Digital Commons Network^™

An Aluminum Salvage Station For The External Tank (Asset), James N. Haislip Jr., William C. Raynes Jr., David L. Van Matte, Roger E. Linscott, Michael A. Skinner

Theses and Dissertations

The external tank is currently the only non-reusable portion of the National Space Transportation System. The tank has 98% of the energy required to be placed in orbit at the point it is jettisoned. The purpose of this study is to develop techniques which would transform this throw-away item into a source of construction material at low earth orbit. A simulation is developed to verify the reduction timelines and peak power requirements for manual and automated reduction. The required tools to accomplish the tasks of initial cutting, product transport, spray on foam insulation removal, and product storage are developed. A …

Multidisciplinary Modeling And Design Of A Space Structure, Brian K. Cassiday, Lawrence L. Gatchet, John T. Tester, Stephen O. Gaines Ii, Mario N. Moya

Theses and Dissertations

A method is needed to simultaneously integrate several engineering disciplines into one complete model to determine the performance of the system as a whole during the design development. System engineering methodologies are particularly suited to this problem. These methods provide a structured approach to problem formulation and system parameter identification. Bond graphs are also well suited as bond graphs model power flow and energy relationships within subsystems, a characteristic inherent to all dynamic systems. The intent of this research was to demonstrate the use of concurrent engineering theory to systematically model a large flexible space structure involving several engineering disciplines. …

Model-Based Reasoning In The Detection Of Satellite Anomalies, Ralph W. Dries

Theses and Dissertations

Automatic fault detection and recovery would be a mandatory requirement for a satellite where some degree of autonomy is required. This thesis reviews some AI techniques used for the detection of satellite anomalies, and concludes that the model-based reasoning paradigm is best suited for automated on-board fault detection because it can cope with situations not necessarily programmed into the knowledge base. Using the Scheme language and its SCOOPS object oriented extension, development of software is described that models the pitch control channel in the attitude and velocity control subsystem of a typical geo-stationary communications satellite. This model is used by …

A Computer Model Of A Co2 Oscillator-Amplifier System, William F. Anderson

Theses and Dissertations

An existing CO₂ laser amplifier simulation model developed for use on IBM-compatible personal computers has been improved through the redesign and addition of supplemental procedures from several models. The models and selected procedures which form the basis of the improved model are described. One procedure calculates the pumping rates of CO₂ and N₂ through calculation of the Boltzmann equation. Another procedure calculates the average vibrational temperatures of C₂'s vibrational modes. A third procedure replaces the Runge- Kutta integrator used in the original model with a faster, more accurate Adams- Bashforth-Moulton predictor-corrector integrator.

Improving Reliability In A Stochastic Communication Network, William L. Gaught

Theses and Dissertations

This research investigated the behavior of increasing the reliability of components in stochastic communication networks. A stochastic communication network is one in which the components, links and nodes, are not 100 percent reliable. In addition the reliability value, each component also has a capacity value that limits the flow through the component. The throughput in a stochastic communication network can be improved by increasing the capacity or the reliability of the individual components. A set of linear and nonlinear models was developed to determine the best investment strategy for increasing the reliability of individual components. Once the models were developed, …

A Limited Antiballistic Missile System, Jay H. Payne

Theses and Dissertations

This investigation examines the possibilities of deploying a limited ABM system to counter launches from Third World regions. It is a systems analysis of the entire concept, with the objective of determining if the existing missile warning network could detect launches from Third World regions, and if an ABM component could be integrated into the network. A computer model was used to determine if launches would be detected, and examine the warning time provided. Based on sample data, the warning network appears capable of detecting Third World launches. Warning times provided by the network appears to provide adequate time to …

Proposed Design Of A Tactical Reconnaissance Satellite System, John D. T. Severance

Theses and Dissertations

Tactical reconnaissance is a much needed wartime asset, yet with the deactivation of all active-duty RF-4C squadrons world-wide there appears to be a gap in this country's war-fighting capability. This study proposes a system which utilizes a constellation of small tactical satellites and mobile ground receiving stations that can fulfill the tactical reconnaissance mission. A literature review gives background information on resolution variables, the RF-4C, space reconnaissance, and sensing technologies. After defining system requirements and constraints, a basic system concept is determined. Three alternative systems, separated mostly by threat scenario, technology, and cost, are evaluated using Athey's Systematic Systems Approach. …

Application Of Influence Diagrams In Identifying Soviet Satellite Missions, Cary C. Chun

Theses and Dissertations

This thesis investigates the feasibility of applying influence diagrams to capture expert knowledge and incorporate decision theory to construct a Soviet satellite mission prediction model. Before a Soviet launch occurs, formulations of the model's prior probability distribution allows the input of expert knowledge and any available information. As the predictive variables of the model become known, the information is used to successively refine the estimate of the probable mission, thereby, reducing the uncertainty in the model. Discretizing is used to approximate continuous variables as discrete variables which successfully allows the combination of both variable types in a single influence diagram …

Executive Information Systems For Usaf Hospital Administrators: A Feasibility Assessment, Alan R. Constantian

Theses and Dissertations

This thesis investigated the feasibility of implementing an executive information system (EIS) for hospital administrators at CONUS-based USAF inpatient medical facilities. A literature search determined that successful system implementation would require that such an EIS be found technically, economically, operationally, and motivationally feasible. Failure to meet any of these feasibility factors would jeopardize successful implementation. Surveys were mailed to each of the administrators and medical systems officers of CONUS- based USAF inpatient medical facilities in order to gather data on these feasibility issues. Approximately eighty percent of the survey population of 66 in each group responded to the survey. There …

An Assessment Of The Factors In Office Automation Systems Affecting Air Force Middle Managers And Clerical Workers In The Information Management Career Field, Loy C. Cook

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this thesis was to investigate the attitudes and opinions of personnel affected by two office automation systems. Reprographics Automated Management System (RAMS) and Records Information Management System (RIMS). Eight investigative questions were posed: (1) How receptive were information management personnel to the office automation systems (RAMS and RIMS)? (2) Were information management personnel's perception different now from the period prior to installation of the office automation systems? (3) What is the frequency of use for each office automation system? (4) What major factors impede these office automation projects (RAMS/RIMS)? (5) What major factors facilitate these office automation …

Air Force Information Management (Im): A 1990 Snapshot And 1995 Future Look At Air Force Im Needs And Preferred Education/Training Approaches, Richard T. Mcghee

Theses and Dissertations

This research investigated 37 training topics which were of interest to Air Force (AF) information managers, Air Force Specialty Code 70XX. The topics were grouped into the following seven information resource related clusters; (1) computer operating systems, (2) data communications, (3) Air Force Standard Systems (PDOS, RAMS, and PCIII), (4) information resource management concepts, (5) AF/IM career field issues, (6) computer hardware, and finally, (7) computer software. Twenty-four graduates of the AF Institute of Technology's (AFIT) Information Resource Management program were asked to provide their perceptions of AF information managers (IMs) current (1990) and needed (1995) knowledge/skill levels on each …

A Comparison Of Human-Computer Interfaces In Air Force Organizations, Michael G. Morris

Theses and Dissertations

This thesis investigated differences in organizational efficiency and effectiveness for users of graphical user interfaces and text-based interfaces on personal computers in Air Forces offices. Areas of interest included amount of time required to learn the basic system, amount of time required to learn new application, users' ratings of user-friendliness, users' perceptions of the extent that their system help them perform in their job, the number of software packages used on the job by users of each system, user satisfaction, responsible authorities' ratings of quality of output, and the relationship between user job experience level and interface used on the …

An Examination Of The Perceived Computer Literacy Of Enlisted Air Force Administration Personnel And An Analysis Of Their Perceived Training Needs, Howard A. Bass

Theses and Dissertations

With the realignment of the Air Force administration career field under the Administrative Assistant to the Secretary of the Air Force on November 19, 1987, came a new set of requirements for all Air Force administrators. They were now responsible for electronic information as well as the written word. The question was, did the administrators have the technical capabilities, or computer literacy, needed to handle these new requirements. This study made that assessment and additionally made a determination of the enlisted administrators perceived computer training needs. The results revealed that only 64.3% of the respondents perceived themselves as computer literate. …

An Evaluation Of The Educational Background And Knowledge Base Of Air Force Information Management Officers, Summer E. Scott

Theses and Dissertations

This study compares the educational background and knowledge base recommended for Information Management professionals to that currently possessed by Air Force Information Management (IM) officers. The literature review revealed that information managers should have an educational background that provides them with knowledge in the areas of people, computers, systems, models, organization, and society. Statistics made available through the Air Force Manpower and Personnel Center (AFMPC) indicated that only 2.1% of all 70XX officers have a complete information resource management background, and only 7% have a technical or computer-related background.

Directing An Original Script: "The Only Woman Awake Is The Woman Who Has Heard The Flute", Denise A. Heiman

Theses and Dissertations

No abstract provided.

An Object-Oriented Military Simulation Baseline For Parallel Simulation Research, Robert J. Rizza

Theses and Dissertations

This thesis documents the design and implementation of a discrete event military simulation using a modular object-oriented design and the C programming language. The basis simulation is one of interacting objects. The objects move along a predetermined path until they encounter another object. Objects react to the encounter object according to the implemented algorithm. Object reaction options are fight, evade, or do nothing. In the code's current form it is generic enough to allow a user the flexibility of creating an infinite number of scenarios bounded in size by the hardware's memory capacity. The modularity of design will allow for …

Quantization Noise Characteristics Resulting From Gaussian, Negative- Exponential, And Sinusoidal Random Input Signals, Van N. Osborne

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this study was to investigate the trade-off between the number of quantization levels and the resulting noise characteristics for three classes of commonly occurring input signals, namely, those signals possessing Gaussian, negative-exponential and random sinusoidal distributions. This study derived expressions for the mean-squared error, output spectrum and error spectrum by expanding the nonlinear quantization function into a summation of orthogonal polynomials matched to the corresponding input signal distribution. Once accomplished, orthogonality properties were applied to provide usable expressions. A set of three Fortran 77 programs were developed- each of which applied to one of the studied input …

An Investigation Of Work Group Co-Location In An Organizational Flowchart Model, Evan R. Anderson

Theses and Dissertations

The problem of this study was to develop a model flowchart that incorporates the functions traditionally performed by the Engineering, Planning, and Mock-up segments of a specific aircraft manufacturing company into a co-located, multi-organizational, interactive group. The function of the group, termed the Product Definition Group in this study, was to design the dimensions of, and schedule the installation of, fuselage insulation blankets for commercial aircraft.

Security And Involvement In The Parent-Adolescent Relationship, Susan J. Thompson

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this study was the investigation of the dynamics which occur in relationships between parents and their adolescent children. Two hundred and eighty-four adolescents from local high schools were surveyed using the Acquaintance Description Form for Adolescents. They were also asked to take home the Parental Response Questionnaire for their parents to complete. Of these, responses were received from one hundred and seven parents.

Previous research has suggested that differences exist between relationships maintained by adolescent children and their mothers and fathers, particularly on the variables of security and involvement. Fathers have traditionally been described as less secure …

Numerical Analysis Of Critical Inclinations About The Planet Mars, Kenneth J. Hyatt

Theses and Dissertations

This study investigated critical inclinations about the planet Mars. Averaged equations of motion were numerically integrated over a time span of ten Earth years for various inclinations, eccentricities, and perigee heights. Each orbit (i.e. set of initial conditions) produced a standard deviation of the variations in eccentricity (SDE) and inclination (SDI). These were calculated using a polynomial approximation to the variations. Surface plots of SDI and SDE vs the initial conditions are then examined to ascertain the critical inclinations.

Minimum Orbits About The Planet Venus, Jeffrey J. Smith

Theses and Dissertations

An investigation is conducted into low orbiting satellites around the planet Venus with drag limited lifetimes. It is possible to specify combinations of orbital elements which result in orbital lifetimes in excess of some desired value. These combinations can be assembled into Critical Curves and Critical surfaces. Critical Curves and Surfaces are defined as curves and surfaces in orbital element space above which initial element sets will result in orbits that meet or exceed lifetime requirements. A numerical method is implemented for finding these combinations, and three Critical Surfaces are examined. A decay threshold is selected for bounding satellite lifetime. …

Perceptions Of Retired Public School Teachers Regarding Retirement: Implications For Preretirement Planning, Rollie Duane Morud

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this study was to identify perceptions about retirement and suggestions regarding retirement planning from retired public school educators. The writer's primary interest was in developing a data base regarding the non-financial issues of retirement leading to the design of a preretirement preparation planning program.

A random sample of 393 retired North Dakota teachers from a population of 3930 was surveyed. Seventy percent (274) returned the eight-page survey. The sample had the following characteristics: average age--73 years, average length of retirement--10.65 years, 74 percent were female, 72 percent lived in their own home, 37 percent had moved since …

The Air Force Comes To North Dakota: A Study In The Site Selection Of Grand Forks And Minot Air Force Bases, Rich J. Nolan

Theses and Dissertations

In 1954 the Air Force decided to locate two air bases in North Dakota. After deciding on locations at Fargo and Bismarck, the Air Force then changed the locations to Grand Forks and Minot. The decision created an uproar in the state as each major city fought to receive a base. Another controversy erupted over the site selection within Grand Forks County when the Air Force changed the locations from its original choice.

A wide variety of research sources were used in the the paper. The papers of United States Senator Milton R. Young were extensively used. Government documents in …

Exploring The Relationship Of Whole Language And Isolated Skills Instruction With Reading And Writing Skills Of Intermediate Remedial Readers, Marian C. Bryan

Theses and Dissertations

Two instructional methods of teaching remedial reading in a Chapter I (Education Consolidation and Improvement Act) setting were compared. One group of 20 remedial reading students received a traditional or isolated skills (IS) approach to reading and a group of 20 remedial reading students with similar ability and achievement levels received a whole language (WL) approach to reading for 7 months. A comparable control (C) group was selected from Chapter I classes in two other schools. All groups spent from 30-45 minutes in a small group (5-8) Chapter I setting with computers and a variety of reading materials available.

Group …

Gender Difference In Emotionally Disturbed Children, Jane M. Beaulieu

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this study was to determine the consequences to emotionally disturbed elementary school girls of being in the minority in self-contained classes for emotionally disturbed children. This study was conducted in MISII (Modified Instructional Service II) classes, primarily for the emotionally disturbed, in the New York City Public Schools. The ratio of boys to girls was 6.5 to 1. A survey was distributed to teachers of such classes with at least one girl attending. Part 1 of the survey consisted of 36 statements on the following topics indicated by the literature as relevant to the situation of girls …

Integrating Language Arts With Graphic Communications In An Inner City Junior High School, Kurt Proctor

Theses and Dissertations

Teaching the youth of today is becoming an important issue. Alarming statistics prove that the problems of illiteracy and high dropout rates are not decreasing. If nothing is done to change the prospects of the 13 million school-aged children currently at serious risk of school failure, says a coalition of eleven education organizations, these children will grow up to become adults who will drain the economy in welfare and social service costs and seriously hamper the nations ability to compete internationally. L. B. Schorr (1988) states that in 1987,"the one million youngsters who leave high school without graduating will be …

An Examination Of The Relationships Between Cunselor Supervisees' Perceptions Of Supervision And Their Personality Characteristics, David S. Cozzens

Theses and Dissertations

No abstract provided.

A Comparative Study Of The Identification Of Learning Disabilities In A Multi-District Special Education Unit, Jacqualene Trefz

Theses and Dissertations

Statement of the problem. Variability within learning disability programs is a common problem with implications for all aspects of service delivery. This study was designed to analyze and describe inconsistencies in procedures for the identification of learning disabled students within Buffalo Valley Special Education Unit in central North Dakota.

Methods and procedures. A multiple case study approach was used within the framework of the naturalistic paradigm. A single case was defined as the identification and placement of students within the schools served by one learning disability teacher during the 1988-89 and 1989-90 academic years. Data collection was specific to the …

The Great War And The American Novel: Mimesis And Craft In Selected Fiction Of Dos Passos, Boyd, March, And Hemingway, William E. Matsen

Theses and Dissertations

This dissertation examines the influence of World War I on American literature and its effects on the American tradition of literary realism. It does so through an analysis of five war novels written by four American authors who had participated in the conflict as combatants or volunteers. These works include John Dos Passos' One Man's Initiation--1917 and Three Soldiers, Thomas Boyd's Through the Wheat, William March's Company K, and Ernest Hemingway's A Farewell to Arms.

The dissertation explores a development within the sub-genre of war novels from works of "witness and testimony," which were based on the authors' personal experiences …

Evaluating The Writing Of First Grade Children: Two Procedures, Barbara W. Olson

Theses and Dissertations

No abstract provided.