How would you categorize the model(s) used in the report section assigned with respect to
what you have learned about the taxonomy of models (physical, mathematical, etc.)?
In analyzing the accident analysis report, I observed that there were many models that
were use represent the data. However, the majority of the models were mathematical
models. These mathematical models generated desired outputs with the use of simulations.
The models used can be broken down in to three types of models, mathematical
model/simulation. The ballistic coefficients to estimate the ballistics of the foam, the image
analysis to capture the foam size, velocity, origin, and impact area, and the path CAD to
pin point where the debris would impact.
Based on what you have learned about model credibility and fidelity, where do you think
the various models used for the STS-107 should reside in the 2×2 matrix of model
confidence and model fidelity?
Image analysis model: Low fidelity, high credibility
Ballistic coefficients: Low fidelity, low credibility
Foam Path: Low fidelity, low credibility
How do you think the models affected the decision to continue flying the Space Shuttle
after Columbia?
Yes, the ambiguity of the identified data points cause them to not have certainty needed to
make actionable recommendations. The left bipod debris could have hit any of 4 panels. In
addition the impact speeds used also varied by 215 feet per second.
How does this relate to the situation in your firm? In particular, how do models affect the
Decision-making process in your organization? Be sure to mention a model, its taxonomy,
and how the model was used in a decision-making process in your organization.
