|
IETM Definition
Class I -
Electronically Indexed Page Images
These IETMs include
digital page images obtained from raster scanning. They are
intelligently indexed, based on the front matter
(i.e., table of contents, list of figures/foldouts/tables etc.)
and rear index. This is a picture of the TM and information can
be found by scrolling to the page indicated in the Table of
Contents. Page orientation is retained
and can be directly
printed.
Class II - Electronic Scrolling
Documents
ASCII-based
with linked front matter to corresponding material in the body
of the TM. They may have additional links to cross-references,
tables, figures, etc. and to voice, video, expert
systems, or other special external applications. They generally have
word search and bookmark capabilities, electronic sticky notes, and
may contain raster or vector graphics. The linked manual can
be
viewed electronically or be printed in
compliance with existing military
style and format specifications. XML is the preferred
format. A second format, Adobe's Portable Document Format,
PDF, is also being used for basic conversions. However, the PDF file
cannot currently be edited.
Class III - Linearly Structured
IETMs
These IETMs have
enhanced functionality over Class II. XML tags applied to
the ASCII text to allow user interaction through
“view packages.” View package requirements can be
developed to emphasize functional subjects, such as
training, maintenance, and system overview. Being
linearly structured, Class III IETM files can be used to
print hard-copy TMs. But while all of the data will appear in the
proper sequence, the printed copy will not necessarily be in the
same format as the traditional
"MIL SPEC" manual. Class III IETMs can include
optional linkages, such as voice, video, expert systems or
special applications. Some caution and planning are
required, however, if a single database is intended to
produce the IETM and publish the hardcopy
TM.
Class IV -
Hierarchically Structured IETMs
Class IV is a
complete departure from the previous classes in which data is
structured to support a classical publishing environment based
upon sentences, paragraphs, chapters, pages, etc. Class IV
data is created or re-authored via the Job, Task Analysis
(or Duty) method and then rebuilt into a database . It is
then managed as hierarchical objects within a database.
In acquisition, Class IV technical data
is
built into a structured database, using Logistic Support
Analysis (LSA) disciplines
and formats to create the database. Data is only created once,
with no duplication and c an not publish a
hard-copy TM.
Class V - Integrated
Database IETMs
The Class V IETM
combines the functionality and capabilities of an
expert system with a technical database to allow the user to
perform tasks more quickly and accurately. Class V IETMs allow the
subject matter experts (SMEs), in all areas (e.g., troubleshooting,
fault isolation, accomplishing repairs, establishing alternate
repair
paths), to bring their knowledge to the maintenance unit and apply it in
a specific situation. The system and
equipment
diagnostic programs can "talk" directly to the user through the
IETM; relatively unskilled technicians can be led through complex
procedures. Seldom-used processes and procedures (e.g., annual
inspections) can be properly planned and executed without
significant research. Programs will also typically analyze the data
received and add it to the knowledge base to allow the software to
"learn" and apply the knowledge to future analytical
processes.
For a cost
quote call: (858)
874-8992 or e-mail ietm@delreysys.com
|
|
