A flock-based model for ad hoc communication networks

We introduce a model for simulating the movement of semi-autonomous mobile units that exhibit swarm-based behaviour and collectively form a mobile ad-hoc communication network. The mobility model is used to study how the topological properties of the resulting communication network change over time. The connectivity graphs are determined by allowing each unit to communicate with others inside a given radius. By varying the free parameters of the mobility model, qualitatively different regimes of movement can be emulated. A number of properties of the graphs (e.g., the size of largest connected component, overall network efficiency and the number of isolated units) are calculated and compared for the different regimes. Finally, we present several directions for future work, both in terms of further applications and extensions of the present model. 1

Using text clustering for intelligence classification

In this paper, we discuss how text mining methods could be used in a mixedinitiative interaction approach to intelligence analysis. We describe how simple methods from text mining can be used to help intelligence analysts determine where a specific report or analysis fits into the knowledge base (KB), i.e., how it should be classified and which, if any, other documents in the KB it should be linked to. The method works by comparing the vector space model representation of the new information document with those of all documents previously stored in the knowledge base. Those documents that are sufficiently similar to the new piece of information are displayed to the user, who can then choose to place links between them. Using a computer tool such as the one suggested here potentially allows the analyst to spend more time analyzing intelligence reports rather than searching for and classifying them. In previous work, we have discussed how the MilWiki, an improved implementation of the open-source MediaWiki system, could be used as a knowledge base for military purposes. To illustrate the text classification method described in this paper, it has been implemented for MilWiki. To simulate new pieces of information, the prototype allows the user to download articles from the Wikipedia. The method, as well as the collaborative work process used in a wiki, could be implemented in any content management systems. In addition to describing the text classification method, we also give a brief introduction to text mining and the vector space model of documents

SB-Plan: Simulation-based support for resource allocation and mission planning

In future as well as in current military operations, it is important to allocate resources (sensors, weapons, personnel) to various tasks as good as possible. In the service-oriented architecture of the network-based defence, many requests for, e.g., sensor coverage will be made by commanders in the field. Choices must be made regarding which of these to fulfill, since we only have access to a limited number of resources. In order to facilitate this process, it is necessary to have policies and methodologies that determine who controls which resource at what time and under what circumstances. It is also necessary to have planning tools that help the responsible commander choose between different allocations. In this paper, we describe ongoing research on such a tool that uses simulation of possible futures in order to help commanders make their choices. A simple prototype which uses Monte Carlo simulation of equivalence classes of futures to evaluate different sensor allocation schemes was demonstrated in November 2005 and will be described here. We will also discuss how so-called mixed-initiative interaction can be utilized to improve the result. Mixed-initiative interaction is a relatively new paradigm where the emphasis is placed on the collaborative work between the human operator and the computer system. Since it is unlikely that a completely automatic system for resource allocation is feasible (or desirable), we believe that mixed-initiative interaction will be an important component of all future planning systems. Simulation-based planning is not restricted to only allocation of sensor resources. When faced with multiple requests for other resources (for example, soldiers), it is important for the responsible commander to be able to quickly evaluate the merits of granting the various requests. Today, this evaluation is done completely by humans discussing. We believe that systems such as SB-Plan could be a useful tool to aid the human decisionmaking in these cases. 1

Development of Computerized Support Tools for Intelligence Work

In the tasks facing the armed forces today there is a need for new and improved intelligence analysis tools. The opponents no longer follow strict doctrines that determine their behavior and force-composition. Several different opposing groups must be taken into account, some of which will appear to act friendly towards us. In this paper, we describe a vision for how various information fusion tools can be used to help intelligence analysts and decision-makers achieve situation awareness. We consider intelligence work and propose an analyst-centric toolbox aiming to help analysts involved in the intelligence production process to prepare suitable reports. Intelligence analysts are overwhelmed by information, both in the form of sensory data, text stemming from human observations and other sources. We describe parts of the intelligence process and touch upon the subject of what parts can and cannot be automated. The toolbox is outlined by describing a number of possible tools, e.g., semantic information tagging, a threat model construction assistant, a situation picture construction assistant, social network visualization, a game-theoretic reasoning engine, etc. Some of the tools described have been implemented as concept prototypes whereas others are the subject of ongoing research.QC 20120417</p