Multiway partial least square (MPLS) to estimate impact localization in structures

This paper presents results from the application of Multiway Partial Least Square (MPLS) as a regressor tool in order to estimate the localization of impacts in an aircraft structure. MPLS is a technique that maximizes the covariance between the predictor matrix X and the predicted matrix Y for each component of the space. The structure can be considered as a small scale version of part of a wing aircraft. 574 experiments were performed impacting the wing over its surface and receiving vibration signals from nine sensors. Experiments are divided in four groups depending on their localization and probability of occurrence. A PLS model is build using three of these groups and tested using the remaining group. Results are presented, discussed and compared with results of other methods.Postprint (published version

Autonomous Navigation for Mobile Robots in Crowded Environments

L'abstract è presente nell'allegato / the abstract is in the attachmen

A review of impact damage detection in structures using strain data

This paper aims to provide a state-of-the-art review on impact damage detection techniques in structures using strain data. An overview of impact detection systems is provided. These include sensors, specimens, and impact sources used for developing and testing strategies. The review is focused on approaches that use impact strain data (passive approach) to determine simultaneously the location and/or energy of an impact at the time it occurs. These approaches can be classed into two main groups, one based on analytical models and the other based on data-driven models. The former uses a first-principle model obtained from physical laws, whereas the latter describes complex relationships between input and output data obtained by experiments or simulations. Although some weaknesses and strengths are cited, we did not attempt to compare these approaches, and we do not comment the quantitative results.Peer ReviewedPostprint (author's final draft

Air Force Institute of Technology Research Report 2006

This report summarizes the research activities of the Air Force Institute of Technology’s Graduate School of Engineering and Management. It describes research interests and faculty expertise; lists student theses/dissertations; identifies research sponsors and contributions; and outlines the procedures for contacting the school. Included in the report are: faculty publications, conference presentations, consultations, and funded research projects. Research was conducted in the areas of Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering, Electrical Engineering and Electro-Optics, Computer Engineering and Computer Science, Systems and Engineering Management, Operational Sciences, Mathematics, Statistics and Engineering Physics

Issues in Modeling Military Space

Fighter Pilots students undertake an intense 120-day training program. New classes of students enter the training program at regular interval. Students endured rigorous academic, simulator, and aircraft training throughout the program. Squadron schedulers ensure the multiple classes and students are scheduled for the activities. Simulator and aircraft training are scheduled individual for each student. Academic training are taught to the class. Aircraft utilization must also be considered. Aircraft Sortie training are also constrained by daylight hours. Additionally, students are limited to a maximum of three training events in a given day. Squadron schedulers must balance these requirements to ensure students meet their training requirements and successfully graduate. The dynamic training environment requires advanced robust schedules with flexibility to accommodate changes. A Visual Interactive Modeling approach is used to generate schedules. Current schedules are being generated manually with an Excel spreadsheet. Taking advantage of Excel\u27s Visual Basic Programming language, the Excel tool is modified in several ways. Scheduling Dispatch rules are implemented to automatically generate feasible schedules. Graphical User Interfaces are used to create a user-friendly environment. Schedulers guide the schedule building process to produce a robust schedule. An attrition environment is created to simulate attrition probabilities of aircraft sortie training due to operations, maintenance, weather, and other cancellations. Analysis of dispatch rules are analyzed

Wireless Sensor Needs Defined by SBIR Topics

This slide presentation reviews the needs for wireless sensor technology from various U.S. government agencies as exhibited by an analysis of Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) solicitations. It would appear that a multi-agency group looking at overlapping wireless sensor needs and technology projects is desired. Included in this presentation is a review of the NASA SBIR process, and an examination of some of the SBIR projects from NASA, and other agencies that involve wireless sensor developmen

China’s Antiship Ballistic Missile—Developments and Missing Links

That China is interested in an antiship ballistic missile seems a logical and natural outgrowth of its history of robust missile development. At what stage is its development? How near to operational readiness are its key components and technologies? What would be its implications for the U.S. Navy and the naval strategic balance between the United States and China