Getting Started with AMPEL

Learn the basics of the Aerospace Modular Programming Ethical Language and how to integrate it with your GaiaAir systems.

Introduction to AMPEL

AMPEL (Aerospace Modular Programming Ethical Language) is a specialized command language designed for aerospace systems with built-in ethical considerations and explainable AI components. It integrates with the GAIA AIR system to provide transparent, traceable, and ethically sound command execution.

This getting started guide will walk you through the basics of AMPEL, from installation to writing your first commands. By the end of this guide, you'll have a solid understanding of how AMPEL works and how to integrate it with your GaiaAir systems.

Key Benefits of AMPEL

  • Built-in ethical constraints ensure safe and responsible system operation
  • Explainable AI annotations provide transparency for all command decisions
  • S1000D-compliant documentation for seamless integration with existing systems
  • Optimized for aerospace applications with domain-specific commands and parameters

Prerequisites

Before you begin working with AMPEL, ensure you have the following:

  • GAIA AIR System: AMPEL is designed to work with the GAIA AIR system. Ensure you have access to a compatible version.
  • XAI Interpreter: Version 2.5 or higher of the XAI Interpreter is required for full functionality.
  • S1000D Knowledge: Basic understanding of S1000D documentation standards is helpful but not required.
  • Access Credentials: You'll need appropriate access credentials for your GAIA AIR system.

Installation

AMPEL can be installed as a module within your existing GAIA AIR system. Follow these steps to install AMPEL:

Installation Steps
# Access your GAIA AIR system console
$ gaia-console
# Install the AMPEL module
$ install-module AMPEL --version=latest
# Verify installation
$ verify-module AMPEL
# Configure AMPEL with your system
$ configure-ampel --system=YOUR_SYSTEM_ID

After installation, you'll need to configure AMPEL to work with your specific GAIA AIR system configuration. This can be done using the configuration wizard:

Configuration
# Launch the AMPEL configuration wizard
$ ampel-config-wizard
# Follow the prompts to configure AMPEL
...
# Test your configuration
$ ampel-test-config

Basic Syntax

AMPEL commands follow a consistent syntax that makes them easy to read and write. The basic structure of an AMPEL command is:

Basic Syntax
# Comment (optional)
SUBSYSTEM:COMMAND(parameter1=value1, parameter2=value2)

The key components of an AMPEL command are:

  • SUBSYSTEM: The target subsystem for the command (e.g., NAVIGATION, PROPULSION, LIFE_SUPPORT)
  • COMMAND: The specific action to perform on the subsystem
  • Parameters: Key-value pairs that provide additional information for the command

AMPEL also supports comments, which begin with the # character and continue to the end of the line. Comments are ignored by the interpreter but provide valuable context for human readers.

Your First Command

Let's write a simple AMPEL command to get started. This example will activate the environmental control system:

Example Command
# Activate environmental control system
LIFE_SUPPORT:ACTIVATE_ECS(temperature=21, humidity=45)

To execute this command in your AMPEL environment:

Executing Commands
# Open the AMPEL command console
$ ampel-console
# Enter your command
AMPEL> LIFE_SUPPORT:ACTIVATE_ECS(temperature=21, humidity=45)
# System response
[SUCCESS] Environmental Control System activated. Temperature set to 21°C, humidity set to 45%.
TraceID: ECS-2025-04-10-12345

Notice that the system provides a success message along with a TraceID. This TraceID can be used to track the command execution and review its details later, including any ethical considerations or constraints that were applied.

XAI Annotations

Every AMPEL command includes XAI annotations that explain the reasoning behind decisions made during command execution. To view these annotations:

AMPEL> SHOW_XAI(traceId="ECS-2025-04-10-12345")
[XAI] Command: LIFE_SUPPORT:ACTIVATE_ECS(temperature=21, humidity=45)
[XAI] Ethical check: PASSED - Parameters within safe human comfort range
[XAI] Resource impact: LOW - Estimated power consumption within optimal range
[XAI] Decision factors: Crew comfort (70%), Energy efficiency (30%)

Next Steps

Now that you've written your first AMPEL command, you're ready to explore more advanced features and capabilities. Here are some suggested next steps:

Explore the Language Reference

Learn about all available commands, parameters, and syntax options.

Language Reference

Try Code Examples

See practical examples of AMPEL in action for various aerospace scenarios.

View Examples

Learn About XAI Integration

Understand how explainable AI enhances transparency and safety.

XAI Documentation

Explore GAIA AIR Integration

Learn how AMPEL integrates with the broader GAIA AIR ecosystem.

GAIA AIR Integration

Need Help?

If you encounter any issues or have questions about AMPEL, there are several resources available to help: