Discrete Event Simulation Model of the Ground Maintenance Operations Cycle of a Reusable Launch Vehicle
Abstract
The Air Force uses a family of expendable launch vehicles to meet its spacelift needs. Unfortunately, this method is not responsive: months of preparation are typically required and launch costs are high. Consequently, the Air Force seeks a reusable military launch vehicle that can be launched inexpensively and quickly regenerated between flights. Air Force Research Laboratory personnel desire a tool to help evaluate candidate designs and perform tradeoff studies necessary to acquire a launch vehicle that will achieve Air Force goals. The objective of this research was first to develop a conceptual model of maintenance operations needed to regenerate a launch vehicle between flights, and then to translate this conceptual model into a discrete event simulation tool. This research was accomplished concurrently with Stiegelmeier, who focused on vehicle prelaunch operations.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 2006
- Accession Number
- ADA446392
Entities
People
- John T. Pope Iii
Organizations
- Air Force Institute of Technology