Engineering Commons^™

Knowledge Management Modeling And Decision Analysis For Usmepcom, Luke G. Wunderlich

Theses and Dissertations

This thesis explores the adoption of Value-Focused Thinking (VFT) in enhancing the Knowledge Management (KM) program at USMEPCOM, aiming to align decision-making with the organization’s values and goals. Through evaluating the current knowledge flow and policy drafts, it proposes categorizing command messages, establishing a centralized information repository, and scheduling a daily order release to improve information accessibility and operational readiness. Although no alternative offers a perfect solution, implementing Command Message Categorization is expected to significantly enhance operational efficiency and prepare USMEPCOM for future challenges.

Discerning Satellite Subsystem Costs To Improve Cost Estimation, Ryan A. Candella

Theses and Dissertations

The race for supremacy in the space environment is accelerating, with the United States taking a significant step by establishing its dedicated military branch for space operations. Achieving dominance in this realm relies on efficiently managing costs and securing rapid funding to initiate new programs. One step towards accomplishing this goal is to comprehend the cost distribution across the primary components of a Space Vehicle Bus and to delve into lower-level Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) elements for more precise and expeditious cost estimations. To achieve this, descriptive statistics for a variety of Bus subsystem WBS elements are provided in this …

Development Of Cost Factors For Satellite Rechargeable Batteries, Katelyn A. Clements

Theses and Dissertations

Factors are often used by the cost estimating profession to predict costs of future projects or project components. Cost factors can be useful when little to no cost data is available from which to build an initial estimate or as an easy-to-use cross check of a primary estimate. Specific to satellites, previous studies have examined cost factors at higher Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) levels (e.g., Level 2 or Level 3), while this research analyzes cost factors developed using data specific to rechargeable batteries at USCM WBS Level 4 and its parent, the Electrical Power System (EPS) at Level 3. Within …

An Assignment Model For Lateral Transfers Matching Base Repair Facilities To Xf3 Coded Nsns Requiring Repair, George D. Valaika

Theses and Dissertations

This research addresses challenges in efficiently distributing reparable National Stock Numbers (NSNs) to base-level repair facilities, aiming to ease strain on depot resources. It establishes a network integrating bases with similar repair capabilities for NSNs and allocates NSNs to balance repair capacities. Drawing from USAF reparable inventory modeling and inventory management theory, it generates data mimicking historical data to maximize total expected part repairs by assigning NSNs based on the best percentage of base repair (PBR).

Applying Digital Engineering To Defense Acquisitions Through Model-Based Systems Engineering And Discrete Event Simulation, Michael T. Shutlock

Theses and Dissertations

The U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) faces a critical challenge as acquisition professionals strive to grasp the intricacies of the acquisition process. This study proposes an innovative approach to cultivate a more informed and capable acquisition workforce through the integration of digital engineering, specifically Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) and Discrete Event Simulation (DES) toolsets. Embracing digital transformation with MBSE provides a comprehensive understanding, implementing step-by-step procedures with an interface designed to handle vast amounts of information differently. The merging of MBSE's visual modeling with DES's dynamic simulation offers a holistic view, empowering acquisition professionals with robust planning and risk management …

Analyzing Cost Risk In Department Of Defense Program Office Estimates, Todd L. Millard

Theses and Dissertations

This research studies cost risk for Department of Defense (DoD) acquisition programs during development and has three overarching objectives: 1) analyze the degree of change in cost risk (quantified as risk dollars) as programs mature, 2) analyze the accuracy of cost risk estimates (quantified as risk error) as programs progress, and 3) adopt risk analysis techniques common in the commercial banking industry to analyze cost risk in DoD programs. For the first objective, some evidence of significant positive trends in relative risk dollars is found for ACAT 1, 2, and 3 programs. For the second objective, there is no strong …

Root Cause Analysis For Troop Construction Schedule Delays And Cost Overruns, Richard H. Wilkens

Theses and Dissertations

Troop construction can be an effective tool when a project is simple enough to execute projects in a timely and cost effective manner. However, underlying variables plague these projects causing them to miss anticipated deadlines which in return could make them more costly. Significant variables that convey impact to cost and schedule are Equipment Operating Issues, Edits During Construction, Design Flaws, Lack of Communication, Poor User Coordination, Improper Documentation, Inaccurate Submittals, Low Quality Control, and Lack of Experience. Project engineers and project managers must provide effective continuity as well as improve their own competence and situational awareness to effectively mitigate …

Training Schedule For The 56th Maintenance Group, Samantha K. O'Rourke

Theses and Dissertations

The 56th Equipment Maintenance Squadron (56 EMS) provides equipment maintenance and back shop maintenance for the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter. The squadron executes thousands of sorties and flight hours annually. This operations tempo requires maintenance to prevent equipment failures, minimization of aircraft downtime, insurance of safety and compliance, and training of maintenance personnel. The squadron incorporates periodic training sessions to train maintenance personnel skills needed by airmen. This research investigates the optimization of these training sessions employing mixed integer programming (MIP). A multi-objective MIP model is developed to address the complex needs of various training activities, such as: training regiments, …

End-User Device Management In The Air And Space Forces, Joshua Bonvissuto

Theses and Dissertations

When achieving technical superiority is a matter a national security, it is critical that the Department of the Air Force (DAF) employs a robust Information Technology Asset Management (ITAM) strategy that maximizes mission effectiveness. Since 2022, the Office of the Chief Information Officer (SAF/CN) has been developing a plan to transform the Air Force’s ITAM strategy, primarily intending to centralize End User Device (EUD) procurement to the DAF level. For this study, a Delphi study was conducted to gather expert opinions on key aspects of SAF/CN’s new ITAM strategy to identify strengths, weaknesses, and implementation challenges. This research provides valuable …

Sustainability Of Apparel Exporting Industry Facilities In South Asia, Sree L. Anilkuma, George H. Berghorn, M.G. Matt Syal

The Professional Constructor

The apparel industry’s contribution to the gross domestic product in South Asian countries is significant and provides livelihoods for millions of people in this region. Although this industry’s contribution towards the economy is substantial, its negative impact on the environment and the working conditions have always been critical issues of concern. The two countries of emphasis in this research, Bangladesh, and India, have experienced numerous garment factory accidents in the form of building collapses, factory fires, and boiler explosions, which have killed and injured thousands of workers. These incidents have brought attention on the need to improve poor facilities and …

Taxonomy Of Trust And Maslow’S Hierarchy Of Needsin The Construction Industry, Ann B. Lyons, Vivek Sharma, Shima Clarke

The Professional Constructor

Trust is vital in every facet of life, enabling collaborative efforts and valuing contributions from various individuals. This is particularly true in the construction industry, where teamwork is essential for success. Prior research has consistently demonstrated that heightened trust levels significantly contribute to better project outcomes and increased client satisfaction. Despite its critical role, the construction industry has yet to adopt a structured hierarchical perspective of trust that aligns with its unique demands. This study aims to fill this gap by validating a comprehensive taxonomy of trust specifically designed for the construction sector. Through literature review, this study identifies key …

Cloud One Migration Schedule Drivers And Schedule Growth, Ryan J. Jansen

Theses and Dissertations

Cloud One, chartered in 2017 under the guidance of Air Force Life Cycle Management Center (AFLCMC) leadership, continues to serve as the USAF’s leading cloud services and hosting platform by providing secure computing environments, application migration assistance, and data management. Prior research has yielded qualitative insights regarding Cloud One’s personnel requirements, application of technical performance, requirements fulfillment, security risks, and various other cost metrics, but schedule improvement recommendations based on the quantitative analysis of migration schedule data has yet to be provided. This research identifies trends within migration sprint schedules and completed schedule data for Cloud One’s completed application migrations. …

Level 2 Work Breakdown Structure Cost Growth Analysis, Kyle P. Marquis

Theses and Dissertations

This thesis analyzes first and second level WBS elements of 59 historical USAF Acquisition Category I RDT&E programs for accuracy and influence on the overall program cost growth. For the accuracy analysis portion, the mean, 15th, and 85th percentiles of common practice estimates at completion are compared with the same percentiles for distributions generated using the data. The results reveal a trend of substantial underestimation of risks associated with cost overruns. For the influence portion, this thesis analyzes the effect that cost growth trends of different second level WBS elements have on cost growth of the overall program through regression …

An Integer Programming Model To Optimize Us Army Deployment Cycle And Maximize Unit Availability, Grant R. Engel

Theses and Dissertations

The goal of this paper is to determine an optimal cycle length, in months, that minimizes costs and maximizes availability for deploying units in the United States (US) Army. The US Army must be cost efficient while maintaining the flexibility required to adapt to dynamic mission demand. The current practice is to deploy units for a length between the range of 6 to 12 months; however, this varies from unit to unit and the best policy is not clear. We address these issues by forming a mathematical programming model with unique characteristics that distinguish it from others of similar design. …

Factors Affecting The Retention Of Active Duty Airmen, Gregory A. Picardi

Theses and Dissertations

This study investigates the factors influencing the early exit of active duty Airmen, particularly in the context of the recruitment challenges faced by the USAF in Fiscal Year 2023. The research highlights the significant impact of the implementation of MHS Genesis, a healthcare administration program, on recruitment processes and the broader issues affecting military recruitment, including physical and emotional trauma concerns among potential recruits. Through a survey conducted at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base involving 251 participants, the study utilizes a Chi-square test to explore the primary and secondary reasons for leaving active duty, with family pressure, stability, and financial reasons …

Measuring The Comparative Performance Of Usaf Behavioral Health Clinic Operations: Emphasis On Capacity, Daniel L. Straw

Theses and Dissertations

This research examines the operations of behavioral health clinics in Air Force Continental United States facilities, with a focus on operational efficiency and capacity through Data Envelopment Analysis. Most facilities operate near capacity, demonstrating efficient resource usage, but concerns arise with the potential of increased demand. Days-to-care and leakage are identified as major sources of inefficiency, suggesting that addressing these issues can enhance operations and reduce costs. The study also explores the impact of COVID-19 on care delivery.

The Impact Of Solar Angle And Cloud Shadows On 3d Reconstruction Of Rolling Stock Cargo, Carlina M. Ostrand

Theses and Dissertations

Meeting the relentless demand for more efficient air cargo transportation is paramount. This paper explores an innovative approach, harnessing cutting-edge stereoscopic vision technology to create 3D point clouds of rolling stock cargo, adaptable to varying solar angles and cloud shadow conditions. A virtual cargo image is generated by systematically organizing depth and location points. Accuracy is rigorously tested across six camera positions offering detailed, real-time insights for optimized cargo loading in unpredictable outdoor conditions. The findings reveal the impact of solar positioning, cloud coverage, & camera placement, pushing the boundaries of possibilities for cargo logistics in challenging environments.

Comparative Analysis Of Satellite Battery Technologies: A Cross-Sectional And Temporal Study Within And Across Battery Types, Andrew H. Chung

Theses and Dissertations

Trends in costs for batteries incorporated in satellite electrical power systems (EPS) have been identified by Space Systems Command (SSC) within the Unmanned Space Vehicle Cost Model (USCM) database. A subset of pre-1980s data consisting of Nickel-Cadmium battery costs was excluded from battery cost estimating relationship (CER) development as a result of this determination. This research aims to ascertain the impacts of these trends on satellite cost estimating practices by assessing developments in battery costs over time, comparing normalized Nickel-Cadmium (NiCd) / NickelHydrogen (NiH2) / Lithium-Ion (Li-Ion) battery costs, identifying differences between the NiH2 and Li-Ion modern battery types, and …

An Introduction Of Adaptive Training Aid Concepts And Its Application To Accelerated Training For Air Battle Managers, John C. Gillispie

Theses and Dissertations

Over the years, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) to enable autonomous systems has undergone transformative shifts in the Department of Defense (DoD), revolutionizing capabilities and strategic approaches. To further optimize these advancements, varying levels of autonomy have been introduced across critical military applications, spanning intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR), air battle management, and offensive/defensive air operations. As the technological landscape expands, so do the opportunities for autonomy to augment operations through human-agent teaming. Within the Air Force, one notably cognitively demanding role that stands to benefit from these strides is that of the Air Battle Manager (ABM). In support of …

The Professional Constructor, Full Issue, Volume 49, Number 01

The Professional Constructor

No abstract provided.

Mixed Reality For In-Field Construction Activities: A Systematic Literature Review To Identify Challenges And Solutions, Sumanth Sai. P., Jason Lucas

The Professional Constructor

With the new industrial revolution, “Industry 4.0,” it is important to understand and incorporate the new standards and technologies evolving in the market. Industry 4.0 relies on the integrated use of big data and analytics coupled with various technologies to help make decisions and manage projects. This revolution has brought Mixed Reality (MR) into the construction field. Mixed reality (MR) offers significant benefits for smart industries, such as enhancing productivity, training, manufacturing, error correction, assembly, and packaging processes. But how feasible are Mixed Reality Technologies (MRTs) considering the high initial investment required for acquiring devices, subscribing to services, planning and …

Computer-Integrated Construction Management With Procore, Vedanth Ashoka, M.G. Matt Syal

The Professional Constructor

The construction industry faces difficulties in managing the enormous amounts of data generated at each stage of a project, impacting project coordination and decision-making. Currently the industry is facing the issue of a lack of interoperability among the multiple software programs being used for different functions. To address this lack of interoperability, there is a need for an integrated environment that allows seamless flow of data between different functions. Among the few software tools that have emerged in recent year, Procore, a cloud-based construction project management software, has emerged as a widely used solution in the industry, enabling collaboration among …

Understanding The Impact Of Trade Policy Effect Uncertainty On Firm-Level Innovation Investment: A Deep Learning Approach, Daniel Chang, Nan Hu, Peng Liang, Morgan Swink

Research Collection School Of Computing and Information Systems

Integrating the real options perspective and resource dependence theory, this study examines how firms adjust their innovation investments to trade policy effect uncertainty (TPEU), a less studied type of firm specific, perceived environmental uncertainty in which managers have difficulty predicting how potential policy changes will affect business operations. To develop a text-based, context-dependent, time-varying measure of firm-level perceived TPEU, we apply Bidirectional Encoder Representations from Transformers (BERT), a state-of-the-art deep learning approach. We apply BERT to analyze the texts of mandatory Management Discussion and Analysis (MD&A) sections of annual reports for a sample of 22,669 firm-year observations from 3,181 unique …

Root And Causes Of Skilled Labor Shortage In Construction Industry: Comprehensive Literature Review, Nicholas Hardy, Carolina Barbosa-Resende, James Kereri, Arash Taghinezhad

The Professional Constructor

The skilled labor shortage is well documented from a historical perspective via studies focusing various construction trades such as carpentry, mechanical, electric and plumbing, and tile setters. Causes of such shortages such as industry image, college as a preferred choice after high school, and construction being a last resort have been investigated extensively. Consequently, possible solutions ranging from amplifying shop classes in high school to intensifying recruiting efforts for union training programs have all been addressed throughout the last 40 years. However, recent studies have focused on identifying the magnitude and reach of the skilled labor gap while limited attention …

Assessing Adoption Barriers Of Sustainable Packaging In Egypt, Carol Ramses Morgan

Theses and Dissertations

Sustainable packaging has become an essential part of business decisions and corporate directions. With the rise of environmental damages due to improper waste management and unsustainable practices, businesses have a major responsibility to analyze their products’ life cycles and redesign them with sustainability in mind. Applying sustainable packaging could save companies large amounts of resources, therefore cutting costs, while also achieving the legal and social duty as a corporation towards society and the environment. Many developing countries, with specific focus on Egypt, have recently focused on legislative and corporate decisions in order to encourage more sustainable practices. Egypt’s new Waste …

Consumers' Acceptance To Buy And Dispose Of Recycling Textile Products, Roa Alsayed

Theses and Dissertations

The textile industry is the second most polluting worldwide, following food manufacturing. It is one of the industries that is rarely scrutinized in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. This work analyzes the fashion industry from the perspective of consumer attitudes towards the purchase and disposal of clothing, and their behavior with regards to old garments. The study was conducted in Saudi Arabia and Egypt, two countries that achieved similar results in the fashion industry. The methodology is divided into three phases. First, the manuscript begins with a review of topics such as sustainability, consumer behavior in the …

The Santa Clara, 2024-02-16, Santa Clara University

The Santa Clara

No abstract provided.

Green Skies Over Akron: “Revolutionizing Cak With A $20m Sustainability Blueprint", Oluwasemilore A. Akintelure, Kyle Rediger, Katie Horn

National Training Aircraft Symposium (NTAS)

Our groundbreaking research at Akron-Canton Airport (CAK) proposes a transformative $20 million electrical master plan, designed to revolutionize the airport into a sustainable aviation hub and an Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) leader - a unique stance compared to similar airports in its economic corridor. This initiative, poised to impact millions of travelers, integrates cutting-edge solar panel installations and infrastructure for electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing (eVTOL) vehicles. Our comprehensive analysis, encompassing energy consumption, economic impacts, and risk assessments, underpins this ambitious project. The implementation of green energy solutions is projected to substantially reduce CAK's carbon footprint, leading to a healthier …

History Of Clover Leaf Syndrome, Isabella Perez

Mako: NSU Undergraduate Student Journal

The purpose of this paper is to summarize the history of clover leaf syndrome and describe the newest advancements made to treat it. Clover leaf syndrome is more formally referred to as Kleeblattschadel syndrome. Information was gathered from several scholarly, peer-reviewed articles, and was condensed down into the key takeaways. This syndrome impacts the formation of the skull due to premature fusion of its sutures, creating a tri-lobar skull that resembles a clover leaf. This premature fusion is referred to as a type of craniosynostosis and has been linked to causing several other health complications ranging in severity. This is …

A Study On The Incentives And Barriers For The Adoption Of Electric Vehicles In South Alabama, Marianne Loes, Daniela Wolter Ferreira Touma, Jennifer C. Zoghby

AMTP Proceedings 2024

ABSTRACT

Through a series of public policy incentives and consumer demand, more electric vehicles are being sold nationwide than ever before. Although electric vehicles (EVs) are being adopted nationwide by many consumers in recent years, car-buyers across South Alabama have not followed the trend. This research considers different stakeholders in the complex consumer buying process of car purchases, and it uses the extant technology adoption models to assess the public policy incentives, as well as statewide roadblocks, to EV adoption.