in this document, or warrants that such use 
will be free from privately owned.rights.
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Study-simulation of space station dynamics

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