We would like to announce the survey contest winner of the iPod Touch.

Guillermo Calderón-Meza

Congratulations to Guillermo Calderón-Meza, who is a Ph.D candidate at George Mason University. He received his bachelors in Electronics from the Instituto Tecnológico de Costa Rica, his masters in Electronics from the University of Bolton (United Kingdom) and the University of Paderborn (Germany). He has over twelve year of experience as a software engineer, software developer, and software project manager.

He is currently a Ph.D. candidate at the Center for Air Transportation Systems Research (CATSR) housed at George Mason University. His research interest is in agent-based modeling and adaptive decision-making in NAS-wide simulations.

• Innovative Idea Award: Ontology-based CNS Software Development. Eduard Gringinger, Dieter Eier, Dieter Merkel (Vienna University of Technology).
• Best Paper Award: Rigorous Bounding of Position Error Estimates for Aircraft Surface Movement. Kyle O’Brien, Jason Rife. (Tufts University)

Innovative Idea Award

Ontology-based CNS Software Development

• Eduard Gringinger, FREQUENTIS AG, Vienna, Austria
• Dieter Eier, FREQUENTIS USA Inc., Columbia, Maryland
• Dieter Merkl, Vienna University of Technology, Vienna, Austria

Why Awarded: This paper describes an approach to leverage designs, procedures and technologies from command and control centers in other domains (e.g. emergency response) for application in aviation command and control (e.g., Tower, TRACON, Center, TFM). Cost savings and improved speed-to-market are the benefits of this excellent research. Congratulations on this good work.

Abstract: The heart of Air Traffic Control (ATC) lays in the Control Room (CR) in the ATC en route center, Terminal Radar Approach Control (TRACON), and ATC Tower (ATCT) facilities. However, CRs are also used in other mission critical domains such as 911, or Emergency control centers. In the past this led to the development of domain specific control rooms resulting in different solutions for each specific environment. This raises the cost for efficient software development and increases the time-to-market.

A modern Ontology-Based Control Room Framework (ONTOCOR) could dramatically improve this Air Traffic Management (ATM) situation. Uniform and open standards build up ontologies described by the Web Ontology Language (OWL). Information Management (IM) and the development of uniform and open standards are key components of the Next Generation Air Transportation System (NextGen) and Europe’s SESAR Program. ONTOCOR increases productive code usage and reduces software development. It focuses on improving efficiency and gain effort by code reusability, thus contributing to reduction of deployment cost of such solutions.

This paper analyzes and compares different ontology languages as well as relevant semantic tools for ontology development and management. The present paper will also give a brief survey on ontology-based software engineering, before the ongoing research of ONTOCOR is introduced.

Best Paper Award

Rigorous Bounding of Position Error Estimates for Aircraft Surface Movement

• Kyle O’Brien, Tufts University, Medford, MA
• Jason Rife, Tufts University, Medford, MA

Why Awarded: This paper used an innovative new method (biased-Gaussian error bounding) to bounding of position error of aircraft. The paper described research on a relevant problem, applied a sound theoretical approach, and included results of a physical experiment. Congratulations on this excellent research.

Abstract: NextGen will require new navigation and surveillance capabilities to support safe and efficient surface operations based on tightly-coordinated 4D trajectories. In developing these new technologies, such as Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) and the Ground Based Augmentation System (GBAS), it is essential to remember that all sensing technologies are prone to rare but potentially hazardous errors. Accordingly, the development of new navigation and surveillance technologies must be complemented by the development of rigorous integrity algorithms that allow pilots and controllers to determine when a sensor system should or should not be trusted.

This paper describes the application of a new state-prediction methodology to developing conservative position-error bounds for aircraft ground movement. These position-error bounds can be compared to operational limits in order to generate an alert if the risk of a large navigation error becomes unacceptably high. To demonstrate the conservatism of our approach, we have conducted a series of experiments in a lab setting using a surrogate (robotic) vehicle. These experiments indicate that our method, which we call biased-Gaussian prediction, generates a conservative position-error bound even when more conventional prediction methods do not.

Key note address by Dr. Michael Romanowski, Director, FAA NextGen Integration and Implementation: “NextGen Today”

Day 2 (May 12)
Plenary Session Title: “Interagency Systems Transformation”

Keynote Address by Dr. Tim Rudolph, Department of Defense, “NextGen Net Centric Overview”

Day 3 (May 13)
Plenary Session Title: “NextGen Beyond 2018″

Keynote Address by Dr. Karlin Toner, Director, Joint Planning and Development Office, “Next Gen, the JPDO and the New Vision”

In addition to the Plenary and Technical sessions on Day 3, a FAA System Wide Information Management (SWIM) Industry Day will be conducted by the FAA. This kickoff event marks the start of the next phase of the FAA SWIM Program. Don’t miss this early bird look at the one of the key NextGen enablers. You’ll see it first – here at ICNS. Washington Westin Dulles Hotel.

• Register now!
• View the 2010 Agenda
  

Session A – Data Communications: Dr. Michael Schnell, DLR German Aerospace Center and Mr. Brent Phillips, FAA ATO

Session B – Surveillance and Navigation Technologies: Mr. Lance Sherry, George Mason University

Session C – Safe and Secure Transportation Systems: Mr. Kevin Harnett, Volpe National Transportation Sys Center

Session D – CNS Systems and Architectures: Ms. Denise Ponchak, NASA Glenn Research Center

Session E – Performance Based ATM: Dr. Ben Levy, Sensis Corporation

Session F – Aeronautical Spectrum: Ms. Izabela Gheorghisor, The MITRE Corporation

Session G – Air Ground Integration: Mr. John Gonda, The MITRE Corporation

Session H – ICNS Analysis – JPDO Study: Mr. Robert Kerczewski, NASA Glenn Research Center

Session I – Air Traffic Management (TBO): Mr. Chris Brinton, Mosaic ATM, Inc.

Session J – Aircraft/Airline Operations for NextGen: Dr. Chip Meserole, Boeing

Session K – Information Sharing and SWIM: Mr. Mike Hritz, FAA and Nikos Fistas, Eurocontrol

Session L – NextGen Surveillance: Mr. Anastasios Daskalakis, Volpe National Transportation Systems Center

Session M – Topics in Next Generation Air Transportation: Mr. Chris Wargo, Mosaic ATM, Inc.

Canceled: Session K, on Thursday afternoon, is one of the highlights of the conference as it takes on the format of a SWIM Industry Day.

• Register now!
• View the 2010 Agenda

Our Theme: The Challenges of NextGen, New Issues for Aviation’s Future

Our Major Partners: NASA, FAA, JPDO, AIAA DATC, IEEE AESS

Our Technical Program: Nearly 100 technical papers authored by noted experts. 11 fact filled sessions and a special edition CD.

Our Hotel: The Westin Washington Dulles Airport is the crown jewel of Dulles Corner, an emerging enclave of exclusive residences and multinational corporate headquarters convenient to Washington DC.

Just 1 mile from Dulles International Airport and under 30 minutes from DC’s center, the hotel is the Dulles Technology Corridor’s newest addition and offers a stylish and comfortable retreat where you can truly relax and reenergize while you travel.

Our Accommodations: Your Conference Committee has arranged for ALL participants to receive the preferred government rate at this brand new hotel. Make your reservation today.

Our Networking: Lots of time during breaks and meals to connect.

Our Sponsors and Exhibits: Numerous exhibits including hands-on demos of NextGen technology. Boeing, Northrop Grumman, Sunhillo, Mosaic ATM, Frequentis, ARINC, SELEX, Sensis.

Our Social Event: Don’t miss this docent-led VIP tour of the Steven Udvar Hazy Air and Space Museum followed by more networking at an early evening reception. You likely won’t get this opportunity – ever.

Our Plenaries: Three days of intensive updates on ICNS related topics by noted government, military and industry leaders — led by Dr. Karlin Toner; Director, JPDO.

Our Special Event: The FAA System Wide Information Management Program will conduct an Industry Day on May 13.

Our Committee: Led by Mr. Jim Dieudonne, MITRE Center for Advanced Aviation System Development, General Chair, who will tell stories to delight every engineer.

Our Already Low Registration: Unchanged from 2009. You get all the above for one low price… Register now!

Our Website: www.i-cns.org

What a year! First, let me extend my congratulations to the New Orleans Saints, Superbowl Champions – 43 years of being an “Aints” fan finally paid off. I can now get rid of my “paper bag”!

NextGen is also having a good year – ADS-B deployment and ERAM becoming operational! We have a new Director of the JPDO, Dr. Karlin Toner, and she has agreed to be one our keynote speakers.

We are at an outstanding brand new hotel, the Westin Washington Dulles Airport Hotel. Our technical sessions are full with quality, up-to-date information spanning all aspects of ICNS.

Sponsors and Exhibitors are stepping up, but we still have room for more, and we have scheduled a tour of the National Air and Space Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center during business hours followed by a social function, which will allow you to miss rush hour.

The conference program is almost complete, and a draft of the program should be on the website by early next week.

Look forward to seeing you at the conference.

Jim “Agin Cajun” Dieudonne
Chair, 2010 ICNS
Greybeard for CNS and Avionics
The MITRE Corporation

• Complete your conference registration
• Make your hotel reservations by April 19

The Technical Program is overfull, with almost 100 technical papers slated to be presented. Each day starts with a Plenary session. Both the Technical Program and Plenary program will be available soon on the conference web site.

A social event is planned for Wednesday afternoon (May 12th) starting with a special tour of the National Air and Space Museum Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center followed by a hosted reception at the hotel.

Don’t miss the early bird discount and a chance to network, update your CNS program knowledge, see the latest from our sponsors and enjoy a distinguished slate of speakers discussing the issues of the day.

The 2010 Integrated Communications Navigation and Surveillance (ICNS) Conference, jointly sponsored by government, civil and military, and industry, addresses long term research and development and early implementation of integrated CNS technologies needed to Enable NextGen.

The Conference is focused on providing understanding of CNS programs, longer term plans, standards development (RTCA, etc.), research, ICNS technologies, and the New Issues for Aviation’s Future that accompany NextGen.

Each day begins with a plenary session. Tuesday morning is all about Accelerating Implementation and Integration (I&I). Wednesday morning will focus on Interagency Systems Transformations, addressing multi-agency (DoD, DHS, and FAA) information sharing, and policies and procedures needed to insure airspace security while improving the support for each agency’s primary mission. NextGen Beyond 2018 is the topic for Thursday’s plenary.

Every afternoon, parallel technical sessions will be held on specific ICNS topics.

Papers and presentations are requested for the technical sessions along the key topical areas listed below. Exhibits and product demonstration by representatives of CNS-related Industries/Organizations are also invited.

• CNS Systems Architectures
• Navigation
• Standards for CNS/ATM
• Safe Air Transportation System
• Performance-Based ATM
• Trajectory Based Operations
• Air/Ground Integration
• Military Operations in NextGen
• Communications
• Surveillance
• Information Sharing Environment (NCO)
• Secure Air Transportation System
• Improved Environmental Performance
• Aircraft/Airline Operations for NextGen
• Federal Aviation Incentives and/or Mandates

Student Paper Competition

The DATC and AESS are sponsoring a student paper competition for the 2010 ICNS.  Active students and professionals within two years of graduation are eligible for ICNS Student Best Paper awards.  Papers eligible for these awards must be tagged as “student” when submitted.

Abstract Submission

Authors are invited to submit abstracts of no more than 750 words by February 19, 2010 February 26, 2010 on any of the topics listed. Please submit your abstract via the ICNS Conference Abstract Submission form.

Follow-up Deadlines

• Notification of acceptance will occur by March 8, 2010 March 15, 2010.
• Final Papers are encouraged for publication in the proceedings and are due April 16, 2010 April 23, 2010.
• Conference Presentations are due April 30, 2010.

Updated 7/14/2009

1. Presentations are now available on the ICNS Conference website.
2. Proceedings CD-ROMs were mailed on July 10, 2009, directly to ICNS Conference attendees who provided their mailing address and had a CD-ROM included with their registration.
3. Others wishing to access proceedings from the ICNS Conference can do so through the direct ICNS Conference link in the IEEE Xplore Digital Library. The IEEE generally references current ICNS Conference papers information on the Xplore site shortly after CD-ROMs are mailed to attendees.

We care about your safety and well-being and wanted to provide you with an update on what we are doing to address the Swine Flu virus that you have been hearing about in the news.

The following hygiene practices may help to limit your exposure to the virus:

• Cover your mouth, with a tissue (if possible), when you cough
• Washing your hands:
  • After using the restroom
  • After blowing or wiping your nose
  • After coughing (if you are unable to use a tissue)
  • Prior to preparing and eating food

We are taking the following precautions to safeguard your health:

• If you are feeling ill, you should see a physician as soon as possible.
• Employees that are displaying symptoms of Swine Flu will be temporarily relieved from their jobs until pronounced healthy by a physician.

We are monitoring local health departments, the U.S. Center for Disease Control and the World Health Organization relating to the incidence of confirmed cases of the Swine Flu. If we learn that there are confirmed cases in your area, we will be communicating with you about additional steps that we may be taking, for example:

• Personal protective equipment, including gloves and masks, will be made available for your use.
• Implementing increased cleaning regimens as recommended by local health authorities.

When making personal travel plans, you may wish to review these websites www.cdc.gov or www.who.int for the most up-to-date information on regions experiencing Swine Flu outbreaks.

Statement from DOT Secretary on H1N1 Influenza

FROM: Secretary Ray LaHood

SUBJECT: 2009 H1N1 Influenza Update

The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) continues to monitor the 2009 H1N1 influenza virus situation closely. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has confirmed 286 human cases of infection in 36 states and one death as of today, May 4, 2009.

To date, the cases in the United States have mostly been mild. The one fatal case was a Mexican infant who was brought to the United States for medical treatment. The DOT’s emergency management team is actively involved in coordination activities as part of the Federal response to this rapidly evolving outbreak.

Presently, CDC recommends that United States travelers avoid all nonessential travel to Mexico. The CDC has NOT recommended that people avoid domestic travel within the United States.

What should you do if you become sick?

If you live in areas where 2009 H1N1 influenza cases have been identified and become ill with influenza-like symptoms, including fever, body aches, runny nose, sore throat, nausea, or vomiting or diarrhea, contact your health-care provider. Your health-care provider will determine whether influenza testing or treatment is needed.

If you are sick, stay home and avoid contact with other people as much as possible to keep from spreading your illness to others. Be sure to report your illness to your DOT supervisors, so they will be aware of your condition.

Please practice the usual precautions of frequent hand washing and cough and sneeze hygiene to stay healthy, and encourage your family and friends also.

More information:

• Department of Transportation web site
• Center for Disease Control H1N1 Flu page