3-D scanner provides as-built European Service Module engine measurements for Orion

2016-12-22

A former space shuttle Orbital Maneuvering System (OMS) engine, modified for its new role supporting Orion’s European Service Module, was recently digitized and measured by the White Sands Test Facility Metallurgical and Nondestructive Evaluation Lab to identify port and wire harness positions for external customers. Alaskan native and Eastern New Mexico University materials engineering graduate Jordan Wladyka performed the scan using the Advanced Topometric Optical Sensor II 3-D digitizer to ensure the engine, in its current state of construction, will interface correctly with components fabricated across the country.

The projection-based scanner produces highly accurate stereolithography files that can easily be imported into solid modeling software. Critical component mating interfaces were measured with an accuracy better than 27 microns (0.002 inches). The digitizer had previously supported a diffuser cone cap replacement prior to Standard Missile 3 solid rocket motor testing at Propulsion, and numerous frangible joint characterizations for the NASA Engineering and Safety Center. In later scans, the OMS engine heat shield and oxidizer inlet were also digitized.

Eastern New Mexico University materials engineering graduate Jordan Wladyka positions the former shuttle OMS engine for a scan. Each surface profile snapshot is stitched together automatically via software using optical tracking targets. Image Credit: NASA/White Sands Test Facility

The digitizer is uniquely suited to scan complex components with deep pockets and fine edges, such as the hypervelocity impact crater of this monolithic aluminum block. Image Credit: NASA/White Sands Test Facility