Work procedures for payload processing and checkout operations at KSC are executed using a paper system. With this system, a procedure is generated using a word processor. The procedure is then printed out, copied, and distributed to members of the task team. When the work procedure is executed, a single master copy is kept up to date by using a pen to record the test data and notes and by using quality and technician ink stamps to verify the work steps as they are performed. Test team members maintain their own copies of the procedure. Deviations to the work instructions that occur during the execution of the procedure must be documented on a paper form. These deviations require approval signatures. Once approved, the deviation is copied and distributed to the task team. The completed master work procedure, including deviations, is scanned into a computer and stored electronically.
Team Members Using EPIC
The Electronic Portable Information Collection (EPIC) system was developed to automate this procedure. EPIC was formerly known as the Portable Data Collection (PDC) System. With the EPIC system, the procedure is converted from a word processor document to a database. It is then executed using portable computers. Data is entered electronically, either with a keyboard or a pen, using handwriting recognition. The system distributes this data to all other terminals. The ink stamp is replaced with an electronic stamp that meets the form, fit, and function of the old ink stamp. A programmable memory chip inside the electronic stamp stores a unique identifier. All team members have their own electronic stamp.
Electronic Stamp and Stamp Reader
This electronic stamp adds a secure mark to a step, identifying who performed that step and the date and time the step was performed. The electronic stamp is read using a stamp reader connected to the serial communication port of the computer. The system provides protection mechanisms to ensure data and stamp integrity. Once the procedure has been worked to completion, it is converted to a portable document format (PDF) and stored electronically in a documentation system.
The main components of the EPIC system are the central data server (CDS) and the portable data terminals (PDT’s). The CDS is the main computer that serves as the network host and database server. PDT’s display procedure steps and enable users to collect test data and stamps. The PDT’s are standard personal computers (PC’s) running Windows 95 or Windows for Workgroups operating systems. Various PC’s are used as PDT’s, including desktops, laptops, wearable computers, and pen-based tablets. The CDS is a high-end PC running the Windows NT operating system.
The project was developed jointly by Sentel Corporation and KSC, the lead center for payload processing. The prototype system was developed under a Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) contract that was awarded to Sentel Corporation to develop the capability to capture technician and quality stamps and test data electronically. The operational version was developed under a Space Act Agreement between NASA and Sentel Corporation. The following benefits are provided by the EPIC system:
All test team members see changes to the document instantly, providing greater assurance that all team members are properly informed and the data is accurate.
Accuracy of the procedure is improved as deviations are incorporated directly into the appropriate sequence of the procedure. The time to process, approve, and distribute a deviation is also reduced.
Information availability is improved. Test data can be searched and retrieved through a standard database.
Queries can be made for management reporting or incident investigations.
The need to print and distribute procedures prior to testing is eliminated.
The need to scan the procedure for storage is eliminated.
Emergency procedures can be accessed immediately.
Paper usage is reduced.
The system was modeled after the existing paper system using the existing business rules. Presently, the system is being developed to support Space Station processing. EPIC is being marketed to the airline industry for use in airplane maintenance and to the electrical power industry for use in power substation maintenance.
1993: Completed the Phase I study for the SBIR contract.
1996: Completed Phase II of the SBIR contract. Demonstrated the proof of concept for this system. Received the NASA SBIR Technology of the Year Award in the computer/software category. Completed pilot study 1. The first pilot study was conducted in the Operations and Checkout Building using the EPIC electronic system in parallel with the paper system.
1998: Upgraded the system from a prototype to an operational system. In pilot study 2, tested the EPIC system in the KSC Space Shuttle Main Engine Shop and Space Station Processing Facility.
1999: Implement the EPIC system to be used by NASA, Government contractors, and private industry.
D.H. Miller (Darcy.Miller-1@ksc.nasa.gov), VC-B1, (321) 867-3523
Sentel Corporation (K.L. Jackson and M.R. Kappel) and Mississippi State University (L.K. Moore)