Space shuttle main engine component assembly, assignment, and scheduling expert system

  • Authors:

  • W. E. Dietz;H. J. Ferber;M. Ali

  • Affiliations:

  • Center For Advanced Space Propulsion, The University Of Tennessee Space Institute, Tullahoma, TN;Center For Advanced Space Propulsion, The University Of Tennessee Space Institute, Tullahoma, TN;Center For Advanced Space Propulsion, The University Of Tennessee Space Institute, Tullahoma, TN

  • Venue:
  • IEA/AIE '89 Proceedings of the 2nd international conference on Industrial and engineering applications of artificial intelligence and expert systems - Volume 1
  • Year:
  • 1989

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Abstract

The Space Shuttle utilizes several rocket engine systems, all of which must function with a high degree of reliability for successful mission completion. The Space Shuttle Main Engine (SSME) is by far the most complex of the rocket engine systems. In earlier spacecraft, rocket systems (and, in fact, the entire spacecraft) were designed for use on only a single mission and were discarded after use. In a major departure from earlier practices, almost all systems on the Space Shuttle, including the rocket systems, are designed to be reusable; only the external tank is discarded during each mission.The reusability of spacecraft systems introduces many problems related to testing, reliability, and logistics. Components must be assembled from parts inventories in a manner which will most effectively utilize the available parts. Assembly must be scheduled to efficiently utilize available assembly benches while still maintaining flight schedules. Assembled components must be assigned to as many contiguous flights as possible, to minimize component changes. Each component must undergo a rigorous testing program prior to flight. In addition, testing and assembly of flight engines and components must be done in conjunction with the assembly and testing of developmental engines and components.The development, testing, manufacture, and flight assignments of the engine fleet involves the satisfaction of many logistical and operational requirements, subject to many constraints. The purpose of the SSME Component Assembly and Life Management Expert System (CALMES) is to assist the engine assembly and scheduling process, and to insure that these activities utilize available resources as efficiently as possible.