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Full-Text Articles in Engineering

Range Scheduling Automation For The Air Force Satellite Control Network: A Case Study In Computer System Development, Donald J. Aitken, Steven C. Bishop Sep 1992

Range Scheduling Automation For The Air Force Satellite Control Network: A Case Study In Computer System Development, Donald J. Aitken, Steven C. Bishop

Theses and Dissertations

This study explored the factors influencing divergent outcomes of two computer system development efforts which were undertaken to fulfill the same requirement for computer automation of a manual resource scheduling process. The first project employed the traditional waterfall approach to system development, but resulted in user rejection and cancellation after considerable resources and effort had been expended. The second project employed prototyping and both the process and the product were well received by the users and ultimately produced an operational system. Analysis yielded eight contributory factors to the failure of the first effort. Three of these were related to the …


A Methodology For Project Selection Using Economic Analysis And The Analytic Hierarchy Process, Jeffrey L. Battin, Thomas J. Bender Sep 1992

A Methodology For Project Selection Using Economic Analysis And The Analytic Hierarchy Process, Jeffrey L. Battin, Thomas J. Bender

Theses and Dissertations

This study examined the applicability of a multiple criterion decision making method, known as the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) , to economic analysis decisions involving project selection. Through a survey of the literature and current practices, it was determined that qualitative criteria were not adequately represented in a typical economic analysis of projects. Several MCDM methods were examined and the AHP was found to be the most promising technique to rate projects on a ratio scale. Two types of project selection problems, those involving nonmutually exclusive alternatives and those involving mutually exclusive alternatives, were examined. It was determined that the …


The Theory Of Constraints Applied To Project Scheduling: The Critical Chain Concept Defined, Andrew D. Ingram, Paul E. Scherer Sep 1992

The Theory Of Constraints Applied To Project Scheduling: The Critical Chain Concept Defined, Andrew D. Ingram, Paul E. Scherer

Theses and Dissertations

This research applies the Theory of Constraints' principles to a project management environment. The Constraint Theory developed by Dr. Eliyahu M. Goldratt has been successfully applied in many manufacturing settings. Researchers are now beginning to apply Theory of Constraints' principles and techniques outside the manufacturing environment. Specific objectives of this research effort include: to develop and demonstrate a resource constrained project scheduling algorithm based on the Theory of Constraints' principles and techniques: to perform a detailed comparison of the manufacturing and project scheduling environments designed to support algorithm development; and to lay the foundation for additional research in this area …


An Assessment Of Afit Sys200, 'Acquisition Planning And Analysis', As A Broadening Course Under Apdp, Daryl J. Hauck, Charles A. Manship Sep 1992

An Assessment Of Afit Sys200, 'Acquisition Planning And Analysis', As A Broadening Course Under Apdp, Daryl J. Hauck, Charles A. Manship

Theses and Dissertations

This study assessed AFIT's SYS200 course, 'Acquisition Planning and Analysis,' to determine whether it serves adequately as a broadening course under the Acquisition Professional Development Program (APDP). APDP certification requires persons in eight acquisition functional disciplines (Acquisition Logistics, Systems R and D/ Engineering, Program Management, etc.) to complete SYS200. Three complementary measures (assessing knowledge, self- efficacy, and a supervisor assessment) were used to determine whether SYS200 conveyed its curriculum effectively to members of all functional disciplines. The results showed that SYS200 attendance produced substantial increases in acquisition-related knowledge, self-efficacy, and supervisor assessments for all functional disciplines. In all three measures, …


Review Of Factors Impacting Warranty Cost-Benefit Analysis For The Sensor Fuzed Weapon System, Donna E. Kehrt Sep 1992

Review Of Factors Impacting Warranty Cost-Benefit Analysis For The Sensor Fuzed Weapon System, Donna E. Kehrt

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this research effort was to identify factor that affect the warranty cost-benefit analysis for the Sensor Fuzed Weapon (SFW) system since an essential performance requirement (EPR) warranty waiver was under consideration. Defense funding has become scarce, and the limited dollars must be spent wisely. A cost-benefit analysis should provide a relevant projection of cost-effectiveness based on the best available data. The SFW and other dormant weapon systems present difficulties in determining cost- effectiveness because the systems most probably will be non-operating, non- reusable, and non-restorable. Three recommendations were made, relevant to dormant weapon systems, that pertained to …


An Evaluation Of Schedule Metrics Used Within Aeronautical Systems Center, Robert J. Hayes, Lawrence M. Miller Sep 1992

An Evaluation Of Schedule Metrics Used Within Aeronautical Systems Center, Robert J. Hayes, Lawrence M. Miller

Theses and Dissertations

This study focused on a selected group of schedule metrics in use at Aeronautical Systems Center (ASC) acquisition program offices. Over 300 metrics were collected from the System Program Offices (SPOs). The metrics data were sorted into the categories of cost, schedule, and performance. In order to narrow the scope of the project, the team decided to focus on schedule metrics. Seven of the most common schedule metrics were selected for evaluation by a group of five experienced acquisition professionals. The group was asked to input the likely behaviors driven by the metrics being addressed by the study. Next, they …


An Investigation Of Integrated Weapon System Management Implementation Issues, Scott A. Dalrymple, Lester F. Pietraszuk Sep 1992

An Investigation Of Integrated Weapon System Management Implementation Issues, Scott A. Dalrymple, Lester F. Pietraszuk

Theses and Dissertations

This thesis investigated Integrated Weapon System Management implementation issues. Five functional areas were examined: Contracting, Engineering, Financial management, Program Management, and Test Management. Data was collected through interviews. The most significant lessons learned were to establish a direct chain of command and to use TQM principles. Program business practices were changed by increasing Product Center/ALC interaction and implementing a single joint CCB. Program personnel obtained useful guidance from other IWSM programs and from the information products distributed by HQ AFMC. Communication improvements included increased teleconference capability and establishment of a Local Area Network. Cultural differences between centers, insufficient initial guidance, …


Risk Identification In Major Weapon Systems Acquisition In The Republic Of China Air Force, Te-Lung Tsai Sep 1992

Risk Identification In Major Weapon Systems Acquisition In The Republic Of China Air Force, Te-Lung Tsai

Theses and Dissertations

This research examined the magnitudes of the performance, supportability, life-cycle cost, schedule, and management risk factors in current Republic of China Air Force (ROCAF) weapon systems acquisition programs and analyzed the risk drivers with respect to those risk factors. Mid-to-high level managers in the ROCAF and Chung-Sun Institute of Science and Technology (CSIST) were surveyed to determine the extent to which various risk factors were contributing to program risk. A total of fifty-four (54) managers responded to the survey. The results indicate: high risks to performance, supportability, life cycle cost, and schedule, and moderate risk to management. Risk-drivers that contributed …


Estimating The Operating And Support Cost Difference Between Royal Australian Air Force C-130e And C-130h Hercules Aircraft, Terrence J. Sidey Sep 1992

Estimating The Operating And Support Cost Difference Between Royal Australian Air Force C-130e And C-130h Hercules Aircraft, Terrence J. Sidey

Theses and Dissertations

This research investigated the operating and support cost (O & S cost) of Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) C-130E and C-130H aircraft. The purpose was twofold: to provide information about the relative O & S cost of the RAAF's old and "new" C-130 aircraft; and to increase knowledge and understanding of aircraft O & S costing within the RAAF. Preliminary research indicated that RAAF O & S costing was rudimentary and that suitable O & S data would be difficult to obtain. Accordingly, an analogous O & S cost system -- the U.S. Air Force (USAF) SABLE cost model and …


The Development Of A Performance Measurement Concept For The Royal Australian Air Force, David R. Mcdonald Sep 1992

The Development Of A Performance Measurement Concept For The Royal Australian Air Force, David R. Mcdonald

Theses and Dissertations

he Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) needed to develop performance measurements (PMs) to support its Program Management and Budgeting (PMB) System. This research assessed the use of the concepts of the Theory of Constraints (TOC) to develop those PMs. The literature indicated that: traditional accounting PMs were not always suitable in an environment of continuous improvement; Activity Based Costing did not provide the required measures; and non-financial PMs were supplanting the older measures. Further, governments faced unique problems in developing PMs, particularly in defining the outcomes to be measured. Using the Critical Theory and Action Research methodologies, and a case …


An Analysis Of Strategic Planning To Support The United States Special Operations Forces' C3 Interoperability, George M. Pierce Ii Sep 1992

An Analysis Of Strategic Planning To Support The United States Special Operations Forces' C3 Interoperability, George M. Pierce Ii

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this study was to analyze the strategic plans of USSOCOM to determine its role in resolving the C3 interoperability issues. A model using strategic controls and Theory of Constraints was used as a standard to evaluate USSOCOM's management plans. A literature search revealed that hardware and new technology were the primary concerns of previous studies. However, the literature did not address whether the lack of a formal strategy contributed to the C3 interoperability problems. Therefore, the determination was to adopt a fresh approach to the C3 interoperability issues and analyze the strategic process. The data analysis of …


Risk Reduction As A Criterion For Measuring Progress Of The Installation Restoration Program, Scott Edwards Jr. Sep 1992

Risk Reduction As A Criterion For Measuring Progress Of The Installation Restoration Program, Scott Edwards Jr.

Theses and Dissertations

To properly manage the Installation Restoration Program (IRP) in the future, the Air Force (AF) needs a method to assess progress based on improvements in environmental conditions. An integral part of evaluating progress toward protecting human health and the environment is the assessment of risk reduction as a result of cleanup actions. The AF currently uses the Defense Priority Model (DPM) to assist in setting priorities for funding remedial actions at IRP sites. The DPM provides a numerical score for IRP sites representing the relative potential risk based on the environmental conditions at a site before remedial actions are taken. …


The Detection And Correlation Modeling Of Rayleigh Distributed Radar Signals, Alan L. Buterbaugh Sep 1992

The Detection And Correlation Modeling Of Rayleigh Distributed Radar Signals, Alan L. Buterbaugh

Theses and Dissertations

This thesis provides a method for determining the detection of partially correlated Rayleigh distributed radar returns by a pulsed search radar. The receiver consists of a quadrature demodulator receiver, followed by a square law envelope detector and a linear post-detection integrator. In addition, a technique for determining the pulse-to-pulse correlation of a complex target is given using inverse Fourier transforms of the target scattering centers. An AIM-9 missile is used to illustrate how the partially correlated detection techniques and the pulse-to-pulse correlation predictions can be used to determine the probability of detection. The Detection and Correlation Modeling of Rayleigh Distributed …


Design Of An Artificial Neural Network Based Tactile Sensor For The Utah/Mit Dexterous Hand, Jeffery D. Nering Sep 1992

Design Of An Artificial Neural Network Based Tactile Sensor For The Utah/Mit Dexterous Hand, Jeffery D. Nering

Theses and Dissertations

The Neural Tactile Sensor (NTS) is a high resolution, easily manufactured tactile sensor consisting of electrodes, a thin resistive 'skin', and pattern recognition circuitry that is capable of resolving dynamic and static contact location, force, and slip throughout the continuum of the sensor's active region. The sensor operates by means of a resistive 'skin' harboring the electric field generated when a current is injected into it, and a plurality of electrodes for taking measurements of said electric field. When current flows through the resistive medium from the location of tactile contact, an electric field within the resistive medium is established, …


Speech Recognition Using Visible And Infrared Detectors, Patrick T. Marshall Sep 1992

Speech Recognition Using Visible And Infrared Detectors, Patrick T. Marshall

Theses and Dissertations

A system has been developed that tracks lip motion using infrared (IR) or visible detectors. The purpose of this study was to determine if the additional information obtained from the IR or visible detectors can be used to increase the recognition rate of audio Automatic Speech Recognition (ASR) systems. To accomplish this goal, several hardware analog prototypes had to be designed, built and tested. Different detectors (IR and visible) and modes of operation (active and passive) were tried before a reliable and useful signal was found. An analog-to-digital (A/D) board was then designed and built that digitized both the microphone …


Output Frequency Changes In A Commercial Rubidium Clock Resulting From Magnetic Field And Microwave Power Variations, Edward B. Sarosy Sep 1992

Output Frequency Changes In A Commercial Rubidium Clock Resulting From Magnetic Field And Microwave Power Variations, Edward B. Sarosy

Theses and Dissertations

This report shows the relationship between output frequency shifts and the absorption cell magnetic field during microwave power fluctuations on a commercial rubidium frequency clock. Changes in the clock output frequency relative to the 10 MHz reference were monitored as changes in the absorption cell magnetic field (0.01 to 1.0 Gauss) and changes in the cell's interrogation microwave power were varied from the nominal specification (PO) at four discrete values (+1.3. -1.1, -2.2, -4.OdB). The maximum normalized output frequency shift of 1.4x10-10 occurred at--4dB. The maximum normalized frequency change for the +1.3 and -1.1 dB data is about 3 …


Co-Channel Speaker Separation, Thomas S. Andrews Sep 1992

Co-Channel Speaker Separation, Thomas S. Andrews

Theses and Dissertations

In the co-channel speaker separation problem, the goal is to recover two separate speech signals from a monaural channel which contains the sum of the two speech signals. A new methodology is developed that if given that a segment of co-channel speech is separated into a stronger and weaker segment, the correct assignment of these separated segments to the appropriate talker can be made using a Linear Predictive Coding (LPC) based minimum-prediction residual computation. The uniqueness of the developed technique is that no a priori information is required of the co-channel speech signal. The information needed to appropriately assign these …


A Methodology For The Characterization And Management Of Nonpoint Source Water Pollution, David M. Praner, Gordon M. Sprewell Sep 1992

A Methodology For The Characterization And Management Of Nonpoint Source Water Pollution, David M. Praner, Gordon M. Sprewell

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this research was development of a methodology for characterization and management of Nonpoint Source (NPS) water pollution. Section 319 of the 1987 Water Quality Act requires states to develop management programs for reduction of NPS pollution via Best Management Practices (BMPs). Air Force installations are expected to abide by federal, state, and local environmental regulations. Currently, the Air Force does not have a methodology to identify and quantify NPS pollution, or a succinct catalog of BMPs. Air Force installation managers need a package to assist them in meeting legislative and regulatory requirements associated with NPS pollution. Ten …


Prioritizing Pollution Prevention Projects Using The Displaced Ideal Model For The Allocation Of Limited Funds, Scott W. Mcpherson, Debra J. Watts Sep 1992

Prioritizing Pollution Prevention Projects Using The Displaced Ideal Model For The Allocation Of Limited Funds, Scott W. Mcpherson, Debra J. Watts

Theses and Dissertations

This research developed a model to prioritize pollution prevention projects for the distribution of limited financial resources. This model was designed for use at the major command (MAJCOM) level. Each MAJCOM is allowed to select the attributes believed to be most appropriate for evaluating pollution prevention projects. The system also allows the flexibility for MAJCOMs to weight the attributes in accordance with requirements. The model uses "fuzzy logic" and the Displaced Ideal Model (DIM) to prioritize projects that currently do not have an imminent compliance deadline, but are important due to potential noncompliance with future regulations. These projects also are …


An Analysis Of The Potential Use Of Red Horse Capabilities And Training Activities To Perform Or Accelerate Air Force Environmental Cleanups, E. Alexander Stokes Iii, Randy A. Carpenter Sep 1992

An Analysis Of The Potential Use Of Red Horse Capabilities And Training Activities To Perform Or Accelerate Air Force Environmental Cleanups, E. Alexander Stokes Iii, Randy A. Carpenter

Theses and Dissertations

There are more than 4,000 Air Force (AF) sites requiring restoration due to hazardous waste contamination. The AF goal is to completely restore all sites by 2000. One method of achieving this ambitious goal is to use in-house capabilities. This study examined the potential use of RED HORSE capabilities and training activities to assist with cleanup of contaminated sites. RED HORSE capabilities and training requirements were compared to the primary cleanup needs of the AF. One finding of this study suggests cleanup of sites contaminated by volatile organic chemicals (VOCs) is the primary need of the AF. The findings also …


Development Of The Air Module For The Work Information Management System. Environmental Subsystem (Wims-Es), Robert A. Cantwell, Jonathan S. Davis Sep 1992

Development Of The Air Module For The Work Information Management System. Environmental Subsystem (Wims-Es), Robert A. Cantwell, Jonathan S. Davis

Theses and Dissertations

The primary objective of this research was to develop the air module for the Work Information Management System Environmental Subsystem (WIMSES). The air module will provide Air Force environmental managers with a management information system (MIS) to control the growing amount of air pollution data required to stay in compliance with the newly amended Clean Air Act. To develop the air module, the Air Force's air pollution management requirements were researched first. These requirements were then compared to the capabilities of existing air pollution MISs used in the Department of Defense, the Environmental Protection Agency, and in commercial industry. The …


A Model Action Plan To Reduce The Use And Release Of Cfcs In Air- Conditioning And Refrigeration Systems, David W. Andrews, Daniel P. Ellert-Beck Sep 1992

A Model Action Plan To Reduce The Use And Release Of Cfcs In Air- Conditioning And Refrigeration Systems, David W. Andrews, Daniel P. Ellert-Beck

Theses and Dissertations

This study investigated methods to reduce the use and release of chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) refrigerants and evaluated alternatives to CFCS in air- conditioning and refrigeration systems. A life cycle cost (LCC) analysis formed the basis for evaluation. A literature review examined applicable CFC directives, containment methods, replacement refrigerants, and alternative processes. The results of the LCC analysis showed that maintaining the existing CFC system was always the least costly alternative. When forced to replace a CFC reciprocating package unit, the best replacement was a non-CFC reciprocating unit. The most practical replacement for reciprocating chillers was a new reciprocating chiller for systems …


A Study In Use And Management Of De/Anti-Icing Constituents With Regard To New Storm Water Legislation, Darren P. Gibbs, Bruce L. Willing Sep 1992

A Study In Use And Management Of De/Anti-Icing Constituents With Regard To New Storm Water Legislation, Darren P. Gibbs, Bruce L. Willing

Theses and Dissertations

This research identified management practices of airfield and aircraft de/anti-icing constituents which may be implemented to deal with new storm water legislation. Storm water regulations require that deicing operations obtain a NPDES permit for discharges into storm water runoff which may mandate the use of Best Management Practices. An FAA civilian airport survey and a USAF survey were used, with a literature search, to identify practices of de/anti- icing constituents. Four major constituents are used-glycol, urea, calcium magnesium acetate, and sodium formate. Concerns of uncontrolled release of the constituents include high BOD rates, nitrate and nitrite enrichment, impaired aesthetic water …


A Comparison Of Aircraft Maintenance Organizational Structures, Wesley C. Davis, Sanford Walker Sep 1992

A Comparison Of Aircraft Maintenance Organizational Structures, Wesley C. Davis, Sanford Walker

Theses and Dissertations

This study compares the aircraft maintenance structure being implemented by General Merrill A. McPeak with that of the previous structure typified by TACR 66-5. Historical aircraft data is used to compare organizational structures. Data from the USAF and USN is used to build regression models to determine if organizational structure contributes to combat capability. Statistical tests are used to determine if a significant difference exists between the two organizational structures. Regression analysis and comparison of the results lead the researchers to conclude that a significant difference exists in the performance measures of COMO and Objective Wing organizations. While many reasons …


Change In Self-Efficacy As A Measure Of Training Effectiveness At Squadron Officer School, Edward J. Berghorn, Michael Lewis Sep 1992

Change In Self-Efficacy As A Measure Of Training Effectiveness At Squadron Officer School, Edward J. Berghorn, Michael Lewis

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this research was to determine the effect of the US air Force Squadron Officer School (SOS) training curriculum by measuring students' self-efficacy before and after training. The authors verified through the literature that an individual's personal assessment of his self-efficacy was associated with task understanding and performance. Then self-efficacy questions were generated (for each of the four SOS curriculum areas) for an individual to assess his ability to perform a behavior related to a particular SOS learning objective. Demographic questions were also developed and combined with the self- efficacy questions to form pretest (before SOS training) and …


Pollution Prevention, An Investment Decision Model To Assess Financial Feasibility For Application To Air Force Processes, Debra S. Rankin, Clare R. Mendelsohn Sep 1992

Pollution Prevention, An Investment Decision Model To Assess Financial Feasibility For Application To Air Force Processes, Debra S. Rankin, Clare R. Mendelsohn

Theses and Dissertations

This research develops a Pollution Prevention Investment Decision Model (PPIDM) to evaluate the financial feasibility of pollution prevention alternatives. The PPIDM provides managers with simple, systematic, and flexible guidelines for making accurate and expedient decisions when considering pollution prevention alternatives. The model illustrates that a comprehensive analysis is not always necessary. The PPIDM gives managers the flexibility to adjust the economic feasibility criteria based on top management's perceptions of the political environment. When top management places a very high value on political considerations, economic criteria is insignificant and the project may be implemented immediately without further analysis. The PPIDM takes …


Development And Application Of A Methodology For Evaluating Type Ii Expired Shelf Life Hazardous Material Generation In The United States Air Force, Jennifer Putz Sep 1992

Development And Application Of A Methodology For Evaluating Type Ii Expired Shelf Life Hazardous Material Generation In The United States Air Force, Jennifer Putz

Theses and Dissertations

The Pollution Prevention Act of 1990, Air Force Directive 19-4, and the Air Force Pollution Prevention Plan require installations to reduce the amounts of hazardous waste generated. To meet the requirements set forth in these documents, each waste stream containing a hazardous waste needs to be identified and characterized for changes in policies or procedures that would reduce the hazardous waste generated. This research develops a methodology to determine the amount of materials with a type II shelf life that is disposed of as hazardous waste because the shelf life expired while the material was in base supply storage. This …


A Study Of Configuration Management At Headquarters Logistics Command (Royal Australian Air Force), John F. Turner Sep 1992

A Study Of Configuration Management At Headquarters Logistics Command (Royal Australian Air Force), John F. Turner

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this research was to provide insight into configuration management at the Royal Australian Air Force's Headquarters Logistics Command (HQLC) by determining whether current configuration management practices have any impact on HQLC's ability to meet its mission of providing logistics support. The research begins with a review of RAAF configuration management policy and procedures as applicable to in-service systems or technical equipment. A case study is used to investigate problems associated with inadequate configuration management being experienced by one HQLC engineering section, and to identify subsequent effects on engineering logistics capability. The case study results are used to …


Autonomous Face Segmentation, Kevin P. Gay Sep 1992

Autonomous Face Segmentation, Kevin P. Gay

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this study was to implement an autonomous face segmentor as the front end to a face recognition system on a Sun SPARCStation2. Face recognition performance criteria, specifically, the capabilities to isolate and resize faces in an image to a consistent scale, were analyzed to determine current practical limitations. Face images were acquired using a S-VHS camcorder. Segmentation was accomplished using motion detection and predefined rules. Tests were run to determine the suitable of the autonomous segmentor as the front-end to a face recognition system. The segmentation system developed consistently located faces and rescaled those faces to a …


Multi-Ion Ambipolar Diffusion, Thomas E. Gist Jul 1992

Multi-Ion Ambipolar Diffusion, Thomas E. Gist

Theses and Dissertations

The continuity and momentum equations for electrons and multiple ion species are solved analytically and numerically using a new model for ambipolar diffusion. The general form of the model is valid for any quasi-neutral plasma for which the diffusion approximation is appropriate, including positive or negative ions, arbitrary geometries, and time dependence. The model provides criteria for determining when single ion diffusion theory is appropriate for describing multi-ion discharges, when a multi-ion proportional model is appropriate, and when a multi-ion nonproportional model is necessary. An expression is developed which provides a necessary condition for proportionality and provides the proportionality constant …