Air Compression Functional Flow Block Diagram
Step-wise example of how to create a useful Functional Flow Block Diagram. read more.
Combustion Products Topical Analysis and Descriptive Topical Parameterization
One portion of a NASA technical note (NASA TN D-5452 "Thermodynamic and Transport Properties of Air and the Combustion Products of Natural Gas and of ASTM-A-1 Fuel with Air") is topically analyzed as an example of the process. read more.
Common Berthing Mechanism
Introduction The Common Berthing Mechanism (CBM) is a structural/mechanical device that connects pressurized elements within the US Orbital Segment of the International Space Station (ISS). It is used during assembly operations, such as that shown in Figure 1, and resupply missions. Existing in two distinct “halves”, the CBM effects and removes the Primary Structural joint... read more
Common Berthing Mechanism Core Design Description
This article discusses the design of core characteristics of the CBM. In this context, “core” refers to the features that contribute directly to berthing and deberthing of Pressurized Elements. A detail-light description of these features can be found here. Ancillary features are discussed elsewhere. Overview The CBM design can be visualized as a pair of serrated rings... read more
Conceptual Design of the Common Berthing Mechanism
The International Space Station's Common Berthing Mechanism (CBM) is an electro-mechanical assembly used to mate modules on orbit. Although often referred to in the singular, the (CBM) actually operates as a single mechanism only in the process of being mated or demated. Depending on installed location, operations are effected by either 40 or 44 mechanical sub-assemblies, completed by a suite of sensors and controllers. The machine is described in abstract terms, serving as an introduction and overview for detailed descriptions found elsewhere on this site. read more.
Four-bar Linkage Failure Functional Discovery Analysis
Functional techniques are usually discussed in the context of a requirements development process. They can, however, support other processes. A concrete example is described here, based on events in the real world. read more.
Machine Controller Test Anomaly
Functional techniques are usually discussed in the context of a requirements development process. They can, however, support other processes. The concrete example described here was based on events in which the presence of any perceptible functionality at all was in doubt. read more.
Orbital Parameters Topical Analysis and Parameterization
Relational database design principles are applied to the analysis of topics and identification of associated parameters. read more.
Qualification Requirements of the Common Berthing Mechanism
Requirements of the International Space Station's Common Berthing Mechanism are described in detail. Many aspects of the associated rationale and implications are discussed. read more.
Qualitative Requirement “Binding”
An excerpt from MIL-A-83577B (Assemblies, Moving Mechanical, for Space and Launch Vehicles, General Specification for) is analyzed to concretely demonstrate topical analysis and parameterization. read more.
Release and Retention Mechanism Topical Analysis and Parameterization
An excerpt from MIL-A-83577B (Assemblies, Moving Mechanical, for Space and Launch Vehicles, General Specification for) is analyzed to concretely demonstrate topical analysis and parameterization. read more.
Resistive Load Peaking: Qualitative Requirement Example
An excerpt from MIL-A-83577B (Assemblies, Moving Mechanical, for Space and Launch Vehicles, General Specification for) is analyzed to concretely demonstrate topical analysis and parameterization. read more.
That Dadgum Door
It seems that doors are not as simple as they seem. A partial assessment of associated topics is included, along with rationale for the existence of the example. read more.
Vehicle Preconditioning
Principles of topical analysis are applied to a standard practice for the analysis of fuel efficiency. read more.