| Summary: | The Centre for Space Research (formerly known as the Unit for Space Physics) at the
North–West University manages the operation, maintenance and data gathering of four
neutron monitors. This is done in order to indirectly study the patterns and reactivity of
the Sun. Some of these neutron monitors have been operating from the late 1950’s
while not receiving much attention regarding technology upgrades, but were kept alive
by merely maintaining the bits and pieces that started giving problems.
This is all about to change due to this thesis that will serve as a Technological Roadmap
for the Improvement of the North–West University Neutron Monitor System of the Centre
for Space Research. It begins by looking at the essential parts needed to count cosmic
rays - the primary particles that are affected by the Sun’s intensity and reactivity - and
register their collision–products, neutrons. Then it covers the Centre for Space
Research’s neutron monitor systems as a whole, including the physical locations up to
the logistics needed to change a part.
The systems analysis of the neutron monitor operation was done in order to determine
the current neutron monitor operational functions and to determine the system’s risk
profile. A complete FMECA breakdown of worst–case scenarios and their impact on the
system was done, and the mitigating actions were discussed in order to minimize the
effect a specific failure mode will have.
The project ends by giving a couple of technological and design suggestions in order to
maintain and upgrade the system. === Thesis (M.Ing. (Electronical Engineering))--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2011.
|
|---|
