Reliability and maintainability tradeoff study for repetitive electromagnetic launch systems

A quantitative model has been developed which will support conceptual reliability and maintainability tradeoff studies for repetitive electromagnetic launch systems early in the research and development phase. Model results are presented in a sensitivity analysis format. A study covering a hypothetical 120-shot repetitive launch system was developed, the results of which are displayed in graphical form. Results clearly establish the high degree of effectiveness that modest maintenance alternatives contribute to system availability. In contrast, relatively large improvements in reliability result in modest improvements in availability. Results suggest that system maintainability, as well as reliability, will be a critical issue in electromagnetic launch system development