Automated Cost and Risk Tools for Satellite Electro-Optical Sensors

"Satellite electro-optical sensors provide valuable data in a wide range of fields such as topography, oceanography, atmospheric conditions, biological distribution, and climate. The United States Air Force, Navy, NASA, and private industry have launched avariety of observation satellites containing these sensors. The Air Force has always taken a primary role in research for developing these satellites and sensors.As with all cutting edge technology, the production of complex assemblies in relatively small quantities is an expensive learning process. The decision to develop a mission-critical electro-optical sensor requires both technical design information andcost/affordability data, as well as an understanding of the relationship between the two and the inherent technical and cost risk.We propose to produce a model to use new and innovative mathematical theories coupled with more traditional product- and process-based parametrics to quickly yet accurately estimate costs for space-based elector-optical sensors. In finalcommercialization, we will also couple automated design tools (CAD/CAM) to automated cost tools, providing the capability to examine both the technical and cost implications for a wide range of design options."