Aerospace Engineering Commons^™

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. …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

Humanity’S Journey To The Red Planet, Robinson Raphael

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Being the fourth planet in our solar system, Mars is half the size of Earth and constitutes a gravity near 0.38 g. Like its fellow terrestrial planets, it has a central core, rocky mantle, and solid crust. Coupled with a thin atmosphere, its surface features are reminiscent of both the Earth and Moon. Given adequate accessibility, Mars has been a hub for scientific exploration. With past and present robotic missions, they have gradually provided information about the Martian environment to help aid future human exploration. For humanity’s first manned mission to the Martian crater, Aram Chaos, a crew of six …

The Bobo Project: Hexa-Eagles, Anjana Mahesh Kumar, Huna Amad, Jean Samirah Venturina, Sakthivel Mithra, Suhasini, Sumaiyathul Faaliha

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The consumer business has undergone a substantial shift in how customers to shop since the introduction of online shopping. When the world was affected by Covid-19 in 2020, one of the most major repercussions was in the Food & Beverage (F&B) and grocery industries. As a result of the pandemic, many cities were put under lockdown, and everyone remained indoors. Consumer purchasing patterns changed dramatically, with malls closing or operating with limited access, and customers avoiding common spaces for fear of getting the virus. As the global epidemic progressed, several firms were forced to close their physical locations due to …

Self-Acquisition Of Liquid Propellant Versatile Arsenal Of Resources Endeavour (S.A.L.V.A.R.E.), Vittorio Baraldi, Nikki Smith-Cielo, Sotirios Zormpas

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Unlocking the mysteries of Mars’s past and future habitability is just within humanity’s grasp. With a multitude of inherent similarities to Earth, Mars is one of the most promising locations to extend humankind’s reach in manned space exploration. As humanity is at the summit of taking the next leap for mankind by preparing the first crewed missions to Mars, a need that must be met is to significantly reduce the mass necessary to deliver to the surface.

The Self-Acquisition of Liquid propellant Versatile Arsenal of Resources Endeavour (SALVARE) project details a mission for creating the first Mars water-based In-Situ Resources …

Flexible Mold For Microstructures Replication, Zefu Ren, Dae Won Kim

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Space debris has been a growing concern in space exploration sector. To combat this issue, biomimicry is utilized to create a gecko’s feet microstructure that will be attached to a gripper or robotic arm. This will enable capture of debris through the use of dry adhesive microstructure. However, the production of such microstructures is expensive which hinders their implementation. The objective of this research is to develop an advanced fabrication process to mass produce gecko’s feet microstructure with soft polymer mold. The possibility of using different coating methods with coating materials will be justified. The process of fabricating mold and …

Extracting Microplastic From Anhydrous Beach Sediment Utilizing Relative Terminal Velocities, Grace Robertson, Jackson Schuler

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The primary intent of this research was to investigate and develop a method to extract microplastics from anhydrous beach sediment. Microplastic is found abundantly in coastal sea environments, including aqueous bottom sediment, and beach sediment (Sagawa, Kawaai, & Hinata, 2018). The scope of the microplastic extraction method in this case is limited to strictly the anhydrous beach sediment. The Venturi Effect and Burnoulli’s Principle have been utilized in the design of a nozzle with airflow that has been injected with a sediment and microplastic heterogenous mixture. A nozzle was designed to operate at the specific terminal velocity of sediment such …

Filament Winding Composite Airframes For Sounding Rockets, Eric Ford

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This study’s objective was to determine the feasibility of manufacturing carbon fiber cylinders using an X-Winder filament winder for a structural airframe in sounding rockets. Multiple carbon fiber tubes were manufactured using the X-Winder and tested. The results of this testing successfully demonstrated that tubes manufactured with the X-Winder are capable of performing as an airframe for small sounding rockets. Five tube samples were destructively tested in compression, and the average maximum compressive strength of the tubes was 9,854 lbf. One of the tubes was used as the airframe in a small sounding rocket which flew to 4,042 feet above …

Advanced Photogrammetric Modeling Of Dranoc Kullas Using Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems, George Gebert, Liam Griffin, Justin Lawlor, Lauren Davis, Kylee Vander Velde, Sami Ali

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Small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS), also known as drones, offer new capabilities for cultural heritage preservation activities. Student researchers from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University have applied photogrammetric techniques based upon sUAS captured imagery to assist with historical site documentation and cultural heritage preservation in the Republic of Kosovo. Imagery from three locations -- Isniq, Dranoc and Junik -- highlight this work. Student researchers created georectified orthomosaics and 3D virtual objects. At each of these three locations the object of interest was a type of building known as a kulla. These kullas are fortified homes built for protecting large families and are …

Comparative Analysis Of Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operations Manuals, Stephen M. Cigal

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With over 100,000 remote pilots in the United States, individuals and companies are rapidly incorporating unmanned aircraft system technologies into their everyday life and businesses models. The companies that use these technologies must comply with federal and state regulations in order to maintain a safe environment to operate. These operations must also be accepted by the general public. Since the FAA regulations for small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) went into effect in 2016, supplemented by additional state and/or local requirements, some companies have generated operations manuals (OM) to ensure consistent, safe flight that meets these requirements. By analyzing the OM’s …

The Changing Face Of Airmanship And Safety Culture Operating Unmanned Aircraft Systems, Tracy Lamb

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The notion of using drones for commercial purposes has evolved in the past 5 years from the initial “boom” of excitement around this, somewhat of a novelty and curiosity, to more calculated and sophisticated use of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), or drones. In the hands of true professionals, drones can offer highly efficient and profitable solutions for industrial, and commercial inspections and other data capturing tasks. The appetite for safe and efficient collection of data is a changing face of safety cultures and how teams and individuals apply airmanship principles, and how inspection crew and UAS crew interact. UAS are …

Project Atlas: A Mobile Universal Rocket Engine Test Stand, Collin Mickels, Conrad H. Wright, Noah Soderquist, Alona Prokofieva, Sattar Panahandehgar, Naveen Sri Uddanti, Alcuin Rajan

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Project Atlas is a mobile, trailer-mounted, rocket engine test stand developed by Experimental Rocket Propulsion Lab (ERPL) at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University’s Daytona Beach, Florida campus. The integrated test stand and automated data-acquisition and control system supports ERPL’s multitude of engine research projects, including bipropellant liquid and hybrid rocket engines. The need for an integrated universal mobile test stand stems from the inability to conduct frequent test fires on campus due to Class-3 airspace and liability issues. The test stand is designed as a horizontal thrust structure utilizing a dual flame duct to redirect and cancel reaction forces acting upon the …

Single Axis Stability Autonomous Glider Control, Brian Study

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To investigate and increase knowledge on autonomous control systems, an autonomous glider was fitted with a control system with the purpose of creating a craft that would be capable of maintaining a wings level condition despite perturbations to the trim condition. The glider measures bank angle and roll rate information from an accelerometer and gyro, before it relays the data to an equipped microcontroller. Programmed on the microcontroller is a control law to take the input from the sensors and issue a command to a single servo that controls both ailerons, allowing for the vehicle to autonomously correct its bank …

United States Drone Laws, Jacob Crittenden

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The purpose of this Directed Study was to investigate and compile the drone laws that exist within the United States, both on the federal level and for each individual state. The federal laws are directed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) under laws that pertain to “Unmanned Aircraft Systems” (UAS) and are relatively new. Most states have further regulations on UAS that they have passed. Most of these laws are in place to protect public safety and privacy, but some also prohibit certain locations of flight and certain modifications that might be made to the platform. State laws that limit …

The Shaping Of Things That Are: How Airplane Windows Took Their Shape, Morgan Lopez

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Have you ever wondered why your airplane's windows are rounded? It is not for aesthetic appeal.

The first commercial jetliner windows' sole purpose was appearance; a squared window afforded an impressive view of the earth, but the view was not without consequence.

The Capabilities Of The Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite-16 (Goes-16), Brandon M. Kane

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This report investigates the capability of the new Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite-16 (GOES-16) satellite to display 16 channels of the electromagnetic spectrum, to produce images at a higher resolution at increased intervals, and to detect and display lightning. This report also discusses the main instrumentation aboard the new geostationary satellite and how it aids in creating accurate data collection, which in turn, produces quicker weather forecasts and warnings. The 16 different channels produced by the Advanced Baseline Imager aboard the new satellite are analyzed in detail as to the functions and wavelengths on which the channels operate. The image resolution …