In this paper we present a system that electromagnetically tracks the positions and orientations of multiple wireless objects on a tabletop display surface. The system offers two types of improvements over existing tracking approaches such as computer vision. First, the system tracks objects quickly and accurately without susceptibility to occlusion or changes in lighting conditions. Second, the tracked objects have state that can be modified by attaching physical dials and modifiers. The system can detect these changes in realtime.We present several new interaction techniques developed in the context of this system. Finally, we present two applications of the system: chemistry and system dynamics simulation.

The design to cost concept establishes cost as a design parameter to be considered for a system throughout its life cycle. Cost is considered a design parameter equal in importance to technical requirements and schedule. Rockwell and the Jet Propulsion Laboratory have jointly learned that the most effective way to implement design to cost in our programs is within a product team environment. Also, we have established that the success of the program is heavily dependent on the exchange of information. It is important that the necessary steps be taken early to create an open data exchange. A methodology has been determined to increase communication between team members on performance versus cost tradeoffs using spreadsheets on personal computers.

Abstract. Rockwell Space Systems Division has been undergoing dramatic changes in the last three years to embrace the Integrated Product Team (IPT) development concept. The architecture of the design system operates is critical to our mission in becoming cheaper, faster, better. Our design architecture is evolving from one that is a byproduct of the design to one of driving good design. A key element in the design process is the interconnectivity of systems and design engineering. This paper discusses the changes that are occurring in people, processes and technologies which are evolving to produce cost effective, designed products by Rockwell Space Systems Division. A modification product design case study involving tool integration known as Enterprise Process and Data Management (EPDM) will be examined in more detail.

The Systems Engineering (SE) department at Space Systems Division of Rockwell is responsible for providing qualified Systems Engineers to all of the division's programs. Our training program addresses both immediate and long term skill needs. Immediate skill needs are developed with just‐in‐time in‐house training and on‐the‐job training. Our long term SE training program is integrated with SE career planning so individuals can identify specific types of training they need to achieve their long term career objectives. In addition, we monitor the effectiveness of the SE training to continuously improve it. Our training program consists of four basic elements: (1) an internal SE How‐To course to teach basic principles, (2) SE tools training, (3) on‐the‐job‐training (experience), and (4) formal degree SE programs from local universities.

Digraph analysis, an approach to Boolean modeling and analysis of large systems, is a valuable technique when performed as part of systems engineering effort‐Digraph analysis provides modeling of physical and informational flow to evaluate and document decisions regarding design capabilities. It supports effectiveness analyses, design analyses, and trades in examining system interactions, fault tolerance, reliability, redundancies, and risks. A demonstration of how digraph analysis was used when performing systems engineering in an integrated product team environment on the Mars Environmental Survey (MESUR) program is given.