<p>This paper examines the effect of a target's acceleration on the Fire Control System (FCS) α-β tracking filters used on the AEGIS cruisers. A single inbound target model was used to test the response of the tracking filter to an accelerating target. This target would begin to approach the AEGIS cruiser from a variety of distances ranging from 40,00 yards to 200,000 yards. The target model would begin its approach starting with an initial velocity of 200 yards/sec. and after a preselected time, the target would undergo an acceleration for a tin1e duration of 5 seconds. The target's acceleration ranges from 1 g to 6g's. For target's acceleration of 1g or greater, the difference between the actual and filtered velocity increases linearly with increasing acceleration and is fairly independent of range and the noise present in the measurement data. For target's acceleration less than 1g, the difference between the actual and filtered velocity is a strong function of acceleration, noise and range. / Master of Engineering

<p>Redundant controllers are being designed to provide improved system reliability to meet the needs of various applications. In some implementations of these systems unacceptable system transients have occured when a single-controller failure occurs. The problem has been treated using case-by-case correction which is not sufficiently general in application to meet the needs of systems which may be user-programmed. Redundant control systems generalized as ideal and nonideal using two specific voting schemes are examined to gain insight into theoretical characterization of their performance under single-point failure modes and the limitations of applicability for the characterizations. State-model computer simulation is used to demonstrate the characterizations. A suggested direction for a general solution to the problem based on the chatacterizations is described.</p> / Master of Science

Master of Science

The results of this research indicate that continuous, variable rotor speed control is a viable solution to increased helicopter maneuverability and agility. Of the rotor speed control laws investigated, the RCDR and T (RC) types seem the most promising. In particular, these control laws demonstrated a 31% improvement in time-to-turn 180 degrees, a 38% improvement in turn penetration distance, a 42% improvement in turn cross track distance, and a pointing margin advantage of nearly 94 degrees. In addition, the rotor speed control law parameters could be optimized such that the helicopter exited a maximum performance decelerating turn at or above its power bucket speed, affording the helicopter a distinct maneuvering advantage. It was also shown that different rotor speed control laws would most likely be required for the air combat and ground attack mission scenarios. The author feels that successful variable rotor speed control can be achieved through an appropriate marriage of FADEC engine control and high performance flight control systems. But numerous questions remain relative to the successful integration of this technology to existing and/or future helicopter designs, (addressed in the Recommendations for Future Research section). Nevertheless, this technology shows considerable promise and it is hoped that this study will be a stepping stone to future investigations in this area. / Master of Engineering

Master of Science

<p>An athletic scholarship can assist the parents of high school student-athletes tremendously with the financial burden by allowing their children the opportunity to receive a college education. However, many parents and high school student-athletes find out too late that academics playa vital role in securing an athletic scholarship. The intended use of this Academic Programming Manual was designed to enlighten parents and high school student athletes in reaching their goals in obtaining an athletic scholarship and also understanding the importance academics play in the role of athletics.</p> / Master of Science

</p> <p>The basis for this report was President Bush's proclamation that the u.S. should land astronauts on Mars by 2019 A.D. In such a trip, astronauts would be in a weightless environment for a considerable length of time. This report examines different conditions and environments that could cause stress during such a long duration space mission. Both psychological and physiological conditions are examined and the human factors implications of those potential problems are discussed. Finally, recommendations are made as to potential countermeasures and/or standards that should be followed.</p> / Master of Science

<p>The construction and maintenance of a baseball facility demands an organized, business-like, professional approach. The purpose of this manual was to compile information which could be used by a coach or a school administrator who may be found in a position of constructing or maintaining a baseball faCility. The manual is divided into four major sections: selecting the site, construction procedures, maintenance of the field, and drawings and layouts which may be helpful. The information provided is arranged so it can be used from the first conception of building a baseball complex to its completion.</p> / Master of Science

The ability to conduct an investigation of a possible mine, while maintaining a low profile in an area of operations, would be significantly improved through development of a man-portable underwater remotely operated vehicle. The specifications for such a vehicle, as developed in this study, would require a level of performance which does not exist in todays small ROV's. Based on this conceptual study, however, these specifications are attainable with additional development of current systems. ROV systems in use today tend to be a compilation of subsystems from various manufacturers. This results in redundancy of items such as video displays and computers. It is possible to have separate displays and computers for the installed sonar, the ROV itself and the tracking system. The benefits of integrated development for a system such as this are obvious. / Master of Science

<p>The inability of current approaches to the delivery of building systems to manage change is the root cause of significant challenges facing the modern construction industry. These challenges are manifested in the volatile financial status of construction firms, the difficult communications environment and costly professional liability pitfalls facing the industry. Total Life-Cycle Construction (TLC) is a revised philosophical approach to the information communication system within the design, delivery and operation of complex building systems and facilities. TLC employs the life-cycle principles of Systems Engineering to resolve the organizational challenges which are placing the construction industry at a developmental crossroads. / Master of Science