Electronic Portable Information Collection System (EPIC)

SENTEL's Electronic Portable Information Collection System (EPIC) has streamlined document conversion and storage for such benefits as concurrent database access, instantaneous data distribution, and accurate data storage.

SENTEL has reduced the amount of paper and steps associated with test procedures.
Prior to the use of EPIC, test procedures were first developed electronically using a word processor template, variously approved, and stored statically on an electronic system. The procedures were then printed, copied, and distributed to task team members as required at the time of procedure execution. Execution of procedures by personnel was documented through paper records and technician-specific ink stamps. Additionally, task team members maintained their own copies of procedure lists. Changes to instructions were documented separately and required management approval before being copied and distributed to the task team and attached to the master paper record copy. This completed master record copy of procedures was scanned into a computer and stored electronically.

With EPIC, the work process controlled by a “paper” checklist is made electronic.

Using the Converter software, the procedure checklist is converted from a document file into database format while maintaining the paper copy appearance to the user. Personnel access the procedure database, open the desired procedure, execute work instructions, record compliance, and sign off by using an electronic card stamp mechanism. Multiple networked users, working at desktops or on portable computer devices, may concurrently execute different segments of a checklist, entering validating data directly into the common database. Managers and engineers can tell at a glance what procedures have been completed and what is awaiting results. Customers have reported saving over 100,000 pages of procedure printouts per test version and over $1M each year by using EPIC.

EPIC was developed as a Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) contract with the NASA-Kennedy Space Center Safety and Mission Assurance Directorate. It was then successfully transitioned to a commercial product. EPIC is currently used in various corporate commercial engineering divisions for rocket launch preparation and is being considered for other military and non-military applications.