Showing papers on "Concept of operations published in 2007"

Network-Centric Systems for Military Operations in Urban Terrain: The Role of UAVs

Abstract: Military systems are the motivational driver for much of the technology development conducted at applied research laboratories around the world. As the needs of the world's militaries change, so does the focus of this research and development. In this paper, we discuss how the fundamental characteristics of military operations in urban terrain (MOUT) impose requirements and constraints on sensing and reconnaissance. We highlight the importance of a new class of small unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for network-centric military urban operations. We review some of the UAVs that have been developed in recent years, and that are under development, with particular attention to their endurance, portability, performance, payload, and communication capabilities. Selected university testbeds are also briefly noted. Over the last few years there has been considerable research focused on how these small UAVs, both individually and collectively, can operate autonomously in urban environments and help capture and communicate needed information. We discuss some of this research; specific topics covered include guidance and control for autonomous operation, multi-UAV coordination and route optimization, and ad-hoc networking with UAV nodes. A new concept of operations is described that relies on coordination and control of a heterogeneous suite of small UAVs for surveillance and reconnaissance operations in urban terrain

The Naturalistic Flight Deck System: An Integrated System Concept for Improved Single-Pilot Operations

Abstract: This paper reviews current and emerging operational experiences, technologies, and human-machine interaction theories to develop an integrated flight system concept designed to increase the safety, reliability, and performance of single-pilot operations in an increasingly accommodating but stringent national airspace system. This concept, know as the Naturalistic Flight Deck (NFD), uses a form of human-centered automation known as complementary-automation (or complemation) to structure the relationship between the human operator and the aircraft as independent, collaborative agents having complimentary capabilities. The human provides commonsense knowledge, general intelligence, and creative thinking, while the machine contributes specialized intelligence and control, extreme vigilance, resistance to fatigue, and encyclopedic memory. To support the development of the NFD, an initial Concept of Operations has been created and selected normal and non-normal scenarios are presented in this document.

Proposed Array-Based Deep Space Network for NASA

Abstract: The current assets of the deep space network (DSN) of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), especially the 70-m antennas, are aging and becoming less reliable. Furthermore, they are expensive to operate and difficult to upgrade for operation at Ka-band (321 GHz is shorthand for the allocated 31.8-32.3 GHz. GHz). Replacing them with comparable monolithic large antennas would be expensive. On the other hand, implementation of similar high-sensitivity assets can be achieved economically using an array-based architecture, where sensitivity is measured by G/T, the ratio of antenna gain to system temperature. An array-based architecture would also provide flexibility in operations and allow for easy addition of more G/T whenever required. Therefore, an array-based plan of the next-generation DSN for NASA has been proposed. The DSN array would provide more flexible downlink capability compared to the current DSN for robust telemetry, tracking and command services to the space missions of NASA and its international partners in a cost-effective way. Instead of using the array as an element of the DSN and relying on the existing concept of operation, we explore a broader departure in establishing a more modern concept of operations to reduce the operations costs. This paper presents the array-based architecture for the next-generation DSN. It includes system block diagram, operations philosophy, user's view of operations, operations management, and logistics like maintenance philosophy and anomaly analysis and reporting. To develop the various required technologies and understand the logistics of building the array-based low-cost system, a breadboard array of three antennas has been built. This paper briefly describes the breadboard array system and its performance.

A Novel Concept for Stratospheric Communications and Surveillance: The StarLight

Abstract: StarLight is a first-ever, persistent, maneuverable, high-altitude, hybrid, lighter-thanair (LTA) vehicle designed to provide continuous communications and surveillance capabilities over a wide geographical area. StarLight will operate at an altitude between 70,000 and 100,000 feet mean sea level, for a minimum duration of 6 weeks, giving its payloads an operational area of coverage exceeding 160,000 sq miles at maximum altitude. In addition to its LTA capabilities, StarLight incorporates an innovative flight control system to provide a maneuverable vehicle capable of station keeping and/or flying a specified ground track. Control innovations include a mechanically -driven rotating lower stage to easily change the direction of thrust (0-360°), and an actuator control that changes the pitch/roll attitude of the upper stage balloon envelope to accommodate vertical maneuvering above neutral buoyancy. The associated concept of operations allows for remote operations with minimum logistics and infrastructure. The total system design provides multifunctionality to maximize platform utility and easily support defense, security, communications, intelligence, earth sciences and other federal and commercial applications.

Evaluation, Selection, and Application of Model-Based Diagnosis Tools and Approaches

Abstract: Model-based approaches have proven fruitful in the design and implementation of intelligent systems that provide automated diagnostic functions. A wide variety of models are used in these approaches to represent the particular domain knowledge, including analytic state-based models, input-output transfer function models, fault propagation models, and qualitative and quantitative physics-based models. Diagnostic applications are built around three main steps: observation, comparison, and diagnosis. If the modeling begins in the early stages of system development, engineering models such as fault propagation models can be used for testability analysis to aid definition and evaluation of instrumentation suites for observation of system behavior. Analytical models can be used in the design of monitoring algorithms that process observations to provide information for the second step in the process, comparison of expected behavior of the system to actual measured behavior. In the final diagnostic step, reasoning about the results of the comparison can be performed in a variety of ways, such as dependency matrices, graph propagation, constraint propagation, and state estimation. Realistic empirical evaluation and comparison of these approaches is often hampered by a lack of standard data sets and suitable testbeds. In this paper we describe the Advanced Diagnostics and Prognostics Testbed (ADAPT) at NASA Ames Research Center. The purpose of the testbed is to measure, evaluate, and mature diagnostic and prognostic health management technologies. This paper describes the testbed’s hardware, software architecture, and concept of operations. A simulation testbed that

Revisiting DDGX/DDG-51 Concept Exploration

Abstract: This study revisits concept exploration for DDG-51 using reconstructed 1978-1979 DDX and 1979-1980 DDGX requirements and options, and 2005 tools. The goal of this study is to assess and highlight the benefits of current tools and processes for concept exploration by comparison with a well-known design that did not use these tools. This case study was completed in a summer and fall ship design project at Virginia Tech. In 1979, the acquisition and design process did not begin with a Mission Need Statement, Analysis of Alternatives or Integrated Capabilities Document as is required today. It began with studies, Tentative Operational Requirements, and Draft Top Level Requirements. In this study, we revisit the 1978-1980 DDG-51 (DDX/DDGX) concept exploration based on the guidance, goals, and constraints of the DDX and DDGX studies, using a notional mission statement, concept of operations, and list of required capabilities. The design space is defined to include many of the same design alternatives that were considered in the DDX and DDGX studies. A multiple-objective genetic optimization (MOGO) based on military effectiveness, cost, and risk is used to search the design space and perform trade-offs. A simple ship synthesis model is used to balance the designs, assess feasibility, and calculate cost, risk, and effectiveness. Alternative designs are ranked by cost, risk, and effectiveness, and presented in a series of non-dominated frontiers. Concepts for further study and development are chosen from this frontier and a comparison with DDG-51 is made based on these results.

ERASMUS: a new path for 4d trajectory-based enablers to reduce the traffic complexity

Abstract: The European Commission funded ERASMUS is a 30 months project to look at ways to effectively integrate advanced automation concepts consistent with controllers' human factors issues. This paper outlines an innovative concept of operations that combines a human factors approach, automation technologies and their relationship to overall system safety and efficiency. ERASMUS aims at investigating three applications with varying levels of automation: subliminal control, ATC auto pilot and enhanced MTCD. Only the subliminal application is presented in this paper.

Network-Centric Systems for Military Operations in Urban Terrain: The Role of UAVs Small unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) that can operate autonomously, in coordinated groups, are being designed to provide surveillance and reconnaissance for fighting wars in urban areas.

Abstract: | Military systems are the motivational driver for much of the technology development conducted at applied research laboratories around the world. As the needs of the world's militaries change, so does the focus of this research and development. In this paper, we discuss how the fundamental characteristics of military operations in urban terrain (MOUT) impose requirements and constraints on sensing and reconnaissance. We highlight the importance of a new class of small unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for network-centric military urban operations. We review some of the UAVs that have been developed in recent years, and that are under development, with particular attention to their endurance, portability, performance, payload, and communication capabilities. Selected university testbeds are also briefly noted. Over the last few years there has been considerable research focused on how these small UAVs, both individually and collectively, can operate autonomously in urban environments and help capture and communicate needed information. We discuss some of this research; specific topics covered include guidance and control for autonomous operation, multi-UAV coordination and route optimization, and ad-hoc networking with UAV nodes. A new concept of operations is described that relies on coordination and control of a heterogeneous suite of small UAVs for surveillance and reconnaissance operations in urban terrain.

Review of Technology to Prevent Alcohol-Impaired Crashes (TOPIC)

Abstract: This report summarizes the results of an evaluation of vehicular technology alternatives to detect driver blood alcohol concentration and alcohol-impaired driving. Taking an international perspective, this report references relevant literature, incorporates input from stakeholders, and includes a concept of operations to describe how to implement technology-based countermeasures that addresses concerns such as privacy, public acceptance, and legal issues.

Autonomous Payload Operations Onboard the International Space Station

Abstract: Operating the International Space Station (ISS) involves many complex crew tended, ground operated and combined systems. Over the life of the ISS program, it has become evident that by having automated and autonomous systems onboard, more can be accomplished and at the same time reducing the workload of the crew and ground operators. Engineers at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration's (NASA) Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville Alabama, working in collaboration with The Charles Stark Draper Laboratory, have developed an autonomous software system that uses the Timeliner User Interface Language and expert logic to continuously monitor ISS payload systems, issue commands and signal ground operators as required. This paper describes the development history of the system, its concept of operation and components. The paper also discusses the testing process as well as the facilities used to develop the system. The paper concludes with a description of future enhancement plans for use on the ISS as well as potential applications to Lunar and Mars exploration systems.

Utilizing Lunar Architecture Transportation Elements for Mars Exploration

Abstract: In 2004, President Bush announced a new U.S. Vision for Space Exploration that includes plans to return humans to the moon followed by human missions to Mars. While human Mars missions have been studied and analyzed for decades, the current technical and political environment presents mission designers with new objectives and constraints. Given the significant investment required to develop new launch vehicles, habitat systems, and supporting technologies for the preparatory lunar campaign, it is likely that those systems will serve as the centerpiece of any future Mars exploration architecture. This paper summarizes the efforts of SpaceWorks Engineering’s advanced design team to develop a viable Mars architecture based on Project Constellation launch vehicles and related lunar transportation technologies. All-chemical LOX/LH2 transfer vehicles are used. No in-situ resource utilization (propellant manufacture) has been assumed. An overall concept of operations is outlined. Details are provided on element masses, Earth-Mars transfer times, development and operations costs, and estimated mission reliability. Throughout this internally-funded effort, emphasis has been placed on maturing design tools and multidisciplinary processes in order to develop a useful national capability should formal studies of Mars architectures be undertaken.

Requirements for Super Dense Operations for the NGATS Terminal Airspace

Abstract: We present requirements for super dense operations (SDO) in a future next generation air transportation system (NGATS), targeted at a 2025 timeframe. The requirements emphasize the needs for dynamic weather avoidance maneuvering and performance-based services (PBS) based on required navigation performance (RNP). A net-centric operation (NCO) will provide a mechanism to inform all users of weather forecast information, hazardous weather constraints, and weather avoidance routing requirements. The future air traffic management (ATM) system will move away from static jet route navigation toward a system where routes are defined more dynamically, adjusted during the course of the day as required by traffic demand and the geometry of severe weather constraints. Such a concept of operation (ConOps) will be particularly useful for time periods where weather is a major terminal area constraint in the national airspace system (NAS), making it possible to achieve SDO, reduce traffic delays, and ensure safe operations that would otherwise not be feasible in current day operations.

Networked Forces in Stability Operations 101st Airborne Division, 3/2 and 1/25 Stryker Brigades in Northern Iraq

Abstract: : The Stryker brigade, one of the Army's newest units, has advanced command, control, and intelligence capabilities and uses a network-centric concept of operations These capabilities include the full complement of Army digital communications and battle command systems Its networked capabilities enabled it to employ network-centric operations (NCO) capabilities down to a lower echelon than other Army units An important issue for the Department of Defense and the Army is whether these improved capabilities translate into an information advantage and, if so, whether that advantage results in greater mission effectiveness in stability operations This study attempts to answer those two questions by focusing on the Stryker brigade's performance in stability operations It employs the case-study methodology to examine three units that operated in the same area in Iraq between 2003 and 2005: the 101st Airborne Division (ABD), the 3/2 Stryker brigade combat team (SBCT), and the 1/25 SBCT All served in Iraq's northern provinces The study compares the performance of the units along a number of dimensions The comparisons between the 101st ABD and the Stryker brigades are especially important because, although the 101st ABD had some advanced battle command systems, it was largely an analog unit, ie, one that communicated using analog radios and generally used voice-only, line-of-sight communications at the tactical level We use two of the four US objectives for stability and reconstruction in Iraq to assess the mission effectiveness of stability operations undertaken by each unit We investigate how the NCO capabilities and other resources available to these units were utilized to conduct stability and counterinsurgency operations and whether these capabilities resulted in improved mission effectiveness

Exploration of a Solar System Mobility Network via a System-of-Systems Engineering Framework

Abstract: The development and application of a system-of-systems engineering framework for architecting of a future space exploration and infr astructure concept of operations, Solar System Mobility Network, is presented in this paper. The framework and application problem are motivated by the unique challenges involved in synthesizing successful and enduring architectures for space exploration. Speci fically, the Solar System Mobility Network operational concept represents a distributed set of capabilities involving human and robotic transportation and infrastructure asset s, their organization, interoperability and evolution; i.e., a system-of-systems. Results from architectural trade studies performed show how system-of-systems simulation and analysis can provide novel decision support for architecting in space exploration. While the result s indicate a potentially significant payoff for establishing a distributed solar system infrast ructure over the long term, the up-front investment for this concept may significantly inhib it probability of its pursuit.

Performance-based Air Traffic Management: Evaluation of En Route Benefits

Abstract: The Joint Planning and Development Office (JPDO) has developed a concept of operations to communicate the key operating principles and characteristics of the Next Generation Air Transportation System (NextGen). The goals for NextGen are aimed at significantly increasing the capacity, safety, efficiency, and security of air transportation operations and through doing so, improve the overall economic well being of the country. These benefits are achieved through a combination of new procedures and advances in the technology deployed to manage passenger, air cargo, and air traffic operations. In many cases, this vision and plan builds on work done by international aviation organizations that represent a globally harmonized set of concepts for the future. The Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA’s) strategy will evolve operations toward NextGen in a way that integrates proven technologies, can be scaled for the future, and couples advanced ground automation systems and advanced aircraft capabilities. MITRE’s Center for Advanced Aviation System Development (MITRE/CAASD) has developed Performance-based Air Traffic Management (ATM) as a significant step toward NextGen, while meeting the FAA’s need for capacity and productivity benefits. Performance-based ATM integrates advanced capabilities that will provide vastly improved surveillance, navigation, data communications, and automation for ground and airborne systems with changes in service provider roles and responsibilities. During 2006 and 2007, Performance-based ATM evaluations produced a concrete assessment of benefits, relative to the current en route ATC environment. Highfidelity simulations of today's automation environment were contrasted with an advanced future environment in which Performance-based ATM—a combination of various available technologies and new procedures—will be used. The methods and results of the Performance-based ATM evaluations of 2006 and 2007 are presented here.

Designing 4-D trajectories for super-dense operations given weather constraints

Abstract: For the Next Generation Air Transportation System (NGATS), we present trajectory design guidelines focusing on dynamic weather avoidance routing in transition airspaces -within 200 nmi of an airport or a set of metroplex airports. Assuming a Net-Centric Operation (NCO) that provides a mechanism to inform all users of hazardous weather constraints and weather avoidance routing requirements, the NGATS can move away from static jet route routing toward a system in which routes are defined dynamically in four dimensions (4D), and adjusted during the course of the day as required by traffic demand and the geometry of severe weather constraints. Such an operational concept will be particularly useful for time periods for which weather is a major constraint to terminal area operations, and when Super-Dense Operations (SDO) are thus required to maintain a high throughput. This paper describes both a Concept of Operations (ConOps) for using 4D trajectories to establish SDO in NGATS and an approach to designing 4D trajectories.

A Storyboard Tool to Assist Concept of Operations Development

Abstract: We describe progress in developing a software tool to help create, communicate, and refine concept of operations (ConOps) information. Information found in a ConOps document is central to our tool. ConOps documents are written in the end user's language, describing how the proposed system should support the users' tasks. While there are some helpful documents prescribing ConOps format, there is little direct assistance to express the concept of operations. We describe a tool to help author this information, integrate it with storyboard sketches, refine it through interaction with other stakeholders, and finally export the information in a form directly usable by developers. We have developed a demonstration prototype that performs the core functions of ConOps definition. We discuss the results of this prototyping effort and plans for expanding the tool functions. We plan to refine the tool through experience with ongoing projects so that it supports system concept development.

Implementing Systems Engineering in the U. S. Department of Energy Office of the Biomass Program

Abstract: The DOE Biomass Program is tackling the challenge of advancing biomass energy technologies and systems from concept to commercial adoption with a goal of enabling the production and use of biofuels to help reduce future U.S. oil consumption. The complexity of the biomass-to-biofuels system of systems and the combined dynamics of the existing agriculture, forestry, energy and transportation markets within which it operates pose challenges for reaching consensus on both a concept of operations and preferred strategies for transitioning to a significantly larger biofuels industry that is secure, reliable, environmentally responsible, and supportive of a thriving economy. To ensure that the program is focused on the activities critical to achieving its goal, the program is implementing systems engineering processes, practices, and tools to guide informed decision-making.

Communicating with the Public Using ATIS During Disasters: A Guide for Practitioners

Abstract: Advanced Traveler Information Systems, ATIS, can play an important role in communicating essential information to the public during disasters. Variable message signs, 511 telephone systems, highway advisory radio, and websites are some of the dissemination devices of systems that collect, process, and disseminate information about travel conditions to the public for day-to-day transportation operations, and these same systems need to be effectively used during disaster situations. This document provides advice on use of ATIS during disasters and is intended not only for state and local transportation agencies but for their partners in public safety and emergency management agencies. It offers practical guidance to managers of transportation management centers and emergency operations and to public information officers who may be called on to staff joint information centers during disasters. The document discusses what we know about human behavior in disaster situations based on findings from several decades of research. That perspective can help in maximizing the effectiveness of traveler information communications. The current use of traveler information in managing normal incidents and planned special events is examined as a starting point for gauging the processes and technologies that are in place today. Five case studies of actual disasters in Georgia, California, Nevada, Utah, and Washington State show the role that traveler information has played in current practice and provide lessons for others. A concept of operations is presented that characterizes the flow of information among the people, organizations, and technologies comprising traveler information dissemination during disasters. To maximize the benefit of ATIS as a tool for communicating with the public during disasters, a local strategy should be developed. A toolkit for organizing and conducting a strategy workshop is provided in this document as a starting point. A workshop that encompasses all the key stakeholders can acquaint them with currently available ATIS assets, potential future enhancements, and each agency’s role in ensuring that ATIS is an important tool for helping the public when disaster strikes.

Identifying Application Key Knowledge through System Operations Modeling

Abstract: One of the problems associated with complex systems engineering is identifying the system knowledge relevant to build system implementation. System operations are an essential part of this knowledge. Software and system engineering standards highlight the importance of system operations; templates for a concept of operations document are available from different standard bodies in the context of requirements engineering and specification. However, specific guidelines for operations modeling are not usually provided. This paper introduces an approach to systematically model system operations. The cornerstone for this is an operations metamodel; this metamodel is presented within this paper and has been defined using UML 2.x. The baseline for the metamodel is a schema, also introduced within the paper, which formalizes system operations in terms of commands acting on systems, inputs to the system, and different kinds of outputs classified into responses, notifications and alarms. Operations models, as presented here, comprise system knowledge essentials from a functional point of view but reduced in size compared to the whole system specification. They can be deployed in several ways; this paper presents their use as drivers for system development and validation from early lifecycle stages.

Capturing Commander's Intent in User Interfaces for Network-Centric Operations

Abstract: : The network-centric concept of operations (or network-centric warfare (NCW)) is predicated on the increased availability of information at every node in the network. This information is the result of both the efficient fusion of disparate sensor inputs into a coherent picture and effective sharing of situation awareness among operators supporting the combatant commander. A difficulty arises in that for both the sensors and the operators, increasing information availability is insufficient to assure either the coherency of the picture or the common understanding of it. Experience and research have shown that interface concepts focused on Commander s Intent can provide an integrating function for both operators shared understanding of the situation and the netted sensor assets. By grounding both the logic employed in the networked sensor management and the method of visualizing the shared picture on Commander s Intent, synergies anticipated from network centric operations may be reasonably achieved. This paper describes both a notional design framework for a common user interface for command and control operations as well as prioritization logic for network-centric sensor management.

Human automation integration

Abstract: Many versions of future concept of operations (CONOPS) rely heavily on UMVs. The pressure to take the human out of immediate control of these vehicles is being driven by several factors. These factors include a reduction in cost for the production and maintenance of the vehicle, operational viability in extreme environments, and the public pressure to keep soldiers further away from immediate harm. In addition to adding more UMVs, there is also a push to have these vehicles perform more complex tasks than they are currently required to perform. These two factors, adding more UMVs and having them perform more complex tasks, will not be realized without augmenting the current structure of control. One way to achieve this augmentation is through the utilization of automation. The automation may be applied on the vehicle itself, through the interface controlling the vehicle, through system design or in any amalgamation of these approaches. Automation, if applied in a responsible and judicious manner, will enable the acquisition of capabilities that will be required to operate under near and far-term CONOPS. The focus of this chapter is the discuss in of the past, present and future automation integration challenges that are faced when adopting a human centric design philosophy. Topics will include the identification and discussion of specific problematic areas that have evolved and will bring to bear the lessons learned as automation was integrated into other domains such as flight operations, air traffic control, and process control for example. The lessons learned may not signify that a particular problem area has been “solved”, but may point out that the area deserves consideration when evaluating trade-offs in the system design and engineering process. The anecdotal, operational, theoretical and empirical work completed thus far all provide a sound foundation that should serve as a starting point for human automation integration in the UMV domain. This domain may have specific challenges or specific opportunities available, both now and in the future, to explore and expand the base of human and automation integration knowledge. The remainder of this introduction will focus on some of the more salient areas in the integration problem space. These topics and others will be addressed in various sections throughout the chapter.

Unmanned Aircraft Systems. Advanced Coordination and Increased Visibility Needed to Optimize Capabilities

Abstract: : DOD components have developed guidance to facilitate the integration of UAS into combat operations; however, further steps are needed to fully coordinate the deployment of these assets. For example, DOD developed a Multi-Service Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures for the Tactical Employment of Unmanned Aircraft Systems and a Joint Concept of Operations for Unmanned Aircraft Systems.5 This guidance represents an important first step for the use of UAS in combat operations and DOD officials acknowledge these documents will continue to evolve as DOD learns more about the capabilities of UAS and other ISR assets and their application in combat operations. However, the guidance does not address, on a DOD-wide basis, the issue of advance coordination, which CENTCOM has recognized is a critical factor in integrating UAS into combat operations by enabling efficient deployment and utilization of assets and by allowing the combatant commander time to plan to support incoming assets. In the absence of such guidance, CENTCOM has established procedures for the services to coordinate system requirements prior to ISR assets arriving into CENTCOM s theater of operations. These procedures apply only to CENTCOM s theater of operations. However, we found that CENTCOM s procedures for advance coordination were not always followed because the services indicated that they were not aware of the requirement. According to CENTCOM officials, they distributed these procedures to each of CENTCOM s service components, such as Central Command Air Forces and U.S. Naval Forces Central Command, but were not aware if they were distributed further, and the service officials we interviewed were not aware of the requirement.

Development of Consumable Transfer Systems for Sustainable Lunar Exploration

Abstract: NASA has identified Supportability as a key requirement for the development of future space exploration architectu res. Based on many years of ground operations experience, NASA KSC has been tasked to lead the investigation of technologies required for a sustainable Consumables Transfer station for use on the lunar surface. This Consumables Transfer task is a technolog y development and proof -of -concept project intended to develop component technologies and integrate them into a proof -of -concept prototype consumables transfer system. The desired end state is a modular, extensible system capable of servicing multiple luna r surface assets, including the connection and distribution of fluid commodities. Technology at the component level will be developed to minimize the logistics footprint of the missions, promote commonality between systems, minimize human maintenance or r epair activities, and ensure reliability and robustness in the lunar environment. Technology at the system level will be developed to minimize supply requirements from Earth by integrating thermal requirements with other systems, providing capability for s torage and distribution of the products of the In Situ Resource Utilization system, and recovering and recycling waste products and energy from other surface assets. Among the sub -tasks is the development of modular, expandable oxygen storage and distribut ion system s capable of liquefaction of I n Situ Resource Utilization (ISRU) produced commodities and zero boil -off storage and zero loss transfer. A novel cryogenic system that incorporates integrated refrigeration and storage is proposed to meet existing architecture requirements as well as increase mission capabilities is proposed. Details of a concept of operations analysis will be presented in this paper .

Small Satellite Implementation of a Lunar Relay Satellite

Abstract: The authors will report on a small lunar relay satellite concept, capable of fitting in a Minotaur V launch vehicle, to provide communication and navigation (C&N) services to users on the moon. Ultimately, the C&N system will provide multiple fixed and mobile users, human and robotic, with service from launch to lunar landing and throughout occupation. In order to provide complete coverage for users on the moon, a constellation of relay satellites will ultimately be required. In the near term, however, the relays will focus on certain important locations, particularly the South Polar region, where water may be located and early landings may occur. These locations are only visible from Earth antennas for 14 days of each 28 day time period, requiring a relay satellite to fill the gaps. One alternative for this satellite is a small, less costly lunar relay capable of launching on the relatively inexpensive Minotaur class of launch vehicles, the Minotaur V in particular. In this paper, this spacecraft concept will be discussed, including the mission context, concept of operations, mission requirements, payload concept, ground system concept and spacecraft concept. *This work was performed at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology, under a contract with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration.

Tradeoffs in high density trajectory based operations

Abstract: Alleviating air traffic management (ATM) system capacity barriers and environmental impacts around major metropolitan areas is critical for the next generation air transportation system. This paper presents initial research toward applying fast-time simulation methods to evaluate system-level tradeoffs in high-density trajectory-based operations in order to identify suitable roles for humans in the future system. A mid-term concept of operations in which aircraft are scheduled to arrive at the runway on optimized descent profiles ("CDAs") along area navigation/required navigation performance (RNAV/RNP) routes separated from other RNAV/RNP arrival and departure routings serves as the core concept for discussion. The paper discusses tradeoffs between RNAV/RNP route designs, airspace configuration, aircraft and flight management system (FMS) performance, pilot procedures, scheduling automation, and the control methods to be applied. Initial efforts to simulate the core concept have concentrated on developing RNAV/RNP CDAs and departure routes; the paper presents example route designs and discusses tradeoffs arising from them. An important challenge lies in verifying an ATM concept's robustness. This entails demonstrating that a concept provides reasonable means to cope with uncertainties. The paper discusses the application of fast-time simulation methods to an iterative concept development process in which effectiveness in coping with uncertainty is the primary driver for evaluating design tradeoffs and refining the concept.

Making It Work -- The Net-Centric Global Information Grid NetOps Strategy

Abstract: : The Joint Network of Operations (NetOps) Concept of Operations is assigning overall responsibility for NetOps to Commander, United States Strategic Command (CDRUSSTRATCOM) and has enabled the Department of Defense (DoD) to begin improving the operations and defense of the Global Information Grid (GIG). However, there is still only limited progress in implementing an enterprise-wide construct that fully addresses all aspects of NetOps in a dynamically changing global environment. Observations from Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) continue to reinforce that the DoD has only limited abilities to provide commanders with relevant and timely GIG situational awareness or mission impact assessments and that lack of abilities to effectively de-conflict, coordinate, and control spectrum use represents a very real and operationally critical problem that must be solved. These deficiencies coupled with sometimes confusing or even conflicting policies and guidance, significantly impact the ability of the operators/defenders of the GIG to fully support ongoing warfighting and peacekeeping missions in an increasingly joint and multi-partner environment. To provide a way ahead and to foster unity of effort across the DoD, the DoD Chief Information Officer (CIO) is developing the Net-Centric GIG NetOps Strategy to describe a net-centric vision and mission for GIG NetOps along with the necessary high-level goals and objectives.

Searching for a Strategy

Abstract: : Sea Power 21 comprises three main components - Sea Strike, Sea Shield and Sea Basing - linked with an overarching command-and-control system, dubbed FORCEnet. Closely related to Sea Power 21 is the new organization of seagoing forces, Global Concept of Operations, and several other transformational processes (Sea Warrior, Sea Trial, Sea Enterprise, etc.) and new methods of deployment of naval forces.

Concepts of Operations (CONOPS) for the Evaluation of Latent Fingerprint Technologies (ELFT) | NIST

Abstract: The umbrella project for the series of tests has been named Evaluation of Latent Fingerprint Technologies (ELFT). The scope and structure of these tests are based partly upon lessons learned from the April 2006 NIST Latent Fingerprint Testing Workshop, supplemented by technical interchanges with workshop participants and vendors. The initial round of tests was initiated in April 2007, and is on-going.

Agile Capability Development, Assessment and Transition in Support of the Global War on Terror (GWOT)

Abstract: Net-Centric Solutions, as enabled through distributed service-oriented architectures, will have a significant effect on the way the DoD acquires capabilities, thereby requiring new ways to address the development and integration of complex enterprises. One approach, based on commercial best practices, entails establishing an environment and set of processes for users and developers to work together in the development and maturation of capabilities as they transform from innovation to fielded capability. In this paper, we discuss an approach that USSOCOM and MITRE are using to evaluate and mature capabilities that support the Global War on Terror. It is based on using a distributed innovation lab environment in conjunction with a series of warfighter workshops focused on themes and challenge problems identified by USSOCOM. The workshops are designed to provide hands-on warfighter immersion into emerging processes, concepts and capabilities combined with facilitated discussions to develop and/or refine CONOPS and Tactics, Techniques and Procedures. We highlight some of the capabilities provided, techniques used, challenges faced, and how this approach impacted the user. Finally, we discuss our future plans to extend this approach to other customers and locations in order to fully assess GWOT missions across a net-centric enterprise.