Concepts for space maintenance of OTV engines

Concepts for space maintainability of OTV engines are examined. The advanced efforts are based on work recently completed for NASA Lewis Research Center Space Propulsion Technology Division. An engine design is developed which is driven by space maintenance requirements and by a failure modes and effects analysis. Modularity within the engine is shown to offer cost benefits and improved space maintenance capabilities. Space-operable disconnects are conceptualized for both engine change-out and for module replacement. Through FME mitigation the modules are conceptualized to contain the most often replaced engine components. A preliminary space maintenance plan is developed around a controls and condition monitoring system using advanced sensors, controls, and conditioning monitoring concepts.