Showing papers on "Concept of operations published in 2010"

AVIGLE: A system of systems concept for an avionic digital service platform based on Micro Unmanned Aerial Vehicles

Abstract: Miniaturized unmanned flying robots, also referred to as MUAVs (Micro Unmanned Aerial Vehicles) open up completely new fields of innovative applications in the areas of civil security, cellular networks, surveying, entertainment and media. The AVIGLE project is based on the vision of a novel, widely applicable avionic service platform which supports multiple high-tech services by using open interfaces. Recent developments in the area of lithium polymer batteries and carbon fiber-reinforced plastic materials let MUAVs become an aerial platform, that can be equipped with a variety of sensors such as image or time of flight (ToF) cameras. Furthermore, it is also possible to mount communication technologies on the platform in order to let the MUAVs work as communication hot spots or relais at places where no cellular networks are available. In this paper we present a system of systems concept of an Unmanned Aerial System working as a service platform for different Concepts of Operations (ConOps).

Constellation Architecture Team-Lunar Scenario 12.0 Habitation Overview

Abstract: This paper will describe an overview of the Constellation Architecture Team Lunar Scenario 12.0 (LS-12) surface habitation approach and concept performed during the study definition. The Lunar Scenario 12 architecture study focused on two primary habitation approaches: a horizontally-oriented habitation module (LS-12.0) and a vertically-oriented habitation module (LS-12.1). This paper will provide an overview of the 12.0 lunar surface campaign, the associated outpost architecture, habitation functionality, concept description, system integration strategy, mass and power resource estimates. The Scenario 12 architecture resulted from combining three previous scenario attributes from Scenario 4 "Optimized Exploration", Scenario 5 "Fission Surface Power System" and Scenario 8 "Initial Extensive Mobility" into Scenario 12 along with an added emphasis on defining the excursion ConOps while the crew is away from the outpost location. This paper will describe an overview of the CxAT-Lunar Scenario 12.0 habitation concepts and their functionality. The Crew Operations area includes basic crew accommodations such as sleeping, eating, hygiene and stowage. The EVA Operations area includes additional EVA capability beyond the suitlock function such as suit maintenance, spares stowage, and suit stowage. The Logistics Operations area includes the enhanced accommodations for 180 days such as enhanced life support systems hardware, consumable stowage, spares stowage, interconnection to the other habitation elements, a common interface mechanism for future growth, and mating to a pressurized rover or Pressurized Logistics Module (PLM). The Mission & Science Operations area includes enhanced outpost autonomy such as an IVA glove box, life support, medical operations, and exercise equipment.

Integrated sensing and command and control system for disaster response

Abstract: Emergency responders fighting blazes and flooding, law enforcement securing sites and crowds, and medical teams treating victims are typical scenarios during rapidly-evolving, catastrophic events. The larger the disaster, the more complicated becomes the situation as thousands of responders from hundreds of organizations participate in the response and relief efforts. Organizing, coordinating and commanding these efforts remains a significant technical challenge, as it requires timely collection and distribution of information under harsh environments. With guidance from operational partners in California's emergency response community, we have designed, implemented and demonstrated a prototype integrated sensing and command and control system that enables shared situational awareness and collaboration during response operations. The system architecture is based on net-centric and service-oriented paradigms, and combines sensors, communications, and visualization and collaboration technologies, with all components being linked in (near) real-time. The utility of this prototype system was evaluated through a field exercise that tested the technical performance of the system and assessed the impact of new technologies on current concept of operations. In this paper, we describe the design analysis, system architecture, core enabling technologies, and the field evaluations.

Overview and Analysis of the SOLDIER Satellite Concept for Removal of Space Debris

Abstract: The risk of orbital debris has been highlighted as a major forthcoming issue for space vehicle safety and operations. NASA estimates that in order to keep the risk of orbital debris from escalating, five derelict satellites must be safely removed from low Earth orbit (LEO) every year. At the same time, space situational awareness (SSA) is also identified as a needed capability in the maturation of modern space systems, in order to track and monitor debris as well as security related monitoring. To these ends the Satellite for OrbitaL Debris Identification, Evaluation, and Removal (SOLDIER) was designed as a concept vehicle to respond to these growing needs. The SOLDIER vehicle is a small one-time use satellite, which is launched to target a single derelict satellite, performs close proximity operations around the target satellite, attaches to the target using a tethered lance and then re-enters with the attached target to dispose of it safely. This paper will cover the general design of the SOLDIER concept, its primary functionality as a ‘large category orbital debris remover’, and its secondary functionality as a space situational awareness test-bed and proximity operations technology developer. This paper will also address the concept of operations (CONOPS) for a typical SOLDIER mission and the primary drivers for this design. This will include the economic rationale for using this system and the possible business case that this entails, the technology development needs to make SOLDIER or a similar concept a viable system. Also, the issue of capturing a rotating targets will be investigated.

Unmanned systems: An emerging threat to waterside security: Bad robots are coming

Abstract: Unmanned Vehicles (UxVs) are now a key Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) resource for first-world defense organizations But the barrier to entry for making unmanned systems has fallen, with terrorist groups and crime syndicates capable of creating sophisticated robots using Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS) components With the explosive growth of unmanned systems in the air, on the water, and underwater, the threat from misuse of these technologies increases Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA) for ports, harbors, and protection of cruise ship and military marine assets has largely focused on threats above the waterline from more conventional threats like suicide boaters, or unauthorized entry MDA at and below the waterline presents severe but not insurmountable challenges Effective risk mitigation from UxVs involves a probabilistic approach to disruptive scenarios that reverse-engineers the Concept of Operations (CONOPS) likely to be used, based on the capabilities of rogue UxVs, and the skill level of their operators Consideration of oceanographie and meteorological data available to the public in real-time or near real-time from observing systems is part of the risk prediction Technical countermeasures that exploit rogue UxV weaknesses, and training of personnel involved in MDA, are logical components to close the gap Our group is developing approaches to reduce risks of successful UxV attack, and crafting appropriate responses to an unmanned systems disruption We also are developing new tools and training measures that will be of use to waterside security personnel

Classification of energy-saving operations from the perspective of system management

Abstract: System management operations consist of detecting events that have occurred in a monitored system, checking system conditions, judging appropriate actions to be taken, and implementing the chosen actions. There are several patterns of system management operations. In this paper, the authors classify energy-saving operations in data centers according to patterns of system management operations. This classification helps enterprises consider what kind of energy-saving operations are feasible in current system management environments and what kind of improvement should be made in order to implement desired energy-saving operations. Use cases are provided for each pattern of system management operations. A quantitative estimation of power consumption reduction and analysis for improvement based upon the estimation are provided for one use case.

Provenance Capture and Use: A Practical Guide

Abstract: There is a widespread recognition across MITRE’s sponsors of the importance of capturing the provenance of information (sometimes called lineage or pedigree) However, the technology for supporting capture and usage of provenance is relatively immature While there has been much research, few commercial capabilities exist In addition, there is neither a commonly understood concept of operations nor established best practices for how to capture and use provenance information in a consistent and principled way This document captures lessons learned from the IM-PLUS project, which is prototyping a provenance capability that synthesizes prior research; the project is also applying the prototype to government application scenarios spanning defense, homeland security, and bio-surveillance We describe desirable features of a provenance capability and trade-offs among alternate provenance approaches The target audience is systems engineers and information architects advising our sponsors on how to improve their information management

Bridging the gap in the realm of information dominance a concept of operations for the Naval Postgraduate School Center for Cyber Warfare

Abstract: : As the information age continues to evolve and technological expansion persists in creating a marked footprint across the four corners of the world, the need arises to protect our prized assets from potential adversarial motives. The extant threat to cyberspace necessitates the need to aptly man, train, and equip our forces to ably combat any untoward incidents. The Naval Postgraduate School with its very diverse population presents an exact medium to develop this next generation of warriors skilled in the field of Cyber Warfare to project both offensively and defensively against any contingent threat. As its mission statement professes: NPS strives to provide relevant and unique advanced education and research to increase the combat effectiveness and enhance the security of the United States. This thesis will leverage current instructions to bridge the gap and focus on providing a Concept of Operations for the Center for Cyber Warfare that aligns with the Chief of Naval Operations' (CNO) Strategic Focus Areas. This thesis will additionally recommend an architectural framework that addresses the current issues within the cyber domain and/or will allow for future expansion of the NPS mission datasets deemed of importance to the U.S. Military service and its allies.

Illustrating the Concept of Operations (CONOPs) Continuum and Its Relationship to the Acquisition Lifecycle

Abstract: : Though consistently noted as critical to successful system design and implementation, the Concept of Operations (CONOPs) artifact appears to be underutilized. This report demystifies the CONOPs artifact. It delves into the barriers that prevent optimal use of CONOPs and presents a framework for incorporating an "integrated" CONOPs into the Defense Acquisition Lifecycle.

Low complexity transceivers and autonomous concept of operations for optical planetary access links

Abstract: Optical access links can be used for relaying data from the surface of Mars to spacecraft orbiting Mars. In this paper considerations related to the concept of operations, link analysis and low-complexity transceiver design required for future implementation are discussed, along with the description of some prototype transceiver development that has been completed.

Challenges and proposals for WiMAX-based military hybrid communications networks

Abstract: Mission-critical, converged networks in support of NATO operations demand hybrid and secure transmission systems that are based on optical media and wireless transmission systems. The Hybrid Extension Module (HEM) Prototype implements a NATO C3 Agency (NC3A) concept for future Deployable Headquarter (DHQ) communications infrastructure in support of NATO Response Force (NRF) and expeditionary operations. WiMAX has long been identified as the candidate Internet Protocol-converged (IP) wireless technology for deployable Headquarter (DHQ) networks. NC3A has tested the HEM Prototype as a proof-of-concept demonstrator and test-bed in various scenarios. In different occasions, the validity of the hybrid nature of the network, the performance of WiMAX, the information security aspects, the self-organization mechanisms of the hybrid network, and the deployability aspects of the concept were challenged. This paper provides the description of a long series of revisions to the initial concepts and designs, which stemmed from tests and from the experience gained with the deployment of the Prototype. It also addresses with detail a revised concept of operations, together with the description of the new, optimized system design. A particular focus is devoted to improvements in communications security and in WiMAX capacity.

Interoperable Open-Source Sensor-Net Frameworks with Sensor-Package Workbench Capabilities: Motivation, Survey of Resources, and Exploratory Results

Abstract: : Low-cost sensor technologies, such as Micro-Aerial Vehicles (MAVs), present an opportunity to facilitate improved transformational Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance Targeting, and Information Operations (ISRT/IO) capabilities in support of tactical network-centric ISRT/IO Warfighter and First-Responder operations There is an exigency for realistic rehearsal frameworks to enable efficient and rapid deployment of MAVs in support of ISRT/IO; physics-based 3D simulation and modeling capabilities improve mission planning and efficiency The incorporation of Free Open Source Software (FOSS) such as the Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) Autonomous Unmanned Vehicle (AUV) workbench into the Sensor-net Self-Organization and Control (SenSOC) initiative enables highly reconfigurable realistic and dynamic mission planning capabilities thereby creating more responsive Systems-of-Systems Engineering (SOSE) The current work, reported herein, focuses on the incorporation of a scalable sensor-package in the NPS AUV platform-oriented modeling, simulation, and experimentation framework which would support operational use-cases and CONOPS (ie concepts of operation) for tactical ISRT/IO mission-threads and associated scenarios

Using i* Modelling as a Bridge between Air Traffic Management Operational Concepts and Agent-based Simulation Analysis

Abstract: This paper presents our experiences of exploring how i* modelling can be used as a bridge between informal air traffic management (ATM) operational concepts and formal agent-based simulation. We report our work on an EU airspace design project that describes a revised concept of operations for lower level airspace around airports, and includes simulation based safety analysis of the critical scenarios. We describe our research towards using i* to address two challenges – how to model the revised concept from the informal concept of operations document, and how to present safety critical scenarios to operational experts. Modelling strategic aspects of a concept of operations is new to ATM, and we draw upon our experiences to provide lessons learned and directions for future work.

VII Data Use Analysis and Processing (DUAP) Final Project Report (Phase II)

Abstract: This report covers several key subjects related to the generation of IntelliDriveSM probe vehicle data and use of this data in application of interest to state departments of transportation and local public transportation agencies. The evaluations conducted as part of this project are primarily based on the probe vehicle data collection system that was deployed by the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) around Novi, Michigan, in 2008 for its Vehicle‐Infrastructure Integration (VII) Proof‐of‐ Concept (POC) test program. This system was designed around the use of the 5.9‐GHz Dedicated Short Range Communication (DSRC) wireless protocol to enable vehicles to communicate with Roadside Equipment (RSE). The generation of snapshots further followed the protocols defined within the SAE J2735 DSRC Message Set standard. Following a general introduction in Chapter 1, Chapter 2 briefly reviews the protocols that were used to generate and retrieve probe vehicle snapshots, while Chapter 3 presents a general evaluation of the POC test data that were accumulated during the 2008 test program. This is followed by a presentation in Chapter 4 of the evaluation framework of the current project. This presentation includes an overview of the envisioned DUAP system and descriptions of project stakeholders, potential data sources, supporting technologies, applications of interests, and potential operational constraints. Chapter 5 then presents a general description of the Paramics IntelliDriveSM virtual simulator that is used to conduct some of the subsequent evaluations. While the initial POC test program aimed to evaluate data collection capabilities across a range of application, this program was significantly shortened due to various technical issues. This resulted in incomplete data collection and partial application designs that were insufficient to complete the initial project deliverables associated without relying on simulation. Chapter 6 then examines the effects of snapshot generation protocols and privacy policies on data latency, data quality, and the ability to track vehicles over short distances. Chapter 7 follows with a mapping of application data needs and general descriptions of processes required to convert raw probe data into useful information, while Chapter 8 evaluates how basic traffic flow performance measures (flow rates, flow density, travel times, speed profiles, queue parameters) can be estimated from probe data in systems featuring full and partial proportions of probe vehicles. Chapter 9 further develops a concept of operations for an enhanced traffic monitoring system incorporating probe vehicle and other data sources, while Chapter 10 investigates various issues that must be considered when developing application deployment plans. Chapters 11, 12 and 13 finally present a summary of primary findings, lessons learned and recommendations for future work.

Aspects of Operations Management of Services

Abstract: The objective of the paper is to analyze aspects of operations management of services, and on this basis to develop guidelines for further investigations. There are differences between services and goods in terms of marketing, but from a production point, the differences are only at the output of the operations system. In operations management of services, transformation and support subsystems can be combined on one component – back-office system, and people as a resource should be front-office system. There is a relationship among the components of the operations system and Albrecht's service triangle components and on that base is proposed integration of models and approaches among customer, back-office system, and front-office system. It is substantiated that for the front-office system there are developed several management models, unlike the back office-system. It is considered that further investigation should be made in the back-office system, and its relationship with front-office system and customer.

Hydrographic Products/Services as a Fundamental Component of the e-Navigation Concept of Operation

Abstract: e-Navigation is a recent initiative aimed at moving traditional maritime navigation towards a connected digital environment. Defined by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) as "the harmonized collection, integration, exchange, presentation and analysis of maritime information onboard and ashore by electronic means to enhance birth-to-birth navigation and related services, for safety and security at sea and protection of the marine environment", e-Navigation is not a new system of equipment but more an operational concept. Three significant outcomes are envisioned: 1) Shipboard navigation systems will benefit from the integration of own ship sensors, supporting information, standard user interface, and a comprehensive system for managing guard zones and alerts. Core elements include high-integrity electronic positioning, use of ENCs, and an analysis capability to reduce human error. 2) The management of vessel traffic and related services from ashore will be enhanced through better provision, coordination, and exchange of comprehensive data in formats that will be more easily understood and utilized. 3) A communications infrastructure designed to enable authorised seamless information transfer onboard ship, between ships, between ship and shore and between shore authorities. This paper discusses the main hydrographic-related components, implications for further standards development, some challenges/opportunities, and the role that IHO and others in the hydrographic community should play to facilitate the development and implementation of e- Navigation.

A Centralized Multi-Agent Negotiation Approach to Collaborative Air Traffic Resource Management Planning

Abstract: Demand and capacity imbalances in the US national airspace are resolved using traffic management initiatives designed, in current operations, with little collaboration with the airspace users. NASA and its partners have developed a new collaborative concept of operations that requires the users and airspace service provider to work together to choose initiatives that better satisfy the business needs of the users while also ensuring safety to the same standard as today. In this paper, we describe an approach to implementing this concept through a software negotiation framework underpinned by technology developed in the artificial intelligence community. We describe our exploration of peer-to-peer negotiation and how the number of conversation threads and the time sensitivity of offer acceptance led us to a centralized approach. The centralized approach uses hill climbing to evaluate airport slot allocations from a user perspective and a linear programming solver to seek solutions compatible across the user community. Our experiments with full sized problems identify the potential operational benefits as well as limitations, and where future research needs to be focused.

CUwPS: An integrated system for the detection, localization, and classification of underwater threats

Abstract: The Canadian Underwater Protection System (CUwPS) is an integrated system that provides means to detect, localize, classify, and then warn underwater threats, with the purpose of preventing attacks on vessels berthed at anchor or alongside. The primary sensors of the system are commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) and are integrated into a workable set of equipment and concepts with specific adaptations to military platforms. CUwPS utilizes an area detection sensor which can detect and track underwater targets, in an area where protection is desired. In order to further scrutinize contacts and tracks deemed to be potential threats, Response Boats-small, fast and agile crafts-are dispatched and responsible for identification using a high resolution imaging type sonar. If a target is classified as a threat, underwater loudhailers can be used to transmit warnings and messages. Software was written to integrate the data from all the individual sensors of the CUwPS. This paper details the components of the CUwPS, explains its concept of operations, and details the fourth and final build trial, in which the system was used in Port Guard, a Canadian Forces exercise. CUwPS was tasked to protect assets berthed alongside a jetty at Canadian Forces Base Halifax, home port to the Canadian Atlantic Fleet. Throughout the course of the exercise, military divers simulated threats attempting to penetrate undetected into a protected area.

Advanced Concept and Design of the Multi-satellite Operations System

Abstract: The KOMPSAT-1(KOrea Multi Purpose SATellite-1) was launched in 1999 and operated until 2008. The KOMPSAT-2 was launched in 2006 and has been normally operated. The KOMPSAT-5 will be launched in 2010 and the KOMPSAT-3 will be launched in 2011. The KOMPSAT-1 ground system and the KOMPSAT-2 ground system, each was developed according to the concept of single satellite operation. However, the KOMPSAT-3 ground system and the KOMPSAT-5 ground system are going to be developed according to the concept of multi-satellite operations. Multi-satellite operations based on each satellite are such as (1) it ensures that sufficient mission element, facility element, staff and operations are available to carry out the satellite mission and (2) it allows each project owns its element, staff and procedure but the detail parts of them can be shared with other projects. Operations are quite complex and their costs are very high because compositions of each ground system are different from those of other ground system in terms of equipment, subsystem, and operational procedure. This paper presents the concept of multi-satellite operations which is called integration-oriented mission operations. Multi-satellite operations based on core function are such as (1) it ensures that last updating and/or modifying core functions of mission element, facility element, staff and operations are available to execute the mission operations and (2) it allows last updating and/or modifying core functions can support operations of previous satellites. This kind of multi-satellite operations is well defined in case satellites have similar function and missions are operated by the same operators and organization. This paper represents concept and design of the multi-satellite operations system for next generation ground system. Multi-satellite operations system consists of mission independent module and mission specific module. The generic framework and automation are also discussed. Using these generic frameworks, the schedule and cost for new operations system development are significantly reduced.

Concept of Operation for Tactical Separation Assurance in Super-Density Operations

Abstract: The Airspace Systems Program is committed to supporting the Next Generation Air Transportation System through research and development in select areas. One such area, referred to as Super Density Operations, is conducting research to develop technologies that will safely increase the throughput in busy terminal area environments. The purpose of this document is to develop a Concept of Operations for the Tactical Separation Assurance function, one of the functions included in Super Density Operations. A functional description of the technologies required for Super Density Operations is presented followed by a more detail description of the Tactical Separation Assurance function. Two story boards are presented to illustrate the operational use of the Tactical Separation Assurance function under different situations. The last section proposes a pathway to implementing the Tactical Separation Assurance function.

Systems Concurrent Engineering of an Electrical Ground Support Equipment for an On-Board Computer

Abstract: This paper presents a systems concurrent engineering approach for the development of an electrical ground support equipment (EGSE) for a satellite on-board computer. Traditional approaches focuses on the product, development organization and the product concepts of operation (CONOPS). In those approaches the overall view of the inherent complexity in the development of a product, its life cycle processes and their performing organizations are not taken into consideration. The systems concurrent engineering performs stakeholder analysis, requirements analysis, functional analysis and implementation architecture analysis, simultaneously, for the product, its life cycle processes and their performing organization. From the analysis, requirements and attributes are captured for the product and its life cycle processes organizations and the relationship among them are identified. Conclusions are that impact, traceability and hierarchy links promote the anticipation of life cycle process requirements to the early stages of systems architecting. Late changes are avoided, development costs are dramatically reduced while satisfaction of stakeholders over product life cycle is increased.

Policy-based design and verification for mission assurance

Abstract: Intelligent systems often operate in a blend of cyberspace and physical space. Cyberspace operations--planning, actions, and effects in realms where signals affect intelligent systems--often occur in milliseconds without human intervention. Decisions and actions in cyberspace can affect physical space, particularly in SCADA--supervisory control and data acquisition--systems. For critical military missions, intelligent and autonomous systems must adhere to commander intent and operate in ways that assure the integrity of mission operations. This paper shows how policy, expressed using an access-control logic, serves as a bridge between commanders and implementers. We describe an accesscontrol logic based on a multi-agent propositional modal logic, show how policies are described, how access decisions are justified, and give examples of how concepts of operations are analyzed. Our experience is policybased design and verification is within the reach of practicing engineers. A logical approach enables engineers to think precisely about the security and integrity of their systems and the missions they support.

NASA KSC/AFRL Reusable Booster System (RBS) Concept of Operations (ConOps)

Abstract: This slide presentation reviews the study and findings of the study on the Concept of Operations (ConOps) for Reusable Booster System (RBS) centering on rapid turnaround and launch of a two-stage partially reusable payload delivery system (i.e., 8 hours between launches). The study was to develop rapid ground processing (aircraft like concepts) and identify areas for follow-on study, technology needs, and proof-of-concept demonstrations.

Function allocation for NextGen airspace via agents

Abstract: Commercial aviation transportation is on the rise and has become a necessity in our increasingly global world. There is a societal demand for more options, more traffic, more efficiency, while still maintaining safety in the airspace. To meet these demands the Next Generation Air Transportation System (NextGen) concept from NASA calls for technologies and systems offering increasing support from automated decision-aiding and optimization tools. Such systems must coordinate with the human operator to take advantage of the functions each can best perform: The automated tools must be designed to support the optimal allocation of tasks (functions) between the system and the human operators using these systems. Preliminary function allocation methods must be developed (and evaluated) that focus on the NextGen Airportal challenges, given a flexible, changing Concept of Operations (ConOps).We have begun making steps toward this by leveraging work in agents research (namely Adjustable Autonomy) in order to allow function allocation to become more dynamic and adjust to the goals, demands, and constraints of the current situation as it unfolds. In this paper we introduce Dynamic Function Allocation Strategies (DFAS) that are not static and singular, but rather are represented by allocation policies that vary over time and circumstances. The NextGen aviation domain is a natural fit for agent based systems because of its inherently distributed nature and the need for automated systems to coordinate on tasks maps well to the adjustable autonomy problem. While current adjustable autonomy methods are applicable in this context, crucial extensions are needed to push the existing models to larger numbers of human players, while maintaining critical timing. To this end, we have created an air traffic control system that includes: (1) A simulation environment, (2) a DFAS algorithm for providing adjustable autonomy strategies and (3) the agents for executing the strategies and measuring system efficiency. We believe that our system is the first step towards showing the efficacy of agent supported approach to driving the dynamic roles across human operators and automated systems in the NextGen environment. We present some initial results from a pilot study using this system.

Improving efficiency with surface trajectory-based operations and conformance monitoring

Abstract: Surface Trajectory-Based Operations (STBO) is a concept of operations for enhancing surface operations in the mid- and far-term by better managing surface traffic and airport resources to enable surface trajectory-based operations. STBO, which is expected to be implemented as part of the Next Generation Air Transportation System (NextGen), proposes the use of automation systems in the tower and better data exchange with users to enhance the efficiency and safety of surface operations. STBO relies on automated tools to assist air traffic controllers and managers with planning for airport configuration changes, sequencing aircraft, assigning runways and taxi routes, and monitoring performance against those taxi routes. This paper focuses on the surface conformance monitoring aspect of STBO and describes a human-in-the-loop simulation designed to test the feasibility and benefits of this concept. This paper will describe at a high level the surface conformance monitoring concept and the conformance monitoring software that was developed by Mosaic ATM. This paper outlines how the software was used and tested in the human-in-the-loop simulation performed at The MITRE Corporation. Results of human-in-the-loop simulation suggest this automation may increase deviation detection accuracy and reduce controller workload. Finally, conclusions will be drawn about the utility of the surface conformance monitoring technologies in enhancing the efficiency of surface operations and reducing controller workload.

Demonstrated performance of economical, man-portable AUVS in multi-vehicle coastal surveys

Abstract: Autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) have the demonstrated technical capability to support environmental characterization for commercial, research, and military applications The track record of AUVs in this mission area over the past decade has resulted in a growing confidence in the reliability and performance of AUVs, and with this confidence comes a rapid increase in the expected breadth and complexity of applications The historical approach to developing these new capabilities has been grounded in hardware and sensor integration This approach addresses the immediate need to meet a specific requirement, but it does not address the long term solution for coordinating operations of increasingly complex AUVs in rapid response scenarios The chasm between technical capability and effective performance will continue to widen until dedicated work addresses a concept of operations and the ability to delegate command and control to the lowest level through increased vehicle autonomy Critical gains in operational effect can be realized in military applications through this approach and greatly expand the role of forward-deployed tactical teams performing Rapid Environmental Assessment without dedicated special team resources Recognized Environmental Picture 10A (REP10A) offers an opportunity to evaluate a unique CONOPS for military survey operations in shallow coastal waters Low-cost commercial AUVs are employed for coordinated operations in shore- and ship-launched scenarios to address on-scene, evolving search and survey operations without the logistical and support requirements of special teams normally associated with this tasking Lightweight AUVs can be launched/recovered by a single operator in a one-to-many coordinated survey that streamlines time, maximizes the synoptic nature of the measurements, and reduces mission risk On-scene products are generated from the AUVs upon completion of the mission, and data is provided to central access points to support environmental modeling The Naval Undersea Warfare Center, Faculdade de Engenharia - Universidade do Porto, Marinha Portuguesa, and OceanServer Technology, Inc are the primary participants bringing in-water resources to REP10A Technical support and products are provided by the Naval Research Laboratory - Stennis Space Center, Naval Oceanographic Office, NATO Undersea Research Centre, University of Massachusetts - Dartmouth, and YSI, Inc Primary goals of REP10A are evaluation of CONOPS, on-scene products, and reach-back support products A focus on lightweight AUV-based multibeam swath bathymetry, side scan sonar performance, 3-D water characterization, AUV autonomy, validation of remotely sensed bathymetry, and initialization/steering of near-shore circulation and structure models is maintained during the test

Concept Design Center Pre-work Overview

Abstract: The Aerospace Corporation’s Concept Design Center (CDC) is nearing the completion of its 200 th Space Segment Team (SST) study. While a number of papers have been written on SST activities over the years, the process by which a study is conducted has evolved considerably in that time period. This paper will delve into an often under-appreciated portion of the study work: the pre-study analysis necessary to scope the tradespace appropriately. Often times, several months are required to pare a complex, large tradespace down to about 10 to 12 interesting trades that both bound the range of requirements acceptable to stakeholders and fit within the capabilities of current technologies, which may cause a re-evaluation of requirements. At the same time, an effort is made to identify the optimal solutions within that tradespace as the basis for more detailed design work. Typically, the study leads (system engineering experts) will bring in some of the subsystem engineers (communications, astrodynamics, power, etc.) for periodic meetings prior to the concurrent portion of the study to select orbits, constellation size, payload parameters, concept of operations, and future technology limitations, amongst other variables that will drive the design choices in the study. Significant iteration is often required in this initial design process, as infeasible and dominated point solutions are considered, but then discarded. This pre-work is critical in ensuring that the concurrent portion of the study flows smoothly, and is not halted while small groups of people try to solve a problem while the rest of the team sits and waits, thus wasting time and money. Of course, the team is not always successful in this regard, but this deliberate process minimizes such disruptions. This paper will use the CATS MEO (Communication And Telemetry, tracking, and command System in Medium Earth Orbit) CDC SST studies as an example of this process from inception up to the concurrent portion of the study.

Data is the currency of R&D, and that currency is now generated and traded globally.

Abstract: Changes in the understanding of biological science, translational research and corporate business models require a corresponding change in the approach to chemical and biological information management. The concept of operations being partitioned into discrete departments for drug discovery is beginning to be replaced by a translational approach to this process. Pharmaceutical business and organizational models are also constantly evolving. Traditional approaches to transactional systems, transferring data up to a departmental data warehouse, are no longer meeting the needs of pharmaceutical scientists and, thus, IT departments are not considered as relevant to the business. These changes and their impact on information systems, as well as some solutions to the challenges faced, are discussed in this editorial.

International regulation of emerging modes of space transportation

Abstract: Publisher Summary The chapter explores the existing international space regimens on responsibility, safety, and liabilities that are not sufficient to regulate emerging trends in space transportation. It has also been demonstrated that existing comparative regimens in international civil aviation have been particularly effective, especially in the area of safety regulation. Based on the background that this chapter provides food for thought suggests that long-standing international legal regimens govern safety, responsibility, and liability in international civil aviation. This may also extent to what makes this approach feasible and adapted as a practical means of establishing effective legal regimens to govern similar aspects of space transportation. However, with respect to responsibility and liability, it has been proposed that the existing international regimens governing space must be retained until such time that expanded development of space transportation systems justifies the creation of new or expanded legal regimens. Therefore, the chapter reveals the Space Transportation Annex to the Next Generation Air Transportation System Concept of Operations.

Gesture-Directed Sensor-Information Fusion for Communication in Hazardous Environments

Abstract: : This position paper describes a vision of how Chemical Biological Radiological and Nuclear (CBRN) situation awareness and threat assessment can benefit from the use of Gesture-Directed Sensor-Information Fusion (GDSIF). It describes a concept of operations for the war fighter's use of electronic wireless-communication gloves (eGloves) to communicate, plan, and react while wearing Mission-Oriented Protective Posture (MOPP) gear. It also suggests the benefit of using the hardware and firmware resident on the eGloves to perform data fusion from environmental sensors. It provides a roadmap of research issues and challenges that will need to be overcome to realize this technological advance, and provide inspiration for other problem domains.