Health Care Systems Oncology, Imaging and Pharmacology, particularly for Prostate Cancer.
Technology that interests me: Sensors (Radar, Sonar, EO/IR,Fusion) Communications, Satellites, Unmanned Vehicles (UAV), Information Technology, Intelligent Transportation
Among his stops to various locations around base, Welsh met
with remotely piloted aircraft (RPA) pilots, senior non-commissioned
officers, and the squadron and group commanders of the 432nd Wing and
799th Air Base Wing to discuss changes within the Air Force, such as the
new enlisted performance report system and force management, as well as
the importance of the RPA enterprise.
With the growing demand for RPA capabilities, Welsh acknowledged some of
the additional stressors that have been placed on RPA Airmen and
discussed his goal for stabilizing the mission to allow manning to
steady, while still allowing those wishing to enter the ISR community an
opportunity to do so.
"There are some things (about the RPA
mission) that clearly have to change. We have got to get ahead of the
training curve, we have got to get fully manned, and we have got to slow
down the operational demand long enough to produce new pilots and
crewmembers so that when others leave, the enterprise isn't adversely
affected."
The program, called
System of Systems Integration Technology and Experimentation, or SoSITE,
aims to develop and demonstrate concepts for flying combinations of
aircraft, weapons, sensors and mission systems that distribute
air-warfare capabilities across interoperable manned and unmanned
platforms.
The DARPA vision is to integrate new technologies and
airborne systems with existing systems faster and at a lower cost than
advanced adversaries can counter them, Dr. Nils Sandell Jr., director of
DARPA’s Strategic Technology Office, told DoD News in a recent
interview.
2015/03/30 Operating in Contested Environments
DARPA has kicked off the System of Systems (SoS) Integration Technology and Experimentation
(SoSITE) program. SoSITE aims to develop and demonstrate concepts for
maintaining air superiority through novel SoS architectures—combinations
of aircraft, weapons, sensors and mission systems—that distribute air
warfare capabilities across a large number of interoperable manned and
unmanned platforms. The vision is to integrate new technologies and
airborne systems with existing systems faster and at lower cost than
near-peer adversaries can counter them.
“It can take decades and cost billions of dollars to field or upgrade
advanced airborne systems today,” said Nils Sandell, director of
DARPA’s Strategic Technology Office (STO). “As a result, the
modernization of subsystems in these complex platforms has not kept pace
with the rapid advances in commercial technology. A system-of-systems
approach could help overcome this inherent issue with high-cost,
monolithic, multi-function platforms.”
::::
SoSITE will leverage advances in algorithmic, software and electronics
technology to pursue multiple objectives: first, to distribute functions
across networks of manned and unmanned platforms offering favorable
capability-cost tradeoffs; second, to rapidly integrate advanced mission
systems onto manned and unmanned platforms using open system
architectures; third, to apply warfighter-managed autonomy to coordinate
distributed effects; and fourth, to enable system heterogeneity to
reduce common-cause vulnerabilities and provide system adaptability.
Sweeping prostate cancer review upends widely held belief on radiation after surgery Medical News Today
Important news for men receiving treatment for prostate cancer: Two new
studies from the University of Virginia School of Medicine have upended
the widely held view that it's best to delay radiation treatment as long
as possible after the removal of the prostate in order to prevent
unwanted side effects.
"The common teaching has been, without clear evidence, that urinary incontinence
and erectile function are worse when radiation is delivered earlier
rather than later, but we didn't see any protective effect of delayed
radiation compared to earlier radiation," said radiation oncologist
Timothy N. Showalter, MD, of the UVA Cancer Center. "It contradicts the
clinical principle of delaying radiation as long as possible for the
sake of the patient's side effects. It really speaks against that, and
that ought not to be used for a reason to delay radiation."
What Matters Most to Prostate Cancer Patients - Cure or Quality of Life?
Day-to-day living
When asked what matters most since being diagnosed with prostate cancer,
nearly 1 in 2 (47%, n=314) men highlight the importance of maintaining a
good quality of life, living life to the full and being able to spend
quality time with family and friends. These are more important than
'being cured' (19%, n=127).1
40% (n=27/67) of men with advanced prostate cancer agreed that their
quality of life had improved with treatment. However, of those men with
advanced prostate cancer who had also experienced bone pain, nearly 2 in
5 (38%, n=16/43) are no longer able to complete day-to-day activities
such as shopping and walking due to their pain, and nearly a quarter
(24%, n=10/43) live with pain that they feel is not manageable.1 Contributing to society
Beyond family, feeling well enough to be able to contribute to society
is important for men with advanced prostate cancer. Amongst men aged
between 35-54 years old who are currently taking medication, one third
(33%, n=14/43) say they sometimes feel too unwell to go to work.
However, nearly half (46%, n=307) of all survey respondents want to
continue working as much as possible.1
Is being fit at 50 better or worse for Prostate Cancer?
Results
Compared with men with low CRF, the adjusted hazard ratios
(HRs) for incident lung, colorectal, and prostate cancers among men with
high CRF were 0.45 (95% CI, 0.29-0.68), 0.56 (95% CI, 0.36-0.87), and
1.22 (95% CI, 1.02-1.46), respectively. Among those diagnosed as having
cancer at Medicare age, high CRF in midlife was associated with an
adjusted 32% (HR, 0.68; 95% CI, 0.47-0.98) risk reduction in all
cancer-related deaths and a 68% reduction in cardiovascular disease
mortality following a cancer diagnosis (HR, 0.32; 95% CI, 0.16-0.64)
compared with men with low CRF in midlife. Conclusions and Relevance
There is an inverse association between midlife CRF and
incident lung and colorectal cancer but not prostate cancer. High
midlife CRF is associated with lower risk of cause-specific mortality in
those diagnosed as having cancer at Medicare age.
Does being fit at 50 really NOT lower risk for prostate cancer? | THE "NEW" PROSTATE CANCER INFOLINK
A new study just published in JAMA Oncology appears to
suggest that a man’s fitness at age 50 lowers his risk for
cardiovascular disease, for colon cancer, and for lung cancer, but
actually increases his risk for prostate cancer. One might justifiably wonder whether this makes sense. The study by Lakoski et al. (which has already received coverage in TIME magazine) is based on data from
a prospective, observational cohort of 13,949 community-dwelling males
at a preventive medicine clinic, all of whom were given a baseline
fitness examination between 1971 and 2009. The fitness examination
included an incremental treadmill exercise test to evaluate their
cardiorespiratory fitness or CRF. The available data then allowed the
research team to divide the patients into three CRF fitness groups: low (
the least fit 20 percent), moderate ( the middle 40 percent), and high
(the upper 40 percent).
In the Discussion section of their paper, the authors get into the
issue of whether fitness at mid-life really has no impact on risk for
prostate cancer. They write that:
The exact
reasons for the observed positive association between CRF and incident
prostate cancer risk are not known, but differences in related health
behaviors, such as screening, may be an important contributing factor.
Specifically, men with higher CRF may also be more likely to undergo
more frequent preventive health care screening and/or detection visits
and, thus, had greater opportunity to be diagnosed as having localized
prostate cancer relative to men with lower CRF, possibly with less
frequent preventive health care visits. Notably, these findings are also
consistent with those of several studies on physical activity and
prostate cancer risk, an important predictor of attained CRF.
It does seem difficult to accept the concept that a relatively high level of fitness would not lower risk for (at least) clinically significant prostate cancer. It is even harder to see why a higher fitness level might increase
risk for a diagnosis of prostate cancer by 22 percent. However, there
may be good reasons for this that we don’t yet understand.
Phi - A Better Test for Early Detection with fewer false indications?
ROC curve demonstrated that when p2PSA measurements
are combined with
Access Hybritech PSA and free PSA
measurements, the resulting phi index
demonstrates a significant
improvement in clinical specificity for
prostate
cancer detection, relative to PSA detection rates
A major focus in urologic research is the identification of new
biomarkers with improved specificity for clinically-significant prostate
cancer. A promising new test based on prostate-specific antigen (PSA)
is called the Prostate Health Index (PHI), which has recently been
approved in the United States, Europe and Australia. PHI is a
mathematical formula that combines total PSA, free PSA and [-2] proPSA.
Numerous international studies have consistently shown that PHI
outperforms its individual components for the prediction of overall and
high-grade prostate cancer on biopsy. PHI also predicts the likelihood
of progression during active surveillance, providing another noninvasive
modality to potentially select and monitor this patient population.
This article reviews the evidence on this new blood test with
significant promise for both prostate cancer screening and treatment
decision-making.
detects
aggressive prostate cancer with a better specificity than total PSA and
percent free PSA in a biopsy-naïve population, and could be a useful
tool to decrease unnecessary prostate biopsies.
At 95 percent sensitivity,
The specificity of the phi test was 36.0 percent.
The specificity of the total PSA level was 17.2 percent.
The specificity of the %free PSA level was 19.4 percent.
At 95 percent sensitivity for the detection of aggressive prostate cancer
The optimal phi cut-point was 24.
A cut point of 24 predicted avoidance of 41 percent of unnecessary biopsies.
This
video demonstrates one of the labs on CW and Doppler Radar operation
which is a part of Radar principles and systems teaching solution by Keysight and Dreamcatcher. The package serves as a ready-to-teach
package in the area of radar systems and analysis, including CW,
Doppler, FMCW, pulsed and imaging radars.
Commercial
drones have been locked up in regulatory limbo in the United States
ever since their invention. It’s a far cry from other countries, where
drones are being deployed and tested at much faster rates. According to
an FAA spokesperson speaking to ReadWrite, this is a response to the
especially complicated U.S. aviation market, which includes both
commercial carriers and a vast number of private aircraft:
We
recognize industry’s urgency and understand the many amazing
applications for UAS technology. However, the United States has the
largest, most complex airspace in the world with—unlike other
countries—a large general aviation fleet that we must consider when
planning UAS integration, since those aircraft and small UAS may occupy
the same airspace. Also, different laws and regulatory structures in
other nations may allow them to act more quickly to approve certain UAS
operations.
Agency: Department of the Air Force Office: Air Force Materiel Command Location: AFRL/RQK - WPAFB
: Added: Mar 27, 2015 2:27 pm
The objective is to conduct applied R&D to develop and demonstrate
leap-ahead agile RF front-end systems with multi-function transmit /
receive technology by employing reconfigurable RF & mixed-signal
components which enable integrated Radar, Communications, & EW
suites within a single platform. Salient features of the REMAR module
are
configurable system architecture,
adaptable frequency plan,
tunable instantaneous bandwidth,
scalable DC & RF power, and
agile waveform.
Critical performance goals for the system include
ultra wide bandwidth, high dynamic range, low phase noise, environmental
compensation, on-chip calibration to enable autonomous adaptation,
& precise bias control. Ultimately, the REMAR technology will result
in a highly flexible system with dramatic cost, size, weight, and power
(CSWAP) reduction for future advanced sensor technology critical to the
warfighter.
References
Malmqvist, R.; Ouacha, A.; Erickson, R., "Multi-Band and Reconfigurable
Front-Ends for Flexible and Multi-Functional RF Systems," Microwave Conference, 2007. APMC 2007. Asia-Pacific , vol., no., pp.1,4, 11-14 Dec. 2007 doi: 10.1109/APMC.2007.4554995
Abstract:
This report summarizes some of the recent results at FOI with respect
to multi-band and reconfigurable front-ends for flexible and
multi-functional RF systems. Firstly, we report on a frequency agile
X-band smart skin digital beamforming antenna based on using an 8-10 GHz
tunable active filter and an image rejection mixer in a receiver GaAs
MMIC. Secondly, we have also investigated the possibility of using RF
MEMS based reconfigurable matching networks for realizing tunable
bandpass LNAs with even wider tuning ranges (e.g. 6-10 GHz could be
possible according to our simulations). Finally, we study a system
concept for a Ka-band multi-functional electronically steerable antenna
(ESA) on a small UAV based on using sub-arrays with low-loss MEMS phase
shifters. The results show that adequate RF performance (in terms of 2
dB of average losses at 35 GHz) can be possible to achieve with a
Ka-band 4-bits MEMS phase shifter design made on quartz. keywords:
{III-V semiconductors;MMIC mixers;MMIC phase shifters;adaptive antenna
arrays;airborne radar;aircraft antennas;beam steering;gallium
arsenide;integrated circuit design;low noise amplifiers;micromechanical
devices;microwave antenna arrays;microwave filters;microwave
receivers;radar antennas;remotely operated vehicles;GaAs;Ka-band
multifunctional ESA;RF MEMS based reconfigurable matching networks;SiO2;UAV;digital
beamforming antenna;electronically steerable antenna;flexible RF
systems;frequency 8 GHz to 10 GHz;frequency agile X-band smart
skin;image rejection mixer;low-loss MEMS phase shifter design;multiband
front-ends;multifunctional RF systems;quartz;receiver
MMIC;reconfigurable front-ends;tunable active filter;tunable bandpass
LNA;Active filters;Array signal processing;Gallium
arsenide;MMICs;Micromechanical devices;Phase shifters;Radio
frequency;Radiofrequency microelectromechanical systems;Receiving
antennas;Skin;Multi-Band;Multi-Functional;RF Front-Ends}, URL: http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=&arnumber=4554995&isnumber=4554523
Chabod, Luc; Galaup, Philippe, "Shared resources for airborne multifunction sensor systems," Radar Systems (Radar 2012), IET International Conference on , vol., no., pp.1,4, 22-25 Oct. 2012 doi: 10.1049/cp.2012.1669
Abstract:
Technical improvements will soon give the capacity to build
multifunction systems which are scalable, open and adaptable to various
kinds of platforms, thanks to a generic architecture based on sensor
panels. Therefore, the combined use of several such sensor panels on a
platform will give access to all the major RF functions which are needed
in a modern military asset, which includes radar, electronic warfare as
well as RF functions contributing to communication and navigation
purposes. keywords: {Multifunction;RF systems;airborne;resources}, URL: http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=&arnumber=6494825&isnumber=6494711
Huizing, A.G., "Scalable multifunction RF system: Combined vs. separate transmit and receive arrays," Radar Conference, 2008. RADAR '08. IEEE , vol., no., pp.1,6, 26-30 May 2008 doi: 10.1109/RADAR.2008.4720996
Abstract:
A scalable multifunction RF (SMRF) system allows the RF functionality
(radar, electronic warfare and communications) to be easily extended and
the RF performance to be scaled to the requirements of different
missions and platforms. This paper presents the results of a trade-off
study with respect to the combination or separation of the transmit and
receive arrays of an active electronically scanned array (AESA) antenna
as part of an SMRF system. The conclusion of a trade-off analysis is
that the decision to separate or combine the transmit and receive
function in a single antenna depends on the RF functions that are going
to be combined. If only radar functions such as surveillance and target
tracking are to be combined, there is a preference for combined
transmit/receive antennas. If RF functions such as satellite
communications and direction finding are to be combined with radar
functions, there is an inclination towards separate transmit and receive
antennas. keywords: {antenna arrays;active electronically scanned
array antenna;receive array;scalable multifunction RF system;transmit
array;Antenna accessories;Antenna arrays;Electronic warfare;Radar
antennas;Radar tracking;Radio frequency;Receiving antennas;Spaceborne
radar;Surveillance;Transmitting antennas;Radar;multifunction;phased
array}, URL: http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=&arnumber=4720996&isnumber=4720717
Rodgers, J.S., "Technologies for RF photonics in wideband multifunction systems," Avionics, Fiber-Optics and Photonics Conference (AVFOP), 2013 IEEE , vol., no., pp.7,8, 1-3 Oct. 2013 doi: 10.1109/AVFOP.2013.6661596
Abstract:
RF photonics technologies will enable future wideband multifunction
systems used in electronic warfare, communications, sensing, and radar
applications to become easily reconfigured and cover broad regions of
the spectrum. Photonics allow broad regions of the spectrum to be
covered with a single link. Tuning the optical oscillator enables a down
conversion of the signal to a common IF, reducing the number of
components required as a single receiver can be used to cover the whole
spectrum. RF-over-fiber enables heavy stove-piped RF cabling tied to
specific frequencies to be replaced by lightweight fiber that can be
used for any RF frequency. Integrated photonics technology can provide
the ultra stable oscillators needed for future systems, enabling today's
specialized laboratory-only equipment to fielded in future systems.
Photonic mixing and switching technology enables apertures to be used
for multifunctions (like RADAR and communications) without having to
change the “boxes” generating and processing the signals. RF photonic
technology can enable broadly tunable receivers and transmitters that
can provide wide instantaneous bandwidth (BW) anywhere over broad ranges
of spectrum with a single receiver. These technologies will allow
future systems to be adaptable to a broad range of capabilities,
enabling the hardware to be easily reconfigurable depending on the
application and mission need. keywords: {integrated
optoelectronics;microwave photonics;optical receivers;optical
transmitters;optical tuning;radio receivers;radio
transmitters;radio-over-fibre;RF frequency;RF photonic
technology;RF-over-fiber;communication application;electronic warfare
application;heavy stove-piped RF cabling;integrated
photonics;lightweight fiber;optical oscillator;photonic mixing
technology;photonic switching technology;radar application;sensing
application;single receiver;transmitters;tunable receivers;ultrastable
oscillators;wideband multifunction systems;Lithium
niobate;Modulation;Oscillators;Photonics;Radio
frequency;Sensitivity;Silicon}, URL: http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=&arnumber=6661596&isnumber=6661575
Abstract:
A new micromachined electro-thermally driven more mechanically stable
compact frequency tunable microstrip patch antenna is demonstrated in
this paper. The antenna structure employs the idea of introducing an
adjustable air gap between suspended antenna patch and fixed ground
plane. The patch of the antenna is a 3×3mm2 golden layer and
is deposited over a 3mm×3mm×4μm bulk micromachined silicon membrane
which is connected to the silicon chip through electro-thermal
micro-actuators and meandered springs. These actuators are employed to
precisely adjust the air gap height by voltage levels compatible with
CMOS circuitries. Downward deflection produced by micro-actuators
deflects the suspended silicon membrane downward toward the fixed ground
plane. This deflection reduces the air gap height and consequently,
operating frequency of the antenna. To enhance mechanical stability of
the antenna structure against environmentally induced mechanical
perturbations such as vibrations and shocks, embedded slits and slots
are created on the antenna patch and suspended silicon membrane to
decrease effective mass of the suspended structure. The up-state
operating frequency of the antenna is 15.12GHz which continuously can be
lowered to 14.62GHz. A tuning range of 500MHz is achieved by a CMOS
compatible actuation voltage of 1.25V. The RF performance of the antenna
and its mechanical behavior is investigated by FEM analysis and
satisfactory results are obtained. keywords: {CMOS integrated
circuits;elemental semiconductors;finite element analysis;mechanical
stability;microactuators;micromachining;microstrip antenna
arrays;silicon;CMOS;FEM analysis;MEMS patch antenna;RF
front-ends;Si;antenna patch;electro-thermal microactuators;frequency
14.62 GHz;frequency 15.12 GHz;frequency 500 MHz;frequency tunable
microstrip patch antenna;mechanical stability;size 3 mm;size 4
mum;voltage 1.25 V;Actuators;Dielectric constant;Micromechanical
devices;Radio frequency;Silicon;Slot antennas;Electro-thermal
microactuator;Frequency tuning;Mechanical
stability;Microelectromechanical systems
(MEMS);Micromachining;Microstrip patch antenna;reconfigurable
front-end}, URL: http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=&arnumber=6999571&isnumber=6999486
Cerny, C.L.A., "Wideband Agile Receiver: An Integrated Photonic Electronic Digital Receiver for RF Sensing," Avionics, Fiber-Optics and Photonics Technology Conference, 2007 IEEE , vol., no., pp.13,14, 2-5 Oct. 2007 doi: 10.1109/AVFOP.2007.4365724
Abstract:
The Wideband Agile Receiver (WAR) merges advanced photonics and a high
dynamic range digital receiver to create a novel hardware prototype for
the sensing and communication systems that are the 'eyes and ears' of
the war fighter. Unlike conventional receivers, WAR employs a photonics
front end using an advanced electro-absorption modulator (EAM) developed
at Lockheed Martin's Commercial Space Systems (CSS). A benefit of the
photonics front end is the flexibility to decentralize radio frequency
(RF) sensors on a mobile platform and to route the received signals via
fiber optics to a central location for digital processing. In addition,
WAR leverages an ultra-high frequency (UHF) sampling digital receiver
developed under the DARPA Advanced Digital Receiver Technology program
along with a new digital signal processing integrated circuits developed
at Lockheed Martin's MS2. The integration of these enabling
technologies opens the possibility for new RF receiver architectures
that enhance the detection of RF signals of interest over a wider
frequency spectrum crowded with strong RF energy or environmental
interference. keywords: {digital radio;integrated
optoelectronics;radio receivers;wireless sensor networks;Lockheed Martin
Commercial Space Systems;RF sensing;digital
processing;electroabsorption modulator;fiber optics;integrated photonic
electronic digital receiver;photonics front end;ultrahigh frequency
sampling digital receiver;war fighter;wideband agile receiver;Dynamic
range;Ear;Eyes;Hardware;Integrated circuit technology;Optical
receivers;Optoelectronic and photonic sensors;Prototypes;Radio
frequency;Wideband}, URL: http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=&arnumber=4365724&isnumber=4365710
Kouki,
A.B.; Masri, I.; Gagnon, F.; Thibeault, C., "On the embedded vector RF
measurements in frequency agile and reconfigurable front-ends," Design and Technology of Integrated Systems in Nanoscale Era (DTIS), 2010 5th International Conference on , vol., no., pp.1,5, 23-25 March 2010 doi: 10.1109/DTIS.2010.5487547
Abstract:
Emerging intelligent and reconfigurable radiofrequency front-ends
require the use of embedded vector measurements to ensure their proper
tuning and operation at the frequency of choice. Alternative solutions
for embedded vector measurements are briefly reviewed and a new
wideband, non directional four-port reflectometer for vector reflection
coefficient measurement is proposed. The four-port is based on two
nondirectional low coupling RF samplers judiciously placed on a
transmission line. The principle and the basic theory governing the
4-port operation are presented. Experimental measurements using the
proposed reflectometer are compared to simulations as well as
measurements using commercial vector network analyzers for a wide range
of loads. Good agreement is obtained with an error not exceeding 0.8
dB6∠6°. keywords: {radiofrequency measurement;4-port
operation;embedded vector RF measurements;frequency agile front-ends;non
directional four-port reflectometer;radio technologies;reconfigurable
front-ends;vector reflection coefficient measurement;Chromium;Electric
variables measurement;Electromagnetic spectrum;Frequency
measurement;Integrated circuit measurements;MIMO;Phase
measurement;Phased arrays;Radio frequency;Transmission line
measurements}, URL: http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=&arnumber=5487547&isnumber=5487535
Djoumessi,
E.E.; Ke Wu, "Reconfigurable RF front-end for frequency-agile direct
conversion receivers and cognitive radio system applications," Radio and Wireless Symposium (RWS), 2010 IEEE , vol., no., pp.272,275, 10-14 Jan. 2010 doi: 10.1109/RWS.2010.5434205
Abstract:
A reconfigurable direct conversion receiver front-end for GSM and WLAN
bands (1.9 and 2.4 GHz) is proposed and demonstrated for cognitive radio
system applications. The RF front-end platform makes use of a silicon
varactor-tuned bandpass filter in connection with a tunable six-port
demodulator. Varactor diodes of both of the tunable structures are
independently biased using two different sets of supply voltage. The
demodulation of phase-shift-keying (PSK) signals at a bit rate of 40
Mbps is achieved by using wideband power detectors. An experimental test
bench of the proposed receiver is realized, and QPSK and 8PSK signal
constellations are measured at the center-operating frequencies of 1.9
and 2.4 GHz for different noise levels. keywords: {cognitive
radio;demodulators;frequency agility;quadrature phase shift keying;radio
receivers;radiotelephony;varactors;wireless LAN;GSM;QPSK;Varactor
diodes;WLAN bands;cognitive radio system;frequency-agile direct
conversion receivers;phase-shift-keying signals;reconfigurable RF
front-end;silicon varactor-tuned bandpass filter;tunable six-port
demodulator;tunable structures;Band pass filters;Cognitive
radio;Demodulation;Frequency conversion;GSM;Phase shift keying;Radio
frequency;Receivers;Silicon;Wireless LAN;Tunable bandpass
filter;cognitive radio system;phase shift keying;six-port
receiver;tunable demodulator;varactor diode}, URL: http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=&arnumber=5434205&isnumber=5434082
Yue Liu; Yunkai Deng, "CARMSAR—A Compact and Reconfigurable Miniature SAR system for high resolution remote sensing," Synthetic Aperture Radar, 2012. EUSAR. 9th European Conference on , vol., no., pp.294,297, 23-26 April 2012
Abstract:
Department of Space Microwave Remote Sensing System, Institute of
Electronics, Chinese Academy of Sciences (IECAS) is developing a Compact
And Reconfigurable Miniature Synthetic Aperture Radar (CARMSAR) system
with light weight, low cost, and high resolution. The system is based on
Frequency Modulated Continuous Wave (FMCW) techniques. Due to the ultra
mini size and light weight, the CARMSAR system will be mounted on a
Small-size Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (S-UAV) platform, and will provide
agile reaction and capability of high-resolution imaging in all-day and
all-weather conditions. Therefore, it promises different potential
applications such as pollution detection, natural risks prevention, fire
prevention, traffic control, and environmental monitoring. In this
paper, we will describe the concept, system design and signal processing
issues of the CARMSAR prototype, and finally presents an image
conceived through an experimentional campaign, where this system was
onboard a vehicle travelling on the sixth-ring road in Beijing, China. keywords: {Azimuth;Microwave imaging;Receiving antennas;Remote sensing;Signal resolution;Synthetic aperture radar}, URL: http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=&arnumber=6217062&isnumber=6215928
Malmqvist,
R.; Rantakari, P.; Samuelsson, C.; Lahti, M.; Cheng, S.; Saijets, J.;
Vähä-Heikkilä, T.; Rydberg, A.; Varis, J., "RF MEMS based impedance
matching networks for tunable multi-band microwave low noise
amplifiers," Semiconductor Conference, 2009. CAS 2009. International , vol.1, no., pp.303,306, 12-14 Oct. 2009 doi: 10.1109/SMICND.2009.5336539
Abstract:
In this paper, we present different types of reconfigurable RF MEMS
based matching networks intended for frequency-agile (multi-band) LNAs.
Measured results of 2-bits matching networks show a centre frequency
tuning range of 2-3 GHz (10-13%) around 20 GHz and 1.5-2.0 dB of minimum
losses. Simulated tunable LNA results based on measured data of the RF
MEMS matching networks show the possibilities of achieving similar high
gain, good matching and low NF over the whole tuning range. The results
demonstrate the potential of using RF MEMS switches for the realization
of tunable LNAs at microwave and millimetre-wave frequencies.
keywords: {circuit tuning;impedance matching;low noise
amplifiers;microswitches;microwave amplifiers;microwave switches;MEMS
switches;RF MEMS based matching networks;frequency 2 GHz to 3
GHz;frequency-agile LNA;impedance matching;loss 1.5 dB to 2.0 dB;tunable
multiband microwave low noise amplifier;Frequency measurement;Gain
measurement;Impedance matching;Loss measurement;Low-noise
amplifiers;Microwave amplifiers;Noise measurement;Radiofrequency
amplifiers;Radiofrequency microelectromechanical systems;Tuning}, URL: http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=&arnumber=5336539&isnumber=5336525
Werquin, A.; Frappe, A.; Kaiser, A., "A multi-path multi-rate CMOS polar DPA for wideband multi-standard RF transmitters," Radio Frequency Integrated Circuits Symposium (RFIC), 2013 IEEE , vol., no., pp.327,330, 2-4 June 2013 doi: 10.1109/RFIC.2013.6569595
Abstract:
A two-path digital power amplifier (DPA) in 1.2V 65nm CMOS is
presented. This highly reconfigurable and frequency agile block is
designed to be used as an envelope modulator in a wideband
multi-standard polar transmitter. Each path is composed of a 12-bit DPA
ensuring the modulation of the envelope of the RF signal. The DPAs are
controlled by envelope code words (ECW) at different sample rates. This
diversity strongly attenuates the images produced by the direct digital
to RF conversion, avoiding passive filtering. The baseband sample rate
conversion can easily be reconfigured. The proposed front-end can manage
spurious emissions depending on the standard, the carrier frequency and
the required power. The DPAs also integrate active input impedance
compensation cells in order to limit the input impedance modulation when
switching the DPA cells. The two-path DPA covers a 0.9-1.9 GHz
bandwidth with 16.7dBm output 1dB compression point and 12.4% PAE.
64-QAM presents -28dB EVM while active area occupies 1 × 0.25 mm2.
keywords: {CMOS integrated circuits;UHF power
amplifiers;modulators;passive filters;quadrature amplitude
modulation;radio transmitters;64-QAM;ECW;RF conversion;active input
impedance compensation cells;bandwidth 0.9 GHz to 1.9 GHz;baseband
sample rate conversion;envelope code words;envelope modulator;frequency
agile block;multipath multirate CMOS polar DPA;passive
filtering;reconfigurable block;size 65 nm;two-path digital power
amplifier;voltage 1.2 V;wideband multistandard RF transmitters;wideband
multistandard polar transmitter;word length 12 bit;Attenuation;Frequency
modulation;Impedance;OFDM;Radio frequency;Radio transmitters;Cognitive
Radio (CR);Lagrange interpolation;Multi-path;digital power amplifier
(DPA);multi-rate;multi-standard;polar transmitter;software-defined radio
(SDR)}, URL: http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=&arnumber=6569595&isnumber=6569477
Abstract:
A frequency agile patch to slot antenna is proposed. The proposed
antenna is consisted of a microstrip patch and a slot in the ground
plane. Seven switches using RF PIN diode BAR 52-02 positions at the slot
to produce seven reconfigurable frequencies at 1.87 GHz, 1.96 GHz, 2.08
GHz, 2.2 GHz, 2.41 GHz, 2.74 GHz and 3.19 GHz. The patch resonates at
the highest resonant frequency whereas the slot resonates at the lower
resonant frequencies. It was found that, at the highest frequency the
radiation pattern is directional while at the lower frequencies, a near
omni-directional radiation patterns are obtained. Simulated and measured
results are used to demonstrate the performance of the antenna.
keywords: {UHF antennas;UHF diodes;antenna radiation patterns;directive
antennas;microstrip antennas;microwave diodes;microwave switches;p-i-n
diodes;slot antennas;RF PIN diode BAR 52-02;antenna radiation
pattern;directional antenna;frequency 1.87 GHz;frequency 1.96
GHz;frequency 2.08 GHz;frequency 2.2 GHz;frequency 2.41 GHz;frequency
2.74 GHz;frequency 3.19 GHz;frequency agile microstrip patch-to-slot
antenna;ground plane;omnidirectional radiation patterns;resonant
frequency;switches;Antenna measurements;Antenna radiation patterns;Loss
measurement;Microstrip antennas;Radio frequency;Slot antennas;Frequency
reconfigurable;Microstrip patch antenna;PIN diode;slot antenna}, URL: http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=&arnumber=6421681&isnumber=6421477
Malmqvist,
R.; Samuelsson, C.; Rantakari, P.; Vähä-Heikkilä, T.; Smith, D.;
Varis, J.; Baggen, R., "RF MEMS and MMIC based reconfigurable matching
networks for adaptive multi-band RF front-ends," RF Front-ends for Software Defined and Cognitive Radio Solutions (IMWS), 2010 IEEE International Microwave Workshop Series on , vol., no., pp.1,4, 22-23 Feb. 2010 doi: 10.1109/IMWS.2010.5440973
Abstract:
In this paper, we present GaAs MMIC based reconfigurable RF MEMS
impedance matching networks for highly integrated (potentially
single-chip) frequency-agile LNAs and adaptive multi-band front-ends.
Such GaAs MMIC based RF MEMS LNA matching networks have been realized
with a frequency tuning range of 40% (10-16 GHz and 15-23 GHz,
respectively) and 1-3 dB of in-band losses. Simulated tunable LNA
results based on measured data of GaAs MMIC MEMS matching circuits (and
simulated data of MEMS matching networks made on quartz) show the
potential of achieving a high gain and low in-band noise figure over
such wide tuning ranges. keywords: {III-V semiconductors;MMIC
amplifiers;gallium arsenide;impedance matching;low noise
amplifiers;micromechanical devices;radiofrequency amplifiers;GaAs
MMIC;RF MEMS LNA matching network;adaptive multiband RF
front-ends;frequency 10 GHz to 16 GHz;frequency 15 GHz to 23
GHz;integrated frequency-agile LNA;loss 1 dB to 3 dB;reconfigurable RF
MEMS impedance matching network;Adaptive systems;Circuit
optimization;Circuit simulation;Gallium arsenide;Impedance
matching;MMICs;Micromechanical devices;Radio frequency;Radiofrequency
microelectromechanical systems;Tuning;Low noise amplifiers;matching
networks;radio frequency microelectromechanical system (RF MEMS)}, URL: http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=&arnumber=5440973&isnumber=5440961
Fouladi,
Siamak; Domingue, F.; Mansour, Raafat, "CMOS-MEMS tuning and impedance
matching circuits for reconfigurable RF front-ends," Microwave Symposium Digest (MTT), 2012 IEEE MTT-S International , vol., no., pp.1,3, 17-22 June 2012 doi: 10.1109/MWSYM.2012.6259776
Abstract:
Tunable radio-frequency microelectromechanical system (RF-MEMS)
impedance matching networks for the compact implementation of
reconfigurable RF front-ends for multistandard applications are
presented in this paper. Different networks are presented which improve
the overall performance in terms of power handling, size, insertion loss
and DC power consumption by utilizing RF-MEMS technology. The
integration of the RF-MEMS impedance matching networks in standard CMOS
technologies is presented. The implementation of the tunable MEMS
impedance matching networks with CMOS electronics on the same chip
allows for fully integrated silicon solutions for future multi-band
reconfigurable RF front-ends. To demonstrate reconfigurability at the
system-level, reconfigurable RF amplifiers are presented based on the
proposed MEMS tunable impedance matching networks. keywords: {CMOS
integrated circuits;CMOS technology;Impedance;Impedance
matching;Micromechanical devices;Radio frequency;Standards;CMOS-MEMS
integration;Radio-frequency microelectromechanical systems
(RF-MEMS);reconfigurable RF front-ends;tunable impedance matching
networks}, URL: http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=&arnumber=6259776&isnumber=6257755
a
bungling of personnel management and, most fundamentally,
an
organizational charter that seems to designate DHS as the Department of
Everything. But, as Frederick the Great so aptly put it, “he who defends
everything defends nothing.”
Research efforts under this program are expected to result in
functional capabilities, concepts, theory, and applications addressing
Air Force airborne network connectivity problems. The effectiveness of
the developed technologies for potential operational use will be
assessed through testing and evaluation activities. Technologies that
can be transitioned for operational use are of high interest. Offerors
are encouraged to describe the pre-conditions that are necessary for the
proposed techniques to work effectively.
:::
Work is encouraged in, but not limited to, these focus areas:
1. Airborne Network Architecture
Develop network architectures that support self-organizing, self-
healing autonomous machine-to- machine data routing and dissemination.
Develop self-aware/sentient cross-Open Systems Interconnection
(OSI) layer network communications paradigms that support cooperative
learning and reconfiguration-on-the-fly of mobile networks, by sensing
and adapting to operational environment and mission requirements.
Demonstrate cooperative wireless network communications that allow
nodes in a wireless network to share resources and to cooperatively
transmit, providing reliable, robust connectivity via multipath routing.
2. Information Transport Performance Management
Develop the communications management capabilities to support the
management of Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR)
related network and information system and communications resources.
Develop information management algorithms capable of dynamically
requesting data from multiple ISR sensors in order to enhance current
capabilities for detecting, locating, identifying, and tracking ground
moving targets.
Develop the mechanisms to enable mission-based priority schemes and
assured information delivery techniques supporting the exchange of ISR
traffic, as well as other network traffic. Develop metrics such as Kill
Chain Reduction, Bandwidth Efficiency, or Network Availability to gauge
performance and effects.
3. Integration and Interoperability with the Global Information Grid (GIG)
Integrate new communications resources available on the ISR platform(s), to enable increased communications capability.
Study potential ISR collection planning and envisioned dynamic
tasking techniques being developed for current and future Air Operations
Centers (AOCs). Develop the information management algorithms to ensure
they will operate within the constraints of these envisioned collection
management techniques.
In conjunction with the Government, work with the operational
community to address Concepts of Operation (CONOPS) issues associated
with ISR platform interoperability.
Conduct airborne flight experiments utilizing multiple ISR assets
aimed at demonstrating capabilities for increasing multi-platform
interoperability and tracking performance.
4. Advanced Tactical Data Links (ATDL)
Tactical Data Links (TDL) are used in both peace time and combat
environments to exchange information such as fixed formatted messages,
data, radar tracks, target information, platform status, imagery, free
text messaging and command assignments. TDLs provide interoperability,
local and global connectivity, and situational awareness to the user
when operating under rapidly changing operational conditions. TDLs
increase mission effectiveness, providing enhanced situational
awareness, positive combat identification of aircraft in the network,
correlation of on- and off-board sensor data, and digital machine to
machine target and threat information sharing, enabling time critical
targeting and other mission assignment tasking. In combat TDLs enable
engagement of high-value, time-critical targets in
anti-access/area-denial environments. TDLs are used by all Service
Theater Command and Control (C2) elements, weapons platforms, and
sensors. TDLs include, but are not limited to: Link 16, Link 11,
Situational Awareness Data Link (SADL), Variable Message Format (VMF),
Intra-Flight Data Link (IFDL), and other Advanced Tactical Data Link
technologies, such as Tactical Targeting Network Technology (TTNT), and
Multifunction Advanced Data Link (MADL).
Conduct experiments and demonstrations providing validation of
critical capabilities and enhancements to the Aerial Layer Network.
Conduct experiments demonstrating interoperability among Air Force
fighter platforms. Provide validation to ensure the Air Force fighter
fleet maintains standardization, to develop interoperable data link
exchanges.
Conduct RF in-the-loop experiments to demonstrate ATDL validation
and model authentication supporting Global Strike (GS), Global
Persistent Attack (GPA), Offensive and Defensive Counterair (OCA and
DCA), Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses (SEAD), and Destruction of Enemy
Air Defenses (DEAD) missions.
Demonstrate ATDLs on the fighter fleet to expand Line of Sight (LOS) and Beyond Line of Sight (BLOS) data link connectivity.
Model future ATDL concepts for the next-generation conceptual fighter fleet to demonstrate scenario-based mission impact.
ATDL validation activities are encouraged but not required to include
the use of AFRL antenna measurement facilities. The AFRL Rome Research
Site maintains the largest advanced antenna measurement facilities of
its kind in the United States. The facilities support installed antenna
measurement on full-scale air-frames and ground vehicles. AFRL has a
large inventory of airframes including F-35, all three variants, F-22,
F-16, F-15, A-10, and Global Hawk.
$3.5 million in prizes at stake as human-robot teams attempt simulated disaster response
The international robotics community has turned out in force for the
DARPA Robotics Challenge (DRC) Finals, a competition of robots and their
human supervisors to be held June 5-6, 2015, at Fairplex in Pomona, Calif., outside of Los Angeles. In the competition, human-robot teams
will be tested on capabilities that could enable them to provide
assistance in future natural and man-made disasters. Fourteen new teams
from Germany, Hong Kong, Italy, Japan, the People’s Republic of China,
South Korea, and the United States qualified to join 11 previously
announced teams. In total, 25 teams will now vie for a chance to win one
of three cash prizes totaling $3.5 million at the DRC Finals.
The
latest highlights from DARPA's years-long robotics competition show us
just how creative we can be. Here's what you need to know in advance of
the grand finale in June.
"The state of the art is not capable of having robots do work on their own in these dangerous environments," said Dr. Gill Pratt,
DARPA's defense sciences program manager, in a 2014 press statement. By
crowdsourcing this problem to top engineers in academia and the private
sector via the DRC, DARPA hopes to eventually rectify this issue.
When the finals are held June 5-6 in Pomona, Calif., 25 DRC teams
will showcase their contenders. The DRC finals coincide with the DRC
Expo, featuring the latest developments in robotics, unmanned aerial
systems, and disaster response technologies.
DRC Finals Home The DRC is a competition of robot systems and software teams vying to
develop robots capable of assisting humans in responding to natural and
man-made disasters. It was designed to be extremely difficult.
Participating teams, representing some of the most advanced robotics
research and development organizations in the world, are collaborating
and innovating on a very short timeline to develop the hardware,
software, sensors, and human-machine control interfaces that will enable
their robots to complete a series of challenge tasks selected by DARPA
for their relevance to disaster response.
MIT is competing in the DARPA Robotics Challenge with the amazing
Atlas robot built by Boston Dynamics. We are developing algorithms and
user interfaces to control the robot and to aid a human operator paired
with the robot to carry out a series of manipulation and mobility tasks.
The DARPA Robotics Challenge (DRC) is motivated by disasters such as
the Fukushima Daiichi hydrogen explosion and the Deepwater Horizon
underwater oil spill. The key goal is to develop a dexterous mobile
robot that can move through and within disaster zones and perform useful
tasks, with minimal guidance from remote human operators remaining
safely out of harm’s way.
In competition with 24 other academic and industry teams, we must
enable the humanoid robot (supplied by DARPA) to walk over uneven
terrain, climb stairs and ladders, enter and drive a small utility
vehicle, handle debris and other objects, and use tools. These skills
will be tested in a Grand Final in June 2015 for a $2M prize.
The 5 crucial defense reforms that will save the Pentagon | Brookings Institution
Congressman Mac Thornberry, the new chairman of the House Armed Services
Committee, is unveiling this week a set of proposed reforms for the way
the Department of Defense buys equipment and contracts for other
services. This is a very welcome focus for a new committee chairman at
this juncture in history. Combined with the reformist instincts of his
fellow chairman, Senator John McCain of the Senate Armed Services
Committee, as well as the background of Secretary of Defense Ash Carter
and his top team, there is likely to be real progress in the months
ahead. But to complement all these efforts, we also need a broader
policy debate that engages Washington beyond just the defense community
and that focuses more on the big picture. The changes being discussed
now generally look good, but trend towards the more modest side of the
possible and desirable reform agenda.
Here are several ideas that are worth
considering as legislators, regulators and other interested parties
haggle over change in coming months:
Use Federal Acquisition Regulations Title 12 more often, rather than falling back on Federal Acquisition Regulations Title 15. Buy more COTS
Streamline oversight when the Pentagon can rely on competition to discipline firms about price.
Reduce DCMA oversight.
Follow the JIEDDO model for other technologies.
create special, expedited acquisition
procedures for
lower-risk technologies that nonetheless are important to build quickly.
Break down information technology purchases into smaller batches.
Bite sized open system procurement more digestible.
For technologies that have
commercial analogues, but certain military-specific attributes up to a
certain percentage of value, allow firms to keep their intellectual
property rights rather than sharing all relevant data with the
government.
Nothing about acquisition reform is easy.
But if we combine the tedious technical detail that often afflicts these
debates with some bigger-picture conceptual thinking, and examples not
only of problems that exist today but specific programs that could work
better under a different set of rules, we may be able to help broaden
and strengthen the consensus for major reform. America will then have a
better chance of keeping its impressive global lead in defense
technology for many years and decades to come.
INTRODUCTION: Product Director (PD) Aerostats, Aberdeen Proving Ground (APG) is seeking sources to provide systems engineering & technical assistance (SETA) to include but not limited to, program management, engineering, logistics, business, operations, and security support services under North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code 541330, Engineering Services. PD Aerostats is determining the availability and technical capability of potential offerors to provide SETA support for the following programs:
Persistent Surveillance System Tethered;
Persistent Threat Detection System;
Persistent Ground Surveillance System;
Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Combat Systems, Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance; and, the
Joint Combat Identification Marking System.
CONTRACTING OFFICE ADDRESS:
Army Contracting Command-APG - Division C
6001 Combat Drive
Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD 21005-1846
The project reported here,
sponsored by the American Medical Association (AMA), aimed to describe
the effects that alternative health care payment models (i.e., models
other than fee-for-service payment) have on physicians and physician
practices in the United States. These payment models included
Accountable care organizations and medical homes, which are two recently expanding practice and
organizational models that frequently participate in one or more of
these alternative payment models, were also included. Project findings
are intended to help guide efforts by the AMA and other stakeholders to
make improvements to current and future alternative payment programs and
help physician practices succeed in these new payment models — i.e., to
help practices simultaneously improve patient care, preserve or enhance
physician professional satisfaction, satisfy multiple external
stakeholders, and maintain economic viability as businesses. The report
provides both findings and recommendations.
Recommendations
To optimize the quantity and content of physician work under
alternative payment models, ensure that physician practices have support
and guidance.
To improve the effectiveness of alternative payment models, address
physicians' concerns about the operational details of these payment
models.
To help them succeed in alternative payment models, ensure that
physician practices have data and resources for data management and
analysis.
To help physician practices respond constructively, harmonize key
components of alternative payment models, especially performance
measures.
Airman assigned to the 140th AMXS guides F-16C block 30
#86-0370 from
the 120th FS prior to a training mission in
support of an ORE at Buckley
AFB on January 20th, 2012.
[USAF photo by TSgt. Wolfram M. Stumpf]
Air Force developing new F-16 radars
"We need to develop an AESA radar plan for our F-16s who are
conducting the homeland defense mission in particular," Welsh told the
House Armed Services Committee. "Our entire fleet – active, Guard and
Reserve – none of them have been upgraded with that radar."
The service estimates it would spend $3.2 million per aircraft to install an integrated AESA radar.
"We think that's the way to go," Welsh said. "We're looking now at how we can do that as we move forward."
First Air Force: Upgraded F-16s needed urgently
First Air Force, the numbered Air Force with the sole
responsibility of ensuring air superiority and air sovereignty of the
U.S., recently filed an "urgent operational need" request with the Air
Force Requirements Council for fiscal 2015 funding for its Aerospace
Control Alert mission, Air Force Times has learned.
The
request, specifically for Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve
Block 30 F-16s, seeks the installation of the Northrop Grumman APG-83
SABR active electronically scanned array radar. This radar was part of
the combat avionics program extension suite that the Air Force dropped
from its fiscal 2015 and 2016 budget requests both because of budget
shortfalls.
APG-83 Scalable Agile Beam Radar (SABR) for the F-16
SABR optimizes radar system performance within existing power and
cooling allocations of legacy F-16s worldwide and will make these F-16 fleets relevant for decades to come. SABR began flying in 2008 and
continues to build an unmatched record of successful "firsts" with
flight demonstrations now including proven performance in advanced
combat-relevant tests.
Avionics
safety certification – for software and hardware – is increasingly seen
as an ongoing evolving process, reflected in the enhancements to
standards such as DO-178C [RTCA - Software Considerations in Airborne Systems and Equipment Certification]. This long-term understanding is enabling
avionics experts to account for complex situations in certification
standards such as the growth of multicore processors, avionics
computing, and the role of safety certification in unmanned aircraft
systems (UASs).
"Certification
is finally being correctly perceived as a life-of-product activity,
where lives are measured in decades, not months or years like consumer
products," says Vance Hilderman, director of global services for Vector
Software (www.vectorcast.com).
"Certification is increasingly seen as an ecosystem of systems and
operations, instead of application to single system boundaries. This
certification ecosystem theme permeates all certification."
The future of unmanned aircraft in national airspace
Managing
complexity may be an understatement when it comes to determining the
path to safety certification for unmanned aircraft systems (UAS)
platforms in the national airspace.
Although
there are still no solid ground rules from the FAA pertaining to UASs in
the national airspace, the FAA has committed to having a roadmap ready
later this year, DDC-I's Gilliland says.
"As a result, we are seeing increasing interest in companies developing UASs moving from an in-house or Linux-based
environment to a COTS DO-178 RTOS environment. There is a lot of
interest in the ARM SoC [system-on-chip] platforms in this space because
they have extreme requirements for minimum SWaP," he continues.
Without
knowing exactly what the FAA will require, it's difficult to anticipate
what the next move should be. "We're trying to make sure we've got a
path to get to certifiability, but at this point in time we don't
exactly know what's going to be required," McGee says. "The thing that
people sometimes overlook is that if you're not looking at the system at
a top-level design, it's difficult to go in and then piecemeal figure
out how you're going to get safety certifiability on each part,"
he explains.
The overview of software and hardware characteristics is presented in this paper.
We reviewed DO-178B and DO-254 in terms of diverse perspectives.
We reviewed coordinated approaches for software/hardware certification processes.
To
ensure the safety of avionic systems, civil avionic software and
hardware regulated by certification authorities must be certified based
on applicable standards (e.g., DO-178B and DO-254). The overall safety
integrity of an avionic system, comprising software and hardware, should
be considered at the system level. Thus, software and hardware
components should be planned, developed and certified in a unified,
harmonized manner to ensure the integral safety of the entire avionic
system. One of the reasons for the high development costs of avionic
systems complying with standards may be a lack of sufficient
understanding of how to employ these standards efficiently. Therefore,
it is important to understand the similarities and differences between
DO-178B and DO-254 to effectively manage the processes required by these
standards, to minimize cost, and to ultimately ensure the safety of the
entire avionic system. Thus, the goal of this paper is to compare
various aspects of DO-178B and DO-254 comprehensively. The paper may
serve as a useful supplementary material for the practitioner to
understand the rationales behind and the differences between two main
standards used in avionic industries.
Abstract — Modern avionic system development is undergoing a major transition, from federated systems to Integrated Modular Avionics (IMA) where several applications with mixed criticality will reside on the same platform. Moreover, there is a departure from today’s single core computing, and we need to address the problem of how to guarantee determinism (in time and space) for application tasks running on multiple cores and interacting through shared memory. This paper summarizes the main challenges and briefly describes some active directions in research regarding temporal partitioning. It also outlines the forthcoming research that we will pursue for quantifying time bounds on memory access related interference, to ensure determinism and comply with certification requirements.
