Case Study: Applied Technology Associates achieves 6-month faster IRU development and $250K savings with MathWorks

Applied Technology Associates Designs Optical Inertial Reference Unit for NASA Goddard Space Flight Center

Applied Technology Associates (ATA) developed an optical inertial reference unit for NASA Goddard to stabilize and accurately point a laser communication instrument, but faced internal jitter, long-distance pointing sensitivity, and inconsistent workflows from using multiple development languages. To address these challenges they turned to MathWorks, using MATLAB and Simulink-based tools—notably Simulink Coder and Simulink Real-Time—to ensure simulation‑to‑real‑time consistency.

Using MathWorks tools ATA modeled sensors, actuators, and platform dynamics, generated C code with Simulink Coder, and ran real‑time tests with Simulink Real‑Time, enabling fast comparison and optimization of filter and controller designs. The MathWorks workflow produced consistent models and analysis, cut development time by roughly six months (avoiding an additional 6–12 months), and saved more than $250,000 while moving the first‑generation IRU into final testing.

Applied Technology Associates

Dan Eckelkamp-Baker

Senior Engineer and Controls Lead