The Electronic Portable Information Collection (EPIC) computer program is a computer system that processes work authorization documents (WADs). The EPIC System, which is also known as the Portable Data Collection System, comprises a central data server and portable data terminals. The central data server acts as the host on a local-area network and maintains the WAD data in Structured Query Language (SQL) and a database. The portable data terminals are desktop, laptop, and pen-based tablet computers that run, variously, the Windows 95 or Windows NT operating system and are connected to the central data server via the network.
In the current process that the EPIC system is designed to replace, all data pertaining to a job to be done by a team of workers are recorded on one master paper copy of the WAD for that job. Each member of the team has a paper copy, on which is recorded information pertinent to the task(s) to be performed by that member. Entries on the paper documents are authenticated by use of ink stamps. The person who holds the master copy of the WAD is the only one who has immediate access to a complete record of all processing that takes place, including deviations incorporated into the WAD.
In the EPIC system, task steps, deviations, and other pertinent data are stored in the SQL database, which is read and written by use of the EPIC software. Stamping is performed electronically; that is, the aforementioned data include information that serves the purpose now served by ink stamps. By use of the EPIC software, WADs can readily be stored, retrieved, and run on-line.
The EPIC software includes the following modules:
- Form Conversion Module Prior to execution of the job described in a WAD, this module is used to extract the data from the WAD (which is a Microsoft Word document) and insert the data into the database.
- Stamp Utilities Module This module administrates the electronic stamps. It associates the electronic stamps with the data in the database, including the user’s name, and the user’s telephone, fax, office, and identification numbers. It also associates the stamp with the authentication image of the work stamp assigned to the person who performed the task to which the stamp pertains.
- Report Generator Module After completion of a job, this module generates an as-run report. The report includes all of the information from the original version of the WAD plus the stamps, notes, deviations, and other data that were entered during the job. The report is put into Portable Document Format (PDF); as such, it is a read-only document that can be searched. Clean reports, which consist of the original WAD plus deviations but no stamp or data entries, can also be generated.
- Portable Data Terminal Module This module provides a graphical user interface (GUI) for displaying the information on, and entry of information into the system from, the portable data terminal of a member of the team. A member can enter task data by use of a keyboard, mouse, or electronic pen. A member can alter work procedures by use of a deviation form through which the WAD can be edited and approvals for changes can be obtained. As information is thus entered via a portable data terminal, it becomes immediately available on all the other portable data terminals.
This program was written by Kathy Potter, John Lekki, and Carl I. Delaune of Kennedy Space Center and Mike Kappel of Sentel Corp. For further information, see below. In accordance with Public Law 96-517, the contractor has elected to retain title to this invention. Inquiries concerning rights for its commercial use should be addressed to Raymond Babineau Sentel Corp. PO Box 1899 Dahlgren, VA 22448 (504) 663-0471 E-mail:
