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Title: EFFECT OF OPERATOR CONTROL CONFIGURATION ON UNMANNED AERIAL SYSTEM TRAINABILITY.
Creator: Neumann, John, Kincaid, Peter, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Unmanned aerial systems (UAS) carry no pilot on board, yet they still require live operators to handle critical functions such as mission planning and execution. Humans also interpret the sensor information provided by these platforms. This applies to all classes of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV's), including the smaller portable systems used for gathering real-time reconnaissance during military operations in urban terrain. The need to quickly and reliably train soldiers to control small...
Show moreUnmanned aerial systems (UAS) carry no pilot on board, yet they still require live operators to handle critical functions such as mission planning and execution. Humans also interpret the sensor information provided by these platforms. This applies to all classes of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV's), including the smaller portable systems used for gathering real-time reconnaissance during military operations in urban terrain. The need to quickly and reliably train soldiers to control small UAS operations demands that the human-system interface be intuitive and easy to master. In this study, participants completed a series of tests of spatial ability and were then trained (in simulation) to teleoperate a micro-unmanned aerial vehicle equipped with forward and downward fixed cameras. Three aspects of the human-system interface were manipulated to assess the effects on manual control mastery and target detection. One factor was the input device. Participants used either a mouse or a specially programmed game controller (similar to that used with the Sony™ Playstation 2 video game console). A second factor was the nature of the flight control displays as either continuous or discrete (analog v. digital). The third factor involved the presentation of sensor imagery. The display could either provide streaming video from one camera at a time, or present the imagery from both cameras simultaneously in separate windows. The primary dependent variables included: 1) time to complete assigned missions, 2) number of collisions, 3) number of targets detected, and 4) operator workload. In general, operator performance was better with the game controller than with the mouse, but significant improvement in time to complete occurred over repeated trials regardless of the device used. Time to complete missions was significantly faster with the game controller, and operators also detected more targets without any significant differences in workload compared to mouse users. Workload on repeated trials decreased with practice, and spatial ability was a significant covariate of workload. Lower spatial ability associated with higher workload scores. In addition, demographic data including computer usage and video gaming experience were collected and analyzed, and correlated with performance. Higher video gaming experience was also associated with lower workload.
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Date Issued: 2006
Identifier: CFE0001496, ucf:47080
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0001496

Title: Model-Based Systems Engineering Approach to Distributed and Hybrid Simulation Systems.
Creator: Pastrana, John, Rabelo, Luis, Lee, Gene, Elshennawy, Ahmad, Kincaid, John, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: INCOSE defines Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) as (")the formalized application of modeling to support system requirements, design, analysis, verification, and validation activities beginning in the conceptual design phase and continuing throughout development and later life cycle phases.(") One very important development is the utilization of MBSE to develop distributed and hybrid (discrete-continuous) simulation modeling systems. MBSE can help to describe the systems to be modeled...
Show moreINCOSE defines Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) as (")the formalized application of modeling to support system requirements, design, analysis, verification, and validation activities beginning in the conceptual design phase and continuing throughout development and later life cycle phases.(") One very important development is the utilization of MBSE to develop distributed and hybrid (discrete-continuous) simulation modeling systems. MBSE can help to describe the systems to be modeled and help make the right decisions and partitions to tame complexity. The ability to embrace conceptual modeling and interoperability techniques during systems specification and design presents a great advantage in distributed and hybrid simulation systems development efforts. Our research is aimed at the definition of a methodological framework that uses MBSE languages, methods and tools for the development of these simulation systems. A model-based composition approach is defined at the initial steps to identify distributed systems interoperability requirements and hybrid simulation systems characteristics. Guidelines are developed to adopt simulation interoperability standards and conceptual modeling techniques using MBSE methods and tools. Domain specific system complexity and behavior can be captured with model-based approaches during the system architecture and functional design requirements definition. MBSE can allow simulation engineers to formally model different aspects of a problem ranging from architectures to corresponding behavioral analysis, to functional decompositions and user requirements (Jobe, 2008).
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Date Issued: 2014
Identifier: CFE0005395, ucf:50464
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0005395

Title: Real-Time Open Source Traffic Control Software for the Advance Traffic Controller.
Creator: Key, Justin, Radwan, Ahmed, Hua, Kien, Kincaid, John, Leonessa, Alexander, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Under the initiative of Department of Transportation (DOT) a safety-critical, dual redundant, open source traffic signal control application is currently being developed. The system named SCOPE, for Signal Control Program Environment, currently implements standard 8-phase NEMA logic and the National Cooperative Highway Research Program 3-66 preemption logic. SCOPE is designed to be part of the Advanced Traffic Controller (ATC), making use of API standard 2.06b to integrate with the hardware....
Show moreUnder the initiative of Department of Transportation (DOT) a safety-critical, dual redundant, open source traffic signal control application is currently being developed. The system named SCOPE, for Signal Control Program Environment, currently implements standard 8-phase NEMA logic and the National Cooperative Highway Research Program 3-66 preemption logic. SCOPE is designed to be part of the Advanced Traffic Controller (ATC), making use of API standard 2.06b to integrate with the hardware. Safety-critical status is achieved through redundancy of application logic that constantly compares expected signal phase information. From baseline requirements, engineers independently program application code, one using Ada95 and the other using C++.The Traffic EXperimental Analytical Simulation Model, a microscopic single-intersection vehicular simulation, was used for initial validation and testing of the functionality of the system. The second demonstration of the SCOPE, used actuated detector data collected from a recording of a live intersection. Actuator calls were placed on SCOPE at the same times the vehicles triggered the detectors in the video (assuming the vehicles were not in-queue). Using SCOPE the real-world traffic was not only right-of-way safely yielded, but the traffic flow state time average time in-queue reduced. The final phase of testing will occur when the DOT performs Formal Qualification Testing, which is scheduled for 2013.Upon validation and subsequent release to the open source community SCOPE will provide users the ability to replace the proprietary application software residing in ATC cabinets. Transparency will be provided into another aspect of the traffic control signal thus taking the initiative of ATC one step further.
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Date Issued: 2012
Identifier: CFE0004562, ucf:49254
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0004562

Title: Modeling Mass Care Resource Provision Post Hurricane.
Creator: Muhs, Tammy, Kincaid, John, Rollins, David, Dorman, Teresa, Taylor, Gregory, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Determining the amount of resources needed, specifically food and water, following a hurricane is not a straightforward task. Through this research effort, an estimating tool was developed that takes into account key demographic and evacuation behavioral effects, as well as hurricane storm specifics to estimate the number of meals required for the first fourteen days following a hurricane making landfall in the State of Florida. The Excel based estimating tool was created using data collected...
Show moreDetermining the amount of resources needed, specifically food and water, following a hurricane is not a straightforward task. Through this research effort, an estimating tool was developed that takes into account key demographic and evacuation behavioral effects, as well as hurricane storm specifics to estimate the number of meals required for the first fourteen days following a hurricane making landfall in the State of Florida. The Excel based estimating tool was created using data collected from four hurricanes making landfall in Florida during 2004-2005. The underlying model used in the tool is a Regression Decision Tree with predictor variables including direct impact, poverty level, and hurricane impact score. The hurricane impact score is a hurricane classification system resulting from this research that includes hurricane category, intensity, wind field size, and landfall location. The direct path of a hurricane, a higher than average proportion of residents below the poverty level, and the hurricane impact score were all found to have an effect on the number of meals required during the first fourteen days following a hurricane making landfall in the State of Florida.
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Date Issued: 2011
Identifier: CFE0004143, ucf:49053
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0004143

Title: The Effectiveness of Virtual Humans vs Pre-Recorded Humans in a Standardized Patient Performance Assessment.
Creator: Palathinkal, Joel, Kincaid, John, Shumaker, Randall, Allred, Kelly, Smith, Roger, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: A Standardized Patient (SP) is a trained actor who portrays a particular illness to provide training to medical students and professionals. SPs primarily use written scripts and additional paper-based training for preparation of practical and board exams. Many institutions use various methods for training such as hiring preceptors for reenactment of scenarios, viewing archived videos, and computer based training. Currently, the training that is available can be enhanced to improve the level...
Show moreA Standardized Patient (SP) is a trained actor who portrays a particular illness to provide training to medical students and professionals. SPs primarily use written scripts and additional paper-based training for preparation of practical and board exams. Many institutions use various methods for training such as hiring preceptors for reenactment of scenarios, viewing archived videos, and computer based training. Currently, the training that is available can be enhanced to improve the level of quality of standardized patients. The following research is examining current processes in standardized patient training and investigating new methods for clinical skills education in SPs. The modality that is selected for training can possibly affect the performance of the actual SP case.This paper explains the results of a study that investigates if there is a difference in the results of an SP performance assessment. This difference can be seen when comparing a virtual human modality to that of a pre-recorded human modality for standardized patient training. The sample population navigates through an interactive computer based training module which provides informational content on what the roles of an SP are, training objectives, a practice session, and an interactive performance assessment with a simulated Virtual Human medical student. Half of the subjects interact with an animated virtual human medical student while the other half interacts with a pre-recorded human. The interactions from this assessment are audio-recorded, transcribed, and then graded to see how the two modalities compare. If the performance when using virtual humans for standardized patients is equal to or superior to pre-recorded humans, this can be utilized as a part task trainer that brings standardized patients to a higher level of effectiveness and standardization. In addition, if executed properly, this tool could potentially be used as a part task trainer which could provide savings in training time, resources, budget, and staff to military and civilian healthcare facilities.
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Date Issued: 2011
Identifier: CFE0004149, ucf:49037
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0004149

Title: A Production and Cost Modeling Methodology of 2nd Generation Biofuel in the United States.
Creator: Poole, David, Kincaid, John, Mollaghasemi, Mansooreh, Geiger, Christopher, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: The use of biofuels in the United States has increased dramatically in the last few years. The largest source of feedstock for ethanol to date has been corn. However, corn is also a vitally important food crop and is used commonly as feed for cattle and other livestock. To prevent further diversion of an important food crop to production of ethanol, there is great interest in developing commercial-scale technologies to make ethanol from non-food crops, or other suitable plant material. This...
Show moreThe use of biofuels in the United States has increased dramatically in the last few years. The largest source of feedstock for ethanol to date has been corn. However, corn is also a vitally important food crop and is used commonly as feed for cattle and other livestock. To prevent further diversion of an important food crop to production of ethanol, there is great interest in developing commercial-scale technologies to make ethanol from non-food crops, or other suitable plant material. This is commonly referred to as biomass. A review is made of lignocellulosic sources being considered as feedstocks to produce ethanol. Current technologies for pretreatment and hydrolysis of the biomass material are examined and discussed. Production data and cost estimates are culled from the literature, and used to assist in development of mathematical models for evaluation of production ramp-up profiles, and cost estimation. These mathematical models are useful as a planning tool, and provide a methodology to estimate monthly production output and costs for labor, capital, operations and maintenance, feedstock, raw materials, and total cost. Existing credits for ethanol production are also considered and modeled. The production output in liters is modeled as a negative exponential growth curve, with a rate coefficient providing the ability to evaluate slower, or faster, growth in production output and its corresponding effect on monthly cost. The capital and labor costs per unit of product are determined by dividing the monthly debt service and labor costs by that month?s production value. The remaining cost components change at a constant rate in the simulation case studies. This methodology is used to calculate production levels and costs as a function of time for a 25 million gallon per year capacity cellulosic ethanol plant. The parameters of interest are calculated in MATLAB with a deterministic, continuous system simulation model. Simulation results for high, medium, and low cost case studies are included. Assumptions for the model and for each case study are included and some comparisons are made to cost estimates in the literature. While the cost per unit of product decreases and production output increases over time, some reasonable cost values are obtained by the end of the second year for both the low and medium cost case studies. By the end of Year 2, total costs for those case studies are $0.48 per liter and $0.88 per liter, respectively. These cost estimates are well within the reported range of values from the reviewed literature sources. Differing assumptions for calculations made by different sources make a direct cost comparison with the outputs of this modeling methodology extremely difficult. Proposals for reducing costs are introduced. Limitations and shortcomings of the research activity are discussed, along with recommendations for potential future work in improving the simulation model and model verification activities. In summary, the author was not able to find evidence?within the public domain?of any similar modeling and simulation methodology that uses a deterministic, continuous simulation model to evaluate production and costs as a function of time. This methodology is also unique in highlighting the important effect of production ramp-up on monthly costs for capital (debt service) and labor. The resultant simulation model can be used for planning purposes and provides an independent, unbiased estimate of cost as a function of time.
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Date Issued: 2012
Identifier: CFE0004424, ucf:49321
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0004424

Title: Application of Modeling and Simulation to Reduce Costs of Acquisition within Triple Constraints.
Creator: Mohammad, Syed, Kincaid, John, Shumaker, Randall, Wiegand, Rudolf, Richardson, Paul, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: A key component of defense acquisition programs operating using the Integrated Defense Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics Life Cycle Management System is the reliance on the triple constraints of cost, schedule, and performance. While the use of Modeling and Simulation tools and capabilities is prevalent and well established in the Research and Development, Analysis, and Training domains, acquisition programs have been reluctant to use Modeling and Simulation in any great depth due to...
Show moreA key component of defense acquisition programs operating using the Integrated Defense Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics Life Cycle Management System is the reliance on the triple constraints of cost, schedule, and performance. While the use of Modeling and Simulation tools and capabilities is prevalent and well established in the Research and Development, Analysis, and Training domains, acquisition programs have been reluctant to use Modeling and Simulation in any great depth due to inaccessibility of tools, Subject Matter Experts, and implications to cost and schedule. This presents a unique Simulation Management challenge which requires an in-depth understanding of the technical capabilities available within an organization, their applicability to support immediate needs, and the flexibility to utilize these capabilities within the programmatic environment to provide a value added service. The focus of this dissertation is to study the use of Modeling and Simulation in the Defense arena, and to review the applicability of Modeling and Simulation within programmatic acquisition environments which are constrained by cost, schedule, and performance. This research draws comparisons between Modeling and Simulation to other Process Improvement initiatives, such as Lean and Six Sigma, and reviews case studies involving the application of Modeling and Simulation within triple constrained environments. The development of alternate scenarios allows cost benefit analysis to be conducted for each scenario and alternate scenario, developing a case for whether or not the application of Modeling and Simulation within the triple constrained environment delivered any consequential benefit to the acquisition process. Observations are made regarding the level of Modeling and Simulation as applied within each case study, and generalized recommendations are made for the inclusion of cost benefit analysis methodologies for analyzing proposed Modeling and Simulation activities within acquisition programs. Limitations and shortcomings of the research activity are discussed, along with recommendations for potential future work in the Simulation Management field, both with respect to the specific case studies reviewed in this study and the general field.
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Date Issued: 2012
Identifier: CFE0004415, ucf:49396
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0004415

Title: A System Dynamics Model for Manpower and Technology Implementation Trade-off and Cost Estimation.
Creator: Jiang, Hong, Karwowski, Waldemar, Kincaid, John, Reinerman, Lauren, Ahram, Tareq, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: The U.S. Navy has been confronted with budget cuts and constraints during recent years. This reduction in budget compels the U.S. Navy to limit the number of manpower and personnel to control costs. Reducing the total ownership cost (TOC) has become a major topic of interest for the Navy as plans are made for current and future fleets. According to the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO, 2003), manpower is the most influential component of determining the life cycle cost of a ship....
Show moreThe U.S. Navy has been confronted with budget cuts and constraints during recent years. This reduction in budget compels the U.S. Navy to limit the number of manpower and personnel to control costs. Reducing the total ownership cost (TOC) has become a major topic of interest for the Navy as plans are made for current and future fleets. According to the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO, 2003), manpower is the most influential component of determining the life cycle cost of a ship. The vast majority of the TOC is comprised of operating and support (O(&)S) costs which account for approximately 65 percent of the TOC. Manpower and personnel costs account for approximately 50 percent of O(&)S costs. This research focused on tradeoff analysis and cost estimation between manpower and new technology implementation. Utilizing concepts from System Dynamics Modeling (SDM), System Dynamics Causal Loop diagrams (CLD) were built to identify major factors when implementing new technology, and then stocks and flows diagrams were developed to estimate manpower cost associated with new technology implementation. The SDM base model reflected an 18 months period for technology implementation, and then compared different technology implementation for different scenarios. This model had been tested by the public data from Department of the Navy (DoN) Budget estimates.The objective of this research was to develop a SDM to estimate manpower cost and technology tradeoff analysis associated with different technology implementations. This research will assist Navy decision makers and program managers when objectively considering the impacts of technology selection on manpower and associated TOC, and will provide managers with a better understanding of hidden costs associated with new technology adoption. Recommendations were made for future study in manpower cost estimation of ship systems. In future studies, one particular type of data should be located to test the model for a specific manpower configuration.
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Date Issued: 2013
Identifier: CFE0004869, ucf:49662
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0004869

Title: The Restorative Effects of Color and Environment Type on Cognitive Functioning.
Creator: Michaelis, Jessica, Smither, Janan, Kincaid, John, Beidel, Deborah, Mcconnell, Daniel, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Although individuals have limited directed attention capabilities, it has been shown that exposure to natural environments elicit cognitive restoration (i.e. Berman, 2008). It has also been shown that individuals prefer blue and green colors because they are relaxing and prompt happy feelings (Guilford (&) Smith, 1959; Mahnke, 1996; Wexner, 1954). The question however, is what aspects of nature elicit these effects: is it the natural colors, the environmental setting, or both? The present...
Show moreAlthough individuals have limited directed attention capabilities, it has been shown that exposure to natural environments elicit cognitive restoration (i.e. Berman, 2008). It has also been shown that individuals prefer blue and green colors because they are relaxing and prompt happy feelings (Guilford (&) Smith, 1959; Mahnke, 1996; Wexner, 1954). The question however, is what aspects of nature elicit these effects: is it the natural colors, the environmental setting, or both? The present experiment will examine the effects of color (Blue, Green, Black and White, (&) Natural) and environmental setting (Urban, Foliage, (&) Aquatic) on measures of attention, short term memory, and mood. Additionally, this study was designed to replicate the findings of Berman et.al 2008, all while rigorously controlling for the pictorial content of its manipulation. Due to the exploratory nature of this study, no specific hypotheses were made. However, the goal of this research was to (")tease apart(") the effects of color and environment on the restoration of cognitive abilities. One hundred and nineteen non-color blind individuals completed pre and post tests for the State Trait Anxiety Inventory (Form Y-1), Backwards Digit Span, and the Attention Network Task and viewed one of the twelve color/environmental setting picture sets between the pre and posttests. Results of the 2x3x4 Mixed ANOVAs do not support past research which suggests that natural environments are restorative in nature.
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Date Issued: 2013
Identifier: CFE0004892, ucf:49665
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0004892

Title: The Effect of Videogame Play on Robotic Surgery Skill Acquisition.
Creator: Tanaka, Alyssa, Hughes, Charles, Kincaid, John, Cendan, Juan, Smith, Roger, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Robotic surgery uses innovative technology to transcend a surgeon's skills when performing complex procedures. Currently, the only FDA approved robotic system is Intuitive's da Vinci Surgical System. While this system offers many advantages over other minimally invasive techniques, it also introduces a need for specialized training. Virtual reality simulators have emerged as valuable tools for standardized and objective robotic surgery skill training and assessments. In recent years, the idea...
Show moreRobotic surgery uses innovative technology to transcend a surgeon's skills when performing complex procedures. Currently, the only FDA approved robotic system is Intuitive's da Vinci Surgical System. While this system offers many advantages over other minimally invasive techniques, it also introduces a need for specialized training. Virtual reality simulators have emerged as valuable tools for standardized and objective robotic surgery skill training and assessments. In recent years, the idea of using video game technology in surgical education for laparoscopy has also been explored; however few have attempted to make a connection between video game experience and robotic surgical skills. Thus, the current study aims to examine the performance of video gamers in a virtual reality robotic surgery simulator. Furthermore, the video gamers' performance was compared to that of medical students, expert robotic surgeons, and (")laypeople.(") The purpose of this study is to examine the hypothesis that video gamers acquire perceptual and psychomotor skills through video game play, similar to those used by robotic surgeons.Subjects completed a demographic questionnaire and performed three computer-based perceptual tests: a Flanker compatibility task, a subsidizing task, and a Multiple Object Tracking test. Participants then performed two warm-up exercises on the Mimic dV-Trainer to familiarize themselves with the system and eight trials of two core exercises to test their skills. After completing all trials, participants completed a post-questionnaire regarding their experience with the system.Expert video gamers (n=40), medical students (n=24), laypeople (n=42) and expert robotic surgeons (n=16) were recruited. Medical students and gamers were significantly faster than experts in the Flanker Task. The experts were significantly slower than the all other groups in the subsidizing task. Experts scored significantly higher, were significantly more efficient, and were significantly faster than laypeople, medical students, and gamers in the first trial of Ring (&) Rail 1 and Suture Sponge. In trial eight of Ring (&) Rail 1, experts scored significantly higher and were more efficient than laypeople. Experts were also significantly faster than all other groups. Experts scored significantly higher than laypeople and gamers in trial Suture Sponge. Experts were significantly more efficient and significantly faster than all other groups. Contrary to prior literature in laparoscopy, this study was unable to validate enhanced abilities of video gamers in a robotic surgery simulator. This study does further demonstrate that the transfer of skills developed through video game play is relevant to the surgical technique. This may be due to the differences of the systems and how the users interact within them. In a society where video games have become an integral past time, it is important to determine the role that video games play in the perceptual and psychomotor development of users. These findings can be generalized to domains outside of medicine that utilize robotic and computer-controlled systems, speaking to the scope of the gamers' abilities and pointing to the capacity within these systems.
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Date Issued: 2015
Identifier: CFE0006010, ucf:51002
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006010

Title: Gauging Training Effectiveness of Virtual Environment Simulation Based Applications for an Infantry Soldier Training Task.
Creator: Maxwell, Douglas, Kincaid, John, Shumaker, Randall, Barber, Daniel, Sottilare, Robert, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: The U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command's Army Learning Concept 2015 and Army Training Concept 2025 are documents that discuss the need for an adaptive soldier learning model with a flexible training delivery methodology. The U.S. Army has been investing in serious gaming technology for the past two decades as a cost effective means to teach tactics and strategy. Today, the U.S. Army is seeking to expand its application of virtual environment training to areas such as cultural awareness...
Show moreThe U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command's Army Learning Concept 2015 and Army Training Concept 2025 are documents that discuss the need for an adaptive soldier learning model with a flexible training delivery methodology. The U.S. Army has been investing in serious gaming technology for the past two decades as a cost effective means to teach tactics and strategy. Today, the U.S. Army is seeking to expand its application of virtual environment training to areas such as cultural awareness and human network analysis for the infantry soldier. These new expanded applications will require a higher level of non-determinant behavior inside the virtual environment. To meet more of the training needs of the war fighter, the U.S. Army is looking beyond first person perspective games to the cooperative and social gaming experience offered by the MMOG (Massively Multiplayer Online Game) and the VWT (Virtual World Technology). Altogether, these classes of games have the potential to teach leadership skills, social acclimation skills, cultural awareness and practice skills, and critical thinking skills for problem solving in a cost effective manner. Unfortunately, even today there is a paucity of scientific research to support whether this potential may be realized or not. A literature review was performed which covers current concepts in the usage of virtual environments for military individual and team training in the U.S. Army infantry soldier domains. There are many variables involved with the lifecycle of the virtual training activity including the acquisition, information assurance and cyber security, deployment, proper employment, content development and maintenance, and retirement. This discussion goes beyond the traditional topics of graphics and game engine technology and delves deeper into concepts of the importance of proper usage of the environments by the trainees. This dissertation is composed of three studies with two subject pools: experienced soldiers and novice soldiers. The participants in the studies were randomly assigned to one of two training conditions. The training conditions were either a traditional slide-show in a classroom or a virtual environment based training system. The participants were then provided with training for a room clearing tasks in each of the conditions. The independent variables are training condition and soldier condition. The dependent variables are individual performance, team performance, stress questionnaire scores, and workload questionnaire scores. A number of relationships are explored in this dissertation. The first objective of these studies is to attempt to identify any effect the training conditions have on either individual performance or team performance. Lastly, these studies attempt to identify if there is any difference the training conditions have on novice versus experienced subjects' performance during a live assessment.
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Date Issued: 2015
Identifier: CFE0005840, ucf:50924
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0005840

Title: The Effect of Precipitation on the Spread of Mosquito-Borne Diseases: A Case Study of Florida Counties.
Creator: Osbourne, Marvin, Mohapatra, Ram, Shuai, Zhisheng, Kincaid, John, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: The state of Florida is the third most populous state in the United States of America, with six (6) of its metropolitan areas dubbed as the fastest growing in the entire country. A mosquito bite may mean the transmission of a virus or disease which might be fatal. Hence, there is a need for the state to control mosquitoes through the various Departments of Mosquito Control in each of its sixty-seven (67) counties. Six locally acquired mosquito-borne viruses which affect humans and animals in...
Show moreThe state of Florida is the third most populous state in the United States of America, with six (6) of its metropolitan areas dubbed as the fastest growing in the entire country. A mosquito bite may mean the transmission of a virus or disease which might be fatal. Hence, there is a need for the state to control mosquitoes through the various Departments of Mosquito Control in each of its sixty-seven (67) counties. Six locally acquired mosquito-borne viruses which affect humans and animals in the state of Florida were considered. This thesis used statistical methods to examine data for rainfall, population estimate, as well as, the data on six (6) arboviruses, over the course of thirteen (13) years, namely 2002 to 2014. The first hypothesis that was tested, was that greater precipitation increased the likelihood of a greater number of arbovirus cases. It was important to also examine the relationship that this growing human population had with mosquito-borne diseases, and so the second hypothesis that was tested, was that, an increase in the human population would increase the likelihood of a greater number of arbovirus cases. Subsequently, an analysis was done for eleven (11) of Florida's 67 counties with the greatest cumulative occurrence of human and animal arbovirus cases combined. Of the eleven counties, seven exhibited a weak associated between the size of the human population and the spread of animal and human arbovirus cases; three exhibited a somewhat moderate association; and one (-) Osceola County (-) had a strong negative association. This indicated that, as the size of the human population increased in Osceola County, the combined number of human and animal arbovirus cases decreased, which refuted the second hypothesis of this thesis. A linear regression model for the data for Osceola County was derived and that model was used to simulate what will occur in future years with the use of population projection data. In each simulated year, the number of combined human and arbovirus cases was negative. This prediction meant that, as the projected population increased from year to year, then the number of cases should be zero in each year. The reliability of these predictions are questionable, since Osceola County does not exist in a vacuum and it cannot be isolated from the surrounding counties which may be experiencing an outbreak of arboviruses.
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Date Issued: 2015
Identifier: CFE0005859, ucf:50926
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0005859

Title: An Exploratory Comparison of a Traditional and an Adaptive Instructional Approach for College Algebra.
Creator: Kasha, Ryan, Kincaid, John, Wiegand, Rudolf, Hartshorne, Richard, Morris, Cliff, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: This research effort compared student learning gains and attitudinal changes through the implementation of two varying instructional approaches on the topic of functions in College Algebra. Attitudinal changes were measured based on the Attitude Towards Mathematics Inventory (ATMI). The ATMI also provided four sub-scales scores for self-confidence, value of learning, enjoyment, and motivation. Furthermore, this research explored and compared relationships between students' level of mastery...
Show moreThis research effort compared student learning gains and attitudinal changes through the implementation of two varying instructional approaches on the topic of functions in College Algebra. Attitudinal changes were measured based on the Attitude Towards Mathematics Inventory (ATMI). The ATMI also provided four sub-scales scores for self-confidence, value of learning, enjoyment, and motivation. Furthermore, this research explored and compared relationships between students' level of mastery and their actual level of learning. This study implemented a quasi-experimental research design using a sample that consisted of 56 College Algebra students in a public, state college in Florida. The sample was enrolled in one of two College Algebra sections, in which one section followed a self-adaptive instructional approach using ALEKS (Assessment and Learning in Knowledge Space) and the other section followed a traditional approach using MyMathLab. Learning gains in each class were measured as the difference between the pre-test and post-test scores on the topic of functions in College Algebra. Attitude changes in each class were measured as the difference between the holistic scores on the ATMI, as well as each of the four sub-scale scores, which was administered once in the beginning of the semester and again after the unit of functions, approximately eight weeks into the course. Utilizing an independent t-test, results indicated that there was not a significant difference in actual learning gains for the compared instructional approaches. Additionally, independent t-test results indicated that there was not a statistical difference for attitude change holistically and on each of the four sub-scales for the compared instructional approaches. However, correlational analyses revealed a strong relationship between students' level of mastery learning and their actual learning level for each class with the self-adaptive instructional approach having a stronger correlation than the non-adaptive section, as measured by an r-to-z Fisher transformation test. The results of this study indicate that the self-adaptive instructional approach using ALEKS could more accurately report students' true level of learning compared to a non-adaptive instructional approach. Overall, this study found the compared instructional approaches to be equivalent in terms of learning and effect on students' attitude. While not statistically different, the results of this study have implications for math educators, instructional designers, and software developers. For example, a non-adaptive instructional approach can be equivalent to a self-adaptive instructional approach in terms of learning with appropriate planning and design. Future recommendations include further case studies of self-adaptive technology in developmental and college mathematics in other modalities such as hybrid or on-line courses. Also, this study should be replicated on a larger scale with other self-adaptive math software in addition to focusing on other student populations, such as K - 12. There is much potential for intelligent tutoring to supplement different instructional approaches, but should not be viewed as a replacement for teacher-to-student interactions.
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Date Issued: 2015
Identifier: CFE0005963, ucf:50821
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0005963

Title: The Design and Evaluation of a Video Game to Help Train Perspective-Taking and Empathy in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Creator: Hughes, Darin, Vasquez, Eleazar, Kincaid, John, Marino, Matthew, Lindgren, Robb, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: This paper discusses the design, implementation, and evaluation of a serious game intended to reinforce applied behavior analysis (ABA) techniques used with children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) by providing a low cost and easily accessible supplement to traditional methods. Past and recent research strongly supports the use of computer assisted instruction in the education of individuals with ASD (Moore (&) Calvert, 2000; Noor, Shahbodin, (&) Pee, 2012). Computer games have been shown...
Show moreThis paper discusses the design, implementation, and evaluation of a serious game intended to reinforce applied behavior analysis (ABA) techniques used with children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) by providing a low cost and easily accessible supplement to traditional methods. Past and recent research strongly supports the use of computer assisted instruction in the education of individuals with ASD (Moore (&) Calvert, 2000; Noor, Shahbodin, (&) Pee, 2012). Computer games have been shown to boost confidence and provide calming mechanisms (Griffiths, 2003) while being a safe environment for social exploration and learning (Moore, Cheng, McGrath, (&) Powell, 2005). Games increase children's motivation and thus increase the rate of learning in computer mediated environments (Moore (&) Calvert, 2000). Furthermore, children with ASD are able to understand basic emotions and facial expressions in avatars more easily than in real-world interactions (Moore, Cheng, McGrath, (&) Powell, 2005).Perspective-taking (also known as role-taking) has been shown to be a crucial component and antecedent to empathy (Gomez-Becerra, Martin, Chavez-Brown, (&) Greer, 2007; Peng, Lee, (&) Heeter, 2010). Though symptoms vary across children with ASD, perspective-taking and empathy are abilities that have been shown to be limited across a wide spectrum of individuals with ASD and Asperger's disorder (Gomez-Becerra, Martin, Chavez-Brown, (&) Greer, 2007). A game called WUBeeS was developed to aid young children with ASD in perspective taking and empathy by placing the player in the role of a caregiver to a virtual avatar. It is hypothesized that through the playing of this game over a series of trials, children with ASD will show an increase in the ability to discriminate emotions, provide appropriate responses to basic needs (e.g. feeding the avatar when it is hungry), and be able to communicate more clearly about emotions.
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Date Issued: 2014
Identifier: CFE0005184, ucf:50654
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0005184

Title: Integrated Maritime Simulation Complex Management, Quality And Training Effectiveness From The Perspective Of Modeling And Simulation In The State Of Florida, USA (A Case Study).
Creator: Sendi, Yaser, Kincaid, John, Rabelo, Luis, Lee, Gene, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Naturally, maritime training simulators at all events are valuable instructional and pedagogical tools. Through the history, the maritime simulation was utilized to train prospective maritime apprentices in whom it has filled the gap left by the acute shortage of opportunities for jobs onboard vessels around the globe. However, professional seafarers are the axis of success and competitiveness in the field of maritime training. They are the ones that, who are well trained and have the...
Show moreNaturally, maritime training simulators at all events are valuable instructional and pedagogical tools. Through the history, the maritime simulation was utilized to train prospective maritime apprentices in whom it has filled the gap left by the acute shortage of opportunities for jobs onboard vessels around the globe. However, professional seafarers are the axis of success and competitiveness in the field of maritime training. They are the ones that, who are well trained and have the responsibilities of their work and the surrounding environment. In order to achieve the success along with effective training skills, both maritime companies and seafarers should implement a management of safety onboard ships, which only can be executed through the effective usage of the Bridge Resource Management (BRM) and righteous maritime simulation training.Qualitative upgrading of the maritime training process at higher education levels depends predominantly on the instructive value of the instructors' educational software and the content of these programs which contains advanced and intelligent scenarios that benefit positively in providing effective training in order to, transfer and implement their gained skills from virtual reality to the actual environment with minimal risks and additionally to avoid the unforeseen occurrences at sea. The outcomes of the evaluation have shown the instructional suitability of the maritime educational scheme and significant capabilities, it provides, as well as the domains and frameworks for its instructional development. The above facts are substantial in the refinement and improvement of the current maritime education and growth of the apprentices' capabilities and the professionalism of their skills, along with the farthest purpose of creating more educated marine navigators in the worldwide merchant fleet.This research proposes and demonstrates in details the purpose of the maritime simulation training complexes, the elements that if provided, will lead to an effective maritime simulation training, types of maritime simulation, the International Maritime Organization (IMO), its tools and its power for the effectiveness of the maritime simulation training through different conventions (&) codes and the future for the maritime simulation training, in order to emphasize and accentuate the interplay between instructors and apprentices in an integrated maritime simulation complex on which a serious maritime event is taking place.The distillation of this thesis draws an attention to the effectiveness of the partnership between maritime apprentices and their instructors across a maritime simulation training complex scheme during a virtual maritime scenario event in an advanced facilities located in the state of Florida, which is armed with modern technology, provides both added stimulation for the apprentice himself and elevates the simulator a degree toward a vessel for practical training and/or sailing.
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Date Issued: 2015
Identifier: CFE0005999, ucf:50787
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0005999

Title: A Generic Framework For Multi-Method Modeling and Simulation of Complex Systems Using Discrete Event, System Dynamics and Agent Based Approaches.
Creator: Mykoniatis, Konstantinos, Karwowski, Waldemar, Kincaid, John, Xanthopoulos, Petros, Akbas, Ilhan, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Decisions about Modeling and Simulation (M(&)S) of Complex Systems (CS) need to be evaluated prior to implementation. Discrete Event (DE), System Dynamics (SD), and Agent Based (AB) are three different M(&)S approaches widely applied to enhance decision-making of complex systems. However, single type M(&)S approaches can face serious challenges in representing the overall multidimensional nature of CS and may result in the design of oversimplified models excluding important factors....
Show moreDecisions about Modeling and Simulation (M(&)S) of Complex Systems (CS) need to be evaluated prior to implementation. Discrete Event (DE), System Dynamics (SD), and Agent Based (AB) are three different M(&)S approaches widely applied to enhance decision-making of complex systems. However, single type M(&)S approaches can face serious challenges in representing the overall multidimensional nature of CS and may result in the design of oversimplified models excluding important factors. Conceptual frameworks are necessary to offer useful guidance for combining and/or integrating different M(&)S approaches. Although several hybrid M(&)S frameworks have been described and are currently deployed, there is limited guidance on when, why and how to combine, and/or integrate DE, SD, and AB approaches. The existing hybrid frameworks focus more on how to deal with specific problems rather than to provide a generic way of applicability to various problem situations.The main aim of this research is to develop a generic framework for Multi-Method Modeling and Simulation of CS, which provides a practical guideline to integrated deployment or combination of DE, SD, and AB M(&)S methods. The key contributions of this dissertation include: (1) a meta-analysis literature review that identifies criteria and generic types of interaction relationships that are served as a basis for the development of a multi-method modeling and simulation framework; (2) a methodology and a framework that guide the user through the development of multi-method simulation models to solve CS problems; (3) an algorithm that recommends appropriate M(&)S method(s) based on the user selected criteria for user defined objective(s); (4) the implementation and evaluation of multi method simulation models based on the framework's recommendation in diverse domains; and (5) the comparison of multi-method simulation models created by following the multi-method modeling and simulation framework.It is anticipated that this research will inspire and motivate students, researchers, practitioners and decision makers engaged in M(&)S to become aware of the benefits of the cross-fertilization of the three key M(&)S methods.
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Date Issued: 2015
Identifier: CFE0005980, ucf:50762
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0005980

Title: Agent-Based and System Dynamics Hybrid Modeling and Simulation Approach Using Systems Modeling Language.
Creator: Soyler Akbas, Asli, Karwowski, Waldemar, Geiger, Christopher, Kincaid, John, Mikusinski, Piotr, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Agent-based (AB) and system dynamics (SD) modeling and simulation techniques have been studied and used by various research fields. After the new hybrid modeling field emerged, the combination of these techniques started getting attention in the late 1990's. Applications of using agent-based (AB) and system dynamics (SD) hybrid models for simulating systems have been demonstrated in the literature. However, majority of the work on the domain includes system specific approaches where the...
Show moreAgent-based (AB) and system dynamics (SD) modeling and simulation techniques have been studied and used by various research fields. After the new hybrid modeling field emerged, the combination of these techniques started getting attention in the late 1990's. Applications of using agent-based (AB) and system dynamics (SD) hybrid models for simulating systems have been demonstrated in the literature. However, majority of the work on the domain includes system specific approaches where the models from two techniques are integrated after being independently developed. Existing work on creating an implicit and universal approach is limited to conceptual modeling and structure design. This dissertation proposes an approach for generating AB-SD hybrid models of systems by using Systems Modeling Language (SysML) which can be simulated without exporting to another software platform. Although the approach is demonstrated using IBM's Rational Rhapsody(&)#174; it is applicable to all other SysML platforms. Furthermore, it does not require prior knowledge on agent-based or system dynamics modeling and simulation techniques and limits the use of any programming languages through the use of SysML diagram tools. The iterative modeling approach allows two-step validations, allows establishing a two-way dynamic communication between AB and SD variables and develops independent behavior models that can be reused in representing different systems. The proposed approach is demonstrated using a hypothetical population, movie theater and a real(-)world training management scenarios. In this setting, the work provides methods for independent behavior and system structure modeling. Finally, provides behavior models for probabilistic behavior modeling and time synchronization.
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Date Issued: 2015
Identifier: CFE0006399, ucf:51517
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006399

Title: Analysis of Alternative Convoy Route Patrol Procedures for Countering Improvised Explosive Devices Deployed During Asymmetric Warfare in Afghanistan-like Rural Settings.
Creator: Baca, Larry, Proctor, Michael, Kincaid, John, Morrow, Patricia Bockelman, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) are the greatest casualty producing and costly weapon system employed by the enemy on the asymmetric battlefield of today. Despite Billions of dollars spent on technological devices to counter the IED threat, IEDs are still responsible for roughly 50% of battlefield casualties. A tremendous amount of effort and resource has and continues to be levied in the pursuit of a technological solution to the IED problem. By contrast, little research has been done on...
Show moreImprovised Explosive Devices (IEDs) are the greatest casualty producing and costly weapon system employed by the enemy on the asymmetric battlefield of today. Despite Billions of dollars spent on technological devices to counter the IED threat, IEDs are still responsible for roughly 50% of battlefield casualties. A tremendous amount of effort and resource has and continues to be levied in the pursuit of a technological solution to the IED problem. By contrast, little research has been done on Counter Improvised Explosive Device (CIED) procedures. This paper explores the potential of CIED procedures as a casualty reduction mechanism by comparing two observed tactical procedures used in patrolling convoy routes.
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Date Issued: 2016
Identifier: CFE0006525, ucf:51376
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006525

Title: The Hammer or the Anvil: Developing Operational Adaptability through Simulations at the Tactical Level.
Creator: Mccarthy, Michael, Kincaid, John, Smith, Peter, Maxwell, Douglas, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Operational Adaptability is a vital characteristic identified by senior Army leaders in today's military force. The U.S. Army is struggling with the definition and training of operational adaptability at the tactical level. In order to be a critical enhancement to the operational mission, operational adaptability needs to be trained through a training model that supports current U.S. Army doctrine. To develop a base foundation of operational adaptability, Soldiers must train as a collective...
Show moreOperational Adaptability is a vital characteristic identified by senior Army leaders in today's military force. The U.S. Army is struggling with the definition and training of operational adaptability at the tactical level. In order to be a critical enhancement to the operational mission, operational adaptability needs to be trained through a training model that supports current U.S. Army doctrine. To develop a base foundation of operational adaptability, Soldiers must train as a collective unit in a simulated operational environment in order to apply characteristics of operational adaptability.
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Date Issued: 2016
Identifier: CFE0006536, ucf:51353
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006536

Title: Live Versus Virtual: Cost Benefit Analysis for Applying Simulation Towards Army Aviator Flight Minimums.
Creator: Morelle, Dylan, Kincaid, John, Stevens, Jonathan, Proctor, Michael, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: The Longbow Crew Trainer (LCT) is a cost effective, safe alternative to live training in the AH-64D/E Apache helicopter. Current Army doctrine and regulations have provisions for the limited use of simulator in lieu of aircraft hours toward semiannual minimum flight hour requirements. With the defense budget in decline, the Army must find innovative, cost effective methods to conduct realistic, relevant training to sustain proficiency in their warfighting capabilities. The LCT fully...
Show moreThe Longbow Crew Trainer (LCT) is a cost effective, safe alternative to live training in the AH-64D/E Apache helicopter. Current Army doctrine and regulations have provisions for the limited use of simulator in lieu of aircraft hours toward semiannual minimum flight hour requirements. With the defense budget in decline, the Army must find innovative, cost effective methods to conduct realistic, relevant training to sustain proficiency in their warfighting capabilities. The LCT fully replicates the cockpit environment through training scenarios for requisite crew tasks and missions in a realistic, modular, and transportable solution. An attack helicopter crew can safely train in customizable scenarios ranging from basic aviation tasks to crew-level missions and gunneries. The Army is currently aligning one LCT per attack battalion under the Aviation Restructure Initiative. There are 20 Armed Reconnaissance Battalions/Squadrons in the active component with approximately 35 aircrews per battalion. The premise of this study was to review cost benefits of training in a virtual environment over a live environment while exploring the effects on proficiency. The difference in cost per hour between an AH-64D and the LCT is approximately $3,998. Using this figure and the semiannual flight hour requirements from the current Aircrew Training Manual in a weighted average between Flight Activity Category (FAC) 1 and FAC 2 pilot's flight minimum requirements formed the basis for four models: Low, Status Quo (baseline), Moderate, and High Virtual Simulation Models. This study found that while the High Virtual Simulation Model resulted in the greatest cost savings, the current budget and previous literature does not require such drastic measures. The Low Virtual Simulation Model resulted in higher costs. Therefore, the Moderate Virtual Simulation Model, proved most relevant to budget analysts, aviation unit commanders, and pilots by decreasing annual costs by an estimated $76.2 million without degrading proficiency.
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Date Issued: 2016
Identifier: CFE0006539, ucf:51341
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006539

simulation (10)	+ -
Simulation (6)	+ -
Modeling (4)	+ -
System Dynamics (4)	+ -
modeling (4)	+ -

training (4)	+ -
Serious Games (3)	+ -
learning (3)	+ -
workload (3)	+ -
Army (2)	+ -
Instructional Strategies (2)	+ -
MBSE (2)	+ -
Simulation-Based Training (2)	+ -
ALEKS (1)	+ -
ARPA (1)	+ -
ATC (1)	+ -
Acquisition (1)	+ -
Action Games (1)	+ -
AddSIM (1)	+ -
Agent Based (1)	+ -
Agent Based Simulation (1)	+ -
Agent-Based (1)	+ -
Apache (1)	+ -
Arbovirus (1)	+ -
Army Acquisition Corps (1)	+ -
Army Officer (1)	+ -
Asperger's (1)	+ -
Attendance (1)	+ -
Autism Spectrum Disorder (1)	+ -
C.R (1)	+ -

University of Central Florida (53)	+ -
Kincaid, John (52)	+ -
Karwowski, Waldemar (9)	+ -
Lee, Gene (7)	+ -
Wiegand, Rudolf (7)	+ -

Rabelo, Luis (6)	+ -
Shumaker, Randall (6)	+ -
Elshennawy, Ahmad (5)	+ -
Proctor, Michael (5)	+ -
Xanthopoulos, Petros (5)	+ -
Hancock, Peter (4)	+ -
Mouloua, Mustapha (4)	+ -
Bowers, Clint (3)	+ -
Cannon-Bowers, Janis (3)	+ -
Mcconnell, Daniel (3)	+ -
Mohammad, Syed (3)	+ -
Reinerman, Lauren (3)	+ -
Smither, Janan (3)	+ -
Sottilare, Robert (3)	+ -
Ahram, Tareq (2)	+ -
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Barber, Daniel (2)	+ -
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Geiger, Christopher (2)	+ -
Graniela Ortiz, Benito (2)	+ -
Lackey, Stephanie (2)	+ -
Maxwell, Douglas (2)	+ -
McDaniel, Rudy (2)	+ -
McDaniel, Thomas (2)	+ -
Mollaghasemi, Mansooreh (2)	+ -

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