Alternate Mode of Operation Program

The increasing complexity of the launch support equipment and the narrow launch windows of the Saturn IB and Saturn V missions require that methods be developed to minimize any delay attributable to launch support equipment failures. Since even short delays cannot be tolerated for Saturn manned missions, it is necessary to develop a method to prevent the occurrence of these delays. The Alternate Mode of Operation (AMO) concept, an analytical methodology, can be used to achieve this goal. The AMO Program is an engineering analysis of launch support equipment consisting of three phases. a. The design analysis phase which consists of performing the analysis as soon as the preliminary design is completed and constructing failure isolation logic diagrams. b. The operations analysis phase which consists of validating the failure isolation procedures, making launch decisions prior to the countdown which may result in built-in holds, and establishing repair plans prior to the countdown for personnel familiarization. c. The implementation phase which consists of instantly displaying the failure isolation logic and launch decisions for use by personnel in case of equipment failure during the countdown. The Alternate Mode of Operation Program provides: a. Launch support equipment capable of meeting launch windows. b. Optimized failure isolation procedures. c. Predetermined launch decisions in case of launch support equipment failure during the countdown.