Advanced technology ATE for fuel accessory testing

The authors review the current state of automation and systems technologies and show how the judicious choice and integration of such technologies provides a sound platform for implementation of advanced fuel-accessory test-system concepts. Totally integrated test facilities parcel commands and share data as needed to meet throughput, reliability, and maintainability goals. Such a facility exploits advanced testing strategies (nonstatic, on-condition, and learn mode) and maintenance strategies (built-in test, expert diagnostics, and auto calibration) to accelerate testing and assure high test-station availability. Adjustment diagnostics and expert fault isolation perform nearly all decisions required for unit-under-test (UUT) calibration and fault/squawk evaluation. Interactive video/graphics provides pictorial information to aid the operator in the UUT adjustment and repair operation. These same technologies aid maintenance technicians in evaluation, calibration, and repair of the automatic test equipment (ATE). Nonproductive testing is thus minimized by the early identification of UUT and ATE faults and quick decisions on repair/reject actions required