Spacelab data processing facility (SLDPF) quality assurance expert systems development

The Spacelab Data Processing Facility (SLDPF) has developed expert system prototypes to aid in the performance of the quality assurance function of Spacelab and/or Attached Shuttle Payloads (ASP) processed telemetry data. The SLDPF is an integral part of the Space Shuttle data network for missions carrying scientific payloads. Its functions include the capturing, quality monitoring, processing, accounting and forwarding of data from Spacelab and ASP missions to various user facilities. The SLDPF consists of two functional elements: the Spacelab Input Processing System (SIPS) and the Spacelab Output Processing System (SOPS). The two expert system proto-types were designed to determine their feasibility and potential in the quality assurance of processed telemetry data. The SIPS expert system, Knowledge System Prototype (KSP) uses an IBM PC/AT with the commercial expert system shell OPS5+. Extraction of knowledge from SIPS experts was implemented emulating the duties of quality assurance analysts. In an interactive mode, an analyst responds to queries resulting in instructions and decisions governing the reprocessing, releasing or further analysis/troubleshooting of data. Released data are forwarded for further processing on the SOPS Sperry 1100/82. The data are edited, time ordered with overlapping data removed, decommutated and quality checked before shipment. The SOPS QA analysts isolate problems and select the appropriate action: either accept the data or request the data to be reprocessed. The SOPS expert system emulates this process by using an expert system shell, CLIPS, and the Macintosh personal computer. To date, these prototypes indicate potential beneficial results; e.g., increase analyst productivity, decrease the burden of tedious analysis, provide consistent evaluations of data, provide concise historical records, provide training for new analysts and expedite the operational retraining of reassigned Spacelab analysts. The logic implemented in the prototypes, the limitations of the personal computers utilized and the degree of accessibility to input data have led to an operational configuration. This configuration is currently under development and on completion will enhance the efficiency, both in time and quality, of releasing Spacelab/ASP data.