Showing papers on "Concept of operations published in 2014"

Next Generation Flight Management System for Real-Time Trajectory Based Operations

Abstract: This paper presents the concept of operations, architecture and trajectory optimisation algorithms of a Next Generation Flight Management System (NG-FMS). The NG-FMS is developed for Four Dimensional (4D) Intent Based Operations (IBO) in the next generation Communications, Navigation, Surveillance and Air Traffic Management system (CNS+A) context. The NG-FMS, primarily responsible for the aircraft navigation and guidance task, acts as a key enabler for achieving higher level of operational efficiency and mitigating environmental impacts both in manned and unmanned aircraft applications. The NG-FMS is interoperable with the future ground based 4DT Planning, Negotiation and Validation (4-PNV) systems, enabling automated Trajectory/Intent Based Operations (TBO/IBO). After the NG-FMS architecture is presented, the key mathematical models describing the trajectory generation and optimisation modes are introduced. A detailed error analysis is performed and the uncertainties affecting the nominal trajectories are studied to obtain the total NG-FMS error budgets. These are compared with the Required Navigation Performance (RNP) values for the various operational flight tasks considered.

Conceptual framework for single pilot operations

Abstract: Single pilot operations (SPO) refers to flying a commercial aircraft with only one pilot in the cockpit, assisted by advanced onboard automation and/or ground operators providing piloting support services. Properly implemented, SPO could provide operating cost savings while maintaining a level of safety no less than conventional two-pilot commercial operations. A concept of operations (ConOps) for any paradigm describes the characteristics of its various components and their integration in a multidimensional design space. This paper presents key options for human/automation function allocation being considered by NASA in its ongoing development of a SPO ConOps.

Human Factors Evaluation of Level 2 and Level 3 Automated Driving Concepts: Concepts of Operation

Abstract: The Concepts of Operation document evaluates the functional framework of operations for Level 2 and Level 3 automated vehicle systems. This is done by defining the varying levels of automation, the operator vehicle interactions, and system components; and further, by assessing the automation relevant parameters from a scenario-based analysis stand-point. Specific to the “Human Factors Evaluation of Level 2 and Level 3 Automated Driving Concepts” research effort, scenarios and literature are used to identify the range of near- to mid-term production-intent systems such that follow-on research topics with highest impact potential can be identified through commonalities in operational concepts.

Work Models that Compute to Describe Multiagent Concepts of Operation: Part 1

Abstract: This paper describes a simulation framework and engine created to address several concerns in the design of multiagent concepts of operation, focused on the construct of “work.” This framework incorporates the capabilities of several approaches, including cognitive work analysis, system-level modeling, and agent-based simulation. The framework promotes consistent, systematic models of the collective work performed by any number of agents within a concept of operation. As a side benefit, the ability to simulate work models also provides a mechanism to validate that the description of a concept of operation provides a complete and accurate representation of the agents’ collective activities and of the work environment they act upon. The framework defines several computational structures: “actions” describing work processes, “resources” describing the state of the environment, “decision actions” for strategy selection, and “functions” allowing compositional modeling at multiple levels of abstractions. Timing...

The Use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles for Disaster Management

Abstract: This paper discusses potential applications of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for disaster man age ment. Based on the current state and diversity of research, there is considerable evidence to sup port the strategic investment in UAV technology to develop new and enhance existing operational capabilities. When developing these capabilities, it is essential that officials understand a range of vari ables that will influence the development of a concept of operations for particular types of disasters. As the technical capabilities of UAVs exceed the permissible use of this technology, public safety officials and agencies will have to work closely with national airspace regulators to ensure that these responses are safe and do not endanger other aircraft. The community's attitude and perceived risks will also influ ence the potential use of UAVs for disaster management. It is essential that officials address these concerns and build in safeguards to protect against any breaches of privacy and individual rights.

Evolution and Implementation of the NASA Robotic Conjunction Assessment Risk Analysis Concept of Operations

Abstract: Reacting to potential on-orbit collision risk in an operational environment requires timely and accurate communication and exchange of data, information, and analysis to ensure informed decision-making for safety of flight and responsible use of the shared space environment. To accomplish this mission, it is imperative that all stakeholders effectively manage resources: devoting necessary and potentially intensive resource commitment to responding to high-risk conjunction events and preventing unnecessary expenditure of resources on events of low collision risk. After 10 years of operational experience, the NASA Robotic Conjunction Assessment Risk Analysis (CARA) is modifying its Concept of Operations (CONOPS) to ensure this alignment of collision risk and resource management. This evolution manifests itself in the approach to characterizing, reporting, and refining of collision risk. Implementation of this updated CONOPS is expected to have a demonstrated improvement on the efficacy of JSpOC, CARA, and owner/operator resources.

A New Era for Command and Control of Aerospace Operations

Abstract: : Control of the aerospace environment is a fundamental prerequisite to successful operations in the physical domains of air, sea, land, and space. Once established, such control facilitates the freedom of action and movement for all joint forces. Accordingly, command and control (C2) of aerospace operations are critical functions that must be a priority for the Department of Defense. Our ability to C2 air and space forces will be affected by three major interrelated trends: emerging threats, new technologies, and the velocity of information. The changes in these three areas since the design, establishment, and operation of the air and space operations center the AN/USQ-163 Falconer have been dramatic and are accelerating. Therefore, it is time to determine whether we can achieve success in future operations by evolving our current concept of operations (CONOPS), organizations, and acquisition processes for modernization or if we must seek fundamental change to each of these elements that affects our theater air control system (TACS). Before providing an answer, let s take a brief look at each of the trends affecting our ability to C2 our aerospace operations effectively.

The need for guidance on integrating structural health monitoring within military aircraft systems

Abstract: Since September 2006, an international Aerospace Industry Steering Committee was assembled at Stanford University. Since February 2009, the committee has been formally working on developing guidelines for validating, qualifying and certifying structural health monitoring systems. Working within the G-11 division of SAE International, the committee has compiled guidelines for civil transport aircraft. Some of these guidelines can be used for military applications. However, military guidelines are needed to address specific military considerations including concept of operations. The military guidelines should also cover the wider spectrum of military aircraft types and should focus on the key elements required for integrating structural health monitoring within military systems. Therefore, a G-11 Aerospace Industry Steering Committee Military Aircraft Working Group was formed to develop such guidelines. This article describes the motivation, rationale, scope, milestones and initial work of the Military Air...

Novel ATM and Avionic Systems for Environmentally Sustainable Aviation

Abstract: Large-scale air transport modernisation initiatives including the Single European Sky Air Traffic Management Research (SESAR), Next Generation Air Transportation System (NextGen) and Clean Sky Joint Technology Initiative for Aeronautics and Air Transport aim to improve the operational efficiency, safety and environmental sustainability of aviation. Scientific advances in Air Transport Management (ATM) and avionic systems are required to achieve the ambitious goals set by national and international aviation organisations. This paper presents the recent advances in ATM and avionic system concepts, integrated architectures and trajectory generation algorithms, to be adopted in Next Generation Avionics Flight Management Systems (NG-FMS) and ground-based 4-Dimensional Trajectory Planning, Negotiation and Validation (4-PNV) systems. Current research efforts are focussed on the development of NG-FMS and 4-PNV systems for Four Dimensional (4D) Trajectory/Intent Based Operations (TBO/IBO), enabling automated negotiation and validation of aircraft intents and thus alleviating the workload of operators. After describing the NG-FMS/4PNV concept of operations, the overall system architecture and the key mathematical models describing the 4DT optimisation algorithms are introduced. Simulation case studies utilising realistic operational scenarios highlight the generation and optimisation of a family of 4DT intents by the NG-FMS corresponding to a set of performance weightings agreed between Air Navigation Service Providers (ANSP) and Airline Operation Centres (AOC). The savings on time, fuel burn and gaseous emissions (CO2 and NOx) associated with the globally optimal 4DT intents are presented. The developed optimisation and negotiation/validation loops meet the timeframe requirements of typical online tactical routing/rerouting tasks.

Heterogeneous Spacecraft Networks: General concept and case study of a cost-effective, multi-institutional Earth observation platform

Abstract: In recent years the Mission Design Center (MDC) at NASA Ames Research Center has been studying mission concepts involving clusters of small spacecraft capable of providing cost-effective solutions in orbit compared to space missions involving only a single larger spacecraft. Low-cost networks of small spacecraft can be a viable alternative to large budget Earth observation or space exploration missions producing significant scientific return for often moderate development efforts and short lead times. This paper is the first in a series of 3 companion papers in which we make the point that the scientific value (and hence the cost effectiveness) of small multi-spacecraft missions can be further increased if the network of spacecraft is allowed to be heterogeneous. We define Heterogeneous Spacecraft Networks (HSNs) to be networks of spacecraft having different operators or originating from different missions that are able to communicate with each other in a low-cost manner and with low impact on overall system resources. HSN incorporates both the space segment and ground segment for an end-to-end solution. In this contribution we illustrate the strength of the HSN approach by presenting a general concept for a HSN in LEO as well as a case study showcasing the value of such a network. In particular, we present a case study where we examine the feasibility of a low-cost, multi-institutional network of small spacecraft acting as a next-generation Earth Observation (EO) platform and focusing on ad-hoc data relay to maximize throughput. In the simulation we show that the downlink throughput of an HSN can be larger by an order of magnitude compared to the conventional scenario where no networking capability exists. Other benefits of using a HSN as a next-generation increment of existing capabilities include increased revisit frequencies as well as the ability to collect correlated data simultaneously from distributed locations around the globe using either conventional or fractionated spacecraft. We list key performance requirements for a HSN in order to produce a desirable scientific return and present a concept of operations (ConOps) for the practical implementation. In the ConOps we discuss the required performance of the inter-satellite and space-to-ground links and give an overview of the associated ground station network. We give an overview of the network management techniques required to operate and control the network on a day-to-day basis and address the issues of network configuration, network discovery and security, as well as fault and performance management. The paper ends with an outlook on the paradigm shift HSNs may introduce in the domain of space operations. We also list a number of promising applications making use of the strength of the concept.

Pair-Wise Trajectory Management-Oceanic (PTM-O)

Abstract: This document describes the Pair-wise Trajectory Management-Oceanic (PTM-O) Concept of Operations (ConOps). Pair-wise Trajectory Management (PTM) is a concept that includes airborne and ground-based capabilities designed to enable and to benefit from, airborne pair-wise distance-monitoring capability. PTM includes the capabilities needed for the controller to issue a PTM clearance that resolves a conflict for a specific pair of aircraft. PTM avionics include the capabilities needed for the flight crew to manage their trajectory relative to specific designated aircraft. Pair-wise Trajectory Management PTM-Oceanic (PTM-O) is a regional specific application of the PTM concept. PTM is sponsored by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Concept and Technology Development Project (part of NASA's Airspace Systems Program). The goal of PTM is to use enhanced and distributed communications and surveillance along with airborne tools to permit reduced separation standards for given aircraft pairs, thereby increasing the capacity and efficiency of aircraft operations at a given altitude or volume of airspace.

A Concept of Operations for Far-Term Surface Trajectory-Based Operations (STBO)

Abstract: The goal of this far-term STBO (Surface Trajectory-Based Operations) ConOps (Concept of Operations) is to increase the efficiency and predictability of airport surface operations, and reduce the environmental impact, by incorporating a time-based component to surface operations. In the far-term NextGen timeframe, airport surface operations will transition from current-day first-come, first-served operations, to strategically scheduled operations in which pilots are recruited as active participants in meeting the precise time-based goals of NextGen surface operations. The far-term STBO concept includes two-phases. Phase 1 introduces time-based traffic flow constraint points, which divide the taxi route into segments with an assigned Required Time of Arrival (RTA). This Phase 1 approach provides temporal certainty only near the traffic flow constraint points, but not in between. Minimal augmentations to the flight deck are required to support required time of arrival (RTA) management. Phase 2 further increases precision and efficiency by introducing full four-dimensional (4D) trajectories, with an x-y location for all times t. This phase assumes adoption of advanced flight deck equipage enabling higher temporal precision sufficient to support aircraft conformance to 4D trajectories. This allows more precision and less temporal uncertainty at all times along the route.

The Application of Work Domain Analysis to Defining Australia's Air Combat Capability

Abstract: : The Royal Australian Air Force's Air Combat Capability is currently undergoing a significant restructure as new, advanced platforms are introduced to the fleet. To avoid a loss of capability in the air domain, the Royal Australian Air Force must determine how best to employ its current and future fighter jets to meet operational goals. To support this objective, this report presents a comprehensive work domain analysis-or structural description-of Australia's Air Combat Capability, defined across multiple levels of abstraction and decomposition, and independent of specific platforms. This analysis has already demonstrated its usefulness in contributing to the development of an Australian air power doctrine and strategy narrative, represented in the next edition of the Royal Australian Air Force's Air Power Manual (AAP 1000-D). Future applications of this model could contribute to capability requirements definition; air combat force structure development and organisational redesign; air combat specific crewing concepts, training programs, and Concept of Operations; and the continued development of military doctrine and strategy.

Multi-Domain Modeling and Simulation of an Aircraft System for Advanced Vehicle-Level Reasoning Research and Development

Abstract: In this paper, we describe a simulation based health monitoring system test-bed for aircraft systems. The purpose of the test-bed is to provide a technology neutral basis for implementing and evaluation of reasoning systems on vehicle level and software architecture in support of the safety and maintenance process. This simulation test-bed will provide the sub-system level results and data which can be fed to the VLRS to generate vehicle level reasoning to achieve broader level diagnoses. This paper describes real-time system architecture and concept of operations for the aircraft major sub-systems. The four main components in the real-time test-bed are the aircraft sub-systems (e.g. battery, fuel, engine, generator, heating and lighting system) simulation model, fault insertion unit, health monitoring data processing and user interface. In this paper, we adopted a component based modelling paradigm for the implementation of the virtual aircraft systems. All of the fault injections are currently implemented via software. The fault insertion unit allows for the repeatable injection of faults into the system. The simulation test-bed has been tested with many different faults which were undetected on system level to process and detect on the vehicle level reasoning. This article also shows how one system fault can affect the overall health of the vehicle.

Cyber threat model for tactical radio networks

Abstract: The shift to a full information-centric paradigm in the battlefield has allowed ConOps to be developed that are only possible using modern network communications systems. Securing these Tactical Networks without impacting their capabilities has been a challenge. Tactical networks with fixed infrastructure have similar vulnerabilities to their commercial counterparts (although they need to be secure against adversaries with greater capabilities, resources and motivation). However, networks with mobile infrastructure components and Mobile Ad hoc Networks (MANets) have additional unique vulnerabilities that must be considered. It is useful to examine Tactical Network based ConOps and use them to construct a threat model and baseline cyber security requirements for Tactical Networks with fixed infrastructure, mobile infrastructure and/or ad hoc modes of operation. This paper will present an introduction to threat model assessment. A definition and detailed discussion of a Tactical Network threat model is also presented. Finally, the model is used to derive baseline requirements that can be used to design or evaluate a cyber security solution that can be scaled and adapted to the needs of specific deployments.

Expanded Kill Chain Analysis of Manned-Unmanned Teaming for Future Strike Operations

Abstract: : This study explores the concept of manned-unmanned teaming in the context of the joint capability areas and investigates the expanded kill chain for a manned and unmanned team for future strike operations. The study first elucidated capabilities that can be realized by manned-unmanned teams. A design reference mission for a manned-unmanned team (strike) operation was developed, enabling operational activity and functional analysis of the expanded kill chain. Simulation models were built to examine the time-efficiencies of the manned-unmanned teaming concept. This research used insights from the results of the models to explore alternatives in asset generation and systems link-up tactics. The analysis of strike operations cycle times that include total mission operations time, airborne time, and time to complete systems link-up provided data to generate recommendations. Besides identifying areas on which to focus efficiency improvement efforts, this study also proposes tactics and concept of operations to enhance the effectiveness of strike operations by manned-unmanned teams. This study reveals that fighter endurance is a limiting factor in manned-unmanned operations and proposes a synchronized launch or pre-launch establishment of communications and datalink as possible ways to mitigate these limiting factors.

On-orbit technology demonstration and validation: methods and tools for mission, system and operations design

Abstract: The paper deals with the description of a methodology to properly perform space mission analysis and design, with particular attention to innovative technology demonstration/validation missions. Future human exploration programs point towards new and more challenging objectives, which require the development of new advanced systems and technologies. A system is considered flight-qualified if it has completed a demonstration mission in space environment. A general methodology for the analysis of in space demonstration/validation missions has been developed and all the relevant steps have been defined. The very first design step is Mission Statement and Objectives definition. A parallel activity is the stakeholders' expectations analysis, mainly based on identifying all mission's actors and their expectations, thus deriving additional objectives. The following step in the design process is the Requirements Definition. It derives from the interaction with Functional Analysis and Concept of Operations (ConOps) analysis. The Functional Analysis allows identifying physical components needed for mission's accomplishment. The ConOps analysis has the main scope of describing how the system is operated during life-cycle phases to meet stakeholders' expectations. The combination of these analyses allows assessing main mission and system requirements, which are then used for system architecture and budget evaluation. The process relies on the use of specific software tools, which provide useful means for the analyses integration giving also the chance to easily track and verify the results. The paper reports a detailed description of the methodology, as well as an example case study in order to provide a clearer understanding of the entire process. The analysed case refers to on-orbit validation of inflatable technology, which indeed is one of the most significant technologies to be developed for future human space missions to deep space targets. The demonstration mission is defined in details, with particular attention to operations, which indeed represent a crucial point for the execution of the tests for the inflatable in-orbit demonstration. Specifically, the reference mission relies on the exploitation of the ISS, where the inflatable demo is brought as part of a larger spacecraft, which also includes a propulsive service module and a rigid pressurised cargo module. The developed design methodology and the results obtained by the methodology application have been obtained in the framework of STEPS - 2 (Sistemi e Tecnologie per l'EsPlorazione Spaziale - Phase 2). STEPS - 2 is a research project co-founded by EU on the "Misura Piattaforme Innovative" - Phase 2 of POR FESR 2007/2013.

System Autonomy Modeling During Early Concept Definition

Abstract: The current rapid systems engineering design methods, such as AGILE, significantly reduce the development time. This results in the early availability of incremental capabilities, increases the importance of accelerating and effectively performing early concept trade studies. Current system autonomy assessment tools are level based and are used to provide the levels of autonomy attained during field trials. These tools have limited applicability in earlier design definition stages. An algorithmic system autonomy tool is needed to facilitate trade off studies, analyses of alternatives and concept of operations performed during those very early phases. We developed our contribution to such a tool and described it in this paper.

The Effectiveness of Remotely Piloted Aircraft in a Permissive Hunter-Killer Scenario

Abstract: : Remotely piloted aircraft (RPAs) notably the medium-altitude MQ-1 Predator and MQ-9 Reaper have provided crucial support to counterinsurgency and counterterrorism operations over the past decade. As these operations come to a close, the Air Force has begun to evaluate additional RPA concepts to meet future needs. In this report, we analyze the operational effectiveness of three RPA design concepts, plus the MQ-9 as a baseline, on a hunter-killer mission: to find and destroy a specific moving vehicle. All the findings in this report are based on the modeling results for a particular scenario (with variants) and should be understood within that context. Although our scenario is representative of many hunter-killer missions as they are executed today, it is not representative of others. It also relies on several crucial assumptions. Most important, the threat environment we modeled is permissive, meaning that there is negligible threat to the aircraft. This permits the use of concepts of operations (CONOPS) untempered by survivability concerns. In the particular scenario we considered, the initial cue for the target vehicle is urgent but imprecise, allowing only that the enemy is expected to emerge from hiding somewhere in a five nmi2 area within 15 minutes. Its ultimate destination is believed to be outside this area but is otherwise unknown. Finding the target vehicle before it leaves the area therefore necessitates a rapid, brute-force search. Because the area is not especially large, the search is not difficult but is complicated by environmental factors. The cued area is an urban environment, which constrains line of sight to steep viewing angles. Moreover, in many of the variants we considered, the RPA sensor operator is forced to contend with other effects detrimental to establishing and maintaining line of sight, including fog and clouds.

Private Public Cooperation for Hosted Payload Operations: the Alphasat Concept

Abstract: Alphasat, the first satellite based on the new Alphabus platform. was launched in July 2013. Built by a consortium led by Airbus Defense and Space, owned and operated by Inmarsat for a GEO-mobile mission, it carries on board four hosted payloads. These Technology Demonstration Payloads (TDPs) have been procured through ESA, and ESA is also responsible for their operations. Given the very different nature of the commercial primary mission of the satellite, and the scientific, experimental mission of its hosted payloads (the TDPs), an ad-hoc concept of operation has been devised. This concept needed primarily to consider that the commercial operator of the satellite had to include the new satellite into its fleet of multi-families (from different makers) satellites, controlled via a unified monitoring and control system (UMCS). The operations concept for the TDPs has been therefore designed to interface with the existing ground segment systems minimising (or avoiding wherever possible) the need for modifications. The resulting concept aims at making the activities of the TDPs de-coupled from, and transparent to the commercial operations execution. This has been achieved by establishing an upstream coordination and interfacing entity, capable of providing the required exchanges of data for in-flight operations, while minimizing the impact in the Inmarsat satellite control centre, both for the operations planning and the TDPs monitoring functions. . On the monitoring side, a relatively straightforward solution is identified; with the implementation of a “black-box” approach to TDPs operations, based on a non-interference basic rule. On the controlling side, the same approach is complicated by the need to provide consistent and consolidated operational requests to the commercial operator in line with the operations execution products (TC sequences, procedures, etc) validated in cooperation with the satellite manufacturer. In its first year of operations, Alphasat and its hosted payloads have been providing to Inmarsat and ESA, a still growing experience in designing and implementing the operations for hosted payloads, in a cooperative effort shared by all the (several) other actors involved.

Asteroid Redirect Crewed Mission Space Suit and EVA System Architecture Trade Study

Abstract: This paper discusses the Asteroid Redirect Crewed Mission (ARCM) space suit and Extravehicular Activity (EVA) architecture trade study and the current state of the work to mature the requirements and products to the mission concept review level. The mission requirements and the resulting concept of operations will be discussed. A historical context will be presented as to present the similarities and differences from previous NASA missions. That will set the stage for the trade study where all options for both pressure garment and life support were considered. The rationale for the architecture decisions will then be presented. Since the trade study did identity risks, the subsequent tests and analyses that mitigated the risks will be discussed. Lastly, the current state of the effort will be provided.

Unmanned aircraft systems: challenges and opportunities

Abstract: Unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) have been widely recognised as efficient platforms to perform surveillance and reconnaissance missions. The promising roles played by UAS in peace time missions coupled with their lower operating cost motivate the military world to evolve doctrines and concept of operations with UAS as the main elements in the future integrated network centric digital battlefield environment. This imposes several additional mission requirements for these UAS like high altitude long endurance surveillance, armed reconnaissance, automatic short/vertical take-off and landing, operating in civilian air space, miniaturized UAS, cooperative flight and higher autonomy eventually leading to unmanned combat aerial vehicles. This paper discusses the wide varieties of future roles expected from UAS, associated technological challenges and opportunities for aeronautical systems designers and the need for a national level programme to improve the technology readiness level of critical technologies.

An Overview of the Concept of Operations for Assembly, Integration, Testing and Ground Servicing Developed for the MPCV-ESM Propulsion System

Abstract: A concept of operations for the Assembly, Integration and Testing (AIT) and the Ground Systems Development Operations (GSDO) of the European Service Module (ESM) propulsion system has been developed. The AIT concept of operations covers all fabrication, integration and testing activities in both Europe and in the United States. The GSDO Program develops the facilities, equipment, and procedures for the loading of hypergolic propellants, the filling of high-pressure gases, and contingency de-servicing operations for the ESM. NASA and ESA along with the Lockheed Martin and Airbus Space and Defense are currently working together for the EM-1 and EM-2 missions in which the ESM will be flown as part of the Orion Multi-Purpose Crew Vehicle (MPCV). The NASA/ESA SM propulsion team is collaborating with the AIT personnel from ESA/Airbus and NASA/Lockheed Martin to ensure successful integration of the European designed Service Module propulsion system, the Lockheed Martin designed Crew Module Adapter and the heritage Space Shuttle Orbital Maneuvering System Engines (OMS-E) being provided as Government Furnished Equipment (GFE). This paper will provide an overview of the current AIT and GSDO concept of operations for the ESM propulsion system.

Evaluation of an Automated Taxi Concept in a Distributed Simulation Environment

Abstract: Taking into account the actual predictions for the growth of air traffic in Europe in the next 20 years, major hub airports will become more and more the bottlenecks in the overall air transport network. Amongst other factors, current taxi procedures and the dependency on airfield view for both, controllers and flight crews, have a large impact on an airport’s efficiency and capacity. The ROLF project (Rollfuhrung, Taxi Guidance), a sub-project of the research project iPort (Innovative Airport) within the scope of the German Aeronautical Research Program (LuFo IV), aimed at operational changes at airports to meet future requirements regarding the arising European airspace demand by introducing an increased level of automation. Following the project’s objectives, a concept of operations was developed by the ROLF partners that describes in detail the systems and procedures necessary for automated taxi operations. This paper focuses on a human-in-the-loop evaluation of the operational concept in order to investigate its feasibility and the general acceptance by its users from flight deck perspective. At first, the operational concept is introduced in the context of an Advanced Surface Movement Guidance and Control System (A-SMGCS). A simulation environment spatially distributed over multiple locations in Germany is described, which was the base for the evaluation study. Finally, the conducted simulation study and evaluation results are presented. Several positive effects with regard to automated taxi procedures were observed.

Nanosat employment: a theoretical CONOPS for space object identification

Abstract: : Space Situational Awareness and Space Object Identification are vital to discovering and assessing space-based threats. The current ground-based mission architecture and operational concept do not provide enough detailed information on space objects to give planners and strategists a true picture of the space order of battle. This thesis looks at the possibility of using space-based assets, based on the CubeSat standard, to perform these missions to a higher level of quality. How this system would be folded into the current space systems operational concept is analyzed, as well as some recommendations for further study.

History and Evolution of Metadata Standards for the FTI Community

Abstract: The paper discusses the history and background of metadata standards for the FTI community over the last 20 years and speculates on how they may develop in the future. It starts by highlighting the deficiencies of proprietary formats and the resulting problems. It then discusses the characteristics and features of specific industry standard metadata descriptions such as TMATS, iHAL, MDL and XidML in addition to their levels of maturity. The attributes of what constitutes a fully mature FTI metadata standard is then discussed. It is suggested that any standard must serve at least two functions, Configuration and Validation, and outlines what exactly each means. Finally, it is argued that there is now a significant level of convergence and consensus in both the scope and application of metadata, and in the associated concept of operations (ConOps). The details of this Concept of Operations are then discussed along with suggestions as to how this may evolve in the coming years.