Downloads & Free Reading Options - Results

This thesis evaluated the requirement and provides course improvement recommendations forTelecommunications Systems Engineering EO3502 taught at the Naval Postgraduate School Other graduate programs in Information Technology Management were evaluated to determine the standard for telecommunications engineering expected from some of the most respected academic institutions. Graduates of NPS's Information Technology Management (ITM) and Information Systems andOperations (ISO) curriculums were surveyed to determine how important telecommunicationsengineering is for their follow-on assignments. In addition, lesson topic vignettes were developed toprovide fleet/field examples to reinforce the relevance if individual topics. Finally, recommendationswere provided for improving EO3502 and the ITM curriculum in general.

This thesis evaluated the requirement and provides course improvement recommendations forTelecommunications Systems Engineering EO3502 taught at the Naval Postgraduate School Other graduate programs in Information Technology Management were evaluated to determine the standard for telecommunications engineering expected from some of the most respected academic institutions. Graduates of NPS's Information Technology Management (ITM) and Information Systems andOperations (ISO) curriculums were surveyed to determine how important telecommunicationsengineering is for their follow-on assignments. In addition, lesson topic vignettes were developed toprovide fleet/field examples to reinforce the relevance if individual topics. Finally, recommendationswere provided for improving EO3502 and the ITM curriculum in general.

This thesis evaluated the requirement and provides course improvement recommendations forTelecommunications Systems Engineering EO3502 taught at the Naval Postgraduate School Other graduate programs in Information Technology Management were evaluated to determine the standard for telecommunications engineering expected from some of the most respected academic institutions. Graduates of NPS's Information Technology Management (ITM) and Information Systems andOperations (ISO) curriculums were surveyed to determine how important telecommunicationsengineering is for their follow-on assignments. In addition, lesson topic vignettes were developed toprovide fleet/field examples to reinforce the relevance if individual topics. Finally, recommendationswere provided for improving EO3502 and the ITM curriculum in general.

The detailed cost estimate documentation for the designs prepared in this study are presented. The include: (1) Koppers-Totzek, (2) Texaco (3) Babcock and Wilcox, (4) BGC-Lurgi, and (5) Lurgi. The alternate product cost estimates include: (1) Koppers-Totzek and Texaco single product facilities (methane, methanol, gasoline, hydrogen), (2) Kopers-Totzek SNG and MBG, (3) Kopers-Totzek and Texaco SNG and MBG, and (4) Lurgi-methane and Lurgi-methane and methanol.

Major developments are examined which have taken place to date in the analysis of the power and energy demands on the APU/Hydraulic/Actuator Subsystem for space shuttle during the entry-to-touchdown (not including rollout) flight regime. These developments are given in the form of two subroutines which were written for use with the Space Shuttle Functional Simulator. The first subroutine calculates the power and energy demand on each of the three hydraulic systems due to control surface (inboard/outboard elevons, rudder, speedbrake, and body flap) activity. The second subroutine incorporates the R. I. priority rate limiting logic which limits control surface deflection rates as a function of the number of failed hydraulic. Typical results of this analysis are included, and listings of the subroutines are presented in appendicies.

Case Studies are a new tool that brings Systems Engineering practice to the classroom. They can serve as a base to emphasize the effect of decisions and evolve to a more complex world. As a teaching tool in the area of Program Management the illustrate ways for all disciplines to operate in the Systems Engineering process. They highlight the importance of skills from multiple functional areas, including multiple engineering disciplines.

A work breakdown structure (WBS) is presented which encompasses the multiple facets (hardware, software, services, and other tasks) of the coal gasification program. The WBS is shown to provide the basis for the following: management and control; cost estimating; budgeting and reporting; scheduling activities; organizational structuring; specification tree generation; weight allocation and control; procurement and contracting activities; and serves as a tool for program evaluation.

A work breakdown structure (WBS) is presented which encompasses the multiple facets (hardware, software, services, and other tasks) of the coal gasification program. The WBS is shown to provide the basis for the following: management and control; cost estimating; budgeting and reporting; scheduling activities; organizational structuring; specification tree generation; weight allocation and control; procurement and contracting activities; and serves as a tool for program evaluation.

The major design related features of each generic plant system were characterized in a catalog. Based on the catalog and requirements data, approximately 17 designs and cost estimates were developed for MBG and alternate products. A series of generic trade studies was conducted to support all of the design studies. A set of cost and programmatic analyses were conducted to supplement the designs. The cost methodology employed for the design and sensitivity studies was documented and implemented in a computer program. Plant design and construction schedules were developed for the K-T, Texaco, and B&W MBG plant designs. A generic work breakdown structure was prepared, based on the K-T design, to coincide with TVA's planned management approach. An extensive set of cost sensitivity analyses was completed for K-T, Texaco, and B&W design. Product price competitiveness was evaluated for MBG and the alternate products. A draft management policy and procedures manual was evaluated. A supporting technology development plan was developed to address high technology risk issues. The issues were identified and ranked in terms of importance and tractability, and a plan developed for obtaining data or developing technology required to mitigate the risk.

The major design related features of each generic plant system were characterized in a catalog. Based on the catalog and requirements data, approximately 17 designs and cost estimates were developed for MBG and alternate products. A series of generic trade studies was conducted to support all of the design studies. A set of cost and programmatic analyses were conducted to supplement the designs. The cost methodology employed for the design and sensitivity studies was documented and implemented in a computer program. Plant design and construction schedules were developed for the K-T, Texaco, and B&W MBG plant designs. A generic work breakdown structure was prepared, based on the K-T design, to coincide with TVA's planned management approach. An extensive set of cost sensitivity analyses was completed for K-T, Texaco, and B&W design. Product price competitiveness was evaluated for MBG and the alternate products. A draft management policy and procedures manual was evaluated. A supporting technology development plan was developed to address high technology risk issues. The issues were identified and ranked in terms of importance and tractability, and a plan developed for obtaining data or developing technology required to mitigate the risk.

XI, 210 str. : 24 cm +

This investigative study demonstrates the benefits of addressing human considerations early in the system development life cycle that will bring long-term benefit to program managers and systems engineers. The approach used a retrospective content analysis of documents from weapon systems acquisition programs, namely Major Defense Acquisition Programs. Binary logistic regression analyses were conducted to predict the effect of the presence of words relating to Human Systems Integration on the success of programs. This investigative study corroborates the idea that some benefit maybe derived from implementing Human Systems Integration during the weapon systems acquisition life cycle.

Luk’yanova, L. M. (2006). Logical problems of systems analysis of organization-and-engineering systems and main ways to solve them. Cybernetics and Systems Analysis, 42(3), 426–432. doi:10.1007/s10559-006-0080-9 ---- Also see: Norbert Wiener Karl Wolfgang Deutsch Organization and Engineering Systems (OES), Cybernetics, Water-Energy Nexus, U.S. Global Change Research Program

Luk’yanova, L. M. (2006). Logical problems of systems analysis of organization-and-engineering systems and main ways to solve them. Cybernetics and Systems Analysis, 42(3), 426–432. doi:10.1007/s10559-006-0080-9 ---- Also see: Norbert Wiener Karl Wolfgang Deutsch Organization and Engineering Systems (OES), Cybernetics, Water-Energy Nexus, U.S. Global Change Research Program

The objective was to provide expertise in the areas of strategic planning, systems engineering, and facilitating effective communication techniques. Research and analysis of the strengths and weaknesses of the Production Engineering Division was conducted. A Skills Inventory List was generated to aid in developing a training/education program and to identify expertise and knowledge within PED. A systems survey was developed which included a loose assessment of the CMMI and given throughout the directorate. An analysis detailing the weaknesses and strengths of the systems engineering effort and where in the organization those strengths and weaknesses resided was conducted. A meeting was held to give a brief overview of Produciblity Engineering to PED personnel.

Report identifies data elements of a generic nature of an armored vehicle (main battle tank), which cover critical human factors engineering interests and parameters regarding the tank. Report also sets out a methodology for collecting or obtaining the identified data elements. In Volume II, III, and IV are respectively reported collected human factors data elements for three tanks, as follows: British Centurion, British Chieftain, and French AMX 13. (Author)

This handbook treats the braking of motor vehicles such as passenger cars, trucks, and trailers. No attempt has been made to address fully the braking of specialty vehicles. However, the engineering relationships presented can be applied to the analysis of any automotive braking system, including those of tanks and special carriers. The text is structured so that it can be used by junior engineers with a minimum of supervision provided by a senior engineer. Chapters 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 present the analysis of brake system components and should provide sufficient detail for the computations required for the analysis of entire brake systems. Chapter 7 and those that follow address the analysis and design of the brake system of motor vehicles including the computation of partial braking performance with the brake system in a failed condition. The examples in Chapter 14 are presented in considerable detail to provide the engineer with insight into the methodology used in solving brake problems. A brief description of brake system hardware is provided in Chapter 15 for the engineer not fully familiar with the functioning of various brake system components.

This thesis presents an effective methodology and tool set, that explicitly considers technological uncertainty, to enable design, development, and assessment of alternative system concept architectures for an autonomous unmanned surface vessel (USV) in a system of systems (SoS) context. Complex system designs often fail due to poor communication of customer needs and inadequate understanding of the overall problem. This frequently results in the design team missing the mark in transforming requirements into a successful conceptual design. Effective system design requires a defined, flexible, and structured context within which new technological ideas can be judged. Alternative physical architectures are then modeled, simulated, and compared to find the \"best\" solution for further examination. This thesis uses model-based systems engineering (MBSE) principles to develop a multi-criteria decision making (MCDM) model that allows designers to perform a solution neutral investigation of possible alternative physical architecture concepts. This ensures a consistent quantitative evaluation of warfighting capability, suitability, effectiveness, technology maturation, and risk before and during a program execution. This effort is in support of an extended program to design a system of unmanned systems intended to provide the DoD with a coordinated, multi-domain, multi-mission, autonomous security and warfighting asset.

This effort is directed at improving and extending the SSN CSE/A evaluation models dealing with three areas of SSN performance including: (1) SSN effectiveness in a moving barrier mission; (2) SSN effectiveness in an area clearance mission; (3) SSN effectiveness in multiple engagement scenarios. This report documents the results of the effort up to the time when the task was terminated due to funding cutbacks. The barrier model was complete in its development except for the testing of the model which was ongoing. The area clearance algorithm was developed but the model necessary for generation of results was not completed. No work was performed on multiple engagement effectiveness.

This thesis reports on an effort to design and implement a modern interactive computer-aided design and analysis package for control systems. This package applies to discrete and continuous time systems. The thesis effort continues the effort begun by Captain Glen T. Logan who used a control engineering design and analysis computer program called TOTAL as his starting point. This thesis project uses top-down structured analysis and programming techniques to define the new program called ICECAP (Interactive Control Engineering Computer Analysis Package). A user-oriented command language forms the basic structure. of ICECAP. On-line assistance is provided to the user. The program makes use of CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) terminals with a limited graphics capability to improve the user environment. The program structure allows features to be added in a modular fashion so that others can continue the effort. Emphasis was placed on implementing the continuous time functions first. (Author)

The assembly, emplacement, checkout, operation, and maintenance of equipment on planetary surfaces are all part of expanding human presence out into the solar system. A single point design, a reference scenario, is presented for lunar base operations. An initial base, barely more than an output, which starts from nothing but then quickly grows to sustain people and produce rocket propellant. The study blended three efforts: conceptual design of all required surface systems; assessments of contemporary developments in robotics; and quantitative analyses of machine and human tasks, delivery and work schedules, and equipment reliability. What emerged was a new, integrated understanding of hot to make a lunar base happen. The overall goal of the concept developed was to maximize return, while minimizing cost and risk. The base concept uses solar power. Its primary industry is the production of liquid oxygen for propellant, which it extracts from native lunar regolith. Production supports four lander flights per year, and shuts down during the lunar nighttime while maintenance is performed.

Successful application of software engineering methodologies requires an integrated analysis and design life-cycle in which the various phases flow smoothly 'seamlessly' from analysis through design to implementation. Furthermore, different analysis methodologies often lead to different structuring of the system so that the transition from analysis to design may be awkward depending on the design methodology to be used. This is especially important when object-oriented programming is to be used for implementation when the original specification and perhaps high-level design is non-object oriented. Two approaches to real-time systems analysis which can lead to an object-oriented design are contrasted: (1) modeling the system using structured analysis with real-time extensions which emphasizes data and control flows followed by the abstraction of objects where the operations or methods of the objects correspond to processes in the data flow diagrams and then design in terms of these objects; and (2) modeling the system from the beginning as a set of naturally occurring concurrent entities (objects) each having its own time-behavior defined by a set of states and state-transition rules and seamlessly transforming the analysis models into high-level design models. A new concept of a 'real-time systems-analysis object' is introduced and becomes the basic building block of a series of seamlessly-connected models which progress from the object-oriented real-time systems analysis and design system analysis logical models through the physical architectural models and the high-level design stages. The methodology is appropriate to the overall specification including hardware and software modules. In software modules, the systems analysis objects are transformed into software objects.

The QR computer program is described as well as its use in classical control systems analysis and synthesis (root locus, time response, and frequency response).

NAS 1.26:2861 Digitized from IA1177305-01-0051 , IA1177305-01-0052 , IA1177305-01-0053 .

This report contains project summaries of the research projects in the Institute for Defense Systems Engineering and Analysis (IDSEA), Institute for Information Superiority and Innovation (1251) and The Modeling, Virtual Environments and Simulation (MOVES) Institute. A list of recent publications is also included, which consists of conference presentations and publications, books, contributions to books, published journal papers, and technical reports. Thesis abstracts of students advised by faculty in the Department are also included.

Space Transportation Avionics hardware and software cost has traditionally been estimated in Phase A and B using cost techniques which predict cost as a function of various cost predictive variables such as weight, lines of code, functions to be performed, quantities of test hardware, quantities of flight hardware, design and development heritage, complexity, etc. The output of such analyses has been life cycle costs, economic benefits and related data. The major objectives of Cost Estimation and Benefits analysis are twofold: (1) to play a role in the evaluation of potential new space transportation avionics technologies, and (2) to benefit from emerging technological innovations. Both aspects of cost estimation and technology are discussed here. The role of cost analysis in the evaluation of potential technologies should be one of offering additional quantitative and qualitative information to aid decision-making. The cost analyses process needs to be fully integrated into the design process in such a way that cost trades, optimizations and sensitivities are understood. Current hardware cost models tend to primarily use weights, functional specifications, quantities, design heritage and complexity as metrics to predict cost. Software models mostly use functionality, volume of code, heritage and complexity as cost descriptive variables. Basic research needs to be initiated to develop metrics more responsive to the trades which are required for future launch vehicle avionics systems. These would include cost estimating capabilities that are sensitive to technological innovations such as improved materials and fabrication processes, computer aided design and manufacturing, self checkout and many others. In addition to basic cost estimating improvements, the process must be sensitive to the fact that no cost estimate can be quoted without also quoting a confidence associated with the estimate. In order to achieve this, better cost risk evaluation techniques are needed as well as improved usage of risk data by decision-makers. More and better ways to display and communicate cost and cost risk to management are required.

The scope of work in preparing the Coal Gasification Data Catalog included the following subtasks: (1) candidate system subsystem definition, (2) raw materials analysis, (3) market analysis for by-products, (4) alternate products analysis, (5) preliminary integrated facility requirements. Definition of candidate systems/subsystems includes the identity of and alternates for each process unit, raw material requirements, and the cost and design drivers for each process design.

The study of the production of methane, methanol, gasoline, and hydrogen by an add-on facility to a Koppers-Totzek based MBG plant is presented. Applications to a Texaco facility are inferred by evaluation of delta effects from the K-T cases. The production of methane from an add-on facility to a Lurgi based MBG plant and the co-production of methane and methanol from a Lurgi based system is studied. Studies are included of the production of methane from up to 50 percent of the MBG produced in an integrated K-T based plant and the production of methane from up to 50 percent of the MBG produced from an integrated plant in which module 1 is based on K-T technology and modules 2, 3, and 4 are based on Texaco technology.

Program plans, schedules, and costs are determined for a synchronous orbit-based power generation and relay system. Requirements for the satellite solar power station (SSPS) and the power relay satellite (PRS) are explored. Engineering analysis of large solar arrays, flight mechanics and control, transportation, assembly and maintenance, and microwave transmission are included.

The analysis documented herein is specifically applicable to the Compressed Air System--ship's work authorization boundary (SWAB) groups 5511, 5512, 5513, and 5515--installed on LHA-1 and LPH-2 Class ships. The analysis considers only the systems and equipments installed and the documentation effective as of 22 April 1981. This system was selected for analysis by PERA (ASC) on the basis of its mission criticality and historical maintenance burden. (Author)

The Engineering Analysis and Data System (EADS)II (1) was installed in March 1993 to provide high performance computing for science and engineering at Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC). EADS II increased the computing capabilities over the existing EADS facility in the areas of throughput and mass storage. EADS II includes a Vector Processor Compute System (VPCS), a Virtual Memory Compute System (CFS), a Common Output System (COS), as well as Image Processing Station, Mini Super Computers, and Intelligent Workstations. These facilities are interconnected by a sophisticated network system. This work considers only the performance of the VPCS and the CFS. The VPCS is a Cray YMP. The CFS is implemented on an RS 6000 using the UniTree Mass Storage System. To better meet the science and engineering computing requirements, EADS II must be monitored, its performance analyzed, and appropriate modifications for performance improvement made. Implementing this approach requires tool(s) to assist in performance monitoring and analysis. In Spring 1994, PerfStat 2.0 was purchased to meet these needs for the VPCS and the CFS. PerfStat(2) is a set of tools that can be used to analyze both historical and real-time performance data. Its flexible design allows significant user customization. The user identifies what data is collected, how it is classified, and how it is displayed for evaluation. Both graphical and tabular displays are supported. The capability of the PerfStat tool was evaluated, appropriate modifications to EADS II to optimize throughput and enhance productivity were suggested and implemented, and the effects of these modifications on the systems performance were observed. In this paper, the PerfStat tool is described, then its use with EADS II is outlined briefly. Next, the evaluation of the VPCS, as well as the modifications made to the system are described. Finally, conclusions are drawn and recommendations for future worked are outlined.

The Engineering Analysis and Data System (EADS)II (1) was installed in March 1993 to provide high performance computing for science and engineering at Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC). EADS II increased the computing capabilities over the existing EADS facility in the areas of throughput and mass storage. EADS II includes a Vector Processor Compute System (VPCS), a Virtual Memory Compute System (CFS), a Common Output System (COS), as well as Image Processing Station, Mini Super Computers, and Intelligent Workstations. These facilities are interconnected by a sophisticated network system. This work considers only the performance of the VPCS and the CFS. The VPCS is a Cray YMP. The CFS is implemented on an RS 6000 using the UniTree Mass Storage System. To better meet the science and engineering computing requirements, EADS II must be monitored, its performance analyzed, and appropriate modifications for performance improvement made. Implementing this approach requires tool(s) to assist in performance monitoring and analysis. In Spring 1994, PerfStat 2.0 was purchased to meet these needs for the VPCS and the CFS. PerfStat(2) is a set of tools that can be used to analyze both historical and real-time performance data. Its flexible design allows significant user customization. The user identifies what data is collected, how it is classified, and how it is displayed for evaluation. Both graphical and tabular displays are supported. The capability of the PerfStat tool was evaluated, appropriate modifications to EADS II to optimize throughput and enhance productivity were suggested and implemented, and the effects of these modifications on the systems performance were observed. In this paper, the PerfStat tool is described, then its use with EADS II is outlined briefly. Next, the evaluation of the VPCS, as well as the modifications made to the system are described. Finally, conclusions are drawn and recommendations for future worked are outlined.

The Engineering Analysis and Data System (EADS)II (1) was installed in March 1993 to provide high performance computing for science and engineering at Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC). EADS II increased the computing capabilities over the existing EADS facility in the areas of throughput and mass storage. EADS II includes a Vector Processor Compute System (VPCS), a Virtual Memory Compute System (CFS), a Common Output System (COS), as well as Image Processing Station, Mini Super Computers, and Intelligent Workstations. These facilities are interconnected by a sophisticated network system. This work considers only the performance of the VPCS and the CFS. The VPCS is a Cray YMP. The CFS is implemented on an RS 6000 using the UniTree Mass Storage System. To better meet the science and engineering computing requirements, EADS II must be monitored, its performance analyzed, and appropriate modifications for performance improvement made. Implementing this approach requires tool(s) to assist in performance monitoring and analysis. In Spring 1994, PerfStat 2.0 was purchased to meet these needs for the VPCS and the CFS. PerfStat(2) is a set of tools that can be used to analyze both historical and real-time performance data. Its flexible design allows significant user customization. The user identifies what data is collected, how it is classified, and how it is displayed for evaluation. Both graphical and tabular displays are supported. The capability of the PerfStat tool was evaluated, appropriate modifications to EADS II to optimize throughput and enhance productivity were suggested and implemented, and the effects of these modifications on the systems performance were observed. In this paper, the PerfStat tool is described, then its use with EADS II is outlined briefly. Next, the evaluation of the VPCS, as well as the modifications made to the system are described. Finally, conclusions are drawn and recommendations for future worked are outlined.

The Engineering Analysis and Data System (EADS)II (1) was installed in March 1993 to provide high performance computing for science and engineering at Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC). EADS II increased the computing capabilities over the existing EADS facility in the areas of throughput and mass storage. EADS II includes a Vector Processor Compute System (VPCS), a Virtual Memory Compute System (CFS), a Common Output System (COS), as well as Image Processing Station, Mini Super Computers, and Intelligent Workstations. These facilities are interconnected by a sophisticated network system. This work considers only the performance of the VPCS and the CFS. The VPCS is a Cray YMP. The CFS is implemented on an RS 6000 using the UniTree Mass Storage System. To better meet the science and engineering computing requirements, EADS II must be monitored, its performance analyzed, and appropriate modifications for performance improvement made. Implementing this approach requires tool(s) to assist in performance monitoring and analysis. In Spring 1994, PerfStat 2.0 was purchased to meet these needs for the VPCS and the CFS. PerfStat(2) is a set of tools that can be used to analyze both historical and real-time performance data. Its flexible design allows significant user customization. The user identifies what data is collected, how it is classified, and how it is displayed for evaluation. Both graphical and tabular displays are supported. The capability of the PerfStat tool was evaluated, appropriate modifications to EADS II to optimize throughput and enhance productivity were suggested and implemented, and the effects of these modifications on the systems performance were observed. In this paper, the PerfStat tool is described, then its use with EADS II is outlined briefly. Next, the evaluation of the VPCS, as well as the modifications made to the system are described. Finally, conclusions are drawn and recommendations for future worked are outlined.

UBJEC T (Optional} E1m~ Lc . TO: (Officer designation, room number, and building) OFFICER'S INITIALS STAT For Release>12005/11/21 CIA-BDP78-03?76A000100010043-3 SECRET ] CONFIDENTIAL [] :IS' ONLY ^ UNCLASSIFIED CONFIDENTIAL SECRET MP..RECORD SKEET STA COMMENTS (Number each comment to show from whom to whom. Draw a line across column after each cornment.l We would like to take a poll for our own guidance at the approximate half-way point for this second pilot cycle of the Engineering Systems Analysis series. The reason for this timing is that looking back over a six-month interval may he more accurate than looking over the full 12 months of the series. Would you please check off the attached questionnaire some time in the next two weeks and route back through your Training STA Officer. If questions arise,

Report identifies data elements of a generic nature for an armored vehicle (main battle tank), which cover critical human factors engineering interests and parameters regarding the tank. Report also sets out a methodology for collecting or obtaining the identified data elements. In volume II, III, and IV are respectively reported collected human factors data elements for three tanks, are follows: British Centurion, British Chieftain, and French AMX 13. (Author)

This thesis presents an effective methodology and tool set, that explicitly considers technological uncertainty, to enable design, development, and assessment of alternative system concept architectures for an autonomous unmanned surface vessel (USV) in a system of systems (SoS) context. Complex system designs often fail due to poor communication of customer needs and inadequate understanding of the overall problem. This frequently results in the design team missing the mark in transforming requirements into a successful conceptual design. Effective system design requires a defined, flexible, and structured context within which new technological ideas can be judged. Alternative physical architectures are then modeled, simulated, and compared to find the best solution for further examination. This thesis uses model-based systems engineering (MBSE) principles to develop a multi-criteria decision making (MCDM) model that allows designers to perform a solution neutral investigation of possible alternative physical architecture concepts. This ensures a consistent quantitative evaluation of warfighting capability, suitability, effectiveness, technology maturation, and risk before and during a program execution. This effort is in support of an extended program to design a system of unmanned systems intended to provide the DoD with a coordinated, multi-domain, multi-mission, autonomous security and warfighting asset.

This thesis presents an effective methodology and tool set, that explicitly considers technological uncertainty, to enable design, development, and assessment of alternative system concept architectures for an autonomous unmanned surface vessel (USV) in a system of systems (SoS) context. Complex system designs often fail due to poor communication of customer needs and inadequate understanding of the overall problem. This frequently results in the design team missing the mark in transforming requirements into a successful conceptual design. Effective system design requires a defined, flexible, and structured context within which new technological ideas can be judged. Alternative physical architectures are then modeled, simulated, and compared to find the best solution for further examination. This thesis uses model-based systems engineering (MBSE) principles to develop a multi-criteria decision making (MCDM) model that allows designers to perform a solution neutral investigation of possible alternative physical architecture concepts. This ensures a consistent quantitative evaluation of warfighting capability, suitability, effectiveness, technology maturation, and risk before and during a program execution. This effort is in support of an extended program to design a system of unmanned systems intended to provide the DoD with a coordinated, multi-domain, multi-mission, autonomous security and warfighting asset.

This report is one of a series of guidebooks which provide guidance to the acquisition management and engineering of Airborne Systems software procured under Air Force 800-series regulations. It describes the derivation, analysis, and documentation of airborne software requirements. (Author)

The LTHD (Lightweight Towed Howitzer Demonstrator) was to be a 9,000 lb equivalent to the M198, transportable via Blackhawk helicopter, with reduced emplacement time using fewer personnel. The FMC design achieved weight reduction via a mortar-like configuration, composites structure, and hydraulic actuators. Recovery of power from the recoil system, in turn, facilitated crew reduction via hydraulic emplacement, four-way joystick tube lay, and power ramming. FM completed Concept Development (PH I) and two-thirds of Detailed Design (Ph II) prior to funds running out. Keywords: 155mm towed gun howitzer, advanced weapons, composite cradle, composite hydraulic actuators, composite trails, field artillery weapon, firing stability analysis, howitzers, hydraulic control valves with force feedback, hydraulic joystick control of gun direction, hydraulic inertial rammer, hydraulic opening breech, hydraulic primer autoloader, load out of battery howitzer, mortar howitzer, recoil energy recovery, recoil mechanism, metal matrix composites, titanium muzzle brake, titanium platform, titanium spade, titanium walking beams, thermal stability, towing stability analysis, unconventional weapons.

Critical technology items and issues are defined in which there is a need for developmental research in order to assure technical and economic success for the state of the art of coal gasification in the United States. Technology development needs for the main processing units and the supporting units are discussed. While development needs are shown for a large number of systems, the most critical areas are associated with the gasifier itself and those systems which either feed the gasifier or directly receive products form the gasifier.

Feasibility analyses and systems engineering studies for a 20,000 tons per day medium Btu (MBG) coal gasification plant to be built by TVA in Northern Alabama were conducted. Major objectives were as follows: (1) provide design and cost data to support the selection of a gasifier technology and other major plant design parameters, (2) provide design and cost data to support alternate product evaluation, (3) prepare a technology development plan to address areas of high technical risk, and (4) develop schedules, PERT charts, and a work breakdown structure to aid in preliminary project planning. Volume one contains a summary of gasification system characterizations. Five gasification technologies were selected for evaluation: Koppers-Totzek, Texaco, Lurgi Dry Ash, Slagging Lurgi, and Babcock and Wilcox. A summary of the trade studies and cost sensitivity analysis is included.

Activities planned for phase 2 Of the Small Community Solar Thermal Power Experiment (PFDR) program are summarized with emphasis on a dish-Rankine point focusing distributed receiver solar thermal electric system. Major design efforts include: (1) development of an advanced concept indirect-heated receiver;(2) development of hardware and software for a totally unmanned power plant control system; (3) implementation of a hybrid digital simulator which will validate plant operation prior to field testing; and (4) the acquisition of an efficient organic Rankine cycle power conversion unit. Preliminary performance analyses indicate that a mass-produced dish-Rankine PFDR system is potentially capable of producing electricity at a levelized busbar energy cost of 60 to 70 mills per KWh and with a capital cost of about $1300 per KW.

The technical and economic feasibility of Satellite Solar Power Systems was studied with emphasis on the analysis and definition of an integrated strawman configuration concept, from which credible cost data could be estimated. Specifically, system concepts for each of the major subprogram areas were formulated, analyzed, and iterated to the degree necessary for establishing an overall, workable baseline system design. Cost data were estimated for the baseline and used to conduct economic analyses. The baseline concept selected was a 5-GW crystal silicon truss-type photovoltaic configuration, which represented the most mature concept available. The overall results and major findings, and the results of technical analyses performed during the final phase of the study efforts are reported.

A systems analysis of synchronous, orbit-based power generation and relay systems that could be operational in the 1990's is described along with a comparison with earth-based systems to be operational in the same time frame. Operational and economic requirements for the orbiting systems and near term research activities which will be required to assure feasibility, development, launch and operational capabilities of such systems in the post- 1990 time frame are examined.

A four module, 20,000 TPD, based on KT coal gasification technology was designed. The plant processes Kentucky No. 9 coal with provisions for up to five percent North Alabama coal. Medium BTU gas with heat content of 305 BTU/SCF and not more than 200 ppm sulfur is the primary plant product. Sulfur is recovered for scale as prilled sulfur. Ash disposal is on site. The plant is designed for zero water discharge. Trade studies provided the basis for not using boiler produced steam to drive prime movers. Thus process derived steam in excess of process requirements in superheated for power use in prime movers. Electricity from the TVA grid is used to supply the balance of the plant prime mover power requirements. A study of the effect of mine mouth coal cleaning showed that coal cleaning is not an economically preferred route. The design procedure involved defining available processes to meet the requirements of each system, technical/economic trade studies to select the preferred processes, and engineering design and flow sheet development for each module. Cost studies assumed a staggered construction schedule for the four modules beginning spring 1981 and a 90% on stream factor.

This dissertation contributes to model-based systems engineering (MBSE) by formally defining an MBSE methodology for employing architecture in system analysis (MEASA) that presents a comprehensive framework detailing the relationship between system architecture products and external models and simulations used to analyze system performance and feasibility. Specifically, the research combines the use of Systems Modeling Language (SysML) products and operational simulation models to support assessment of system requirements for systems engineering. The MBSE MEASA transforms operational needs into preferred system configurations through the analysis of detailed simulation models. The research does this by using designed experiments to generate architecture tradespace visualizations that highlight the impact that system design parameters, system-environment interactions, system operational implementation, and system component interactions have on system performance. The research demonstrates a procedure for iterations of the methodology when analysis suggests potentially impactful design, operational, or environmental variables (as well as potential interactions between those variables). The research develops and analyzes notional architecture products and simulation models of United States Navy mine warfare systems to demonstrate an application of the MBSE MEASA.

A systems engineering approach is reported for the problem of reducing the number and severity of California's wildlife fires. Prevention methodologies are reviewed and cost benefit models are developed for making preignition decisions.

The research is focused on automating the evaluation of complex structural systems, whether for the design of a new system or the analysis of an existing one, by developing new structural analysis techniques based on qualitative reasoning. The problem is to identify and better understand: (1) the requirements for the automation of design, and (2) the qualitative reasoning associated with the conceptual development of a complex system. The long-term objective is to develop an integrated design-risk assessment environment for the evaluation of complex structural systems. The scope of this short presentation is to describe the design and cognition components of the research. Design has received special attention in cognitive science because it is now identified as a problem solving activity that is different from other information processing tasks (1). Before an attempt can be made to automate design, a thorough understanding of the underlying design theory and methodology is needed, since the design process is, in many cases, multi-disciplinary, complex in size and motivation, and uses various reasoning processes involving different kinds of knowledge in ways which vary from one context to another. The objective is to unify all the various types of knowledge under one framework of cognition. This presentation focuses on the cognitive science framework that we are using to represent the knowledge aspects associated with the human mind's abstraction abilities and how we apply it to the engineering knowledge and engineering reasoning in design.