Quality Initiatives in the Air Force Development of Reusable Launch Vehicles

Abstract

This thesis identifies useful tools and techniques available to aid the Air Force development of a reusable launch vehicle (RLV). These tools are identified by comparing traits found within the Lean Aerospace Initiative, Six Sigma and systems engineering. While identified specifically for the RLV effort, these tools and techniques will be of use to many development programs. Historical perspectives of both RLV development efforts within the Air Force and origins of modern quality teachings are provided to establish a common foundation of knowledge, upon which, further analysis can be conducted. This thesis, also, summarizes the current RLV effort within the Air Force and NASA. With the tool-set identified and the RLV effort enumerated, the tool-set and RLV effort are matched to determine the current level of integration. More importantly, the tools-set serves as the basis to form specific recommendations to aid the Air Force RLV effort.

Open PDF

Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Mar 08, 2001
Accession Number
ADA390204

Entities

People

  • Charles S. Galbreath

Organizations

  • Air Force Institute of Technology

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Air Platforms
  • Counter WMD
  • Cyber
  • Energy and Power Technologies
  • Space

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Air Force
  • Aircrafts
  • Airframes
  • Artificial Satellites
  • Business Administration
  • Engineering
  • Engineers
  • Launch Vehicles
  • Management Personnel
  • Military Science
  • Organizational Structure
  • Propulsion Systems
  • Reusable Launch Vehicles
  • Space Transportation
  • Spacecraft
  • Spiral Development
  • Systems Engineering

Fields of Study

  • Engineering

Readers

  • Aerospace Engineering.
  • Instructional Design and Training Evaluation.
  • Theoretical Analysis.

Technology Areas

  • Space