An Evaluation of Air Force Aircraft Battle Damage Repair Techniques Applicable to Repair Activities Onboard the International Space Station,

Abstract

Abstract : United States Air Force (USAF) Aircraft Battle Damage Repair (ABDR) strategies, techniques and technologies are directly applicable to NASA efforts to develop on-orbit repair capabilities for the International Space Station (ISS). At the operational level, USAF repair strategies developed since the Vietnam War stressed the need for methodical damage assessment, categorization, and repair. This approach should be adopted for future repair operations onboard the ISS. At the technical level, repairs based upon material ultimate properties, preparation for damage to multiple systems and specialized damage effects have shaped ABDR techniques to provide flexible repair strategies for Air Force aircraft. These techniques should also be considered when developing ISS repair strategies. Overall, a baseline for comparison between ISS repair and ABDR clearly demonstrates the need for further technical interchange. Lessons learned from ABDR experiences with provide early insight into techniques and strategies proposed for on-orbit ISS repair operations.