CTMA Project #: 140726
Problem: Well over half of all maintenance actions performed on aircraft are the result of electrical systems anomalies. Based on the ever increasing complexity of these integrated systems, troubleshooting the root cause of these prevalent anomalies is extremely manpower intensive. The issues with checking aircraft electronics and wiring systems quickly, effectively and within reasonable cost targets are universal. Generally, the worst case scenario is military aircraft due to their age and deteriorating systems coupled with multiple wiring/systems upgrades over time.
Benefit: Improvements derived through this initiative will be fully transferrable to the commercial aircraft and air carrier industry. Common worldwide standards can be created.
Solution/Approach: To address the common issues facing both commercial and military aircraft fleets of being able to quickly find and repair electrical faults as well as track wiring performance (by tail number) over time, a new unique electrical system testing technology has been identified. Two aircraft will be chosen for the evaluation of AMUET, the C-130 (used commercially) and B-1. Comparisons will be made to data using conventional automated test equipment and handheld test data.
Impact on Warfighter:
- Reduced maintenance turnaround time to hours as opposed to days, weeks or months
- Validation of integrity of wiring systems
- Decreased lifecycle cost of aircraft
- Safer air travel
DOD Participation:
- U.S. Air Force (Warner Robins ALC)
- U.S. Air Force (Hurlburt AFB)
- NAVAIR Electrical Test Equipment (Lakehurst)
Industry Participation:
- Solavitek
- MERC
- NCMS
Benefit Area(s):
- Cost savings
- Repair turn-around time
- Obsolescence management and continued maintenance capability
- Positive environmental impact
- Maintenance management improvement
- Improved readiness
Focus Area:
- Reliability improvement
