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Johnson, Richard

Publications and source records attributed to Johnson, Richard.

Implementation of Nonlinear Control Laws for an Optical Delay Line

This paper discusses the implementation of a globally stable nonlinear controller algorithm for the Real-Time Interferometer Control System Testbed (RICST) brassboard optical delay line (ODL) developed for the Interferometry Technology Program at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory. The control methodology essentially employs loop shaping to implement linear control laws. while utilizing nonlinear elements as means of ameliorating the effects of actuator saturation in its coarse, main, and vernier stages. The linear controllers were implemented as high-order digital filters and were designed using Bode integral techniques to determine the loop shape. The nonlinear techniques encompass the areas of exact linearization, anti-windup control, nonlinear rate limiting and modal control. Details of the design procedure are given as well as data from the actual mechanism.

Hench, John J.

The Field Operations and Early Results of the South China Sea Monsoon Experiment (SCSMEX)

The South China Sea Monsoon Experiment (SCSMEX) is an international field experiment with the objective to better understand the key physical processes for the onset and evolution of the Asian summer monsoon in relation to fluctuation of the regional hydrologic cycle over Southeast Asian, southern East Asia, aiming at improving monsoon prediction. In this article, we present a description of the major meteorological observation platforms during the Intensive Observing Periods (IOP) of SCSMEX. We also provide highlights of early results and discussions of the role of SCSMEX in providing valuable in-situ data for calibration of satellite rainfall estimate from the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM). Preliminary results indicate that there are distinctive stages in the onset of the South China Sea monsoon including possibly strong influences from extratropical systems as well as from convection over the Indian Ocean and the Bay of Bengal. There are some tantalizing evidence of complex interactions between the supercloud cluster development over the Indian Ocean, advancing southwest monsoon flow over the South China Sea, midlatitude disturbances and the western Pacific subtropical high, possibly contributing to the disastrous flood over Yangtze River Basin in China during June 1998.

Lau, K. M.

Demonstrating the Performance Benefits of the Strutjet RBCC for Space Launch Architectures

The Rocket Based Combined Cycle (RBCC) engine synergistically combines the best elements of airbreathing and rocket propulsion to benefit a wide range of future reusable launch vehicles (RLV). Aerojet's Strutjet RBCC offers high Isp during mid-phase acceleration, and high thrust for boost and final ascent phases. The result is a relatively low gross weight vehicle that reduces thrust requirements compared with all-rocket solutions. Relative to combination propulsion systems, the integrated propulsive elements of the Strutjet reduce engine weight and complexity. This paper will summarize the results of tests demonstrating our latest hydrogen-fueled Strutjet RBCC engine performance, including inlet operability and performance over a range of conditions, sea level static and Mach 2.4 rocket thrust augmentation, ramjet and scramjet performance, combined scramjet/rocket performance at Mach 8, and ascent mode rocket performance. These tests have significantly advanced the technology readiness of the Strutjet engine and substantiate the performance benefits of RBCC engines for reusable launch vehicle applications. A companion paper provides a focus on Strutjet as a basis for advanced air and space architecture, covering hydrogen and hydrocarbon fuels and cooled structures.

Siebenhaar, Adam

Constructor selection system

Future space construction missions will involve both human and machine constructors. Selection of the optimum constructor mix requires a model of constructor capabilities and requirements. The database for that model is developed via extrapolation from current literature. Optimization is done via minimization of total mission cost using a linear programming approach. This prototype is the first cut at producing a general tool for choosing a near-optimum constructor mix for any space construction mission. It illuminates some significant representational and data-gathering problems with the modelling approach.

Johnson, Richard

L1 libration point manned space habitat

Second generation stations or Manned Space Habitats (MSHs) are discussed for an Earth-Moon libration point and in lunar orbit. The conceptual design of such a station is outlined. Systems and subsystems described reflect anticipation of moderate technology growth. The evolution of the L1 environments is discussed, several selected subsystems are outlined, and how the L1 MSH will complete some of its activities is described.

Luttges, Marvin