Software Manages Documentation in a Large Test Facility

The 3MCS computer program assists an instrumentation engineer in performing the 3 essential functions of design, documentation, and configuration management of measurement and control systems in a large test facility — initially, a propulsion-system test facility at Stennis Space Center. By largely automating what were previously manual procedures involving handling of paper documents by disparate personnel, 3MCS helps to reveal and prevent errors while reducing, from days to hours, the time needed to transform test requirements into design documents (including drawings) and work orders. Among the services provided by 3MCS are acceptance of input from multiple engineers and technicians working at multiple locations; standardization of drawings; on-line distribution of the most recent versions of drawings and other documents to all participants; automated cross-referencing, identification of errors, and listing of components and resources; automated downloading of test settings; and provision of information to customers. 3MCS is designed to be executed on personal computers. It utilizes and depends on some commercially available computer programs, including Windows 98/NT, AutoCAD 2000, Promis-e, Microsoft Office 2000, and some utility and virus-detection software.

This program was written by Joseph M. Gurneck of Lockheed Martin for Stennis Space Center.