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capabilities



Modeling and Simulation

Modeling and Simulation (M&S) is one of ARA’s core competencies. Our M&S capabilities include developing mathematically rigorous solutions that satisfy fundamental principles of mass, momentum, and energy conservation, fast-running engineering-level and empirically-derived models, and hardware-in-the-loop systems. We develop general-purpose simulations and focused decision support and simulation tools used in theater and in operational support cells. We complement our custom M&S with an expansive suite of GOTS and COTS capabilities that we apply to a broad range of problems.

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First Principles Simulation: ARA’s deep expertise in the physical sciences was used to develop high-fidelity, first-principles simulation codes. For example, we have developed, and continue to maintain, national-level capabilities that simulate complex physical phenomena such as:

  • Electromagnetic environments in and around complex vehicles and structures
  • Conventional and nuclear explosive detonations and blast propagation
  • The evolution of a high-altitude nuclear detonations and subsequent environments and effects in space and on the ground
  • Structural response to extreme, high-explosive-driven environments
  • High-velocity impact and fragment interactions with materials

Subject matter experts at ARA also maintain and use COTS simulation packages and a suite of first-principle codes created by the DOE national laboratories.

M&S for Decision Support:
ARA has developed operational software using engineering-based and empirically-derived models to provide rapid decision support in key national security areas such as combating weapons of mass destruction (WMD). ARA engineers and scientists have developed much of the theory and data behind modern weapon-target interaction models. Our models and simulations are used to research new weapon concepts and to validate weapon lethality against emerging target sets. The first instance of using a validated physical response model to simulate an air-to-surface weapon engagement with a hard target in a large-scale, HLA-based simulation was led by engineers from ARA and used ARA-developed models.

M&S Support Technologies: ARA engineers are experts in applying traditional and novel probabilistic methods to address random and systematic uncertainties. ARA’s staff has developed key components of the semi-automated forces (SAF) series of simulations, including human behaviors and terrain interrogation. We have developed ultra-efficient data representations, enabling more realistic physics models to be employed in simulations and making them more useful to the community. ARA leads in capabilities to rapidly create physical models of man-made structures for use in simulations. ARA’s leading edge technologists are developing new methods to exploit remote sensing data such as lidar and hyperspectral imagery, to automatically generate in real-time attributed terrain databases useful in many types of simulations. ARA scientists are domain experts in developing interoperable terrain databases ensuring a “fair-fight” between distributed virtual and constructive simulations.

M&S Applications: ARA uses campaign and force-on-force simulations to perform systems, trade, and parameter studies supporting a wide range of customers. For example, we use GOTS and COTS simulation tools to study the effectiveness of sensor configurations for persistent surveillance. ARA also leverages physics-based simulations for training applications. For example, ARA’s HumanSim™ combines state-of-the-art gaming technology with the leading human physiology simulator.

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Applied Research Associates, Inc. • 4300 San Mateo Blvd. NE • Suite A-220 • Albuquerque, NM 87110 • Ph. 505.881.8074 Fax 505.883.3673
Note: Applied Research Associates, Inc. does not offer engineering services in the State of North Carolina.
Please contact Applied Research Associates of North Carolina, P.C. to inquire about engineering services in this state. (919) 876-6018.