Field test of an advanced maintenance-system

The Flight Control Maintenance Diagnostic System (FCMDS), a knowledge-based laboratory development that can serve as a prototype in addressing the common and persistent problems in the maintenance of military aircraft, has completed a preliminary field test. FCMDS was developed to test the theories that a range of maintenance technicians can effectively troubleshoot and repair complicated aircraft systems using a knowledge-based expert system and portable computer-aided tools. This system tested the ability of technicians to interact with the aircraft and use a portable maintenance aid to increase diagnostic accuracy and decrease the time necessary to make the repair. Results of the field test show enhanced levels of performance can be achieved at all technician levels by using a computer-aided maintenance system. The average fault isolation time was reduced 26% and diagnostic accuracy was improved by 92% over standard flight line practices