Overview of the GIMADS ID process

GIMADS, (Generic Integrated Maintenance Diagnostics) is an Air Force R&D program. The purpose is to devise and document a process to integrate diagnostics into new designs up front as part of the design activity. General Dynamics is the prime contractor and Bell Hellicopter is one of several subcontractors. This paper is a brief overview of five years work. The conclusions of the work show integrated diagnostics to be a process with three main elements: all needs are considered; all methods are considered; and the total system is addressed.<>