Enabling Automated Real-Time AFSCN Scheduling - Ace Premier Intelligent Distributed Scheduler (AceIDS)

ABSTRACT: The Braxton Ace Premier Intelligent Distributed Scheduler (AceIDS) prototype will demonstrate the feasibility of a distributed scheduling system capable of automatically optimizing ground communication resource allocation to space assets fusing electronically-generated routine and real-time priority access requests with real-time space and ground resource status changes. During this research, we select and test candidate optimization algorithms from both the classical non-evolutionary and evolutionary algorithm to build an intelligent scheduling engine and leverage our experience hosting a deterministic de-confliction engine within our Ace Visual Scheduler (AceVSC) product. Braxton applies multi-objective optimization using evolutionary algorithms which is one of the fastest growing areas of research among computational intelligent topics. AceVSC will be integrated with the distributed architecture of Braxton"s Ace Mission Premier Planning Software (AceMPS). This architecture will be enhanced to accommodate the data processing needs of remote schedulers. The prototype is tested using our existing Ace Simulator (AceSIM). This product simulates the AFSCN and the space segment, acting as a stimulator for real-time scheduling. We construct various scenarios to test the ability of the scheduling system in response to ground resource and satellite anomalies, while collecting performance data for analysis. BENEFIT: Braxton anticipates several benefits of a scheduling system capable of automatically optimizing satellite and ground resources fusing electronically-generated routine and real-time priority access requests. First, a reduction in the number of personnel required to schedule AFSCN resources to include the time to train the scheduling team. Second, an improved real-time scheduling interface allows Satellite Operations Centers (SOCs) to intelligently plan and adjust their missions in significantly less time. Third, improved utilization of AFSCN resources could reduce the required number of antennas driving a potential reduction in AFSCN sustainment costs. Finally, from a commercial standpoint, the proposed automated intelligent scheduling system could be applied to optimize resource allocation for military, civilian and commercial SATCOM, or ISR programs. A marginal 1% increase in utilization would generate savings or increased sales in the tens of millions.