Development of AR/VR Capabilities for Facility and Mission Support

Currently challenges in facility maintenance and in implementing facility modifications/upgrades (e.g., rocket engine test stands) can be found in gaps in fully understanding the data collected about a facility due to use of multiple separate databases and inaccurate and inefficient processes further introducing errors in data. This project will explore a way to template those processes through the use of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technologies to improve efficiencies and accuracies in interpreting facilities for modifications and adaptations to keep pace with the rapidly evolving engine test needs of the center.

A mixture of Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality capabilities can provide more efficient ways to evaluate mission hardware components and facilities in a real time environment. Integration of these technologies could allow field engineers to be better aware of a more comprehensive facility configuration and operational information including but not limited to: in service data; expected out of service date; temperature; pressure. This technology should provide improved interaction between engineers for decision-making that only drawings and photos cannot.

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 5) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.

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