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Articles 1 - 30 of 33
Full-Text Articles in Engineering
Validation Of Operational Multiscale Environment Model With Grid Adaptivity (Omega), Gordon R. Taylor
Validation Of Operational Multiscale Environment Model With Grid Adaptivity (Omega), Gordon R. Taylor
Theses and Dissertations
The Defense Nuclear Agency (DNA) is improving the military's capability to forecast dosage and hazard levels due to release of chemical, biological, and nuclear agents. During Operation DESERT STORM the military realized the need for models to predict risk levels for military personnel assigned proximate to missile attacks. One project associated with this is the continuing development of the Operational Multiscale Environmental Model with Grid Adaptivity (OMEGA). DNA has sponsored AFIT to validate OMEGA with focus on incorporating weather data obtained from Air Force Combat Climatology Center for the period of the Chernobyl Nuclear Accident. The physics of the model …
A Methodology To Assess Post-Launch Efforts To Counter Mobile Tactical Ballistic Missile Launchers, Wayne H. Hayes
A Methodology To Assess Post-Launch Efforts To Counter Mobile Tactical Ballistic Missile Launchers, Wayne H. Hayes
Theses and Dissertations
The Department of Defense has a requirement to quantify the force enhancement effects from various configurations of an envisioned multilayered Theater Missile Defense (TMD) system. TMD research accomplished to date has focused primarily on the pre-launch and in-flight tactical ballistic missile (TBM) operational phases while ignoring the post-launch phase during which mobile transporter-erector-launchers (TELs) are vulnerable to attack. No methodology currently exists to measure the effectiveness of various post-launch counter-TEL system configurations or their potential contribution to the overall TMD mission. This research uses the decision analysis technique of influence diagrams to model the post-launch counter-TEL process using notional variable …
Decision Support Model For Municipal Solid Waste Management At Department Of Defense Installations, John F. Muratore
Decision Support Model For Municipal Solid Waste Management At Department Of Defense Installations, John F. Muratore
Theses and Dissertations
This research focuses on the development of a decision support model to identify the preferred strategy for managing municipal solid waste using the principles of decision analysis theory. The model provides an effective decision making tool to evaluate and compare different municipal solid waste management strategies. The users of this model, the Environmental Manager or decision maker at a given installation, can enter installation-specific waste stream characteristics, treatment and disposal costs, and material buy-back prices to determine the expected value for various alternative strategies. The strategy having the greatest expected value is considered the preferred alternative. In calculating the expected …
Exmis: An Expert System For The Autonomous Onboard Command System (Aocs), Kevin D. Benedict
Exmis: An Expert System For The Autonomous Onboard Command System (Aocs), Kevin D. Benedict
Theses and Dissertations
The primary objective of this study is the creation of a prototype expert system called EXMIS (EXpert MIssile System) that performs the flight termination logic sequence of the Autonomous Onboard Command System (AOCS). The AOCS is a proposed system that would take the "man-in-the-loop" out of the self-destruct decision making process and place the entire decision on the launch vehicle. Through the use of a six degree of freedom trajectory program called BOOST, simulated flight data for four different flight scenarios is obtained. The launch vehicle selected for the simulations is the Peacekeeper ICBM. EXMIS is developed using an expert …
The Process Of Technology Transfer: A Case Study Of The National Aero-Space Plane Program, Brett T. Smith
The Process Of Technology Transfer: A Case Study Of The National Aero-Space Plane Program, Brett T. Smith
Theses and Dissertations
Due to reduced funding levels and increased pressure towards cooperation with industry, government research and development (R&D) organizations are becoming increasingly involved in the transfer of technology to the commercial sector. However, the process of technology transfer is complex, and transfer activities are being applied inconsistently across the Department of Defense. This research explores the approaches, processes and mechanisms to accomplish technology transfer. A comprehensive literature review documents many of the transfer concepts that have been proposed or are currently in use. A detailed case study then examines the technology transfer efforts of an advanced government research organization: the National …
A Study Of The Factors Associated With Successful Technology Transfer And Their Applicability To Air Force Technology Transfers, James B. Rose
A Study Of The Factors Associated With Successful Technology Transfer And Their Applicability To Air Force Technology Transfers, James B. Rose
Theses and Dissertations
Although the United States is a world leader in scientific research, it lags behind some economic powers in the application of technologies. As quality and manufacturing excellence were critical to US competitiveness in the l98Os, so is commercializing technologies in the 199Os. With billion dollar budgets and exceptional scientific talent, the potential for fruitful technology transfer is abundant. By definition, federal-to-commercial technology transfer is the ability to leverage national investments in technology beyond their traditional customer base. The technology can be physical devices, processes, knowledge, or proprietary information. Unfortunately, and despite exhaustive legislative efforts, US industry has fallen behind its …
Assisting Defense Conversion Technology Transfer Efforts. A Case Study Of Ohio's Miami Valley, Marissa C. Salvador
Assisting Defense Conversion Technology Transfer Efforts. A Case Study Of Ohio's Miami Valley, Marissa C. Salvador
Theses and Dissertations
Major changes in the geopolitical environment and the social and economic needs of the United States have resulted in resources being shifted away from national defense. Although the expected decrease in defense spending should not be harmful in macroeconomic terms, it can be devastating locally. To mitigate the effects of the drawdown, individual states and local communities must search for ways to bolster their local economies. One avenue that can be pursued to enhance future economic growth is the transferring of technologies to the commercial sector. Intermediary organizations have emerged to facilitate the process of technology transfer by serving as …
An Empirical Investigation Of The Integrated Weapon System Management Concept Of Seamless Processes, Timothy H. Surabian
An Empirical Investigation Of The Integrated Weapon System Management Concept Of Seamless Processes, Timothy H. Surabian
Theses and Dissertations
This research investigated the way four Air Force Materiel Command (AFMC) single manager organizations operationalized the Integrated Weapon System Management (IWSM) concept of "seamless processes." In this thesis, the IWSM concept of "seamless processes" refers to the degree of integration between acquisition and sustainment organizations. Four SPO organizations were involved in six case studies. This research focused on the way "seamless processes" affect the shifting of the organizational "center of gravity" within or between single manager organizations. An interview questionnaire was administered to 13 Product Center managers and 6 Logistics Center managers. The interview questions focused on IWSM in general, …
An Evaluation Of Cost Metrics Used Within Aeronautical Systems Center, Kevin M. Byrne
An Evaluation Of Cost Metrics Used Within Aeronautical Systems Center, Kevin M. Byrne
Theses and Dissertations
Aeronautical Systems Center (ASC) system program offices rely on cost metrics to acquire information on program effectiveness and organizational improvement. This study was an attempt to determine the effectiveness of ASC’s cost metrics. The effectiveness of the metrics were determined by the desirability of the behaviors which are exhibited when individuals utilize the specific metrics. Using an expert panel to evaluate the metrics, data was collected using the Group Research Laboratory for Logistics located in Armstrong Laboratory at Wright Patterson AFB, OH. Metric diagnostic charts were utilized to arrange the data into a format which would provide effectiveness information. The …
Aggregating Organizational Performance Metrics Using The Analytic Hierarchy Process, Bret L. Indermill
Aggregating Organizational Performance Metrics Using The Analytic Hierarchy Process, Bret L. Indermill
Theses and Dissertations
Measurement provides factual information which is necessary for effective control of business processes. Implementing a Total Quality Management (TQM) philosophy is a common process in many organizations today. The United States Air Force is using the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award criteria to measure organizational performance in implementing the Quality Air Force (QAF) initiative. Unfortunately, the Baldrige-based unit self-assessment (USA) process is an inconsistent measure due to its subjectivity, and is also time consuming to use. This study determined that a new USA method based on the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) was not a significant improvement over the existing QAF-USA …
A Comparison Of Consistent Versus Inconsistent Scheduling Rules In A Flow Shop Environment, Nicola Gismondi
A Comparison Of Consistent Versus Inconsistent Scheduling Rules In A Flow Shop Environment, Nicola Gismondi
Theses and Dissertations
A consistent scheduling rule is one which will ensure a job's priority (relative to all other job's) will remain constant as it moves from queue to queue in a production system. Previous research concerning flow shop priority scheduling rules focused on comparison of either consistent or inconsistent rules. Conversely, this study sought to provide additional insight by comprising consistent and inconsistent rules in a flow shop environment The Air Force uses both types of rules in maintenance and logistics scheduling. Time and money can be saved if the scheduling managers can better understand the effect of consistency on a system. …
A Model For Forecasting Pollution Prevention Life Cycle Costs For Air Force Major Weapon Systems, Mark E. Garner, Jennifer S. Kirchoffer
A Model For Forecasting Pollution Prevention Life Cycle Costs For Air Force Major Weapon Systems, Mark E. Garner, Jennifer S. Kirchoffer
Theses and Dissertations
This research effort developed a modification to the HAZMAT program so that the program could provide the user with the capability to generate an estimate during the concept exploration and design phases for the total costs associated with hazardous materials usage in a major weapon system. Using the HAZMAT database, a spreadsheet was developed which projects a cost for a weapon system based on its total surface area and the number of aircraft to be produced by performing an analogy with a similar weapon system. The modification uses algorithm which are based on the hazardous material substances rather than processes …
Tracking Air Force Pallets Using Rfid Technology: A Concept Study, Gary A. Gross
Tracking Air Force Pallets Using Rfid Technology: A Concept Study, Gary A. Gross
Theses and Dissertations
The lack of asset visibility experienced at Aerial Ports of Embarkation (APOEs) during Operation Desert Storm is a phenomenon that has occurred in every major conflict for the last 40 years. The costs associated with this lack of control directly relate to the combat readiness and capability of supported units. This study examined the possibility of installing a Radio Frequency Identification (RF-ID) system to track Department of Defense 463L pallets worldwide. Performance characteristics of commercially available RF-ID systems were summarized, and a conceptual Air Mobility Command (AMC) tracking system was presented. For purposes of concept study, Amtech Corporation's Intellitag RT …
Just In Time Manufacturing: A Migration From Materials Requirements Planning, Scott A. Koehler
Just In Time Manufacturing: A Migration From Materials Requirements Planning, Scott A. Koehler
Theses and Dissertations
Manufacturing planning and control systems play an important role in an organization's effectiveness. Over the past twenty to thirty years, U.S. manufacturing companies have faced increasing competition for market share from Japanese and other Pacific rim countries. This thesis will investigate the evolutionary path followed by manufacturing companies that have implemented various manufacturing planning and control systems. Specifically, Materials Requirements Planning (MRP) and Just In Time (JIT) production will be analyzed. MRP is a means of convening demand for the final product into a requirements schedule for the various components comprising that product. The JIT philosophy calls for continuously improving …
Methods For Monitoring Process Control And Capability In The Presence Of Autocorrelation, Daniel J. Zalewski
Methods For Monitoring Process Control And Capability In The Presence Of Autocorrelation, Daniel J. Zalewski
Theses and Dissertations
When standard control charts are applied to a process whose measurements of quality exhibit autocorrelation, the performance of those charts can be considerably different than that expected when no autocorrelation is present. To model this performance, the existing definitions of assignable and chance causes of variation are extended to account for the variation induced by the autocorrelation structure. The application of statistical thinking toward continuous process improvement using the proposed taxonomy is discussed. A method to select control limits which yield a specified average run length in the absence of assignable causes of variation and which is suitable for use …
A Robust Method Of Solving Nonlinear Boundary Value Problems Via Modified Compromise Programming, John L. Zornick
A Robust Method Of Solving Nonlinear Boundary Value Problems Via Modified Compromise Programming, John L. Zornick
Theses and Dissertations
This study is an extension of Ng's previous work in which goal programming was used to determine an approximate solution to a boundary value problem. This approach follows the same basic approach developed by Ng in which the method of collocation was recast as a compromise programming model. Hence, instead of solving a system of simultaneous nonlinear equations, one seeks a compromise solution which minimizes (in a weighted residual sense) a vector norm of the differential equation residuals. A difference in this approach is that it makes use of a genetic algorithm as the optimizing engine as opposed to the …
A Methodology To Generate Air Force Materiel Command Manpower Reduction Alternatives, Steven T. Bishop
A Methodology To Generate Air Force Materiel Command Manpower Reduction Alternatives, Steven T. Bishop
Theses and Dissertations
The purpose of this study is to generate manpower authorization reduction alternatives for Air Force Materiel Command. The advent of low-cost personal computer software applications, such as Excel, has created an assessable tool with the ability to solve linear programming problems. This research examines the manpower resource reduction process of Air Force Materiel Command and models the Resources Allocation - Integrated Process Team (RA-IPT) decision process. A linear programming model is developed to assign these reduction through a weighted sum. The linear programming model is developed as a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet model, the Exercise Support Program (ESP), using Visual Basic …
Applications Of Statistical Process Control In Monitoring Aircrew Bombing Proficiency, Kirk G. Horton
Applications Of Statistical Process Control In Monitoring Aircrew Bombing Proficiency, Kirk G. Horton
Theses and Dissertations
The current tools used by squadron supervisors to monitor the bombing performance of aircrews flying F-111E aircraft are monthly reports that have little predictive capability. No real-time methodology exists for monitoring and predicting aircrew bombing performance and preventing bombing problems that might cause an individual to become unqualified. It has been suggested that Statistical process Control (SPC) can be applied to the bombing process to develop tools for managing the process, correcting problems, and improve the bombing performance of a squadron. This study investigates the application of SPC to the bombing process. It examines data taken from an F-111E Fighter …
Life-Cycle Cost Analysis For Radioactive Waste Remediation Alternatives, Thomas P. White, Ronald J. Toland, Dorian Y. Buitrago
Life-Cycle Cost Analysis For Radioactive Waste Remediation Alternatives, Thomas P. White, Ronald J. Toland, Dorian Y. Buitrago
Theses and Dissertations
This research has two primary objectives. The first is to develop a generic, interactive, spreadsheet-based life-cycle cost model that uses net present value and risk analysis techniques for cost comparison. The second is to apply the model specifically to the vitrification and cementation methods of waste remediation. By using spreadsheet analysis and graphics capabilities, the model will provide direct and objective comparisons of remediation alternatives. Since vitrification is a new technology, the plant design and operations are conceptual. Therefore, computer simulation and engineering judgement are integral to the vitrification LCC estimate.
Selecting Optimal Experiments For Feedforward Multilayer Perceptrons, Lisa M. Belue
Selecting Optimal Experiments For Feedforward Multilayer Perceptrons, Lisa M. Belue
Theses and Dissertations
Where should a researcher conduct experiments to provide training data for a multilayer perceptron? This question is investigated and a statistically-based method for optimally selecting experimental design points for multilayer perceptrons is introduced. Specifically, a criterion is developed based on the size of an estimated confidence ellipsoid for the weights in the multilayer perceptron. This criterion is minimized over a set of exemplars to find optimal design points. Initially, single output networks are examined. An example is used to demonstrate the superiority of optimally selected design points over randomly chosen points and points chosen in a grid pattern. Also, two …
The Development Of A Metamodel For A Major Weapon System Cost Model, Paul W. Campbell
The Development Of A Metamodel For A Major Weapon System Cost Model, Paul W. Campbell
Theses and Dissertations
Cost estimation is an integral part of the procurement process of major weapon systems. Despite this essential role, the cost estimation process is able to provide the decision makers and analysts with a limited amount of insight. This is due to the complex nature of the cost models that typically contain 20-30 cost estimating relationships (CERs) and 50-100 variables. In an effort to provide the decision makers and analysts with additional insight to the cost estimate, this research demonstrates a methodology that will (1) identify the cost drivers of the cost model, ( 2) estimate the effects of these cost …
Right-Hand-Side Multidimensional Optimality Analysis Of A Large Scale Linear Program Using Metamodelling Techniques, Osman Iyde
Theses and Dissertations
A methodology for optimality analysis of linear programs was developed by Johnson, Bauer, Moore, and Grant to create metamodels using response surface methodology techniques such as experimental design and least squares regression, and a geostatistical estimation technique, namely kriging. Metamodels have the form of a simple polynomial, and they predict the optimal objective function value of an LP for various levels of the constraints. They eliminate the necessity of determining which critical region contains the right-hand-side (RHS) vector of interest since they are valid over multiple critical regions. The methodology of Johnson, et al. can be applied to large scale …
Response Surface Methodology As A Sensitivity Tool In Decision Analysis, David A. Meyers
Response Surface Methodology As A Sensitivity Tool In Decision Analysis, David A. Meyers
Theses and Dissertations
The purpose of this study is to evaluate response surface methodology as a sensitivity analysis tool in the area of decision analysis. The advent of low-cost personal computer software, such as DPLTM, has created an accessible tool with the ability to frame and solve influence diagrams for decision problems. This study provides a comparison of current sensitivity analysis techniques vs those made possible through response surface methodology (RSM). Sensitivity analysis alternatives are demonstrated on a decision problem concerning the evaluation of force structure options for the Department of Defense. Sensitivity analysis is performed on both one-way and two-way perturbations of …
A Methodology For Evaluating Military Systems In A Counterproliferation Role, Stanley Stafira Jr.
A Methodology For Evaluating Military Systems In A Counterproliferation Role, Stanley Stafira Jr.
Theses and Dissertations
This thesis develops a methodology to evaluate how dissimilar military systems support the accomplishment of the United States? counterproliferation objectives. The overall scope is to develop a model of the counterproliferation decision process that enables systems to be evaluated against common criteria. By using decision analysis, an influence diagram model is developed which represents military activities in the counterproliferation process. The key questions which must be asked in evaluating counterproliferation systems are highlighted. An analysis of perfect intelligence, perfect defensive, and perfect offensive systems reveal that a perfect intelligence system provides the greatest potential to meet the United States' counterproliferation …
An Analytical Framework For Assessing Future Force Structure Requirements Under Uncertainty, Michael L. Fredley
An Analytical Framework For Assessing Future Force Structure Requirements Under Uncertainty, Michael L. Fredley
Theses and Dissertations
The objective of this research was to develop an analytical framework to assess future force structure requirements under the major uncertainties inherent in the post-Cold War era. Among the uncertainties are the frequency and nature of future threats to U.S. interests and the cost of maintaining, building, and demobilizing forces. The centerpiece of the methodology is a computer model which simulates the development of threats to U.S. interests and the actions the U.S. takes to protect those interests. From this simulation, the costs and risks associated with different policy alternatives can be estimated. The simulation is set within a broader …
A Methodology For Comparing The Value Of Competing Afmc Manpower Allocation Strategies, Sandra K. Smith
A Methodology For Comparing The Value Of Competing Afmc Manpower Allocation Strategies, Sandra K. Smith
Theses and Dissertations
This research effort develops a methodology for Air Force Materiel Command (AFMC) decision makers to use during mandated resource allocation exercises for comparing competing manpower allocation strategies. A value model is used to represent the hierarchical objectives of the command, with the primary objective being the attainment of maximum mission effectiveness in the face of constrained resources. Value model decomposition is patterned according to the command's organizational structure. Scoring functions derived using direct assessment survey techniques capture the relationship between manpower and mission effectiveness for lowest level organizations. An additive value function represents the model mathematically; the primary objective value …
The Effect Of Repeatedly Sampling An Embedded Metamodel On The Simulation Response, John Kent Patterson
The Effect Of Repeatedly Sampling An Embedded Metamodel On The Simulation Response, John Kent Patterson
Theses and Dissertations
This study investigated the effect on simulation output of repeatedly sampling an embedded metamodel. A metamodel is said to be embedded within a simulation if it is used to replace a submodule of that simulation. Replacing a deterministic module with an embedded deterministic metamodel poses no apparent mathematical problems. However, using a deterministic metamodel to replace a stochastic simulation component could require additional corrective actions. This research was performed in two phases. The first phase dealt with a set of tandem queues. It was shown that as each queue was sequentially replaced with a metamodel, the total system variance was …
Patient-Aircraft Forecasting For The Strategic Aeromedical Evacuation "Lift-Bed Process", Donald F. Kimminau
Patient-Aircraft Forecasting For The Strategic Aeromedical Evacuation "Lift-Bed Process", Donald F. Kimminau
Theses and Dissertations
The goal of this research is to develop a tool for the Global Patient Movement Requirements Center (GPMRC) to efficiently forecast Aeromedical Evacuation (AE) aircraft and schedule patients in the lift-bed process. During a contingency, GPMRC is responsible for requesting required airlift, and providing lift-bed candidates to the Theater Patient Movement Requirements Center. The objective is to evacuate all waiting patients while minimizing the number of C-141 aircraft which must be dedicated to the AE mission. In the solution process, a short-term forecast of patient movement requirements is input, including number of patients, bed and aircraft availability, and hub preferences. …
Modeling Corps Artillery In A Theater Level Combat Model, Richard F. Bowyer
Modeling Corps Artillery In A Theater Level Combat Model, Richard F. Bowyer
Theses and Dissertations
This thesis describes the development of a methodology to explicitly model corps artillery assets in the Joint Staff's Joint Stochastic Analysis Research (J-STOCHWAR) and to quantify Army doctrine that guides organization of artillery for combat. The methodology incorporates corps artillery into the J-STOCHWAR by using the five fundamentals for organizing for combat, which reflect Army doctrine, and combines them with basic concepts already used in existing theater-level models. Other aspects of the problem include determining the appropriate level of detail, identifying techniques to solve the problem, and verifying the results. The proposed decision analysis solution technique provides a feasible method …
A New Goodness-Of-Fit Test For The Gamma Distribution Based On Sample Spacings From Complete And Censored Samples, Huseyin Duman
A New Goodness-Of-Fit Test For The Gamma Distribution Based On Sample Spacings From Complete And Censored Samples, Huseyin Duman
Theses and Dissertations
This thesis studies a new goodness-of-fit test for the gamma distribution with known shape parameter. This test statistic, Z*, is based on spacings from complete or censored samples. The size of samples varied between 5 and 35. The critical value tables were generated for the Z* test statistic for complete and censored samples. The critical values were obtained for five different significance levels: 0.20 0.15, 0.10, 0.05, and 0.01. An extensive power study, containing 50,000 Monte Carlo runs was conducted using nine alternative distributions, Ha. It was observed that the Z* test statistic was more powerful against certain …