Improved reliability and interoperability of systems and their replacement parts will reduce downtime and requirements for routine maintenance. Smart parts will self-diagnose problems and automatically generate reorders. The foundations for the systems and processes described herein are being explored today. Many initiatives throughout government and private industry seek to improve these technologies. Agile manufacturing techniques that use lasers and molecular materials are under development in military and commercial labs.
Virtual reality is another hot technological commodity.
The potential uses for this capability are being explored on many planes. The amusement industry has embraced the concept and is providing creative games to stimulate the imagination of youngsters. The military is already providing virtual aircraft mock-ups to test aircraft designs. A fully integrated logistics system will upset many rice bowls. Today's functional stovepipes create a disjointed and counterproductive logistics process.