SMARTPART: A Data Logging and Retrieval Microdevice for Structural and Reparable Components.
Abstract
This research seeks to develop a method to electronically log and retrieve data for structural elements or reparable components on aircraft and other defense equipment. The specific research innovation is called the SmartPart, which will be designed for real time automatic system tracking of logistics (i.e., supply and maintenance) data for structural and repairable components. The operational design is envisioned as an imbedded or adhesive-mounted, dime-sized device which, when externally activated, would be capable of selective transfer and receipt of data relevant to the component to which it is attached. In operation, the SmartPart will be capable of providing component identification and other data which will serve as a permanent parts location history. The latter capability will enable the Navy to automatically track the identity of structural and reparable components that are flow on any given aircraft at any time. Since components are interchanged from aircraft to aircraft, the SmartPart will be completely self-contained and maintenance free, requiring no power or external wire connections when the host components are changed. The anticipated benefits of this research are decreased reparable item maintenance costs, to include the decreased costs of paper-based maintenance documentation. With the SmartPart, there should also be quicker and better responses to updates and/or engineering changes to weapon systems to enhance logistics support to battlefield and/or remote locations. This report covers the Phase I research on the SmartPart microdevice. Eack key task is covered with a statement of the task, the work accomplished, and the results achieved. In a summary, the SmartPart device was developed in prototype form, however this form was not reduced to a composite printed circuit board and field tests were initialized but not completed as planned.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 1990
- Accession Number
- ADA313933
Entities
People
- Eugene E. Jones
- John Biernacki
- Mahmoud Abdallah