Showing papers on "Concept of operations published in 2017"

Critical operations capabilities for competitive manufacturing : A systematic review

Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to investigate systematically the topic of operations capabilities within the operations strategy area. The output is a framework that will benefit researchers and firms to gain a more complete understanding of critical operations capabilities.,The research methodology is a systematic literature review. The aim of this study is to provide a snapshot of the diversity of studies being conducted in the field of operations capabilities, within the operations strategy area. In total, 157 papers were taken into consideration. Various operations capabilities were identified and synthesized in a conceptual framework.,The output of this paper is a conceptual framework of critical operations capabilities. Different operations capabilities and dimensions were identified in the literature. In total, seven dimensions were identified and included in the framework: cost, quality, delivery, flexibility, service, innovation, and environment.,This research was conducted through a systematic literature review. The framework presented in this paper provides a summary of critical operations capabilities, and in addition theoretical support for managers and firms wishing to formulate an operations strategy.,In general, this research sets the basis for managers and practitioners concerning the formulation of successful operations strategies. In the long term, a deeper understanding and shared knowledge about competitive priorities and operations capabilities can positively influence the success of firms.,This paper extends the theory by providing researchers and managers with updated knowledge on operations capabilities.

Extravehicular activity operations concepts under communication latency and bandwidth constraints

Abstract: The Biologic Analog Science Associated with Lava Terrains (BASALT) project is a multi-year program dedicated to iteratively develop, implement, and evaluate concepts of operations (ConOps) and supporting capabilities intended to enable and enhance human scientific exploration of Mars. This paper describes the planning, execution, and initial results from the first field deployment, referred to as BASALT-1, which consisted of a series of ten simulated extravehicular activities on volcanic flows in Idaho's Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve. The ConOps and capabilities deployed and tested during BASALT-1 were based on previous NASA trade studies and analog testing. Our primary research question was whether those ConOps and capabilities work acceptably when performing real (non-simulated) biological and geological scientific exploration under four different Mars-to-Earth communication conditions: 5 and 15 min one-way light time communication latencies and low (0.512 Mb/s uplink, 1.54 Mb/s downlink) and high (5.0 Mb/s uplink, 10.0 Mb/s downlink) bandwidth conditions, which represent two alternative technical communication capabilities currently proposed for future human exploration missions. The synthesized results, based on objective and subjective measures, from BASALT-1 established preliminary findings that the baseline ConOp, software systems, and communication protocols were scientifically and operationally acceptable with minor improvements desired by the “Mars” extravehicular and intravehicular crewmembers. However, unacceptable components of the ConOps and required improvements were identified by the “Earth” Mission Support Center. These data provide a basis for guiding and prioritizing capability development for future BASALT deployments and, ultimately, future human exploration missions.

Conceptual design of a crewed reusable space transportation system aimed at parabolic flights: stakeholder analysis, mission concept selection, and spacecraft architecture definition

Abstract: This paper proposes a methodology to derive architectures and operational concepts for future earth-to-orbit and sub-orbital transportation systems. In particular, at first, it describes the activity flow, methods, and tools leading to the generation of a wide range of alternative solutions to meet the established goal. Subsequently, the methodology allows selecting a small number of feasible options among which the optimal solution can be found. For the sake of clarity, the first part of the paper describes the methodology from a theoretical point of view, while the second part proposes the selection of mission concepts and of a proper transportation system aimed at sub-orbital parabolic flights. Starting from a detailed analysis of the stakeholders and their needs, the major objectives of the mission have been derived. Then, following a system engineering approach, functional analysis tools as well as concept of operations techniques allowed generating a very high number of possible ways to accomplish the envisaged goals. After a preliminary pruning activity, aimed at defining the feasibility of these concepts, more detailed analyses have been carried out. Going on through the procedure, the designer should move from qualitative to quantitative evaluations, and for this reason, to support the trade-off analysis, an ad-hoc built-in mission simulation software has been exploited. This support tool aims at estimating major mission drivers (mass, heat loads, manoeuverability, earth visibility, and volumetric efficiency) as well as proving the feasibility of the concepts. Other crucial and multi-domain mission drivers, such as complexity, innovation level, and safety have been evaluated through the other appropriate analyses. Eventually, one single mission concept has been selected and detailed in terms of layout, systems, and sub-systems, highlighting also logistic, safety, and maintainability aspects.

Small unmanned aircraft system (SUAS) automatic dependent surveillance-broadcast (ADS-B) like surveillance concept of operations: A path forward for small UAS surveillance

Abstract: Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (SUAS) are becoming more common in the National Airspace System (NAS). The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) forecasts SUAS growth to be over 2.69 million by 2020 [1]. The majority of these operations are expected to occur below 400 feet above ground level. Due to the clutter of SUAS operations, a surveillance system will likely be required to help SUAS operators avoid collisions with other aircraft and eventually, to help integrate these operations into the National Airspace. A concept for such a SUAS surveillance service is presented in this paper. A surveillance solution concept is proposed that leverages Automatic Dependent Surveillance — Broadcast (ADS-B) and Long Term Evolution (LTE) networks to provide ADS-B like services to SUAS. Using both networks enables surveillance coverage at low altitude that is able to be integrated with existing FAA surveillance services. This paper describes the need for a new SUAS surveillance service, a set of use cases for that service, and proposes a conceptual system solution, referred to as ‘Vigilant’. The Vigilant proposal includes the use of a new ADS-B frequency for air-to-air communications, a concept for leveraging the LTE network, and new surveillance message content specific to SUAS operations. Future research needs are discussed to expand on the concept, furthering the capability of the system to support SUAS operations. The Vigilant SUAS surveillance communication concept will enable the safe and efficient integration of SUAS into the NAS.

Risk of Adverse Health Outcomes and Decrements in Performance Due to In-flight Medical Conditions

Abstract: The drive to undertake long-duration space exploration missions at greater distances from Earth gives rise to many challenges concerning human performance under extreme conditions At NASA, the Human Research Program (HRP) has been established to investigate the specific risks to astronaut health and performance presented by space exploration, in addition to developing necessary countermeasures and technology to reduce risk and facilitate safer, more productive missions in space (NASA Human Research Program 2009) The HRP is divided into five subsections, covering behavioral health, space radiation, habitability, and other areas of interest Within this structure is the ExMC Element, whose research contributes to the overall development of new technologies to overcome the challenges of expanding human exploration and habitation of space The risk statement provided by the HRP to the ExMC Element states: "Given that medical conditions/events will occur during human spaceflight missions, there is a possibility of adverse health outcomes and decrements in performance in mission and for long term health" (NASA Human Research Program 2016) Within this risk context, the Exploration Medical Capabilities (ExMC) Element is specifically concerned with establishing evidenced-based methods of monitoring and maintaining astronaut health Essential to completing this task is the advancement in techniques that identify, prevent, and treat any health threats that may occur during space missions The ultimate goal of the ExMC Element is to develop and demonstrate a pathway for medical system integration into vehicle and mission design to mitigate the risk of medical issues Integral to this effort is inclusion of an evidence-based medical and data handling system appropriate for long-duration, exploration-class missions This requires a clear Concept of Operations, quantitative risk metrics or other tools to address changing risk throughout a mission, and system scoping and system engineering Because of the novel nature of the risks involved in exploration missions, new and complex ethical challenges are likely to be encountered This document describes the relevant background and evidence that informs the development of an exploration medical system

Systems Engineering for Space Exploration Medical Capabilities

Abstract: Human exploration missions to beyond low Earth orbit destinations such as Mars will present significant new challenges to crew health management during a mission compared to current low Earth orbit operations. For the medical system, lack of consumable resupply, evacuation opportunities, and real-time ground support are key drivers toward greater autonomy. Recognition of the limited mission and vehicle resources available to carry out exploration missions motivates the Exploration Medical Capability (ExMC) Element's approach to enabling the necessary autonomy. The Element's work must integrate with the overall exploration mission and vehicle design efforts to successfully provide exploration medical capabilities. ExMC is applying systems engineering principles and practices to accomplish its integrative goals. This paper discusses the structured and integrative approach that is guiding the medical system technical development. Assumptions for the required levels of care on exploration missions, medical system guiding principles, and a Concept of Operations are early products that capture and clarify stakeholder expectations. Mobel-Based Systems Engineering techniques are then applied to define medical system behavior and architecture. Interfaces to other flight and ground systems, and within the medical system are identified and defined. Initial requirements and traceability are established, which sets the stage for identification of future technology development needs. An early approach for verification and validation, taking advantage of terrestrial and near-Earth exploration system analogs, is also defined to further guide system planning and development.

Concept of Operations for RCO SPO

Abstract: Reduced crew operations (RCO) refers to the reduction of crew members flying long-haul or military operations with more than one pilot onboard. Single pilot operations (SPO) refers to flying a commercial transport aircraft with only one pilot on board the aircraft, assisted by advanced onboard automation andor ground operators providing piloting support services. Properly implemented, RCO/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 multi-dimensional design space. This paper presents key options for humanautomation function allocation being considered by NASA in its ongoing development of RCO/SPO ConOps.

Concept of Operations for Integrating Commercial Supersonic Transport Aircraft into the National Airspace System

Abstract: Several businesses and government agencies, including the National Aeronautics and Space Administration are currently working on solving key technological barriers that must be overcome in order to realize the vision of low-boom supersonic flights conducted over land However, once these challenges are met, the manner in which this class of aircraft is integrated in the National Airspace System may become a potential constraint due to the significant environmental, efficiency, and economic repercussions that their integration may cause This document was developed to create a path for research and development that exposes the benefits and barriers of seamlessly integrating a class of CSTs into the NAS, while also serving as a Concept of Operations (ConOps) which posits a mid- to far-term solution (2025-2035) concept for best integrating CST into the NAS Background research regarding historic supersonic operations in the National Airspace System, assumptions about design aspects and equipage of commercial supersonic transport (CST) aircraft, assumptions concerning the operational environment are described in this document Results of a simulation experiment to investigate the interactions between CST aircraft and modern-day air traffic are disseminated and are used to generate scenarios for CST operations Finally, technology needs to realize these operational scenarios are discussed

A Multi-Modality Mobility Concept for a Small Package Delivery UAV

Abstract: This paper will discuss a different approach to the typical notional small package delivery drone concept. Most delivery drone concepts employ a point-to-point aerial delivery CONOPS (Concept of Operations) from a warehouse directly to the front or back yards of a customers residence or a commercial office space. Instead, the proposed approach is somewhat analogous to current postal deliveries: a small aerial vehicle flies from a warehouse to designated neighborhood VTOL (Vertical Take-Off and Landing) landing spots where the aerial vehicle then converts to a "roadable" (ground-mobility) vehicle that then transits on sidewalks and/or bicycle paths till it arrives to the residence/office drop-off points. This concept and associated platform or vehicle will be referred in this paper as MICHAEL (Multimodal Intra-City Hauling and Aerial-Effected Logistics) concept. It is suggested that the MICHAEL concept potentially results in a more community friendly "delivery drone" approach.

The Investigation Human-Computer Interaction on Multiple Remote Tower Operations

Abstract: The aim of current research is to develop an effective human-computer interaction framework for multiple remote tower operations Five subject-matter experts familiar with multiple remote tower operations and human performance participated in current research The Hierarchical Task Analysis (HTA) method is used to break down activities, scenarios, and tasks into single separate operations The step by step breakdown of multiple remote tower operations included ATCO’s operational behaviors involving human-computer interaction such as interaction with EFS, OTW, RDP, and IDP during task performance were noted Designing and managing human-computer interactions require an understanding of the principles of cognitive systems, allocation of functions and team adaptation between human operators and computer interactions It is a holistic approach which considers distributed cognition coordination to rapidly changing situations The human-centred design of multiple remote tower operations shall be based on a strategic, collaborative and automated concept of operations, as the associated high performance of remote tower systems in conflict detection and resolution has the potential to increase both airspace efficiency and the safety of aviation The focus is on the human performance associated with new technology in the RTC and the supported tools used by an Air Traffic Control Officer, to ensure that these are used safely and efficiently to control aircraft both remotely and for multiple airports The advanced technology did provide sufficient technical supports to one ATCO performing a task originally designed to be performed by several ATCOs, however, the application of this new technology also induced huge workload on the single ATCO

Concept of Operations Development for Autonomous and Semi-Autonomous Swarm of Robotic Vehicles

Abstract: As robotic systems become more complex, new tools and methods are required for the design of human-robot interaction. A Concept of operations (ConOps) is a knowledge sharing artefact that help developers in early decision making and in requirement elicitation so that the final product can meet the demands and expectations. We present here an on-going effort to develop a ConOps for autonomous and semi-autonomous swarm of robotic vehicles for safety-critical domains. The ConOps of a robotic system consists of documents, illustrations and animations describing the characteristics and intended usage of proposed and existing system from the viewpoint of their users.

Application of Cognitive Work Analysis to System Analysis and Design

Abstract: This chapter introduces cognitive work analysis (CWA) in the context of system analysis and design. The benefits of CWA are realised when the framework is used to design new and first-of-a-kind systems. The five main phases of CWA such as work domain analysis [WDA], control task analysis [ConTA], strategies analysis [StrA], social organisation and cooperation analysis [SOCA] and worker competencies analysis [WCA] can feed supportive information into all aspects of system design. As a test case, CWA was applied to the Trafalgar-class power plant. The chapter explores the usefulness of the resultant products of the preliminary analyses, paying particular attention to its role in informing design decisions, in particular, those identified by early human factors analysis (EHFA): target audience description (TAD), concept of operations (CONOPS), function analysis, normal and emergency operations, allocation of function, workload assessment and training needs analysis and so on.

Envisioned Concept of Operations for Beyond Low-Earth Orbit: The Collaborative Decision Making Between Human and Cognitive Assistant

Abstract: This study discusses the envisioned concept of future space operations that includes the collaborative decision-making between humans and automation. Future mission objectives include flying beyond Low-Earth Orbit (LEO). Two major challenges for such operations include communication delays and off-nominal situations, where no procedures exist for the situation. Current space operations rely heavily on communication between Mission Control and space crew, but missions beyond LEO introduces communication delays that impact collaboration. To respond to off-nominal situations, the space crew will need real-time guidance and support to develop new procedural steps. However, communication delay will prevent Mission Control from providing real-time assistance. A Cognitive Assistant (CA) system could be developed to assist the space crew in these situations. A systematic approach was used to ground the development of envisioned collaboration between humans and an adaptive CA for space operations. This new approach extrapolates the domain knowledge of current space operations to future operations in the presence of communication delays. In the first phase of study, interviews with astronauts were performed to generate an Abstraction Hierarchy (AH) and a Decision Action Diagram (DAD) to define the cognitive functions performed by the space crew, Mission Control and on-board automation during the current operations. Functions that would be interrupted due to communications delay were identified as the breakpoints on DAD. This paper presents the envisioned concept of operations and the role of CA in space crew, based on the domain knowledge models developed under the first phase of this study.

Tailoring a ConOps for NASA LSP Integrated Operations

Abstract: An integral part of the Systems Engineering process is the creation of a Concept of Operations (ConOps) for a given system, with the ConOps initially established early in the system design process and evolved as the system definition and design matures. As Integration Engineers in NASA's Launch Services Program (LSP) at Kennedy Space Center (KSC), our job is to manage the interface requirements for all the robotic space missions that come to our Program for a Launch Service. LSP procures and manages a launch service from one of our many commercial Launch Vehicle Contractors (LVCs) and these commercial companies are then responsible for developing the Interface Control Document (ICD), the verification of the requirements in that document, and all the services pertaining to integrating the spacecraft and launching it into orbit. However, one of the systems engineering tools that have not been employed within LSP to date is a Concept of Operations. The goal of this paper is to research the format and content that goes into these various aerospace industry ConOps and tailor the format and content into template form, so the template may be used as an engineering tool for spacecraft integration with future LSP procured launch services. This tailoring effort was performed as the authors final Masters Project in the Spring of 2016 for the Stevens Institute of Technology and modified for publication with INCOSE (Owens, 2016).

Orbit Determination Strategy and Simulation Performance for OSIRIS-REx Proximity Operations

Abstract: The Origins Spectral Interpretation Resource Identification Security Regolith Explorer (OSIRISREx)is a NASA New Frontiers mission to the near-earth asteroid Bennu that will rendez vousin 2018, create a comprehensive and detailed set of observations over several years, collect a regolith sample, and return the sample to Earth in 2023. The Orbit Determination (OD) team isa sub-section of the Flight Dynamics System responsible for generating precise reconstructions and predictions of the spacecraft trajectory. The OD team processes radiometric data, LIDAR, as well as center-finding and landmark-based Optical Navigation images throughout the proximity operations phase to estimate and predict the spacecraft location within several meters. Stringent knowledge requirements stress the OD teams concept of operations and procedures to produce verified and consistent high quality solutions for observation planning, maneuver planning, and onboard sequencing. This paper will provide insight into the OD concept of operations and summarize the OD performance expected during the approach and early proximity operation phases,based on our pre-encounter knowledge of Bennu. Strategies and methods used to compare and evaluate predicted and reconstructed solutions are detailed. The use of high fidelity operational tests during early 2017 will stress the teams concept of operations and ability to produce precise OD solutions with minimal turn-around delay.

Hyper-spectral networking concept of operations and future air traffic management simulations

Abstract: The NASA sponsored Hyper-Spectral Communications and Networking for Air Traffic Management (ATM) (HSCNA) project is conducting research to improve the operational efficiency of the future National Airspace System (NAS) through diverse and secure multi-band, multi-mode, and millimeter-wave (mmWave) wireless links. Worldwide growth of air transportation and the coming of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) will increase air traffic density and complexity. Safe coordination of aircraft will require more capable technologies for communications, navigation, and surveillance (CNS). The HSCNA project will provide a foundation for technology and operational concepts to accommodate a significantly greater number of networked aircraft. This paper describes two of the project's technical challenges. The first technical challenge is to develop a multi-band networking concept of operations (ConOps) for use in multiple phases of flight and all communication link types. This ConOps will integrate the advanced technologies explored by the HSCNA project and future operational concepts into a harmonized vision of future NAS communications and networking. The second technical challenge discussed is to conduct simulations of future ATM operations using multi-band/multi-mode networking and technologies. Large-scale simulations will assess the impact, compared to today's system, of the new and integrated networks and technologies under future air traffic demand.

Initial Concept of Operations for Full Management by Trajectory

Abstract: This document describes Management by Trajectory (MBT), a concept for future air traffic management (ATM) in which flights are assigned four-dimensional trajectories (4DTs) through a negotiation process between the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and flight operators that respects the flight operator's goals while complying with National Airspace System (NAS) constraints.

Design Process of a Reusable Space Tug Based on a Model Based Approach

Abstract: In the last years, space agencies are showing an increasing interest in space tug systems concept for a large range of future applications. The space tug is a spacecraft able to transfer payloads from Low Earth Orbit (LEO) to higher operational orbits. It allows the reduction of the spacecraft mass because some subsystems decrease in term of complexity (i.e the propulsion system), and the improvement of the spacecraft payload/platform ratio. The present paper deals with the design of a space tug involved in on-orbit satellite servicing missions. The design process is led following a proposed Model Based System Engineering (MBSE) tool-chain. This solution allows an effective classification, traceability and verifiability of requirements among the various phases of the design process, combining the main features of specific tools and software, such as Doors, Rhapsody, and Simulink. The crucial point is to guarantee by automatic exchange of information and models among the different phase of the product life cycle. The paper shows the design at different levels: mission and stakeholders analyses, functional analysis, concept of operations, the space tug logical and physical architectures and the sizing of the main on board subsystem. The details of the recursive process of requirements definition is provided highlighting how they derive from the mission scenario, the mission architecture, the concept of operations and the functional analysis and, in general, how the proposed sequence of tools simplifies and gives effectiveness to the design.

The Concept of Activity of Contemporary Political Movements in Ukraine

Abstract: The article presents our own concept of operation for the newly formed Ukrainian political movements, which, in our opinion, can offer comprehensive solutions to their basic problems and will become a precondition for establishing their systemic cooperation The concept we developed includes the following components: the main tasks of the movement, requirements for its activities, structured field of activity, organisational structure of the movement, methodology of its operations, and the technological operation process of the movement

On the Implementation of a European Space Traffic Management System II. The Safety and Reliability Strategy.

Abstract: This is the second (Paper II) in a mini series of three papers that summarise the final results from an evaluation study which DLR GfR and its partners conducted on behalf of ESA. The objective of this study was to generate a roadmap for the implementation of a European Space Traffic Management (STM) system within the next two decades under consideration of an evolving Air Traffic Management (ATM) system. In Paper I (Tullmann et al. 2017a) we demonstrated that collision risks do not prevent suborbital space flights from the very beginning. We provided proof of concept that this kind of travel is generally possible, provided significant advances in heat and collision shielding technologies can be achieved. Potential technical, conceptual and organisational setups in response to Europe’s STM needs were discussed, focussing on technology and infrastructure development, Space Debris, Space Surveillance & Tracking, Space Weather Monitoring and ATM and STM integration. The initial roadmap was presented showing that the European STM system could become operational in the 2030 – 2035 time frame. Finally, the Top 10 STM-related issues were identified that need to be solved on EU and UN level. In Paper II, we now cover the relevant Safety & Reliability (S&R) aspects which should be reflected in a STM concept of operations. In this context relevant contributors to unsafe operations and hazardous events as well as the parties at risk are identified. Safety Management Systems in aviation business are investigated in order to check to what extent their S&R concepts and good-practices are applicable to STM operations. An initial Risk Classification Scheme for STM purposes is presented and has been applied to classify the Space Weather risks identified in Paper I. Initial values for the acceptable levels of safety for spaceplane occupants and for third parties at risk are presented and the hazards originating from re-entering objects and airspace sharing are discussed. Paper II finishes with the outline of the envisaged Space Navigation Service Provider (SNSP) certification process. This mini series of papers is concluded by Paper III (Tullmann et al. 2017c) in which we provide initial system and S&R requirements, constraints and recommendations that should be considered for a European STM setup.

A hitchhiker's guide to an ISS experiment in under 9 months.

Abstract: The International Space Station National Laboratory gives students a platform to conduct space-flight science experiments. To successfully take advantage of this opportunity, students and their mentors must have an understanding of how to develop and then conduct a science project on international space station within a school year. Many factors influence the speed in which a project progresses. The first step is to develop a science plan, including defining a hypothesis, developing science objectives, and defining a concept of operation for conducting the flight experiment. The next step is to translate the plan into well-defined requirements for payload development. The last step is a rapid development process. Included in this step is identifying problems early and negotiating appropriate trade-offs between science and implementation complexity. Organizing the team and keeping players motivated is an equally important task, as is employing the right mentors. The project team must understand the flight experiment infrastructure, which includes the international space station environment, payload resource requirements and available components, fail-safe operations, system logs, and payload data. Without this understanding, project development can be impacted, resulting in schedule delays, added costs, undiagnosed problems, and data misinterpretation. The information and processes for conducting low-cost, rapidly developed student-based international space station experiments are presented, including insight into the system operations, the development environment, effective team organization, and data analysis. The details are based on the Valley Christian Schools (VCS, San Jose, CA) fluidic density experiment and penicillin experiment, which were developed by 13- and 14-year-old students and flown on ISS.

Medical System Concept of Operations for Mars Exploration Missions

Abstract: Future exploration missions will be the first time humanity travels beyond Low Earth Orbit (LEO) since the Apollo program, taking us to cis-lunar space, interplanetary space, and Mars. These long-duration missions will cover vast distances, severely constraining opportunities for emergency evacuation to Earth and cargo resupply opportunities. Communication delays and blackouts between the crew and Mission Control will eliminate reliable, real-time telemedicine consultations. As a result, compared to current LEO operations onboard the International Space Station, exploration mission medical care requires an integrated medical system that provides additional in-situ capabilities and a significant increase in crew autonomy. The Medical System Concept of Operations for Mars Exploration Missions illustrates how a future NASA Mars program could ensure appropriate medical care for the crew of this highly autonomous mission. This Concept of Operations document, when complete, will document all mission phases through a series of mission use case scenarios that illustrate required medical capabilities, enabling the NASA Human Research Program (HRP) Exploration Medical Capability (ExMC) Element to plan, design, and prototype an integrated medical system to support human exploration to Mars.

Concept of operations for test cost analytics in complex manufacturing environments

Abstract: Manufacturing cost (assembly, test, and rework) necessarily comprises a significant portion of overall system cost in complex engineering and manufacturing environments. Test cost alone can represent 30% of overall cost. Recognizing that both business growth and competitive advantage increase with reduced cost, a question becomes how to organize systems, processes, and personnel effectively to reduce cost. This paper describes the concept of operations used to organize one analytics group in the Engineering Systems Test directorate of Raytheon Missile Systems specifically to achieve the goal of reducing test cost for its complex high-mix low-volume manufacturing environment. The group has been in operation for over 18 months, and the paper provides a concrete example of how organizations can consider deploying analytic resources to achieve specific goals. This paper — and the group and applications it describes — represents one point on a spectrum of possibilities for organizations to increase their test-related analytics bandwidth, and the paper includes enough detail so the approach can be appropriately scrutinized as a model.

A Concept of Operations for Deploying a Mobile Transit Fare Collection App

Abstract: To enhance riders’ experiences and to attract new riders, many transit agencies are offering a variety of mobile apps that make trip planning and real-time information easy to access from any place at any time. A growing number of agencies are adding a mobile fare payment and ticketing option to the suite of mobile apps offered to their riders. Not only does this form of ticketing cater to current and potential future riders but also offers the agencies another option for marketing and data collection while increasing system efficiency by reducing the costs of collecting fares. This paper presents a basic concept of operations (ConOps) for use by transit agencies that are considering the addition of a mobile ticketing application to their fare collection system. The ConOps was developed based on lessons learned from five transit agencies (representing five different vendors) in various stages of mobile fare deployment. The ConOps details the customer-facing and fare-inspecting apps, the reporting and backend system, financial processing, roles and responsibilities of agency staff, and estimated timeline and budget, and marketing and training efforts. One of the key findings is that marketing was considered vital to the success of the effort. Additionally, transit agencies are encouraged to investigate the vendor’s references. The ownership of data as well as the ability to make future changes to the app should not be overlooked. Agencies are also advised to conduct sufficient beta testing to work out any glitches before full deployment. If an agency elected to conduct a pilot before full deployment, a suggested pilot evaluation plan is included in the paper. Georggi, Brakewood, Barbeau, and Joslin Page 3 INTRODUCTION This paper presents a basic concept of operations (ConOps) for use by transit agencies that are considering the addition of a mobile ticketing application to their fare collection system. The ConOps was developed based on lessons learned from five transit agencies (representing five different vendors) in various stages of deployment of a mobile ticketing app. The ConOps details the customer-facing and fare-inspecting apps, the reporting and backend system, financial processing, roles and responsibilities of agency staff, and estimated timeline and budget, and marketing and training efforts. The first section provides a brief discussion on the value of exchanging lessons learned among transit agencies. The review also briefly presents types of mobile fare payment technologies in the field. The study background section includes some of the lessons learned from interviewing five transit agencies that were in different stages of deployment. A detailed discussion of the ConOps is presented to inform transit agencies on elements to consider when planning a mobile fare system. If an agency elected to conduct a pilot before full deployment, a suggested pilot evaluation plan is included in the paper. Finally, a summary and conclusions section discusses tips to consider when deploying a mobile fare payment system. MOBILE TICKETING: A PERSPECTIVE FROM A SURVEY OF TRANSIT AGENCIES The use of smart phones has drastically transformed society over the past decade becoming an integral part of everyday life, including travel. An April 2016 report articulates what transport professionals have been anticipating with more transportation-related mobile apps being developed and utilized at a fast pace (1). The report offers an overview of apps that have been transforming travel mobility options, identifies challenges, and provides guiding principles for public agencies. Public transit apps are defined in the report as “apps that enable the user to search public transit routes, schedules, near-term arrival predictions, and connections. These apps may also include a ticketing feature, thereby providing the traveler with easier booking and payment for public transit services.” With the exception of a ticketing app, the transit agency can release its route and schedule data in an open-format that allows third-party developers to offer apps that can be used by riders freely. Because a ticketing app involves financial transactions between the rider and the agency, it is a more complex effort for a transit agency to support. Transit agencies considering the inclusion of mobile ticketing to their fare collection system can benefit from experiences of other agencies that have gone through the experience. The importance of collecting and disseminating lessons learned from experiences of others was emphasized in the responses of a survey that was conducted by the authors in September 2015 (2). The survey was part of an effort to gather data from the 41 transit agencies in the state of Florida, (response rate was 37.5%). A link to surveymonkey.com was sent out via email to a list of Florida transit planners and to the Florida Operators Network listserv. Survey questions sought to assess the level of interest and involvement in mobile fare payments systems by these agencies. One element of the survey investigated the reasons agencies were considering mobile fare payment systems. The majority of responding transit agencies looked at mobile fare payment as a way to help with streamlining fare payment as well as a tool for deploying real-time information and other services as part of the fare payment app. In response to a question researching mobile fare payment options, in order of importance, the following resources were perceived helpful: Georggi, Brakewood, Barbeau, and Joslin Page 4 (a) the cost of a mobile fare system, (b) specifications and case studies, and (c) examples of requests for proposal. This paper fulfils this need by providing lessons learned from other agencies and guidance in planning for a ticketing app. OVERVIEW OF TRANSIT MOBILE FARE PAYMENTS APPS There are four main types of mobile ticketing applications currently available in the market, which can be classified as (1) visually validated, (2) machine-readable twodimensional QR Codes, (3) Near Field Communications, and (4) Bluetooth Low Energy. Type 1: Visually Validated Ticket A visually validated ticket is inspected by a transit agency employee to confirm the customer has purchased the appropriate fare (3). It typically contains a visual validation security feature such as animations, countdown, or a “color-of-the-day” to prevent users from creating fraudulent electronic tickets through screenshots or other means. Visual validation does not require any real-time communication with the transit vehicle or backend servers, and therefore requires no additional equipment onboard the vehicle or at a station; thus an attractive, cost-effective first step towards implementing a mobile ticketing solution, see Figure 1. Type 2: Machine-readable two-dimensional Quick Response (QR) code Some mobile apps offer both visual validation and QR Code features so the ticket can be validated visually by agency staff at locations where QR Code readers are not available, but QR Codes can also still be validated via a scan where readers are available, see Figure 1. Mobile ticketing apps using visual and QR Code validation are software based and are relatively easy to deploy since they require limited hardware upgrades and integration into existing systems. Riders download the ticketing app, create an account, and add credit or debit card numbers to fund their ticket purchase (4). Verification of QR Codes requires the installation of a QR Code reading (i.e., scanning) device at a station or on-board a vehicle. It also requires real-time communication with a server to verify if a ticket is valid, which means a wireless connection (WiFi or cellular) must also be available. As a result, deployments utilizing QR Codes are more expensive than a simple visual validation system. Depending on the equipment (reader, wireless connection, and mobile device), QR Code validation when the user is boarding the vehicle can also be more time-consuming than visual verification. The device screen must be bright enough to be scanned (including shielding from any other light sources such as outdoor sunlight that may reduce screen contrast), and the device and QR Code on the screen must be properly oriented in relationship to the scanner. However, QR Code verification potentially provides the agency significantly more data about how a rider is using purchased electronic tickets. Each QR code verification can be tied back to a particular rider as well as the particular pass they purchased. It could also allow the agency to collect very detailed data about where users are boarding (and potentially alighting, if scanning is performed upon exiting the vehicle) public transportation over time, and the relationship to ticket purchases. Georggi, Brakewood, Barbeau, and Joslin Page 5 Figure 1: QR Ticket Sample from Masabi and Onboard Ticket Validators and NFC Technology from ACCESS-IS Type 3: Near Field Communication (NFC) NFC is a standards-based wireless communication technology that allows data to be exchanged between devices that are a few centimeters apart. In a public transportation environment, users pay via NFC by “tapping” their device on an NFC reader installed at a station or on-board a vehicle. Although NFC contactless mobile payment transaction volume is currently low, it is expected to increase with broader availability of NFC-enabled smart phones and increased consumer awareness of mobile wallets such as Apple Pay and Android Pay. NFC technology is well suited for gated fare schemes particularly because of the faster read-speed NFC affords versus QR Codes, which benefit large transit systems with a high Georggi, Brakewood, Barbeau, and Joslin Page 6 volume of transactions. NFC technology is in the planning stages at several U.S. transit agencies including the Chicago Transit Authority via the Ventra app. QR Codes do have one advantage over NFC; they can be shown on any device’s screen and do not re

Concept of Operations (CONOPS)

Abstract: The Concept of Operations (ConOps) is a user-oriented document that describes the characteristics for a proposed automated system or an information technology (IT) situation (e.g., Enterprise Email System or Enterprise Data Center Initiative) from the viewpoint of any individual or organization who will use the proposed automated system or situation in their daily work activities or who will operate or interact directly with the automated system or situation. The ConOps is used to communicate overall quantitative and qualitative system or situation characteristics to the Business Owner(s)/Partner(s), Users, System Developer(s), and other organizational elements (e.g., CMS Information Technology Investment Review Board (ITIRB), Executive Steering Committee (ESC), and Office of Information Services (OIS)) to achieve understanding and buy-in. The ConOps is prepared in conjunction with the Business Case Analysis (BCA) to describe the user organization(s), mission(s), and organizational objectives for a proposed system or situation from an integrated systems point of view, whereas the BCA describes the proposed system or situation from an investment point of view.

Designing air traffic concepts of operation for thin-haul aviation at small airports

Abstract: Thin-haul aviation offers the potential for transforming mobility. The thin-haul commuter concept envisions four to nine passenger aircraft operating very short flights for scheduled and/or on-demand air services from smaller airports. However, achieving safe, cost-effective, and high-volume operations will require novel air traffic management concepts integrating these thin-haul aircraft into existing operations, particularly at small airports. This paper describes a process to design such air traffic concepts of operations. The process is demonstrated by designing concept of operations applying helical descents at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, the site of the EAA AirVenture air show. The process includes both the design of the geometric airspace structures and the actions that represent the work that needs to be done in the concept of operations.