Search NASA⌕ Search

Engineering topics

Strane, R. E.

Publications and source records attributed to Strane, R. E..

Stabilization of nonlinear systems using linear observers

It is shown that a linear observer can always be employed to stabilize a nonlinear system which contains a true Popov type nonlinearity in the closed interval from 0 to k, where k is finite, provided the nonlinear function and a completely observable output of the linear portion are available as inputs to the observer. Taking into consideration the case in which a completely observable output is not available from the linear portion, stabilization is shown to be possible if the original linear approximation of the system is asymptotically stable.

Strane, R. E.↗

Airborne infrared astronomy telescope

Description of a 91.5-cm (36-in.) airborne infrared telescope installed in a C141A StarLifter as a national IR observatory. The telescope system is mounted in a specially constructed cavity located just ahead of the leading edge of the wing. All controls and ancillary systems are located in consoles and racks mounted aft of the telescope. The telescope is a conventional Cassegrain design which can be used either directly with the focal point behind the primary mirror or in a folded configuration by inserting a tertiary mirror following the secondary which folds the optical path through the support bearing into the aircraft cabin area. The telescope system is designed to operate at all ambient conditions from sea level to 15,200 m. The system is optimized for operation at ambient temperatures experienced at 13,000 to 15,000 m (220 K). The entire telescope assembly with the exception of noncritical covers and brackets is constructed of Invar-type material to minimize the effects of thermal distortions. Pointing accuracy and stability of the telescope with respect to the target are achieved through multiple stages of stabilization and vibration isolation equipment.

Cameron, R. M.↗