Human data-transfer from space-shuttle checkout systems to shuttle business systems is slow, error-prone, and expensive. The Operations and Maintenance Requirement Specification-Automated Buy Off System (OMRS-ABOS) is a software system that automatically transfers test-validation data produced by Kennedy Space Center’s Checkout and Launch Control System (KSC’s CLCS) for the space shuttle, to its Integrated Work Control System (IWCS). The testvalidation data includes pass/fail results from equipment tests required by a set OMRSs. While other commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) approaches require existing work forces to change their business practices, OMRS-ABOS utilized a COTS approach that preserved KSC business practices. The OMRS-ABOS implemented commercial Enterprise Application Integration (EAI) software development practices, deployed to an n-tier software architecture, and utilized Java 2 Enterprise Edition (J2EE). The COTS software platform saved time and expenses while infusing state-of-the-industry technologies. OMRS-ABOS provides a channel for KSC enterprise shuttle checkout systems to transfer OMRS events to IWCS. The Remote Manipulator System (RMS) Checkout System is the latest to automate its transfer of OMRS-event data. OMRS-ABOS’ latest improvement includes distributed data communications made available by the eXtensible Markup Language (XML). By utilizing XML as a data transport vehicle, OMRS-ABOS may communicate more easily with commercial enterprise platforms.

This work was done by Todd Flato, Keith Heob, and Barry Rubel of Riptide Software Incorporated and Kevin Smith of Kennedy Space Center.

This technology is available for commercial licensing. Please contact Barry Rubel of Riptide Software Incorporated at (321) 427- 5694. Refer to KSC-12312.