Past

1. Captain Jose Alfredo Vazquez Duran, MOVES masters' thesis student, Jun 2023, my role: thesis advisor
   • title: Proof-of-concept Virtual Reality Parachute Training Simulator
   • abstract: The miscalculation of the height during the landing phase of the parachute jump is found to be a frequent cause of physical injuries among parachute jumpers and paratroopers. Providing trainees with the opportunity to practice parachute jumps in different terrains and acquire good skills when estimating the height (altitude) is essential in reducing, if not even eliminating, future injuries. This thesis research uses virtual reality technology to create a complementary training solution for military parachute training. The proof-of-concept training system uses immersive commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) virtual reality headset and passive haptics technology. This system aims to be used as a part-task trainer; the targeted elements of human performance consist of improvements in situational awareness and human perceptual skills when evaluating heights during parachute jumping. The results of the user study suggest that, much like with the evaluation of horizontal distances, people make systematic errors when evaluating vertical distances. A real-time, interactive virtual environment and training scenarios presented to the trainees inside the virtual reality headset have the potential to help improve trainees’ situational awareness and allow them to practice evaluating the heights more precisely during the landing phase. As a result, this approach may reduce the likelihood of accidents, increase training, and positively affect the level of units' operational readiness.
   • thesis document: https://calhoun.nps.edu/handle/10945/72287
     
   • student award: CDR George L. Phillips Award.
 

2. LTC Carl Caroffino, MOVES masters' thesis student, Jun 2023, my role: thesis advisor
   • title: Supporting Combined Arms Military Decision-Making Process with AR Technology
   • abstract: The military decision-making process (MDMP) involves the critical task of analyzing the terrain to ensure mission success. However, traditional terrain analysis methods, such as two-dimensional (2D) analog maps, PowerPoint presentations, and mission command systems, are resource-intensive, time-consuming, and can confuse decision-makers. Therefore, this research focused on the use of the mobile, head-mounted augmented reality (AR) display technology for three-dimensional (3D) terrain visualization to address these challenges. AR technology lets users observe virtual objects superimposed onto their physical surroundings, yielding an enhanced immersive experience. The tool allows users to view and manipulate the terrain in 3D, add representations of military resources, examine the resulting configuration, and engage in MDMP. The usability study assessed the effectiveness, efficiency, and user satisfaction with the interface, focusing on 3D visualization tasks, extraction of derivative terrain information, and unit placements in a contested wet gap crossing scenario. The results showed that the AR terrain visualization prototype provided decision-makers with more comprehensive and accurate information, leading to successful mission planning and execution. This research highlights the potential of 3D terrain visualization and AR technology to improve the MDMP, provide decision-makers with a better understanding of the environment, and enable them to make more informed decisions.
   • thesis document: https://calhoun.nps.edu/handle/10945/72130
     
 

3. LCDR Floyd Lewis, Cyber Systems and Operations masters' thesis student, Dec 2022, my role: thesis co-advisor
   • title: Visual Modeling and Simulation of Cryptographic Protocols Under Contested Environments
   • abstract: With an ever-evolving battlefield in cyberspace, it is essential to stay abreast of current and developing security protocols that will maintain a state of authenticity, confidentiality, and integrity between communicating entities in information-contested environments. The Department of Defense is interested in transitioning its mission objective goals to establishing and maintaining a reliable security posture between communicating command-and-control platforms. However, the current security protocol visualizations need to cater more to military users and decision-makers to help decide which security protocols would best accommodate various operational environments. This research designed and developed a two-dimensional protocol visualization tool (ProVis) that simulates various security protocol interactions in non-contested and contested operational study environments that assist with understanding how security protocols work in the context of military-related usage. A user study was conducted to examine users’ understanding, accuracy, and overall benefit of ProVis concerning the visualization of the Transport Layer Security, Message Layer Security, and Pre-Shared Key protocols. The findings are highly satisfactory: the user subjects were able to easily interface with ProVis and complete the tasks given. The user subjects found ProVis to be a helpful tool in understanding security protocols quickly. This research provides an alternative to current visualization tools.
   • thesis document: https://calhoun.nps.edu/handle/10945/71497
     
 

4. LT Steven Arnold, Systems Engineering masters' thesis student, Dec 2022, my role: thesis co-advisor
   • title: Mapping Virtual and Augmented Reality Training Systems to Support the United States Coast Guard Training Needs
   • abstract: This thesis addresses, discusses, and analyzes how to identify and map the use of contemporary virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR) training systems that have been developed by the United States Navy (USN) and how they may be incorporated to resolve United States Coast Guard (USCG) training needs. Through interviews, site visits, and research, data on different training methods was compiled and used to develop a system map. Using this system map and System Engineering principles, this research is able to analyze known VR/AR systems to determine which best fits the requirements of a new system. With the ability to look across military branches to address training needs, the time and money invested in research and development of new training programs could be significantly reduced. A case study is included to provide both a basic outline and explanation on how this system mapping and the follow-on analysis can be used. This research also discusses the advantages and disadvantages associated with using different training methods and how that should affect decision making when choosing a training system.
   • thesis document: https://calhoun.nps.edu/handle/10945/71427
     
 

5. LT Joanna Cruz and LT JaMerra Turner, CS masters' students, Jun 2022 (LT Turner) and Sep 2022 (LT Cruz), my role: thesis advisor
   • title: Supporting Mission Planning with a Persistent Augmented Environment
   • Thesis abstract: The Department of the Navy relies on current naval practices such as briefs, chat, and voice reports to provide an overall operational assessment of the fleet. That includes the cyber domain, or battlespace, depicting a single snapshot of a ship's network equipment and service statuses. However, the information can be outdated and inaccurate, creating confusion among decision-makers in understanding the service and availability of equipment in the cyber domain. We examine the ability of a persistent augmented environment (PAE) and 3D visualization to support communications and cyber network operations, reporting, and resource management decision-making. We designed and developed a PAE prototype and tested the usability of its interface. Our study examined users' comprehension of 3D visualization of the naval cyber battlespace onboard multiple ships and evaluated the PAE's ability to assist in effective mission planning at the tactical level. The results are highly encouraging: the participants were able to complete their tasks successfully. They found the interface easy to understand and operate, and the prototype was characterized as a valuable alternative to their current practices. Our research provides close insights into the feasibility and effectiveness of the novel form of data representation and its capability to support faster and improved situational awareness and decision-making in a complex operational technology (OT) environment between diverse communities.
   • thesis document: https://calhoun.nps.edu/handle/10945/71095
     
   • student award: NPS Outstanding Thesis Award.
    
   
6. Capt Joshua Keeven and Capt Jacob Leckie, MOVES masters' students, Jun 2022, my role: thesis co-advisor
   • title: Modeling and Simulations for Optimization of Microfluidic Microcapacitor Arrays of Biomimetic Artificial Muscles for Quiet Propulsion and Exoskeletal Locomotion
   • Thesis abstract: The technology that we focused on was the biomimetic actuation of microfluidic microcapacitors, which are electrostatically actuated structures that contract and function like biological muscles. Our thesis aims to find the optimal muscle-to-tendon ratio while expanding both the standard and gap design arrays and to find the respective force-density saturation values so predicted force output can be calculated for muscle fibers of a practical size. We also studied if a 3D virtual object can be a suitable model for the human operators' examination of the artificial muscle and the optimization of its structure. Our results showed a maximum force density saturation of 8800 Pa and 6700 Pa when simulating the standard and gap array respectively with planar polarity wired artificial muscles. The optimal muscle-to-tendon ratio from the data gathered on the standard array simulations is approximately 9 to 1, meaning 90 percent of the surface area of the XY plane represents microfluidic capacitors and 10 percent is dielectric tendon material. The optimal muscle to tendon ratio from the data gathered on the gap array simulations is approximately 75 to 25, meaning 75 percent of the surface area of the XY plane are microfluidic capacitors, and 25 percent is both the dielectric material and gaps.
   • thesis document: https://calhoun.nps.edu/handle/10945/70703
     
   • student award: NPS Outstanding Thesis Award.
    
   
7. Clinton Anderson, CS masters' student, Mar 2022, my role: thesis advisor
   • title: Developing an Expandable Graphical User Interface for Shell Entry (GUISE) Tool for Networking Education
   • Thesis abstract: The lack of systemic education dedicated to computer networks and the general inadequacy of students' comprehension of the structure and the dynamics of the networks are arguably issues in most public schools. In the situation where the internet is a commodity, the increase in the threat of global attacks on many computing resources is exceptionally high, and so is the consequential importance of the global cyber workforce. Most people achieve their basic understanding through their routine use of computers at home, and it is both pragmatic and more effective to consider using basic home tools because of their didactic benefits. We designed and developed GUISE (GUI for Shell Entry) as an intuitive interface that makes command entry and network analysis easier for masses of users. GUISE leverages the operating system's capabilities and allows inexperienced users with no expertise in the computer networking domain to acquire enhanced network situational awareness in a competent manner. The ultimate benefit of the GUISE tool is providing its users with an educational aspect focused on the networking elements of their home computer infrastructure. That approach has the potential to directly support the growth of their networking literacy and proficiency, and their navigation of the networking landscape with enhanced confidence and safety.
   • thesis document: https://calhoun.nps.edu/handle/10945/69609
     
   • student award: NPS Outstanding Thesis Award.
 

8. Leslie Amodeo, Brian Dick, Charles Flyynn, Rebecca Nagurney, Meagan Parker , System Engineering masters' students, DL curriculum, Jun 2021, my role: thesis co-advisor
   • title: Navy Expeditionary Additive Manufacturing (NEAM) Capability Integration
   • abstract: This capstone report analyzes the current and future use of additive manufacturing (AM) technologies within the Department of Defense (DOD). This analysis provided the technical background necessary to develop the Additive Manufacturing Process and Analysis Tool (AMPAT). AMPAT will help stakeholders identify what AM equipment best serves warfighters and their missions in expeditionary environments. Furthermore, the tool can be used by stakeholders to identify the most advantageous dispersions of AM capabilities across the fleet and make decisions on how those capabilities should be integrated into the greater naval mission and larger DOD enterprise. A systems engineering (SE) approach was implemented to gather information on current and prospective AM methods in order to understand and define the AM system operational requirements. Additionally, an SE process was utilized to analyze alternative software options to build the tool, implement agile software development processes to develop the tool, and verify and validate that the tool met the project requirements. The study found that AMPAT successfully outputs a ranked list of AM systems recommendations based upon user-defined input parameters and weighting values. Recommendations for choosing AM equipment and developing dispersion plans for the fleet include using the AMPAT deliverable to conduct customized, iterative analysis with user-defined inputs that are tailored to specific expeditionary environments.
   • thesis document: https://calhoun.nps.edu/handle/10945/67651
     
   • award: Outstanding Capstone Report.
 

9. Maj Bert Knobeloch, German Army, MOVES masters' student, Jul 2019 - Jun 2020, my role: thesis advisor
   • title: Military Mission Planning Using Augmented Reality Technology
   • abstract: In this age of globalism and multilateralism, military tasks are becoming more complex and distributed across much larger areas of interest. Regardless of the type of mission, being well prepared is the crucial requirement for success; part of that success is owed to meticulous, well-structured mission planning. Frequently executed briefings ensure the mutual understanding of the objectives and challenges the unit is facing, and the commander's intent to achieve them. Computer-aided alternatives to the traditional sand table have been too expensive to develop, field, and sustain, and sometimes failed to meet the desired results and were not adopted into daily practice. We designed and developed a mobile version of the virtual sand table, which uses only commercial-off-the-shelf products, thus proving that it is feasible to use augmented reality technology with its intuitive user-interaction techniques and go beyond the traditional sand table capabilities. Our approach includes the integration and support of a precisely scaled three-dimensional model of the real-world terrain and a novel first-person perspective that can be used for closer inspection. This solution eliminates the dependency on costly technical support teams to develop or modify the new mission's terrain. The system reduces the possibility ofhuman error and misunderstandings by supporting multiple simultaneous viewing perspectives and provides the foundation for a network-based collaboration mode.
   • thesis document: https://calhoun.nps.edu/handle/10945/65384
     
   • student award: NPS Outstanding Thesis Award.
 

10. Nathan Banks, Daniel Ferreira, Jerome McCauley, Joseph Trinh, and Kenneth Zust, System Engineering masters' students, DL curriculum, Jun 2020, my role: thesis co-advisor
    • title: Naval Additive Manufacturing Afloat Capability Analysis
    • abstract: In 2014, the Department of the Navy (DoN) began installing additive manufacturing (AM) capabilities aboard surface vessels. The DoN is expected to accelerate fleet integration of AM over the next decade. This research aims to help decision makers optimize the deployment of AM resources such as logistics and operational readiness to the Navy’s surface fleet. The research team identified DoN AM equipment and forecast near-term future AM acquisitions. Additive manufacturing systems were analyzed for capabilities, including material options, build volume, operating environment, printed part certification, and quality. The team also identified logistics and support requirements for AM equipment, including feedstock type, spare parts, supportability, maintainability, and usability. The outcome of this project includes a software tool that the Navy can use to facilitate the integration of AM on surface vessels and a systems engineering methodology to maximize AM benefits across the fleet.
    • thesis document: https://calhoun.nps.edu/handle/10945/64681
      
    • student awards:
      1. Outstanding Capstone Report (DL
      2. Nathan Banks received Meyer Award for Outstanding DL Student in Systems
 

11. LT Kelvin Huntley, USN, IS masters' student (NWOT curriculum), Dec 2019, my role: thesis advisor
    • title: Toward a Persistent Use of Augmented Reality Technology in Naval Domain
    • abstract: Augmented reality (AR) technology has been leveraged in a diverse set of tasks in multiple domains of human activity. The persistent use of AR in the naval domain, though futuristic in its application, could provide key decision-makers in a shipboard environment with additional capabilities in their arsenal and support more effective processing of information and sense-making. Though the use of AR has been examined in support of individual tasks, the persistent use of AR and its feasibility in the naval domain has yet to be studied. This thesis explores such feasibility and application on two tasks done by the shipboard commanders, damage control and communications domains, and provides early indicators for the value that the persistent use of AR could bring the U.S. Navy in the future. We designed and developed two applications with corresponding three-dimensional models and user interactions and executed a small-scale user study to acquire early indicators of system usability. While more work is needed in the area of AR in the naval domain, the research conducted for this thesis suggests that AR technology has the potential to improve sense- and decision-making for a variety of personnel onboard naval vessels.
    • thesis document: https://calhoun.nps.edu/handle/10945/64189
      
 

12. LCDR Joseph Giordano, USN, Master of Business Administration, Dec 2019, my role: thesis co-advisor
    • title: Efficiency for Lethality: Additive Manufacturing ROI Modeling and Complete Adoption
    • abstract: While additive manufacturing (AM) is still in the infancy stages within the DoN for complete adoption, the DoN is interested in knowing how to more accurately measure AM adoption. Ongoing fiscal restraints make adoption of AM a challenging decision over higher-priority programs. A determining factor in the process of making that decision will be the knowledge about the potential AM holds—if the investment in AM is capable of realizing significant savings, return on investment (ROI), and efficiency improvements in the AM procurement process versus traditional procurement methods. Ultimately, sustainable readiness around the fleet and ROI are a high priority. First, the research effort defined the DoN leadership support as part of the National Defense Strategy. Second, we utilized various case studies and data resources from around the DoN to observe where the ROI will be maximized and how ROI directly relates to the large-scale adoption of AM. Third, we culminated with the development of a model that used colored bins to guide the decision-maker to employ AM vice traditional procurement methods. Multiple examples of costs and benefits found during the site visits and ways a decision-maker can adjust and use ROI are offered. Finally, we incorporated the recommendations for increased efficiency of procurement and highlighted areas where AM will be best utilized in the future. The research concluded with a sensitivity analysis and proposed areas of future development.
    • thesis document: https://calhoun.nps.edu/handle/10945/64165
      
 

13. LCDR Bradford Edenfield, USN, LT Gilbert Garcia, USN, and LT Kazuma Yoshida, Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force. Master of Business Administration, Jun 2019, my role: thesis co-advisor
    • title: Establishing an Additive Manufacturing NEC for the Machinery Repairman to Enable Efficient Use of AM and Mass Adoption of the Technology
    • abstract: Additive Manufacturing (AM) technology has been making significant advances in recent years. While industry has already started exploiting it in its daily operations, the adoption and implementation of AM technology across the Department of Defense (DOD) and Department of the Navy (DON) are still in very early stages. The major value that DOD and DON plan to achieve are improvements in operational readiness, cost-savings, and increases in warfighting capability. The DON has yet to identify the elements of a comprehensive training program across the fleet, including the training of operational level users. Should a Navy Enlisted Classification (NEC) be created for the Machinery Repairman (MR) rating to ensure safe and competent use of AM technology? Does creating an NEC support DOD and DON policies and guidelines of AM Implementation? This report examines those questions and provides a rationale and recommendations for the creation of an AM NEC, including a set of critical skills that should be a part of that training. Methodology developed and used in this report could be applied to examine the needs of other rates beyond MR. Recommended future work emphasizes the need to continue updating the training program recommended in this report, keeping it relevant with advances still being made in AM technology and our growing understanding about DON applications of this technology.
    • thesis document: https://calhoun.nps.edu/handle/10945/62753
      
    • student award: Best MBA Report and Presentation Award in Operations and Logistics Management
 

14. LT Matthew Timmerman, USN, IS masters' student, 2017 - Dec 2018, my role: thesis advisor
    • title: Enabling Collaboration and Visualization of Complex Operational Technology Computer Networks with Augmented Reality Technology
    • research domain: Operational Technology (OT) networks are critical to mission operations on many Naval platforms, yet it is often difficult to effectively communicate their status and engage in efficient decision-making at all levels of operation. While the complexity of networks has increased, visualization methods suiting the needs of a diverse set of users have not kept up. To address this problem, this research evaluated if visualization, provided to a small group of operators acting in a shared work environment on network management, can be supported using commercial off-the-shelf, lightweight, portable augmented reality (AR) technology. The work included building a prototype AR OT network on a US Navy Guided Missile Destroyer (DDG) three-dimensional model with four decks, and simulated interconnected ship systems. We then designed and implemented a network infrastructure between a set of Hololenses, and built an application that allowed multiple users to collaborate by viewing the same virtual model in real-world space setting. A study tested the system interface's usability and its value in network management scenarios. The results suggest that a lightweight AR system, with an interface that supports small team collaboration, could be a valuable tool for increasing situational awareness in cyberspace, and allowing effective team decision-making.
    • thesis document: https://calhoun.nps.edu/handle/10945/61287
      
    • student award: NPS Outstanding Thesis Award.
 

15. Capt Cody Tackett, USMC, MOVES masters' student, 2017 - Mar 2019, my role: thesis advisor
    • title: Development of a Prototype Virtual Reality Trainer for Tactical Vehicle Ground-guiding Procedures
    • research domain: The use of virtual reality (VR) technology in the training domain brings several benefits to the training force: compared to training in the real world, VR training reduces logistical support, it eliminates high-risk safety situations, and it enables scenarios not possible otherwise. This work determines the viability of using commercial off-the-shelf technology (COTS) to develop a prototype VR trainer in support of tactical vehicle ground-guiding procedures. A task analysis was conducted to identify all steps of the task in which an individual used hand and arm signals to communicate directions and position to another individual who operated a tactical vehicle. This work was used to define elements of human performance and system requirements, and to develop a multiuser VR training system. A total of eighteen subjects participated in a user study to evaluate usability of the system. The prototype system was able to fully immerse the subjects with visual, aural, and haptic displays, successfully blocking out influences from the real world to a sufficient extent that subjects believed they were in the virtual world and could perform ground-guiding operations. Given the subjects' responses in the Standardized Usability Scale questionnaire, the system was seen as a viable tool for training of ground-guiding procedures. The results of this study demonstrated that it is feasible to use COTS technology and create a prototype system for training in ground-guiding and driving skills.
    • thesis document: https://calhoun.nps.edu/handle/10945/62303
      
 

16. Capt Douglas Yamashita de Moura, Brazilian Air Force, MOVES masters' student, 2017 - Sep 2018, my role: thesis advisor
    • title: The Role of Stereoscopic Depth Cue and Immersion in Maintenance Task
    • research domain: Maintenance operations play a critical role in both civilian and military domains, and they can influence the state of their operational readiness. Thus, having access to superior solutions that can be used to train maintenance personnel is essential. Virtual reality (VR) technology, with its capability to simulate 3D objects with high fidelity, is a good candidate for maintenance training solutions. The main component of a large majority of maintenance tasks includes assembly and disassembly of physical setups. These tasks involve judgment of distance, depth, sizing and fit. Various factors may influence the operator’s performance in a VR system by affecting perception of the components and, consequently, task execution. Two such factors are stereoscopic depth cue and immersion. This study uses assembly tasks as a context for exploring operator performance while manipulating virtual objects positioned within arm’s reach. A user study collected a comprehensive data set over four distinct experimental conditions: immersive stereoscopic, immersive non-stereoscopic, non-immersive stereoscopic, and non-immersive non-stereoscopic. Data analysis suggests that the immersive stereoscopic condition was superior when compared to others; most people in that condition finished their assembly tasks, and they did it in shortest time. No significant simulator sickness issues were recorded in any condition.
    • thesis document: https://calhoun.nps.edu/handle/10945/60363
      
    • student award: CDR George L. Phillips Award.
 

17. LCDR Michael Grimshaw, USN, CS masters' student, 2017 - Dec 2017, my role: thesis advisor
    • title: Operational Cyber Security Risks and their Effect on Adoption of Additive Manufacturing in the Naval Domain
    • abstract: Additive manufacturing (AM) has been proven to provide multiple benefits over traditional manufacturing methods including cost-savings, mission adaptability, and increased unit capabilities. Multiple Department of Defense (DOD) organizations are exploring and utilizing AM technology, and efforts are ongoing to determine how best to achieve large-scale adoption of AM in the U.S. Navy (USN). The primary concern that must be addressed is the trustworthiness of AM objects to ensure they will not increase risks to personnel, equipment, and systems. Including cybersecurity throughout the AM life cycle is a necessary component of protecting AM data and ensuring trust in AM objects to support adoption. This thesis reviews aspects of cybersecurity domain as it is applied to AM, and discusses the insights of a survey conducted with USN, U.S. Army (USA), and U.S. Air Force (USAF) resident NPS students. The goal of the survey was to contrast current understanding of adoption of technology and cybersecurity threats in AM, with the knowledge, attitudes, and opinions that prospective users have. The thesis identifies barriers to achieve large-scale adoption of AM in the Naval domain with special emphasis on cybersecurity, and proposes approaches to address those barriers and support accelerated adoption of AM.
    • thesis document: https://calhoun.nps.edu/handle/10945/56931.
 

18. Sqn Ldr Faisal Rashid, Pakistan Air Force, MOVES masters' student, 2016 - Sep 2017, my role: thesis advisor
    • title: Use of VR technology and Passive Haptics for MANPADS Training System
    • abstract: Man portable air defense systems (MANPADS) are point-defense weapons that typically form the penultimate layer of defense against aerial threats. Deployed at close ranges to the installation being defended, MANPADS operators get little reaction time to engage attacking aircraft. The situation becomes more complex in a multi-threat scenario such as an airfield under attack. Dealing with such situations requires high proficiency and the capability to make tactical decisions quickly. Live training opportunities allow few operators to fire during live exercises. Simulation training is effective, but customized high-fidelity immersive training facilities are limited. Moreover, low trainee throughput from such high-end facilities is an ongoing obstacle. The main focus of this thesis research is a feasibility study for building a low-cost MANPADS training solution that uses commercial off-the-shelf components. The developed prototype leverages a fully immersive virtual reality system with head-mounted display, game engine, and passive haptics. It provides MANPADS operators with alternative training opportunities in target acquisition, tactical decision making, and situational awareness in a multi-threat scenario, and has the potential of addressing the current training gap. This development experience will provide valuable insights that can be employed to design and create a new generation of low-cost training solutions in other domains as well.
    • thesis document: https://calhoun.nps.edu/handle/10945/56170
    • student awards:
      1. CDR George L. Phillips Award,
      2. NPS Outstanding Thesis Award
 

19. Capt Deanna McDevitt, Boston Fire Department, Homeland Security and Defense masters' student, 2016 - Sep 2017, my role: thesis advisor
    • title: Searching for Effective Training Solutions in Firefighting Domain: The Analysis of Emergency Responses and Line of Duty Death Reports for Low Frequency, High-risk Events
    • abstract: Since 9/11, the fire service has experienced a shift and an expansion in the nature of threats and hazards that it faces. Despite advances in the field, firefighters are still losing their lives inside of burning buildings, and they must find new ways of identifying training gaps and improving current training practices. This thesis explores whether emergency incidents connected to low frequency and high risk events contain sufficient warning signs or indicators of imminent catastrophic events, if firefighters could identify them, and if there was a potential of changing decision making and averting a tragedy. In order to create a firm basis for this discovery, this research effort included a detailed analysis of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health's line of duty death reports from the years 2013-2015. The work provided an opportunity to learn from past events and practices and identify successes and failures in the firefighting domain without the bias of being closely involved with the cases or having a specific agenda. Quantitative analysis performed on this data set and the knowledge gleaned from looking at the events after the fact provide a foundation for advising novel training approaches and scenarios that can be used to train both individuals and teams of fire fighters.
    • thesis document: https://calhoun.nps.edu/handle/10945/56157
 

20. Maj John Gibson, USMC, MOVES masters' student, 2016 - Jun 2017, my role: thesis advisor
    • title: Marine Light Attack Helicopter Close Air Support Trainer for Situational Awareness
    • abstract: In today's dynamic combat environment, the importance of Close Air Support (CAS) has increased significantly due to a greater need to avoid civilian casualties and fratricide while maintaining effective fire support for engaged friendly forces. Situation awareness (SA) is a skill that is extremely important in conducting CAS safely and effectively, and is frequently one of the greatest deficiencies of new pilots. As budgets shrink and throughput on current training solutions remains very low, it is difficult to provide new CAS aviators with the number of training repetitions needed to gain SA proficiency. A tablet computer-based CAS part task trainer (PTT) to improve SA was developed to address this. This system provides the visual and audio stimuli of the CAS battlefield and trains a new pilot to observe the environment, listen to communications, comprehend what is happening, and make timely inputs based on his or her understanding of the overall situation. Throughout the training, the system provides questions to the student to evaluate the student's level of SA and to emphasize key SA elements. The lessons delivered by the prototype CAS PTT suggest that it will be useful to teach CAS situation awareness and improving the performance of new pilots. Continued development of a series of low-cost part task trainers that fill different training gaps could result in significant improvement in training future generations of aviators.
    • thesis document: https://calhoun.nps.edu/handle/10945/55601
      
    • student award: NPS Outstanding Thesis Award.
 

21. Capt Nicholas Arthur, USMC, MOVES masters' student, 2016 - Jun 2017, my role: thesis advisor
    • title: Proof-of-concept Part-task Trainer to Enhance Situation Awareness for Instrument Approach Procedures in Aviation Domain
    • abstract: The terminal environment in the aviation domain is referred to as the region within close proximity of airports. Performance in this environment leaves little room for error and requires that pilots are fully aware of their situation and surroundings. This is especially true when conducting an instrument approach (IA). Currently, United States Marine Corps (USMC) KC-130J units do an exceptional job of training their pilots in this environment. However, the emergence of new technologies affords the opportunity to address shortfalls of legacy training approaches. To this end, this thesis uses a quasi-instructional systems design approach to develop a prototype IA part-task trainer (PTT) using commercial off-the shelf (COTS) systems to enhance current training methods to allow for training opportunities that are not limited by schedules or location. After the development of the PTT, subject matter experts evaluated the prototype training system. Their feedback suggests that the system reliably recreated necessary cues (cockpit displays, environmental conditions, communications, time, and space) to build on users' existing knowledge and support situation awareness training for IA. Ultimately, the proof-of-concept prototype created for this thesis is envisioned to be part of a family of solutions capable of addressing existing training gaps in a cost-effective manner.
    • thesis document: https://calhoun.nps.edu/handle/10945/55508
 

22. LT Jay Taylor, USN, CS masters' student, 2014 - 2017, role: advisor, my role: thesis advisor
    • title: Use of Game Based Approach to Train and Test Rules of The Road: A Feasibility Study
    • abstract: This thesis will determine the viability of implementing game based simulation to train and test the Rules of the Road (RoR). The critical information presented in International Regulations for Prevention of Collisions at Sea, 1972 (72 COLREGS) manual is currently learned by rote memorization. We believe that an alternative approach to train and test these rules - a game based simulation - would allow for better comprehension of critical concepts, visualization of different conditions, inclusion of actual auditory references and situational application of the right of way by engaging a user interactively in scenarios that illustrate different elements of the RoR. This project will benefit Navigators, Conning Officers, Helmsmen, the Coast Guard and civilian mariners who need to learn the Rules of the Road.
 

23. Maj Jesse Attig , USMC, MOVES masters' student, 2015 - June 2016, my role: thesis advisor
    • title: Proof-of-concept Part-task Trainer for Close Air Support Procedures
    • abstract: Transitioning between two training phases of the close air support (CAS) syllabus can be difficult for pilots under instruction (PUIs). The level and variety of skills needed for each stage may not be acquired in the previous step, which makes it difficult for the pilot to take the most value from the current stage of training. By providing PUIs with supplemental training solutions that aim to bridge those training gaps, it may be possible to increase the value of the ultimate, but time-limited, training opportunities like simulator and actual flight events. This research prototyped a supplemental training solution that offers a context-relevant, immersive virtual environment that removes the need to fly or operate the aircraft system, thus enabling the trainee to focus only on improving the skills related to problem schema (communication, decision making, and CAS procedures). The resulting system enables repetitive, individual training of CAS communication and procedure skills similar to "chair flying" combined with tactically correct examples of CAS missions used during "chalk talks." An informal user study indicated this approach has the potential to make the transition to the simulator or aircraft much easier and could offer a viable training solution in an increasingly fiscally constrained environment.
    • thesis document: http://calhoun.nps.edu/handle/10945/49487
      
    • student award: NPS Outstanding Thesis Award.
 

24. Capt Matthew Friedell , USMC, MOVES masters' student, 2015 - June 2016, my role: thesis advisor
    • title: Additive Manufacturing (AM) in Expeditionary Operations: Current Needs, Technical Challenges and Opportunities
    • abstract: Additive manufacturing (AM), or 3D printing, is poised to change the world of military expeditionary operations. It has the potential to affect every element of military operations -logistics, training, simulation, and warfighting. However, these cutting-edge technologies are shifting so rapidly that the current military acquisition system is not prepared for their adoption on a large scale. Among the issues that need to be addressed are 3D watermarking of digital models, proper prints in a distributed system, security of a repository of 3D models, and on-site customization of existing models. The author performed an empirical study centered around a survey of United States Marine Corps (USMC) and United States Navy (USN) personnel. The objective was to determine which of the promising 3D technologies have been adopted in United States Marine Corps and United States Navy and which should (or should not) be adopted. The survey and thesis conclude that AM and Contour Crafting have a lasting place in future USMC and Navy operations. Adoption of AM in the USMC and USN is still rare, but most agree that it can be used to great effect. The thesis recommends that more studies be performed to determine the best way forward for AM within the USMC and USN.
    • thesis document: http://calhoun.nps.edu/handle/10945/49461
      
 

25. LT Larry Greunke, USN, CS masters' student, 2014 - September 2015, my role: thesis advisor
    • title: 'Charlie', Development of a Light-Weight, Virtual Reality Trainer for the LSO Community: Time to Make the Leap Toward Immersive VR
    • abstract: Landing Signal Officers (LSOs) are the backbone of tailhook naval aviation. Currently, once a junior officer is selected from a squadron to become a LSO, that person will typically go through an entire workup cycle before going to the Initial Formal Ground Training (IFGT) course. This means that an LSO will undergo months of on-the-job training at sea and assume different roles needed to recover aircraft before that individual receives his/her first formal training during IFGT. At the center of IFGT is the LSO Trainer, Device 2H111, in which the LSO receives a series of six one-hour long sessions. For many LSOs this will be the only interaction will this training simulator. The aim of this thesis was to develop and evaluate whether major training objectives for the 2H111 could be supported using a proof of concept, light-weight, portable VR trainer with a VR HMD as its display solution. Thesis work included feasibility testing of a Graphical User Interface and voice recognition integration into a simulation to facilitate both an individual and a team training environment. The result of the study is that technology has come far enough to support a commercial off the shelf technology solution.
    • thesis document: https://calhoun.nps.edu/handle/10945/47267
      
    • student awards:
      1. Gary Kildall Award for Computing Innovation,
      2. NPS Outstanding Thesis Award,
      3. Honorable Mention (3rd place) in category of Innovation Scholar (PME), The SECNAV 2015 Innovation Award given by the Secretary of the Navy, Department of the Navy - Innovation (announcement).
 

26. LT Brendan Geoghegan, USN, CS masters' student, 2014 - March 2015, my role: thesis advisor
    • title: Navigational Head's Up Display (NAVHUD): Will a Shipboard Augmented Electronic Navigation System Sink or Swim?
    • abstract: The aim of this thesis is to develop and test a proof-of-concept augmented reality display that presents critical navigation information to naval conning officers. The objective of this research effort was to study the feasibility and usability of such an approach in operational conditions. The testbed platform consisted of a virtual environment that fully simulated a conning officer’s basic tasks in conditions of restricted navigation; this type of setup enabled a cost-effective test solution that was safe and supported scenario repeatability in studies with human subjects. The study involved 25 experienced test subjects who were surface warfare officers at both the Naval Postgraduate School and Surface Warfare Officer School. This effort helped acquire a comprehensive set of objective and subjective data that provided a close insight into the performance of conning officers. The empirical results demonstrate the viability of using such a system in an operation environment and support a need for further research and development of a working display platform onboard Navy warships.
    • thesis document: https://calhoun.nps.edu/handle/10945/45191
      
    • student awards:
      1. NPS Outstanding Thesis Award,
      2. Winner in the category of Innovation Scholar (PME), The SECNAV 2015 Innovation Award given by the Secretary of the Navy, Department of the Navy - Innovation (announcement).
 

27. LT Ricardo Sampaio Bastos, Brazilian Navy, MOVES masters' student, September 2014, my role: thesis co-advisor
    • title: Development of a Web-based Periscope Simulator for Submarine Officers Training
    • abstract: This thesis addresses the instructional gap existent between the theoretical instruction that is typically delivered in the classroom and the hands-on training in periscope simulators. In those navies that adopt the "eyes-only" or "perisher" technique for training of periscope depth safety rules, the submarine officers need to gain knowledge and master a series of skills and abilities prior to the training sessions in periscope simulators. This work suggests and explores the use of web-based simulation as a tool to diminish this gap, applying the concept of part-task training to enable the delivery of better-prepared officers to the simulator phase of training and better leverage the time spent at a full-scale simulator. To test this concept, a prototype web-based periscope simulator was developed, and a usability study was conducted among the body of students of the Naval Postgraduate School. The findings revealed that most of the participants were receptive to web-based simulation for training, and that it is a viable and promising field, but some technical caveats were identified. Although this thesis focused on the periscope simulation, the concept can be extended and applied for other domains in which a similar gap can be found between theory and hands-on training.
    • thesis document: http://calhoun.nps.edu/handle/10945/43873
      
    • student award: NPS Outstanding Thesis Award.
 

28. Maj. Floy Yates, USMC, MOVES masters' student, September 2013, my role: thesis advisor
    • title: Diffusion and Large-scale Adoption of Computer-supported Training Simulations in the Military Domain
    • abstract: The focal point of this thesis is the overall process of diffusion and adoption of technological innovations (computer-supported training simulations) within the military domain. The goal was to capture the positive and negative trends that appear to be the most significant toward the adoption process. The approach selected in this thesis was to execute a user study and collect a set of data points concerned with the users’ overall demographics, attitudes, expectations, knowledge, misconceptions, usage, advertising, leadership endorsement, and other elemental characteristics for adoption of those systems in the military domain. The data survey was conducted within MCAGCC, Twentynine Palms, CA; it addressed specific needs of four different groups of users (Trainees, Unit Leadership, Trainers, and Base Leadership). The analysis of collected data sets demonstrated that diffusion and adoption of these types of solutions is a complex, multilayered problem that goes beyond the characteristics of the systems/tools. The summary of user profiles, attitudes toward technology, and other elements relevant to the training domain demonstrated that clearly. The findings in this work can be generalized to any other USMC base, and have a universal value applicable to the adoption of computer-supported training simulations by other DoD services.
    • thesis document: http://calhoun.nps.edu/handle/10945/37746
      
 

29. LT Valerie N. Spencer, USN, OR masters' student (HSI program), December 2009, my role: second reader
    • title: Workload Analysis of a DDG-1000 Underway Replenishment Scenario
    • abstract: This thesis evaluated whether reduced crew size onboard the DDG-1000 lead to excessive workloads for bridge watchstanders. DDG-1000 Zumwalt Class Destroyers are consistent with the Navy's goal to reduce manning onboard surface vessels by 60-70% that of DDG-51 Class Destroyers. Automation is said to replace bridge watchstanders on legacy ships; however, automation will not relieve the remaining operators of their tasks. An IMPRINT model was used to simulate the functions and human-automation interfaces onboard the DDG-1000 during an Underway Replenishment mission. All three models (baseline, three person watch team, and five person watch team) indicated increased workloads for three key positions, the Officer of the Deck, Junior Officer of the Deck, and the Junior Officer of the Watch. Automation changed and added to operators’ tasks in multiple ways that caused conflict according to the Multiple Resource Theory. Utilizing IMPRINT as a tool, the tasks performed by operators and the workload associated with tasks can be assessed quantitatively during system design and development. Although this thesis focused on the DDG-1000, the modeling approach and analytical process can be expanded to a range of domains such as aviation, space, and ground transportation.
 

30. Maj. Craig R. Schwetje, USMC, MOVES masters' student, September 2009, my role: thesis advisor
    • title: Integrating Intelligence and Building Teams Within the Infantry Immersion Trainer
    • abstract: The trend of focusing on technology in "technology augmented environments" and practicing a set of skills in isolation needs to shift towards user-centered training with skills being integrated earlier in the training process, as long as conditions for that integration exist. The purpose of this thesis was to examine whether incorporating intelligence briefs and debriefs with a Squad Planning Operations Center (SPOC) supported by suitable technologies improved infantry training in urban warfare training situations. To prepare for this task, a pilot study was conducted following current Infantry Immersion Trainer (IIT) procedures for the control group, while the experimental group utilized an Augmented Combat Operations Center (A-COC). Information gained from this study was then utilized for the main study conducted at the IIT aboard Camp Pendleton, CA. This study was conducted utilizing sixty participants in the control group (following current IIT procedures) and ninety-three participants in the experimental group (IIT procedure augmented with the use of a SPOC). The most statistically significant difference between the groups came from the participants' self-assessment on training confidence and overall success of training. Members of the experimental group, after utilizing the SPOC for planning, felt more confident in completing their training tasks and their view of achieving success in executing their mission was also higher.
    • thesis document: http://calhoun.nps.edu/handle/10945/4619
      
 

31. Maj. Christian R. Fitzpatrick, USMC, MOVES masters' student, September 2009, my role: thesis co-advisor
    • title: Integration of Robotics and 3D Visualization to Modernize the Expeditionary Warfare Demonstrator (EWD)
    • abstract: In the summer of 2008, the Commandant of the Marine Corps (CMC) released a message to all Marines and Sailors detailing plans to revitalize U.S. naval amphibious competency. Current responsibilities in Iraq and Afghanistan have significantly reduced available training time causing overall amphibious readiness to suffer. In response, this thesis evaluates 3D visualization techniques and other virtual environment technologies available to support these mission-critical training goals. The focus of this research is to modernize the Expeditionary Warfare Demonstrator (EWD) located aboard Naval Amphibious Base (NAB) Little Creek, Virginia. The EWD has been used to demonstrate doctrine, tactics, and procedures for all phases of amphibious operations to large groups of Navy, Marine Corps, Joint, Coalition and civilian personnel for the last 55 years. However, it no longer reflects current doctrine and is therefore losing credibility and effectiveness. In its current configuration, the EWD is limited to a single training scenario since the display's ship models rely on a static pulley system to show movement and the terrain display ashore is fixed. To address these shortfalls, this thesis first recommends the usage of the wireless communication capability within Sun's Small Programmable Object Technology (SunSPOT) to create robotic vehicles to replace the current ship models. This enables large-group visualization and situational awareness of the numerous coordinated surface maneuvers needed to support Marines as they move from ship to shore. The second recommendation is to improve visualization ashore through the creation of Extensible 3D Graphics (X3D) scenes depicting high-fidelity 3D models and enhanced 3D terrain displays for any location. This thesis shows how to create these scenes and project them from overhead in order to modernize the gymnasium-sized EWD into an amphibious wargaming table suitable for both amphibious staff training and operational planning. Complimentary use of BASE-IT projection tables and digital 3D holography can further provide smallgroup, close-up views of key battlespace locations. It is now possible to upgrade an aging training tool by implementing the technologies recommended in this thesis to support the critical training and tactical needs of the integrated Navy and Marine Corps amphibious fighting force.
    • thesis document: http://calhoun.nps.edu/handle/10945/4520
      
 

32. LCDR Tariq Rashid, USN, MOVES masters' student, September 2009, my role: second reader
    • title: Integrating Distributed Interactive Simulations with the Project Darkstar Open-Source Massively Multiplayer Online Game (MMOG) Middleware
    • abstract: Recently, a great deal of attention has been given to the use of Massively Multiplayer Online Games (MMOGS) for both gaming and military applications. The revenue generated by MMOGs and the effect that they have on the network infrastructure has resulted in significantly more developmental resources being applied to commercial MMOG technology than for military distributed virtual (DVE) development. All DVEs share a common set of characteristics, and additional requirements exist for the interoperability of military DVEs. It is possible to exploit these similarities to take advantage of developments in the supporting technologies of commercial MMOGs.
      Specific capabilities of interest include scalability for large numbers of players, capacity for large amounts of network traffic, portability across operating systems, and adaptability to connect diverse codebases, network protocols, and data formats. Project Darkstar is a Sun Labs research project, which has developed an open-source middleware for MMOGs. This thesis has produced and tests a MMOG server, which interconnects heterogeneous simulators in a DVE using the Project Darkstar middleware and locally developed network gateways. The performance of the system and the character of the network traffic it generates are analyzed. Initial test results warrant further development and eventual deployment.
    • thesis document: http://calhoun.nps.edu/handle/10945/4631
      
 

33. LT Brian S. Boone, USN, MOVES masters' student, March 2008, my role: thesis advisor
    • title: The Use of Concept Maps for the Diffusion of the Distributed Operations Concept and the Dissemination of Existing Virtual Training Simulations
    • abstract: The Marine Corps finds itself increasingly fighting an elusive, adaptive and decentralized enemy. Facing this type of decentralized enemy suggests the Marine Corps embrace a more decentralized approach to conventional military operations. One of the strategies that the USMC has been introducing is Distributed Operations (DO) that will enable meeting the need of commanders to fight a highly decentralized engagement. DO require that the Marine Corps add to its conventional skills the additive ability to decentralize decision making and an ability to distribute the force when it is tactically advantageous to do so. Lessons learned from the Hunter Warrior series of experiments suggest that technology can only be effectively applied once assigned tasks have been mastered. In order for the Marine Corps to enable DO capability throughout the Marine Corps, a proactive information campaign must be conducted. The thesis seeks to develop a web based collaboration tool which will link critical DO specific and conventional skills to the current simulations which train them. This will serve to increase all Marines' understanding of the requisite knowledge and introduce novel training opportunities that exist as the concept of DO is concurrently developed.
    • thesis document: http://calhoun.nps.edu/handle/10945/4294
      
 

34. LT Kent L. Sanders, USN, MOVES masters' student, December 2007, my role: thesis co-advisor
    • title: Requirements to Create a Persistent, Open Source, Mirror World for Military Applications
    • abstract: With many free simulations available to developers, it is desirable to marry the existing library and work of these simulations in an attempt to create a completely open source virtual reality environment to facilitate computer aided training and simulation. Key problems associated with developing a large scale Multiple User Virtual Environment (MUVE) are analyzed including appropriate server - client architecture, terrain and object model formats, and overall project scalability. Solutions to these problems are proposed and analyzed, including using existing commercial and open source projects in development, using projects already deployed, or the feasibility of developing a new solution to meet the requirements of this thesis. Advantages, disadvantages, and possible military and educational uses for each of these free simulations and the associated persistent mirror worlds are also analyzed to recommend a direction of action for military and education simulation and training.
    • thesis document: http://calhoun.nps.edu/handle/10945/3137
      
 

35. Capt. Umit Ayvaz, Turkish Army, MOVES masters' student, September 2007, my role: thesis advisor
    • title: Training Methods and Tactical Decision Making Simulations
    • abstract: Introducing simulation training to ground officers for the first time, within an existing proven curriculum, presents a number of challenges and questions. The proper amount of simulation time to evaluate and train skill sets and how to introduce simulation into an existing curriculum are mostly unknown. We have completed two studies at the Naval PostGraduate School (NPS). The first study examined the length of time and the most appropriate method for introducing simulation training to a user. The second study compared the use of the Close Combat Marines (CCM) Tactical Decision-Making Simulation (TDS) with the traditional method of training decision-making called the Tactical Decision-Making Game (TDG). The TDS and TDG were used in a between-subjects experimental design to examine the viability of each with regard to their ability to evaluate several important military traits. We found that both the TDG and the TDS methods were useful in evaluating a participant's leadership characteristics and decision-making ability. However, only the TDS was capable of evaluating situational-awareness. Our results also address a novel way in which these two approaches could be combined to amplify each other's potential in training of ground officers and military personnel in general.
    • thesis document: http://calhoun.nps.edu/handle/10945/3348
      
 

36. Maj. Charles Neil Fitzpatrick III, USMC, MOVES masters' student, September 2007, my role: thesis advisor
    • title: Training Methods and Tactical Decision Making Simulations
    • abstract: Introducing simulation training to ground officers for the first time, within an existing proven curriculum, presents a number of challenges and questions. The proper amount of simulation time to evaluate and train skill sets and how to introduce simulation into an existing curriculum are mostly unknown. We have completed two studies at the Naval PostGraduate School (NPS). The first study examined the length of time and the most appropriate method for introducing simulation training to a user. The second study compared the use of the Close Combat Marines (CCM) Tactical Decision-Making Simulation (TDS) with the traditional method of training decision-making called the Tactical Decision-Making Game (TDG). The TDS and TDG were used in a between-subjects experimental design to examine the viability of each with regard to their ability to evaluate several important military traits. We found that both the TDG and the TDS methods were useful in evaluating a participant's leadership characteristics and decision-making ability. However, only the TDS was capable of evaluating situational-awareness. Our results also address a novel way in which these two approaches could be combined to amplify each other's potential in training of ground officers and military personnel in general.
    • thesis document: http://calhoun.nps.edu/handle/10945/3348