KBSI is developing an advanced component-based Data Display Markup Language (DDML), an XML-based neutral format also developed by KBSI, as the inter-lingua in translating the data display languages supported by different vendors.
Data display is a critical component for T&E environments in aircraft, space, and energy systems. Because telemetry functions associated with these systems produce too much data for a single person to comprehend, data display–customizable display objects, including strip charts, bar charts, vertical meters, round gauges, cross plots, tabular displays, orientation displays, and bit maps–is critical in presenting this information in an understandable format.
In this effort, KBSI designed, developed, and deployed an advanced component-based Data Display Translation Framework (DDTF) that uses the Data Display Markup Language (DDML), an XML-based neutral format also developed by KBSI, as the inter-lingua between the data display languages supported by different vendors.
DDML is both generic enough to encompass various vendor-specific data display formats while also being unified (not a loose grouping of XML-ized vendor formats). In addition, it is required to support reusable concepts (such as variables and data sources), be robust (e.g., use of cross-references), and support future objects without warranting a change of the DDML format.
DDML and the software components of DDTF will not only enable data display model interchange across applications and the reuse of models across DOD T&E centers, but will also provide building blocks for the development of automated real-time data visualization systems.
This material is based upon work supported by the AFFTC/PKD under Contract No. F04611-02-C-0010. Any opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this material are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the AFFTC/PKD.