HUMS-the benefits-past, present and future

This paper presents a comprehensive model of how military and commercial operators achieve benefits in Health and Usage Monitoring Systems (HUMS) equipped helicopters. The model uncovers the substantial set of the potential benefits and presents a framework that each operator can use as a tool to analyze particular benefits that are tuned to the operating environment for which HUMS is being used or being considered. The model presents real-life cases to show the benefits that can be achieved from operational HUMS systems and actual operational data and analysis. The paper examines HUMS as it affects potential roles and missions of helicopters, including commercial and military. Consideration is given to such issues as fleet readiness, management of spares assets, cost of M&O staff, and effects of aircraft downtime. The model includes all sources of costs for the HUMS, including the costs of equipment, installation costs, downtimes for installation, cost of support of the HUMS, etc. The model also looks into the perceived future operational environment, where the operator and the aircraft manufacturer are integrated into a real-time team to get the best performance from the deployed fleet. A major emphasis of the paper is the use of practical, real-life experience as a feedback into the HUMS system. The system includes equipment, operating procedures and personnel, integrated into a cohesive force.