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Ingram, H. L.

Publications and source records attributed to Ingram, H. L..

A comparison of digital computer programs for the numerical solution of ordinary differential equations

Recently the determination of the best technique for numerically solving systems of ordinary differential equations on a digital computer has received much attention. The use of these formulas in conjunction with a stepsize control developed is explained, and one of the formulas is chosen for comparison with other integration techniques. This comparison of one of the best of Fehlberg's formulas with the different numerical techniques described in previous studies on a variety of test problems clearly shows the superiority of Fehlberg's formula. That is, on each of the test problems, the chosen Fehlberg formula is able to achieve a given accuracy in less computer time than any of the other techniques tested. Also, the computer program for the chosen Fehlberg formula is less complex and easier to use than the computer programs for most of the other techniques. To illustrate the use of the chosen Fehlberg formula, a computer listing of its application to several example problems is included along with a sample of the computer output from these applications.

Ingram, H. L.

Closed-form solutions for atomspheric flight with applications to shuttle guidance

Closed-form solutions for the motion of a rocket-powered vehicle during atmospheric ascent and closed-form solutions for unpowered atmospheric reentry are developed. These closed-form solutions are then used to develop a simplified guidance scheme and to develop a variation-of-parameters integration of more accurate equations of motion with the closed-form solutions as base solutions. The variation-of-parameters integration of the more accurate equations of motion also allows the transition partial derivative matrices associated with these equations to be easily developed. Then the partial derivative transition matrices are used to develop a guidance scheme based on the more accurate equations of motion instead of the less accurate closed-form solutions.

Ingram, H. L.

The selection of approximating functions for tabulated numerical data

A computer program was developed that selects, from a list of candidate functions, the approximating functions and associated coefficients which result in the best curve fit of a given set of numerical data. The advantages of the approach used here are: (1) Multivariable approximations can be performed. (2) Flexibility with respect to the type of approximations used is available. (3) The program is designed to choose the best terms to be used in the approximation from an arbitrary list of possible terms so that little knowledge of the proper approximating form is required. (4) Recursion relations are used in determining the coefficients of the approximating functions, which reduces the computer execution time of the program.

Ingram, H. L.

Mascot - A new concept in guidance

Trajectory algorithm for complete trajectory from liftoff to landing with optimal control and onboard flight computer for use in manned space shuttle

Baker, C. D.

An orthonormalization procedure for multivariable function approximation

Where a function of several variables is given numerically in tabular form, an orthonormalization technique allows an approximation of the numerical data to be determined in a convenient functional form. In this technique, the speed and accuracy of coefficient computation are much improved.

Ingram, H. L.