The Need

Emerging system development programs and future weapon system development programs have become highly reliant on the success of efforts to develop and integrate automated Diagnostic and Prognostic technology into Prognostics and Health Management (PHM) Systems. These technologies are driving the implementation of new maintenance approaches and are central to achieving the reductions in manning and operating costs on these new systems as well as legacy systems. This has resulted in new technical challenges and a renewed R&D focus on Prognostics and Health Management (PHM) technology.

Automated diagnostics and prognostics effectively combined into a Prognostics and Health Management (PHM) System will reduce or eliminate this maintenance shortfall. However, the PHM development community is currently behind the power curve in meeting the rapidly evolving challenges posed by this new operational paradigm. The current systemic roadblocks to PHM development and deployment can be effectively addressed by the formation and implementation of a Center of Excellence dedicated to PHM technology development, validation, verification, and deployment.

Prognostics and Health Management (PHM) Drivers

• New threats mean increased weapon platform usage
• Increased readiness - quick reaction deployment for time sensitive targets
• Reduced O&S costs
• Reduce labor intensity of support operations
  • Automation of asset functional diagnostics
  • Prognostics for asset preservation and maintenance planning
• Increased weapon system complexity - new materials, structures, machinery, and electronics

Prognostics and Health Management (PHM) Implementation

• Full weapon system critical component coverage
  • Machinery
  • Structures
  • Electrical and electronic systems
• Integrated readiness indicator
  • Prediction of future performance capability
  • Remaining useful life predictor
  • Maintenance planning tool