Design of a Novel Intelligent Data Management Tool for Health and Usage Monitoring Systems – Software Requirements

The utilisation of Health and Usage Monitoring Systems (HUMS) for rotorcraft applications is critical to meet the stringent requirements of rotorcraft airworthiness. The implementation of HUMS systems for automated monitoring and automated inspection has improved safety and reduced maintenance costs associated with fleet management. A HUMS system provides the status of functionality and structural integrity for diagnosis and prognosis of the aircraft components. It encompasses structural and operational health monitoring and usage monitoring of components to provide diagnostic and prognostic analyses. This paper aims to provide a discussion of the software requirements which have been formulated to design a novel HUMS intelligent data management tool (IDMT) for the Multi-Role Helicopter (MRH) rotorcraft platform. The software requirements were derived from a detailed investigation of the general and functional requirements analyses of the MRH HUMS system. The current HUMS regulations for both civil and military rotorcraft regulations were investigated to ensure that the development of the HUMS IDMT adheres to the stipulated regulations. It is envisaged that the HUMS IDMT will be integrated with the Fleet Management System (FMS) tool which is being concurrently developed. The resultant customised fleet management maintenance tool will aid the maintenance personnel via increasing efficiency of the current fleet management maintenance practices. Future research work will focus on the development of specific capabilities for the HUMS IDMT. This project is a collaborative research effort between The Sir Lawrence Wackett Centre for Aerospace Design Technology, Australian Aerospace Pty Ltd, Army Aviation and Defence, Science & Technology Organisation (DSTO).