Computer Science
Scientific paper
Aug 2004
adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=2004esasp.558..423f&link_type=abstract
Proceedings of the 5th International Symposium on Environmental Testing for Space Programmes Noordwijk, The Netherlands (ESA SP-
Computer Science
Scientific paper
Activities belonging to Assembly, Integration and Validation (AIV) phase of a launch vehicle are fundamental in development of a so much delicate system. The equipment used to support this long and crucial phase can be described as a set of Mechanical and Electrical Ground Support Equipment (EGSE). This paper describes the approach followed to develop such a system, and the benefits that this brings in terms of lower risk, more coordinated interfaces and improved functionality. The paper briefly outlines VEGA Electrical Ground Support Equipment major characteristics. In particular, this paper describes the EGSE design for a small launch vehicle such as VEGA. The objective of EGSE is to provide hardware and software for efficient electrical testing of either single stages and integrated launcher. The needs to develop a small launcher is a response to a Resolution in the Space Transportation Strategy adopted by the ESA Council in June 2000, aiming at: "completing, in the medium term, the range of launch services offered by the addition of European manufactured small and medium launcher, complementary to Ariane, consistent with diversified users' needs and relying on common elements, such as stages, subsystems, technologies, production facilities and operational infrastructure, thereby increasing the European launcher industry's competitiveness". Three different parts principally compose the Vega EGSE: TCS (Test Configuration System), TES (Test Execution System), PPS (Post Processing System). The TES is the part of the EGSE devoted to the tests execution; it has capabilities of immediate test data analysis, parameters monitoring and it is able to undertake pre-defined actions, in case of anomalous events happen, in order to put in safe conditions the Unity Under Test (UUT). The TES is composed of two main components: HLCS and LLCS. The HLCS is based on SCOS 2000 ESA product; it is mainly devoted to the interaction with operators. It allows loading Test Sequences and sending commands to the LLCS, thereafter retrieving and displaying the results. The LLCS is the EGSE part closest to the UUT and directly connected to it. It is in charge of monitoring and commanding the UUT, reacting in real-time to both nominal and anomalous events and to ensure safety conditions during the execution of test sessions, even in absence of connection with the HLCS. To perform the tests of VEGA launcher three test areas are foreseen: one for each VEGA launcher stage, except for the third and the second stages that are tested in the same test area. One of these areas is also used to perform the test of complete VEGA launcher. In order to perform all tests, the LLCS is composed of modular subsystems able to work either independently in different test areas or in jointure in the main test area The TCS is the part devoted to the configuration of the EGSE, during the configuration phase it is possible to configure all components of EGSE depending on the test session to be performed. The PPS is the part devoted to the test results post processing. The PPS allows retrieving, analysis and displaying of the data generated in the test execution phases.
Bordin M.
Del Re V.
Ferrante Marco
Ortenzi A.
Saccucci Fr.
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