Maturation of Structural Health Management Systems for Solid Rocket Motors

An autonomous and automated spacecompliant diagnostic system concept was developed for condition-based maintenance (CBM) of rocket motors for space exploration vehicles. The system will provide real-time information on the integrity of critical structures on launch vehicles, improve their performance, and greatly increase crew safety while decreasing inspection costs. Using Acellent’s SMART layer technology as a basis, detailed procedures and calibration techniques for implementation of the diagnostic system were developed. The concept of the interface focusing on the link from the diagnostic system to the Integrated Vehicle Health Management (IVHM) system using Open System Architecture was also developed.