Many Federal programs plan to use servomanipulator technology developed by DOE. In addition, DOE is actively attempting to commercialize servomanipulator technology. Both Federal and commercial applications of this technology require that certain reliability, availability, and maintainability (RAM) goals be met. To this end it is planned to develop RAM analysis software that will help servomanipulator designers optimize their designs efficiently. To determine the feasibility of developing such software, the following technical approach is being pursued in Phase I of this project: (1) collect data on servomanipulator design, operation, and maintenance; (2) identify functional subsystems for which RAM models will be constructed; (3) perform a failure modes and effects analysis of servomanipulator components; (4) collect and analyze data for relevant component failure modes; (5) develop RAM models; (6) quantify the RAM characteristics of a typical servomanipulator design; and (7) document the findings and conclusions on the feasibility of automating RAM analyses of servomanipulator systems. Phase II will focus on generalizing the RAM models and data base, and on developing the RAM analysis software package for servomanipulator designers. Phase III will focus on the development of RAM analysis software applicable to robotic systems and a wide range of other system design problems. Anticipated Results/Potential Commercial Applications as described by the awardee: The results of this work will benefit servomanipulator design activities in both the Federal and commercial sectors. Specifically, the proposed work should (1) reduce the cost and schedule of servomanipulator design activities, (2) help ensure that servomanipulator designs meet their RAM goals, and (3) support DOE's efforts to commercialize servomanipulator technology. The potential for long range commercial development for this software is high. By developing additional data libraries and modular RAM models, this software package could be made available to system designers in virtually all industries and used as an aid for meeting RAM goals. Topic 25: Avanced Robotics Systems and Concepts for Nuclear Facilities
