Browsing by Author "Lacey, Laura J."

Now showing 1 - 3 of 3
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    Autonomy is the answer; what was the question?
    (Cranfield University Defence and Security, 2024-11-13) Spayne, Peter; Lacey, Laura J.; Cahillane, Marie; Saddington, Alistair J.
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    A new systems engineering structured assurance methodology for complex systems
    (Elsevier, 2018-11-24) Farnell, G. P.; Saddington, Alistair J.; Lacey, Laura J.
    As technology advances, systems behaviour becomes more difficult to predict and control, resulting in a lack of systems assurance across the supply chain. Here we describe a structured approach to address the assurance of complex systems developed and operated within highly regulated environments. The new approach is based on a methodology that can address both new and legacy systems, and influences system intervention. We propose an enterprise approach by observing the importance of all organisational contributions to a safe working system throughout the intended project life cycle. This research was catalysed by the need to address the certification of the F-35B stealth fighter for UK operations from 2012 onwards. We offer a pragmatic strategy to achieve systems control by adopting a holistic approach to systems engineering while promoting the development of an enabling environment that can determine system threats and enable appropriate controls. We propose a systematic coordination process to minimise the potential for ‘organisational drift’. This holistic approach to systems engineering and assurance is defined as ‘systems engineering structured assurance’. The methodology provides a confidence assessment for a particular product or system while remaining agnostic to regulatory constraints. The diligent completion of the methodology increases systems confidence and informs the regulatory environment.
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    A research study of no fault found (NFF) in the Royal Air Force
    (Elsevier, 2017-03-02) Hockley, Chris; Lacey, Laura J.
    The No Fault Found (NFF) problem continues to reduce operational availability and have an impact on cost and resources in the RAF. Following extensive research by the Centre for Innovative Manufacturing in Through-Life Engineering Services, access was provided to a significant number of RAF aircraft maintenance personnel under the sponsorship of Air Command at RAF High Wycombe. Maintenance personnel from seven different aircraft fleets, including large aircraft, fast jets and rotary platforms were involved. A number of substantial conclusions were made resulting in 26 recommendations. The paper reviews and substantiates these conclusions and recommendations.