In this thesis, we present a recursive Bayesian solution to the problem of joint tracking and classification for ground-based air surveillance. In our system, we specifically allow for complications due to multiple targets, false alarms, and missed detections. Most importantly, though, we utilize the full benefit of a joint approach by implementing our tracker using an aerodynamically valid fli...

Future technologies will enable carriers to collect additional flight data for Flight Operational Quality Assurance. This paper describes how analysis of these data using model-based activity tracking can automatically assess the causes of detected deviations to support safety-enhancement efforts. The paper describes the activity tracking methodology implemented in the Crew Activity Tracking Sy...

This paper presents the design, synthesis, and performance of an optimal setpoint high angle-of-attack lateralldirectional controller for the X-29A aircraft equipped with forebody vortex flow control nozzles. The closed-loop control law is full state feedback, and is synthesized using a linear time-invariant generic model of the X-29A. Results demonstrate that by proper selection of the weighti...

In this paper, a new approach has been proposed to identify and model the dynamics of a highly maneuverable aircraft through fuzzy logic algorithm. In general, aircraft flight dynamics is considered as a nonlinear and coupled system whose modeling through fuzzy logic algorithm can be done using a few experimental flight tests data. In this study, for identification and modeling of the aircraft ...

This paper introduces a new technique for the verification of both safety and usability requirements for safety-critical interactive systems. This technique uses the model-oriented formal method B and makes use of an hybrid version of the MVC and PAC software architecture models. Our claim is that this technique –that uses proofs obligations– can ensure both usability and safety requirements, f...

We study robust hovering control of vertical/short takeoff and landing (V/STOL) aircraft. For hovering control, we can model a V/STOL aircraft as a planar vertical takeoff and landing (PVTOL) aircraft. We use a recently developed optimal control approach to design a robust hovering control. The resulting control is a nonlinear state feedback whose robustness is demonstrated by numerical simulat...

A research project is underway at NASA Lewis to produce a computer code which can accurately predict ice growth under any meteorological conditions for any aircraft surface. The most recent release of this code is LEWICE 1.6. This paper will demonstrate some of the newer capabilities of this code as well as describe each of these advancements in full and make comparisons with the experimental d...

Aircraft engines constitute a comp‌lex system, requiring adequate mon-itoring to ensure flight safety and timely maintenance. The best way to achieve this, is modeling the engine. Therefore, in this paper, a suitable mathematical model from engine controller design point of view, for a specific aero turbine engine is proposed by the aid of MATLAB/Simulink software. The model is capable of reduc...

The author acknowledges the financial support for this research made available by the Lean Aircraft Initiative at MIT sponsored jointly by the US Air Force and a group of aerospace companies. All facts, statements, opinions, and conclusions expressed herein are solely those of the author and do not in any way reflect those of the Lean Aircraft Initiative, the US Air Force, the sponsoring compan...

The continuing development of fully autonomous aircraft requires advanced sensing and control systems in order to complete difficult tasks such as aerial refueling and close formation flight. To accomplish such maneuvers, an aircraft must be able to measure the location of nearby aircraft and position itself relative to these other flight vehicles. In visually degraded environments where vision...