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Articles 1 - 30 of 145
Full-Text Articles in Engineering
Optimized Design Methodology Of Cavity-Backed Microstrip Antennas With Dielectric Overlays, Douglas J. Hermes
Optimized Design Methodology Of Cavity-Backed Microstrip Antennas With Dielectric Overlays, Douglas J. Hermes
Theses and Dissertations
The optimized design methodology implemented in this research employs a design methodology, namely Response Surface Methodology (RSM), that is relatively new to the electromagnetics field. The design methodology used a full factorial designed experiment, a Hybrid Finite Element Method (HFEM) analysis code, a cubic spline empirical model, an Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) test, and a simplex optimization code to successfully measure, predict, analyze, and optimize average antenna gain and antenna input impedance for a cavity backed microstrip antenna with dielectric overlays. Based on HFEM results from the full factorial designed experiment, a cubic spline empirical model successfully predicted average antenna …
Micro-Electromechanical Switches For Micro-Satellite Power Transfer, Glen A. Kading
Micro-Electromechanical Switches For Micro-Satellite Power Transfer, Glen A. Kading
Theses and Dissertations
In the past few years, microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) have emerged as a promising new technology with tremendous application potential. One of the possible implementations of MEMS technology is in the development of micro-satellites. It should be possible to mass-produce micro-satellites at a fraction of the cost of one conventional satellite. In order for satellites to be robust, a method of transferring power to systems must be addressed. As micro-satellites are made with conventional integrated circuit technologies at a very small scale, a means of transferring power on a similar scale will be investigated. This research addresses the issue of the …
Mobilization Of Trace Elements In Aquifers By Biodegradation Of Hydrocarbon Contaminants, Scott L. Kearney
Mobilization Of Trace Elements In Aquifers By Biodegradation Of Hydrocarbon Contaminants, Scott L. Kearney
Theses and Dissertations
This study had two objectives: (1) to determine the extent of metal mobility within petroleum-contaminated aquifers, (2) to determine if biodegradation of petroleum hydrocarbons can explain metal mobility. The approach reviewed analytical results from 2305 groundwater sampling events, taken from 958 wells, located at 136 sites found at 53 Air Force installations. The study showed that high levels of metals are present at petroleum hydrocarbon sites where metals would not generally be expected. Of the metals with drinking water maximum contaminant levels (MCLs), mercury and silver were detected the least frequently. Barium and copper were detected at the sites, but …
A Mammographic Registration Method Based On Optical Flow And Multiresolution Computing, Kevin A. Lee
A Mammographic Registration Method Based On Optical Flow And Multiresolution Computing, Kevin A. Lee
Theses and Dissertations
Mammography is a potent weapon in the fight against Breast Cancer, due in large part to its widespread availability and low cost. Despite the fact that mammography can detect small lesions as early as two years before they become palpable on physical exam, between 10 and 30 percent of cancerous lesions go undetected during evaluation by the radiologist. One approach to improving detection rates involves comparing mammograms of the same breast from successive years. Since most forms of breast cancer develop slowly, multiple view techniques might be able to detect subtle changes indicative of cancerous growth. This thesis proposes a …
Applying Flywheel Energy Storage To Solar Electric Orbital Transfers, Mark W. Marasch
Applying Flywheel Energy Storage To Solar Electric Orbital Transfers, Mark W. Marasch
Theses and Dissertations
This study investigated the application of flywheel energy storage to minimum time, constant thrust orbital maneuvers using electric propulsion. The advantages of using stored energy to continue electric thruster operations while in eclipse were explored. The boundary value problems for several schemes of energy use were examined, and numerical solutions were found. Results of simulations utilizing energy storage were compared to results without energy storage. Schemes incorporating energy storage were found to have advantages in terms of propellant mass used, time spent in transit, and deliverable payload.
Using Cross-Eye Techniques To Counter Radio Frequency Agile Monopulse Processing, Gregory J. Meyer
Using Cross-Eye Techniques To Counter Radio Frequency Agile Monopulse Processing, Gregory J. Meyer
Theses and Dissertations
The purpose of this research was to evaluate how current cross-eye techniques protect an airborne platform versus a pulse-to-pulse Radio Frequency (RF) agile monopulse processing threat and, if necessary, develop a new cross-eye techniques to counter this threat. This research evaluates how both current retrodirective cross-eye techniques and an original technique, namely synchronized cross-eye, hide the true skin return in the time and frequency domain while preserving the necessary phase interferometric effects at the threat radar location. Existing retrodirective cross-eye techniques are inadequate to counter the RF agile threat due to propagation delays. Using modeling and simulation, the research shows …
Scattering From Dielectric Bodies, Jeffery M. Parks
Scattering From Dielectric Bodies, Jeffery M. Parks
Theses and Dissertations
The purpose of this study was to develop an RCS measured database of non-PEC targets and provide an example of its use to validate a code, 3D-RCIE. RCS prediction codes that handle penetrable materials require measured data to determine their accuracy. The materials used for this research include polyethylene and polyurethane with dielectric constants around 2.3 and 1.03, respectively. The polyethylene targets include a mini-arrow, ogive, conesphere, conesphere with a gap, sphere, and a large and small cube. The cubes were the only targets made from the polyurethane foam. Additionally, r-card was applied to the cubes and mini-arrow. The material …
Constrained Model Predictive Control Of A Nonlinear Aerospace System, Christopher M. Shearer
Constrained Model Predictive Control Of A Nonlinear Aerospace System, Christopher M. Shearer
Theses and Dissertations
Recent research efforts have applied the receding horizon Model Predictive Control (MPC) strategy to linearized high performance aerospace systems. The research contained in this thesis used these recent results in order to apply the MPC strategy to a nonlinear high performance aerospace system, specifically an F-16 fighter aircraft model. The model was commanded to follow dynamic trajectories of roll angle and altitude. Further, adaptive constraint techniques were used to improve system tracking. To accomplish these tasks, code and block diagrams were generated using the commercial software packages of Matlab and Simulink. Numerous simulations were conducted with the goal of achieving …
Pseudorandom Code Generation For Communication And Navigation System Applications, John F. Brendle Jr.
Pseudorandom Code Generation For Communication And Navigation System Applications, John F. Brendle Jr.
Theses and Dissertations
This research project investigated the design, construction and evaluation of a pseudorandom code generator for communication and navigation system applications. These types of codes include spreading codes, Gold codes, Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) ranging codes, syncopated codes, and nonlinear codes. Such waveforms are typically used in communication and navigation system applications. The code generator uses the Stanford Telecom STEL-1032 Pseudorandom Number (PRN) coder. A coder interface was designed and constructed for manual data entry to the registers of the PRN coder. The code generator is capable of independently clocking and generating all possible codes with lengths up to 4,294,967,295 bits. …
Orbit Estimation Using Track Compression And Least Squares Differential Correction, Vincent J. Chioma
Orbit Estimation Using Track Compression And Least Squares Differential Correction, Vincent J. Chioma
Theses and Dissertations
This thesis develops two methods of compressing a track of radar observations of a satellite into a single state vector and associated covariance matrix, and a method of estimating orbits using results from multiple tracks. The track compression uses least squares differential correction to determine a state vector at the central observation time. The resulting state vectors and covariance matrices are then used to estimate the satellite's orbit, also using least squares differential correction. Numerical integration using two-body, J2 and an atmospheric drag model is used to represent the dynamics. This orbit estimation produces a state vector which includes …
Multiple Model Adaptive Estimation And Control Redistribution Performance On The Vista F-16 During Partial Actuator Impairments, Curtis S. Clark
Multiple Model Adaptive Estimation And Control Redistribution Performance On The Vista F-16 During Partial Actuator Impairments, Curtis S. Clark
Theses and Dissertations
Multiple Model Adaptive Estimation with Control Reconfiguration (MMAE/CR) capability to estimate and compensate for partial actuator failures, or "impairments" is investigated using the high-fidelity, nonlinear, six-degree-of-freedom, VISTA F-16 simulation which currently resides on the Simulation Rapid-Prototyping Facility (SRF). After developing a model for inserting partial actuator impairments into the VISTA F-16 truth model, research begins with a battery of single actuator impairment tests. This stage of research explores the capability of the existing MMAE algorithm to estimate single, partial actuator impairments, and helps to define refinements and expansions needed in the MMAE algorithm for the second phase of research: the …
An Examination Of Elements Necessary For Transfer Of An Environmental Remediation Technology From Full-Scale Demonstration To Implementation, Glenn C. Mandalas
An Examination Of Elements Necessary For Transfer Of An Environmental Remediation Technology From Full-Scale Demonstration To Implementation, Glenn C. Mandalas
Theses and Dissertations
The fact that an innovative environmental remediation technology has been proven feasible in a full scale evaluation does not assure that the technology will be implemented. A number of regulatory, economic, and institutional barriers may impede the transition of a remediation technology from full scale demonstration to implementation. This research explores these barriers, suggesting means to overcome them. Regulators, technology users, and other remediation decision makers apply the nine criteria specified in the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA) to evaluate the applicability of an innovative remediation technology at uncontrolled hazardous waste sites. These criteria consider such things …
Visualization And Animation Of A Missile/Target Encounter, Jeffrey T. Bush
Visualization And Animation Of A Missile/Target Encounter, Jeffrey T. Bush
Theses and Dissertations
Existing missile/target encounter modeling and simulation systems focus on improving probability of kill models. Little research has been done to visualize these encounters. These systems can be made more useful to the engineers by incorporating current computer graphics technology for visualizing and animating the encounter. Our research has been to develop a graphical simulation package for visualizing both endgame and full fly-out encounters. Endgame visualization includes showing the interaction of a missile, its fuze cone proximity sensors, and its target during the final fraction of a second of the missile/target encounter. Additionally, this system displays dynamic effects such as the …
Development And Validation Of An Experimental Test Rig For Electrohydrodynamic Enhancement Of Forced Convective Heat Transfer, William T. Caldwell
Development And Validation Of An Experimental Test Rig For Electrohydrodynamic Enhancement Of Forced Convective Heat Transfer, William T. Caldwell
Theses and Dissertations
This report details the development of a facility for the experimental investigation of electrohydrodynamic (EHD) enhancement of forced convection heat transfer. The test facility was developed for the Thermal and Transparencies Laboratory (TATLAB), Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), for use in future research into the applicability of EHD for the miniaturization of Air Force heat exchangers. During this research, a closed l6op, medium scale electrohydrodynamic test rig was developed and brought online. The test fluid loop was integrated with a data acquisition and parameter control system. Basic loop and fluid performance testing was accomplished through the use of a 3mm …
Fatigue Behavior Of A Quasi-Isotropic Graphite/Epoxy Laminate Embedded With A Piezoelectric Sensor, Jon M. Coleman
Fatigue Behavior Of A Quasi-Isotropic Graphite/Epoxy Laminate Embedded With A Piezoelectric Sensor, Jon M. Coleman
Theses and Dissertations
This study primarily investigated the mechanical effects of embedding piezoelectric sensors on the tensile and fatigue strength of a quasi-isotropic, carbon-epoxy laminate. A secondary focus was the investigation of the sensor degradation under tensile loading. A [0 | ±45 | 90]s laminate was fabricated from Hercules AS4/3501-6 pre-preg tape. Specimens were first tested monotonically to obtain an average ultimate tensile strength and to detail the progression of damage. The fatigue tests were tension-tension, R=0.1, 10 Hz, constant amplitude. Results indicated that the embedded piezoelectric sensors did not have a significant effect on the tensile strength of the laminate. Specimens …
Creating Origen Models, Gregory D. Louden
Creating Origen Models, Gregory D. Louden
Theses and Dissertations
The purpose of this study was to develop a methodology for creating problem dependent cross section libraries for ORIGEN (Oak Ridge Isotope Generation and Depletion Code). The Air Force Technical Applications Center (AFTAC) has a requirement to classify spent nuclear fuel. The ORIGEN codes provide generic models of commercial nuclear reactor designs that are not adequate for the detailed analysis required by AFTAC. After comparing the methods that ORIGEN2 an ORIGEN-S use to develop burnup dependent cross section libraries, the research focused on developing a methodology for creating new ORIGEN-S models. Models of the Ohio State University Research Reactor were …
A Reconfigurable Superscalar Architecture, Christopher B. Mayer
A Reconfigurable Superscalar Architecture, Christopher B. Mayer
Theses and Dissertations
The invention of the Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) has led to a number of interesting developments. One is the idea of providing custom hardware support for applications running on a computer. These reconfigurable computers have been shown to decrease the execution time for some applications. Based on past results, attention has subsequently turned to using reconfigurable computing in general-purpose computers (e.g. desktop and workstation environments). This thesis develops a design for just such a computer. The design, FPGADLX, is based on a hypothetical superscalar computer running the DLX instruction set and is generic enough in principle to be adapted …
Speaker Verification In The Presence Of Channel Mismatch Using Gaussian Mixture Models, Robert B. Reid
Speaker Verification In The Presence Of Channel Mismatch Using Gaussian Mixture Models, Robert B. Reid
Theses and Dissertations
A channel compensation method is sought for use in speaker identification (ID) and verification applications under matched and mismatched training and testing conditions. This work expands on previous work on matched conditions by investigating three techniques on matched and mismatched conditions using the TIMIT and NTIMIT speech databases. First, previous results on 168 speakers are reproduced for matched conditions using Gaussian mixture models (GMM) and mel-frequency cepstral coefficients. Next, cepstral mean subtraction with band limiting (CMSBL) is investigated. The third method, developed in this thesis uses a modified Wiener filtering approach to channel compensation. New GMMs are created for each …
A System Dynamics Model Of The Bioavailability Of Metals In Constructed Wetland Sediment, Timothy S. Wood
A System Dynamics Model Of The Bioavailability Of Metals In Constructed Wetland Sediment, Timothy S. Wood
Theses and Dissertations
Constructed wetlands used for storm water treatment accumulate metals primarily in their sediment. This sediment has the potential to produce toxic effects in benthic organisms at some period in time. Bioavailability of metals in sediment is directly linked to pore water metal activity. The mechanisms that influence pore water metal activity are included in physical, chemical, and biological processes. A system dynamics model was developed to represent these processes and the major influences affecting pore water metal activity in a treatment wetland receiving storm water influent. The model structure and behavior was tested and validated using several system dynamics validation …
Metabolic Inhibition Of A Toluene-Enriched Microbial Population Due To Lead (Pb2+): Verification Of A Free Metal Ion Toxicity Model, Patrick J. S. Marbas
Metabolic Inhibition Of A Toluene-Enriched Microbial Population Due To Lead (Pb2+): Verification Of A Free Metal Ion Toxicity Model, Patrick J. S. Marbas
Theses and Dissertations
A dissolved oxygen probe and an ion specific electrode were used to study the lead-induced metabolic inhibition in a toluene-enriched microbial population. Predicted toxicity values were compared to the actual toxicity responses using a free metal ion toxicity model (TM) which linked metabolic inhibition with lead activity. Experimentally derived values for the model parameters (lead activity and a lead distribution coefficient) were used in the TM. It was postulated that cellular metabolism is disrupted by the conformational changes to the cell's plasma membrane produced by lead ion adsorption. The predicted toxicity values were higher than the actual toxicity response. This …
Satellite Integrated Power And Attitude Control System Design Study, Stephen A. Fischer, Dwight D. Fullingim, Brian L. James, James M. Valenti, Jorg D. Walter, Paul J. Cotter, William A. Seeliger
Satellite Integrated Power And Attitude Control System Design Study, Stephen A. Fischer, Dwight D. Fullingim, Brian L. James, James M. Valenti, Jorg D. Walter, Paul J. Cotter, William A. Seeliger
Theses and Dissertations
Technological advances have brought Flywheel Energy Storage (FES) systems to the point where they can be used in satellites as replacements for chemical batteries. Flywheels have characteristics that may overcome limitations inherent in batteries. These characteristics include high specific energy, minimal degradation over time, and precise knowledge of charge level. A further advantage of flywheels is that, in a combined system, they can be used to replace traditional attitude control hardware. These Integrated Power and Attitude Control Systems (IPACS) show the potential to have less mass than the systems they replace. The question this study seeks to answer is, "In …
Microelectromechanical Optical Beam Steering Systems, David M. Burns
Microelectromechanical Optical Beam Steering Systems, David M. Burns
Theses and Dissertations
The development of microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) has matured to the point where the fabrication of micron sized devices is feasible. State of the art MEMS construction processes now support the fabrication of novel optical devices that could not previously be built. This dissertation reports on the development of innovative micro optical devices such as Variable Blaze Gratings (VBGs) using state of the art MEMS construction processes. The principle application of the micro optical devices described in this dissertation is steering optical beams; however other applications such as spectral analysis are identified. Specific optical beam steering systems developed and characterized in …
Optimal Pulsed Pumping For Remediation Of Aquifers When Sorption Is Rate-Limited, Lawrence J. Schmitt
Optimal Pulsed Pumping For Remediation Of Aquifers When Sorption Is Rate-Limited, Lawrence J. Schmitt
Theses and Dissertations
A variational optimization technique is developed to acquire an optimal schedule of pulsed pumping operations for use at existing pump-and-treat aquifer remediation sites. The optimization problem is stated as a minimization of a generic management objective functional, constrained by the contaminant transport equations in two-dimensional or three-dimensional flow models which account for rate-limited sorption. The two-dimensional case is fully developed and a first-order rate equation is used to describe the transport of sorbing contaminant. The first variation provides necessary optimality conditions that must be met by any optimal solution, in turn leading to a pulsed pumping schedule of operation. The …
A Modeling Study For The Implementation Of In Situ Cometabolic Bioremediation Of Trichloroethylene-Contaminated Groundwater., John A. Christ
A Modeling Study For The Implementation Of In Situ Cometabolic Bioremediation Of Trichloroethylene-Contaminated Groundwater., John A. Christ
Theses and Dissertations
The limitations of conventional groundwater remediation technologies have led to the development of innovative technologies which may achieve national hazardous waste site remediation goals. Before an innovative technology can be implemented in the field, remedial project managers, regulators and other stakeholders require adequate modeling tools to help assess the applicability of the technology at a particular site. This modeling study investigates how an innovative technology, in situ cometabolic bioremediation, might be implemented to remediate a TCE-contaminated site, under different site conditions. A steady-state model is developed which couples an analytical expression to simulate the effect of flow between multiple pumping …
Investigation Of Biodegradation Processes In Solid Waste Landfills, Philip A. Colborn
Investigation Of Biodegradation Processes In Solid Waste Landfills, Philip A. Colborn
Theses and Dissertations
Greater demands on landfill capacity, stricter regulations intended to minimize landfill environmental impacts, and the economic potential associated with landfill operations have shifted the emphasis of landfill disposal toward methods concerned with the long term performance and capacity of landfills. Two opposing philosophies have emerged in constructing and managing landfills: the dry tomb and the wet cell. The key to managing a landfill from the wet cell viewpoint is first understanding the biodegradation processes occurring within the landfill. This thesis attempts to determine the fundamental processes responsible for the degradation of solid waste by employing a system dynamics approach. A …
Department Of Defense Hazardous Waste Site Remediation Issues In The Republic Of Korea, Edwin H. Oshiba
Department Of Defense Hazardous Waste Site Remediation Issues In The Republic Of Korea, Edwin H. Oshiba
Theses and Dissertations
The purpose of this research was to provide information to DoD decision makers regarding factors influencing hazardous waste site remediation policy for South Korea. This study addressed: International agreements and U.S. and South Korean laws and policies relevant to hazardous waste sites; objectives of DoD environmental policy makers; extent and effects of soil and groundwater contamination; cleanup precedents set in other foreign countries; availability of resources and technical capabilities to investigate and remediate hazardous waste sites in South Korea; and opportunities for cooperation between the U.S. and South Korean military with regard to hazardous waste site remediation. Data were collected …
Architecture, Design, And Implementation Of A Rapidly Prototyped Virtual Environment For A Military Spaceplane, Scott A. Rothermel
Architecture, Design, And Implementation Of A Rapidly Prototyped Virtual Environment For A Military Spaceplane, Scott A. Rothermel
Theses and Dissertations
The new Global Engagement vision places increased emphasis on the Air Force's ability to control and exploit space. A military spaceplane combining reliable access to space, high operational tempos, and multi-mission capabilities is in conceptual stages of development. Virtual environment technology provides an opportunity to investigate system requirements and unconventional interface paradigms for this unique vehicle. A virtual environment architecture and design based on support for a rapid prototyping development process, separation of concerns, and user interface development is presented. The rapid prototyping process allowed management of changing requirements via an evolutionary approach to implementation. Separation of the activities performed …
Optimal Non-Coplanar Launch To Quick Rendezvous, Gregory B. Sears
Optimal Non-Coplanar Launch To Quick Rendezvous, Gregory B. Sears
Theses and Dissertations
The purpose of this study was to determine the feasibility of launching a Delta Clipper-like vehicle on an optimal, non-coplanar trajectory to rendezvous with an earth orbiting object in one orbit or less. The focus of the research was to determine what such a trajectory would look like, and to determine the cost, in payload mass, of flying such a trajectory. A model for the ascent trajectory was developed using the dynamics equations of motion, an atmosphere model, and an aerodynamic model for the DC-Y concept vehicle. A boundary value problem was posed and solved for a coplanar rendezvous. The …
A Performance Analysis Of The Faugeras Color Space As A Component Of Color Histogram-Based Image Retrieval, Chad A. Vander Meer
A Performance Analysis Of The Faugeras Color Space As A Component Of Color Histogram-Based Image Retrieval, Chad A. Vander Meer
Theses and Dissertations
The use of color histograms for image retrieval from databases has been implemented in many variations. Selecting the appropriate color space for similarity comparisons is an important part of a color histogram technique. This paper serves to introduce and evaluate the performance of a color space through the use of color histograms. Performance is evaluated by correlating the similarity results obtained from various color feature vector techniques (including color histgramming) to those gathered through a human perceptual test. The perceptual test required 36 human subjects to evaluate the similarity of 10 military aircraft images. The same 10 images were also …
Modeling And Simulation Support For Parallel Algorithms In A High-Speed Network, Dustin E. Yates
Modeling And Simulation Support For Parallel Algorithms In A High-Speed Network, Dustin E. Yates
Theses and Dissertations
This thesis investigates the ability of a simulation model to compare and contrast parallel processing algorithms in a high-speed network. The model extends existing modeling, analysis, and comparison of parallel algorithms by providing graphics based components that facilitate the measurement of system resources. Simulation components are based on the Myrinet local area network standard. The models provide seven different topologies to contrast the performance of five variations of Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) algorithms. Furthermore, the models were implemented using a commercially developed product that facilitates the testing of additional topologies and the investigation of hardware variations. Accurate comparisons are statistically …