Engineering Commons^™

Distributed Conflict Detection And Optimal 4d Trajectory Resolution Leveraging Polynomial Based Methods, Michael Klinefelter, Austin Stone, Joshua Miller, Cameron K. Peterson, John Salmon

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This paper presents a methodology for distributed conflict detection and resolution of aircraft following time-dependent flight paths. We use parametric fifth-order polynomial splines to define the full, time-based paths of vehicles. This representation can be exploited to rapidly detect conflicts and calculate optimal resolution solutions that minimize deviations from the original path. Conflicts are identified using a Sturm sequencing procedure and resolutions are found using gradient-based optimization techniques. Simulations show the locally optimal resolution of complex multi-vehicle conflicts and large-scale scenarios. Also, a method of fitting the flight path model to data sets is presented and flight path trajectories are …

Comparison Of Empirical And Analytical Eigenfunctions As Bases For Reduced Order Methods In Heat Transfer, Jakob G. Bates, Matthew R. Jones, Christopher R. Dillon, John Tencer

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Reduced order methods using spectral representations show promise in facilitating and accelerating heat transfer analyses. This paper proposes a taxonomy for reduced order methods, classifying a method as reduced order compression, modelling, or analysis. The performance of bases formed with analytical and empirical eigenfunctions are compared for representative reduced order tasks. The Akaike Information Criterion is applied in a novel way to compare the performance of these bases. The present study finds that both bases are parsimonious for reduced order compression tasks. Empirical eigenfunctions are more robust to for reduced order modelling with variations in modelling parameters such as thermal …

Iprec And Isoblaze: Fuzzy Subcircuit Isomorphism For Ip Detection In Physical Netlists, Dallin Dahl, Corey Simpson, Keenan Faulkner, Brent Nelson, Jeffrey Goeders

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Netlist reverse engineering has many uses, from detecting hardware trojans to recovering missing design source files. However, the basic problem of finding IP in a netlist has not been widely discussed. The problem boils down to subgraph isomorphism on graphs constructed from netlists. We present two approaches to identifying IP in larger circuits. IPRec focuses on exploiting hierarchy in the IP design and is a rather conservative approach, while Isoblaze focuses on local properties and connectivity and is more liberal in matching.

Six-Degree-Of-Freedom Optimal Feedback Control Of Pinpoint Landing Using Deep Neural Networks, Omkar S. Mulekar, Hancheol Cho, Riccardo Bevilacqua

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Machine learning regression techniques have shown success at feedback control to perform near-optimal pinpoint landings for low fidelity formulations (e.g. 3 degree-of-freedom). Trajectories from these low-fidelity landing formulations have been used in imitation learning techniques to train deep neural network policies to replicate these optimal landings in closed loop. This study details the development of a near-optimal, neural network feedback controller for a 6 degree-of-freedom pinpoint landing system. To model disturbances, the problem is cast as either a multi-phase optimal control problem or a triple single-phase optimal control problem to generate examples of optimal control through the presence of disturbances. …

Stereoscopic-Based Mass Properties Estimation For Warhead Fragments, Alessia Nocerino, Katharine Larsen, Riccardo Bevilacqua, Elisabetta L. Jerome

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FRAGMENTATION characteristics such as spatial distribution, number of fragments, fragment velocity, and fragment mass can be used to characterize the lethality of a fragmenting weapon or any metal cased explosive [1,2]. However, most warhead tests and evaluations are limited to static arena testing, where fragment characteristics must be collected by hand. Recently, stereoscopic imaging techniques have been added to static arena tests. Using this method, position tracks can be collected for each fragment, and then velocity information can be found. This paper proposes a method to estimate the mass and moment of inertia using data collected by a stereoscopic imaging …

Orbital Debris Mitigation: Exploring Cubesat Drag Sail Technology, Robinson Raphael

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In an era marked by remarkable advancements in space exploration and research, the advent of satellite technology has contributed accordingly to the lives of people here on Earth. Through applications that tie into broadband connectivity, weather forecasting, disaster management, etc., the occupancy in orbital domains like Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) only continues to grow. However, the presence of orbital debris emerges as a significant concern, posing threats to both operational satellites and future space missions. Resulting as a consequence due to decades of activities since the launch of Sputnik 1 in 1957, as more countries ventured into space so did the …

State Space Modeling And Estimation Of Flexible Structure Using The Theory Of Functional Connections, Carlo Lombardi, Riccardo Bevilacqua

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In this work, we present a novel method to model the dynamics of a continuous structure based on measurements taken at discrete points. The method is conceived to provide new instruments to address the problem of flexible dynamics modeling in a spacecraft, where an effective mathematical representation of the non-rigid behavior of the is of critical importance in the design of an effective and reliable attitude estimation and control system. Both the measurements and the model that describes the structure can be affected by uncertainty. The purpose of the developed method is to estimate the position and the velocity of …

Using Machine Learning To Predict Hypervelocity Fragment Propagation Of Space Debris Collisions, Katharine Larsen, Riccardo Bevilacqua

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The future of spaceflight is threatened by the increasing amount of space debris, especially in the near-Earth environment. To continue operations, accurate characterization of hypervelocity fragment propagation following collisions and explosions is imperative. While large debris particles can be tracked by current methods, small particles are often missed. This paper presents a method to estimate fragment fly-out properties, such as fragment, velocity, and mass distributions, using machine learning. Previous work was performed on terrestrial data and associated simulations representing space debris collisions. The fragmentation of high-velocity fragmentation can be modeled by terrestrial fragmentation tests, such as static detonations. Recently, stereoscopic …

Stability Of Deep Neural Networks For Feedback-Optimal Pinpoint Landings, Omkar S. Mulekar, Hancheol Cho, Riccardo Bevilacqua

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The ability to certify systems driven by neural networks is crucial for future rollouts of machine learning technologies in aerospace applications. In this study, the neural networks are used to represent a fuel-optimal feedback controller for two different 3-degree-of-freedom pinpoint landing problems. It is shown that the standard sum-ofsquares Lyapunov candidate is too restrictive to assess the stability of systems with fuel-optimal control profiles. Instead, a parametric Lyapunov candidate (i.e. a neural network) can be trained to sufficiently evaluate the closed-loop stability of fuel-optimal control profiles. Then, a stability-constrained imitation learning method is applied, which simultaneously trains a neural network …

Dynamic Skin Strain Fields In The Lumbar Region During Functional Movement, Andrew Gibbons, Anton Bowden, Ulrike H. Mitchell, David T. Fullwood

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Increasing efforts to leverage skin mounted wearables has exposed a gap in our understanding of skin strain in the lumbar region. Lumbar skin is known to be both inhomogenous and anisotropic, and experiences dramatic material strain during activities of daily living (ADLs). Previous efforts to quantify strain fields during ADLs has been limited to a few activities (primarily flexion) and have neglected inhomogeneity or anisotropy. The purpose of the present work was to address this gap by measuring large-deformation skin strain tensors in healthy volunteers during a cadre of functional movements.

36 tightly packed retro-reflective markers were mounted to the …

Predicting Dynamic Fragmentation Characteristics From High-Impact Energy Events Utilizing Terrestrial Static Arena Test Data And Machine Learning, Katharine Larsen, Riccardo Bevilacqua, Omkar S. Mulekar, Elisabetta L. Jerome, Thomas J. Hatch-Aguilar

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To continue space operations with the increasing space debris, accurate characterization of fragment fly-out properties from hypervelocity impacts is essential. However, with limited realistic experimentation and the need for data, available static arena test data, collected utilizing a novel stereoscopic imaging technique, is the primary dataset for this paper. This research leverages machine learning methodologies to predict fragmentation characteristics using combined data from this imaging technique and simulations, produced considering dynamic impact conditions. Gaussian mixture models (GMMs), fit via expectation maximization (EM), are used to model fragment track intersections on a defined surface of intersection. After modeling the fragment distributions, …

Urban Air Mobility (Uam) Flight Path: Literature Review And Conceptual Design Of Uam Corridor Virtual Lane System Using “Tracks”, Immanuel Bankole

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As the Urban Air Mobility (UAM) industry grows and becomes more popular, most of the conversations in the public domain are focused on the (electric Vertical Take-off and Landing) eVTOL aircraft and the physical infrastructure that will support these eVTOL aircraft. However, there is a lack of research on UAM traffic management and flight paths taken by aircraft between locations.

The United States (U.S.) Federal Aviation Administration has proposed the use of corridors to minimize the interaction between UAM operations and traditional air traffic as eVTOL aircraft perform flight activities. The government also acknowledges the need for additional structures (such …

Solar Sailing Adaptive Control Using Integral Concurrent Learning For Solar Flux Estimation, Luis Enrique Mendoza Zambrano, Riccardo Bevilacqua

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In the interest of exploiting natural forces for propellant-less spacecraft missions, this investigation proposes an adaptive control strategy to account for unknown parameters in the dynamic modeling of a reflectivity-controlled solar sail spacecraft. A Lyapunov-based control law along with integral concurrent learning is suggested to accomplish and prove global exponential tracking of the estimated parameters and states of interest, without satisfying the common persistence of excitation condition, which in most nonlinear systems cannot be guaranteed a priori. This involves estimating the solar flux or irradiance from the Sun to account for uncertainty and variation over time in this value. To …

Dual Quaternion Relative Dynamics For Gravity Recovery Missions, Ryan Kinzie, Riccardo Bevilacqua, Seo Dongeun

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A dual quaternion modeling approach is compared to traditional modeling methods for formation flying spacecraft utilized for gravity recovery missions. A modeling method that has traditionally been used for gravity recovery missions is presented which models the motion of two formation flying spacecraft and a test mass. This is followed by the dual quaternion-based formulation for the equations of motion of the twelve degree-of-freedom coupled relative dynamics of formation flying spacecraft and a test mass. Lastly, utilizing data products from the Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment Follow-On mission, a comparison of these two modeling methods is presented which proves the …

Experimental Validation Of Inertia Parameters And Attitude Estimation Of Uncooperative Space Targets Using Solid State Lidar, Alessia Nocerino, Roberto Opromolla, Giancarmine Fasano, Michele Grassi, Spencer John, Hancheol Cho, Riccardo Bevilacqua

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This paper presents an experimental activity aimed at assessing performance of techniques for inertia and attitude parameters estimation of an uncooperative but known space target. The adopted experimental set-up includes a scaled-down 3D printed satellite mock-up, a spherical air bearing and a low-cost solid-state LIDAR. The experimental facility also comprises a motion capture system to obtain a benchmark of the pose (position and attitude) parameters and an ad-hoc designed passive balancing system to keep the centre of mass as close as possible to the centre of rotation. The LIDAR-based 3D point clouds, collected while the target rotates on the spherical …

Fostering Safer Evacuations Aboard Commercial Aircraft: A Problem-Solution Analysis, George Skinner

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This problem-solution analysis analyzes factors impeding safe and orderly evacuations for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Although rarely used, evacuation procedures are critical for keeping passengers safe during emergency situations. However, there are flaws in these procedures and many factors exist which make aircraft evacuations slow and dangerous. During a situation in which time is of the essence, these impediments can make the difference between an incident and a fatal accident. This report focuses on data gathered through full-scale evacuation simulations and analyzes shortcomings and strengths in three accidents. This information is then compared to current procedures and regulations that …

V3: Flight Simulator Technology, Isaac Chung, Genta Adjie

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Long were the days of relying solely on textbook readings and real-time flying where pilots and crew have the chance to learn to fly from the humble Cessna to the Queen of the Skies using flight simulator technology to recreate near-identical flying environments right from your screen or cockpit mockup!

Noise Reduction Techniques In Commercial Aircraft Cabins, Hashem Hashem

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Main sources of noise heard inside an aircraft cabin:

• Engines
• Airframe & control surfaces
• Window vibrations
• Passenger announcements & activities.

Alternatives To Reducing Aviation Fuel-Burn With Technology: Fully Electric Autonomous Taxibot, Denzil Neo

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Aircraft taxiing operations in the aerodrome were identified to consume the most jet fuel apart from the cruise phase of the flight. This was also well supported by various research associating taxi operations at large, congested airports, with high jet fuel consumption, high carbon emissions, and noise pollution. Existing literature recognised the potential to address the environmental issues of aerodrome taxi operations by operating External or Onboard Aircraft Ground Propulsion Systems (AGPS). Designed to power aircraft with sources other than their main engines, external Aircraft Ground Power Systems (AGPS) have shown the potential to significantly cut jet fuel consumption and …

Directional Speaker Poster, Eugene Ng, Bryan Wong, Ruhaan Das

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Changi Airport is set to expand with a new terminal, Terminal 5. Currently, many of the airport's processes are manual, requiring a high dependence on staff. This proposal aims to incorporate automation and AI for a smoother passenger experience.

Integrated Dynamic Airline Route And Schedule Optimization, Bayan Begaliyeva

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By harnessing real-time and historical data in conjunction with advanced AI technologies, this project revolutionizes route and schedule planning, leading to enhanced efficiency, cost reduction, and an improved passenger experience.

Seamless Air Travel: Siproavi's Technological Advancements, Mohammed Owais

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Siproavi's Role in Revolutionizing Air Travel: In our pursuit of revolutionizing air travel, Siproavi introduces a comprehensive suite of services catering to seasoned travelers and newcomers alike:

Ticket Booking: Our user-friendly platform empowers travelers to swiftly search, compare, and book flights that align seamlessly with their preferences and schedules. This service has substantially reduced booking time for travelers, often completing the process within 2 minutes.

Baggage Handling: We have conquered the age-old woes of baggage handling. Siproavi's cutting-edge services ensure the safety and security of your belongings from check-in to arrival, resulting in a 30% decrease in baggage-related complaints. …

The Impact Of Unscheduled Maintenance To An Airline’S On Time Performance, Augusto Dalazen, Beatriz Barbi, Beatriz Ponzoni, Giovanna Simões, Lucas Kamalakian

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Unscheduled maintenance events have a significant impact on airlines performance and network operations. Some events can have its consequences minimized by simple actions due to its simplicity and lack of influence in the safe conduction of a flight.

This study aimed on collecting data regarding the cost and consequences of ground turn back events in the Airbus A320 family. The study suggested that after the implementation of proper supporting regulation on Crew Applied MEL, money would be saved as well as network disruption consequences could be avoided.

The data presented in this study reflects current Brazilian legislation, and data from …

Pre-Check Security Processes In Selected Brazil Airports- Changes And Gains, Camila Miliani, Fabio Sanches, Jonatta Haniere, Rodrigo Cortes, Tais Gargano, Vanessa Reis

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The recommendation of this Research Project is to implement the precheck program at 10 Airports in Brazil with more than 5 million passengers a year. The passengers’ satisfaction, security improvement and OPEX savings would be a reality.

The expectation of OPEX savings at these 10 Airports are R$ 3.360.000,00 per year, (US$ 634.000,00) due to the possibility of using the current infrastructure and yet, reduce one Protection Agent per inspection module, per airport.

The research topic was to understand the feasibility of implementing the precheck security process in Brazil Airports. Using the U.S. benchmark, and the current Brazilian legislation, GYN …

Certification Basis For A Fully Autonomous Uncrewed Passenger Carrying Urban Air Mobility Aircraft, Steve Price

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The Urban Air Mobility campaign has set a goal to efficiently transport passengers and cargo in urban areas of operation with autonomous aircraft. This concept of operations will require aircraft to utilize technology that currently does not have clear regulatory requirements. This report contains a comprehensive analysis and creation of a certification basis for a fully autonomous uncrewed passenger carrying rotorcraft for use in Urban Air Mobility certified under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 27. Part 27 was first analyzed to determine the applicability of current regulations. The fully electric propulsion system and fully autonomous flight control system …

Spacecraft Systems & Navigation, Christopher Vanacore

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This textbook is steered towards higher educational course entailed in Commercial Space Operations. This textbook will be covering in detail Orbital Satellites, and Spacecraft. These topics are discussed according to their application, design, and environment. The power system, shielding and communication systems are reviewed along with their missions, space, environment and limitations. Any vehicle, whether manned or unmanned, intended for space travel is a spacecraft. A spacecraft's required systems and equipment depend on the information it will acquire and the tasks it will perform. Although their levels of sophistication vary widely, they re all subject to the harsh conditions of …

Business Benefits Associated With Improving Fatigue Regulations For Cargo Pilots, Arthur Chiari, Bruna De Gois E Silva, Nelson Christianini

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The central idea of this research is to assess business-related factors in the Pilots ́ Fatigue Regulations and evaluate if a more flexible regulation would improve productivity of airline cargo pilots in Brazil.

The results of the study have indicated that Brazilian Civil Aviation Authority (ANAC) can create a regulatory environment that may lead up to 34,28% of improved productivity of pilots ́ availability in cargo operations, which may contribute for gains up to USD $3.6 million for an airline with cargo 70 pilots flying 16.500 hours per year.

Aviation fatigue regulations are an extremely important subject in the aviation …

Ramping Up For Cost And Performance Improvements, Arthur Zucchetti Lechmann, Guilherme Henrique Lima, João Paulo Lucchi, Paulo Henrique Azevedo Santana, Pedro Kamikihara

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The objective of this Research Project was to study the possible benefits of developing an improved Metering Control System. This study identified potential cost savings and reduced emissions through the greater use of a Metering Control System. The results of this research have indicated an annual cost reduction of $720,000 in fuel burn and a significant delay time reduction caused by accumulated ground traffic. In addition, during peak hours, it was concluded that savings could be potentially higher. Therefore, by optimizing the ground movement, it is also expected a lower level of CO2 emissions, an increased safety level due to …

Experimentally Measured Lumbar Skin Strains During Activities Of Daily Living, Andrew Gibbons, Paul Mcmullin, Darian Emmett, Ulrike H. Mitchell, David T. Fullwood, Anton E. Bowden

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Introduction: When mechanical stimulation of the skin, post-surgery, is kept at a minimum, the risk for hypertrophic scarring is reduced. Therefore, surgeons have utilized different tools for optimal scar outcomes such as cutting along or perpendicular to the Langers lines or collagen fiber orientation^1,2. However, biomechanical strains induced in the skin during activities of daily living (ADL) are the primary mechanism for suture opening, and increased awareness of these strains may provide informative insights to both pre-operative incision planning, as well as post-operative counseling with the patient regarding specific activities that may lead to wound re-opening.

Methods: Data …

A Qualitative Descriptive Study On Re-Assessing The Mental Certification By Faa For Future Pilots, Kaung Z. Min

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Mental illness becomes one of the main problems that most pilots do not usually address. It is not because pilots do not have the courage or are open enough to talk with someone, but because the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) forces them to hide from mental depression. Most of the time, the pilots are not willing to declare such illnesses as they fear losing their job; simultaneously, the Federal Aviation Agencies across the world require pilots to be in peat health, including their mental condition, to operate the aircraft. While it can be said that the passengers’ and crews’ safety …