Wireless, Time-synchronized, Event Control System

ABSTRACT: McQ Inc. developed a prototype Wireless Time-synchronized Event Control System (WTECS) for the 846th Test Squadron operating the Holloman High Speed Test Track (HHSTT) at Holloman Air Force Base. The current state of WTECS is TRL6 and MRL 9, while the desired end state of the transition effort is TRL7 and MRL 10. Improvements such as developing a database for the base station will allow the system to store data from multiple missions which will significantly decrease the chance of allowing the user to lose the data collected from the current mission. Through environmentally testing all system devices, users can expect predictable performance in a variety of outdoor conditions. Through various hardware and software modifications to the system, the production cost per system device will be lower and the system will be easier to use and contain all of the functionality desired by end users; both of which will increase adoption of the system. Making the system cheaper to produce and easier to use will directly result in a more mature system that the 846th Test Squadron will use. BENEFIT: The WTECS system is needed to replace the obsolete timing system currently in use at HHSTT. The current system has limited, outdated performance capabilities that limit the ability to test and obtain the data needed for customer missions. Also, the useful lifetime of the current system is rapidly depleting as hardware failures and the inability to replace components make many devices in the current system unusable. Like any complex R & D program with a limited budget, to successfully deliver a system within the Phase II base period, McQ had to limit the features and capabilities implemented such that at least the minimum set of system requirements were met. However, McQ has compiled a detailed list of suggested feature improvements based on feedback from the customer as well as limitations McQ found during integration testing prior to system delivery. These features improve the usability and reliability of the system as well as meet various goals of Phase II that were not met due to budget constraints. Therefore, the system will operate more efficiently and will reduce the number of manhours required to setup and perform tests using the WTECS system.