A Visual Programming Methodology for Tactical Aircrew Scheduling and Other Applications

Abstract

This thesis describes the aircrew scheduling problem faced by US Air Force units flying A-10 aircraft and a visual programming methodology used to automate A-10 aircrew scheduling. Database, scheduling, and programming technologies are discussed in the context of automated aircrew scheduling. The visual programming methodology developed is based on Microsoft Excel, a commercial spreadsheet with database functionality, and is unique because it focuses on the use of Excel as a general-purpose programming language. Using Excel, an A-10 aircrew scheduler was constructed with greedy heuristics which schedule based on priority, event requirements, and currencies subject to pilot and resource availability. Three other applications were developed using the methodology described, and, from the programming experience to date, recommendation for improvements are made.

Open PDF

Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Dec 01, 1991
Accession Number
ADA244635

Entities

People

  • Douglas E. Dyer

Organizations

  • Rome Laboratory

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • C4I
  • Energy and Power Technologies
  • Ground and Sea Platforms
  • Materials and Manufacturing Processes
  • Weapons Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Application Software
  • Computer Languages
  • Computer Program Documentation
  • Computer Program Reliability
  • Computer Programming
  • Computer Programs
  • Computer Science
  • Computers
  • Database Management Systems
  • Databases
  • Information Systems
  • Operating Systems
  • Programming Languages
  • Relational Database Management Systems
  • Software Development
  • Spreadsheet Software
  • Three Dimensional

Fields of Study

  • Computer science

Readers

  • Aerospace logistics and air mobility.
  • Life Cycle Cost Analysis
  • Operations Research