Integrated system health management: Pilot operational implementation in a rocket engine test stand

This paper describes a credible implementation of integrated system health management (ISHM) capability, as apilot operational system. Important core elements that make possible fielding and evolution of ISHM capabilityhave been validated in a rocket engine test stand, encompassing all phases of operation: stand-by, pre-test, test, andpost-test. The core elements include an architecture (hardware/software) for ISHM, gateways for streaming real-time. data from the data acquisition system into the ISHM system, automated configuration management employingtransducer electronic data sheets (TEDS's) adhering to the IEEE 1451.4 Standard for Smart Sensors and Actuators, broadcasting and capture of sensor measurements and health information adhering to the IEEE 1451.1 Standard forSmart Sensors and Actuators, user interfaces for management of redlines/bluelines, and establishment of a healthassessment database system (HADS) and browser for extensive post-test analysis. The ISHM system was installedin the Test Control Room, where test operators were exposed to the capability. All functionalities of the pilotimplementation were validated during testing and in post-test data streaming through the ISHM system. Theimplementation enabled significant improvements in awareness about the status of the test stand, and events andtheir causes/consequences. The architecture and software elements embody a systems engineering, knowledge-basedapproach; in conjunction with object-oriented environments. These qualities are permitting systematic augmentationof the capability and scaling to encompass other subsystems.