USA Analysis Engineers developed an in-depth understanding of mechanical systems, and loads and analysis of large structures, components, and assemblies. This includes normal and contingency operations, integration of components within complex systems and coordination with multiple users and customers.

USA engineers are adept at applying environments, such as thermal, acoustic, and aerodynamic loads, to components and structures and derivation of static equivalent loads from random vibration environments.

Additionally, USA engineers have a comprehensive understanding of orbital mechanics and complex dynamic geometric alignment situations. They develop precise solutions to line-of-sight problems for resource management of systems including satellite communications scheduling and operational objectives. Engineers map projections of structural models and target celestial, orbiting, and geodetic objects which provide a basis for systems management support and optimal attitude determination. Quaternion transformations and line-of-sight vector targeting are used to schedule resources and protect sensitive critical systems hardware.

In the Robotics Analysis discipline, USA engineers facilitate robotics operations by integrating inputs from multiple sources and formats, developing and maintaining graphics models and employing configuration management to create and maintain a complex, 3-D virtual environment. Team members simulate robotic equipment responses to control inputs and loads to ensure safety and success of planned operations. Analyses supported include:

• Kinematic analysis - for reach and lift capability assessments, trajectory and clearance assessments, operations planning and animations, troubleshooting, and real-time operations support
• Dynamic analysis - for loads and motion assessments and equipment response

USA Robotics Analysis capabilities encompass: modeling graphical environments; creating animations of planned operations; employing equations of motion; applying forcing functions; incorporating mass properties and moments/products of inertia; tracking antenna blockage and solar panel shadowing; and monitoring loads, external forces and excessive motion to ensure safe and efficient operation and long term equipment health.

Other analysis capabilities include flight design and dynamics for ascent, rendezvous, entry and contingency launch aborts. Analysis employees evaluate, simulate, and provide solutions to complex problems associated with materials and processes, vehicle propulsion, debris mitigation, vehicle performance and anomaly resolution.

These analysis capabilities are at times used in response to in-flight contingencies, and are critical to ensuring mission safety and success.

USA has been instrumental in the development of design, operational requirements, and environments, and has set industry standards by spearheading efforts to expand knowledge of vehicle and flight performance. Company employees have also led and participated in numerous trade studies, test programs, and design activities. They have benefited by working in a multidisciplinary environment and supporting multiple customers supplying a wide range of engineering products and services.