This is an archive of information released in the past. Disclaimer: It may contain broken links or outdated information. Some parts may not function in current web browsers.
 
ISS TopJAXA Top sitemap
  
Kibo's total system test
What is Kibo's total system test?
overall view (components are combined through cables and lines.)
Kibo's total system test checks functions and performance of the entire Kibo with all components (Pressurized Module (PM), Exposed Facility (EF), Experiment Logistics Module-Exposed Section (ELM-ES), Remote Manipulator System (JEMRMS) and Inter-orbit Communication System (ICS)) connected. These components were manufactured and evaluated in individual element tests by each contractor. The total system test has been conducted since PM arrived at Tsukuba Space Center

More about Kibo


Contents of Kibo's total system test
Several tasks in Kibo's total system test are shown below.

Installation of JEMRMS

   Preparation and confirmation before the test
Kibo's components were first checked to ensure they were not damaged during transport from factories and then connected. System racks were installed in the PM, and the JEMRMS was attached to the outside of the PM. Other components were connected only through cables since they cannot sustain mechanical stress on Earth. Coolant lines were also connected between PM and EF. The functional connection of all components was then confirmed.

  Installation of system racks

   International verification test
Electrical, audio and data interfaces between Kibo and the NASA module of the International Space Station were verified. In this test, NASA equipment was used to simulate the NASA module.

 

Interface test
Command, telemetry, thermal control, and power supply were verified through components of Kibo; control equipment inside the PM actually operated mechanical parts of EF and ELM-ES.

 

ICS-EF compatibility test
ICS-EF was evaluated to ensure proper electrical and structural connection to ELM-ES.
ICS-EF
ICS-EF compatibility test

 

Environment (ventilation) test
In this test, Kibo was evaluated to determine if it provides an adequate environment for manned activities (evaluated ventilation performance inside Kibo).

Measure ELM-PS
 

Others
ELM-PS was measured during this test.

Future Plans
The total system test is almost completed. Evaluation of data acquired in the test, separating components and uninstalling of racks have begun. After completing this test, checks will be made for air leaks and tests combining the operation system and payloads will be conducted. Around 2003, Kibo will be shipped to NASA Kennedy Space Center, connected to ISS modules, and tested.


Last Updated : Jul. 4, 2002
JAXA Top Site Policy