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Search indexed NASA NTRS and DOE OSTI research on propulsion, heat transfer, battery materials and energy systems. Follow report and document links to the original sources.

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At least 181 records · Page 10

Comprehensive Analysis Aeroelastic Stability Predictions for the Mars Sample Recovery Helicopters and Ingenuity

A rotorcraft comprehensive analysis was used to generate aeroelastic stability predictions for both Ingenuity and the Mars Sample Recovery Helicopters. The analysis was performed multiple times for each rotor system with sequential increases to the level of modeling complexity. Initial cases used an independent blade analysis, trim inflow distribution, no airframe degrees of freedom, and a hover condition (a time-invariant problem). The final model used all blades, dynamic inflow, airframe degrees of freedom, and a Floquet theory approach to the flutter analysis. The approach of sequentially increasing modeling complexity was employed to ensure the causes of any observed instabilities could be identified. For each case, stability results were determined across a range of air densities, tip Mach numbers, and rotor collective pitch settings. For the Sample Recovery Helicopter, a forward flight condition analysis with the highest level of modeling complexity was also performed. The aeroelastic stability predictions showed both the Ingenuity and Sample Recovery Helicopter rotor systems to be stable for all analyzed conditions. Parameter excursions of structural properties were performed to explore conditions resulting in aeroelastic instabilities.

Aeroelastic↗

Development of an Aeroelastic Code Based on an Euler/Navier-Stokes Aerodynamic Solver

This paper describes the development of an aeroelastic code (TURBO-AE) based on an Euler/Navier-Stokes unsteady aerodynamic analysis. A brief review of the relevant research in the area of propulsion aeroelasticity is presented. The paper briefly describes the original Euler/Navier-Stokes code (TURBO) and then details the development of the aeroelastic extensions. The aeroelastic formulation is described. The modeling of the dynamics of the blade using a modal approach is detailed, along with the grid deformation approach used to model the elastic deformation of the blade. The work-per-cycle approach used to evaluate aeroelastic stability is described. Representative results used to verify the code are presented. The paper concludes with an evaluation of the development thus far, and some plans for further development and validation of the TURBO-AE code.

Bakhle, Milind A.↗

Analytical modeling of helicopter static and dynamic induced velocity in GRASP

The methodology used by the General Rotorcraft Aeromechanical Stability Program (GRASP) to model the characteristics of the flow through a helicopter rotor in hovering or axial flight is described. Since the induced flow plays a significant role in determining the aeroelastic properties of rotorcraft, the computation of the induced flow is an important aspect of the program. Because of the combined finite-element/multibody methodology used as the basis for GRASP, the implementation of induced velocity calculations presented an unusual challenge to the developers. To preserve the modelling flexibility and generality of the code, it was necessary to depart from the traditional methods of computing the induced velocity. This is accomplished by calculating the actuator disc contributions to the rotor loads in a separate element called the air mass element, and then performing the calculations of the aerodynamic forces on individual blade elements within the aeroelastic beam element.

Kunz, Donald L.↗

Analytical modeling of helicopter static and dynamic induced velocity in GRASP

The methodology used by the General Rotorcraft Aeromechanical Stability Program (GRASP) to model the characteristics of the flow through a helicopter rotor in hovering or axial flight is described. Since the induced flow plays a significant role in determining the aeroelastic properties of rotorcraft, the computation of the induced flow is an important aspect of the program. Because of the combined finite-element/multibody methodology used as the basis for GRASP, the implementation of induced velocity calculations presented an unusual challenge to the developers. To preserve the modelling flexibility and generality of the code, it was necessary to depart from the traditional methods of computing the induced velocity. This is accomplished by calculating the actuator disk contributions to the rotor loads in a separate element called the air mass element, and then performing the calculations of the aerodynamic forces on individual blade elements within the aeroelastic beam element.

Kunz, Donald L.↗

Arbitrary motion unsteady aerodynamics and its application to rotary-wing aeroelasticity

This paper presents in a unified manner recent research on arbitrary motion unsteady aerodynamics with an emphasis on applications to a number of rotary wing aeroelastic problems. The term arbitrary motion is used to denote growing or decaying oscillations with a certain frequency. The specific topics treated in this paper are: (1) generalization of Greenberg's theory and its application to hingeless rotor aeroelastic stability; (2) description of a new technique for formulating finite state approximations to steady aerodynamic theories, which are suitable for both fixed-wing and rotary-wing applications, and its application to generalize Loewy's theory; (3) comparison of fixed wing and rotary-wing indicial response functions; (4) influence of arbitrary motion aerodynamics, as represented by dynamic inflow on a helicopter in ground resonance. From the discussion of these topics a number of useful conclusions on the fundamental nature of arbitrary motion aerodynamics and its role in rotary-wing aeroelasticity are obtained.

Friedmann, P. P.↗

Design of a Collocation-Based Active Flutter Suppression Control Law for the IAWTM Wind Tunnel Model

The design of an active flutter suppression (AFS) control law for upcoming wind tunnel tests in the Transonic Dynamics Tunnel (TDT) at the NASA Langley Research Center (LaRC) with the Integrated Adaptive Wing Technology Maturation (IAWTM) project is presented. The test article is a highly flexible half-span model of a transport airplane and tests will focus on the transonic regime. The control law is based on the concept of collocation, sometimes called identically located accelerometer and force (ILAF), which uses local velocity feedback to increase damping for all aeroelastic modes. A multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) extension of this architecture is used for performance and robustness improvements. Results showed that the proposed control law with three fixed gains stabilized the design models over most of the test envelope and successfully extended the open-loop flutter boundary to higher Mach numbers and dynamic pressures.

Active flutter suppression↗

FLEXSTAB: A computer program for the prediction of loads and stability and control of flexible aircraft

Capabilities of the FLEXSTAB Computer Program System are described and illustrated. Aeroelastic analysis of a wide variety of aircraft configurations is performed. The aerodynamic theory used in FLEXSTAB is applicable to both steady and unsteady, subsonic and supersonic flow for multiple wing-body tail nacelle configurations with a plane of symmetry. For unsteady flow calculations, an unsteady aerodynamic theory is used which is appropriate for the low reduced frequencies associated with aircraft flight dynamics. The aircraft is modeled as either a rigid or flexible structure. The computer trims the aircraft in steady reference flight and computes both static and dynamic stability and control derivatives and the stability behavior about the trim condition. The airplane lifting pressure distribution, aerodynamic and inertia loads and deflected shape are also computed.

Perkin, B. R.↗

A new look at arbitrary motion unsteady aerodynamics and its application to rotary-wing aeroelasticity

This paper presents in a unified manner recent research on arbitrary motion unsteady aerodynamics with an emphasis on applications to a number of rotary wing aeroelastic problems. The term arbitrary motion is used to denote growing or decaying oscillations with a certain frequency. The specific topics treated in this paper are: (1) generalization of Greenberg's theory and its application to hingeless rotor aeroelastic stability; (2) description of a new technique for formulating finite state approximations to unsteady aerodynamic theories, which are suitable for both fixed-wing and rotary-wing applications, and its application to generalize Loewy's theory; (3) comparison of fixed wing and rotary-wing indicial response functions; (4) influence of a arbitrary motion aerodynamics, as represented by dynamic inflow on a helicopter in ground resonance and (5) comparison of dynamic inflow with arbitrary motion unsteady airfoil aerodynamics. From the discussion of these topics a number of useful conclusions on the fundamental nature of arbitrary motion aerodynamics and its role in rotary-wing aeroelasticity are obtained.

Friedmann, P. P.↗

Development of methodology for horizontal axis wind turbine dynamic analysis

Horizontal axis wind turbine dynamics were studied. The following findings are summarized: (1) review of the MOSTAS computer programs for dynamic analysis of horizontal axis wind turbines; (2) review of various analysis methods for rotating systems with periodic coefficients; (3) review of structural dynamics analysis tools for large wind turbine; (4) experiments for yaw characteristics of a rotating rotor; (5) development of a finite element model for rotors; (6) development of simple models for aeroelastics; and (7) development of simple models for stability and response of wind turbines on flexible towers.

Dugundji, J.↗

Integration of dynamic, aerodynamic, and structural optimization of helicopter rotor blades

Summarized here is the first six years of research into the integration of structural, dynamic, and aerodynamic considerations in the design-optimization process for rotor blades. Specifically discussed here is the application of design optimization techniques for helicopter rotor blades. The reduction of vibratory shears and moments at the blade root, aeroelastic stability of the rotor, optimum airframe design, and an efficient procedure for calculating system sensitivities with respect to the design variables used are discussed.

Peters, David A.↗

Uncertainty Quantification of the FUN3D-Predicted NASA CRM Flutter Boundary

A nonintrusive point collocation method is used to propagate parametric uncertainties of the flexible Common Research Model, a generic transport configuration, through the unsteady aeroelastic CFD solver FUN3D. A range of random input variables are considered, including atmospheric flow variables, structural variables, and inertial (lumped mass) variables. UQ results are explored for a range of output metrics (with a focus on dynamic flutter stability), for both subsonic and transonic Mach numbers, for two different CFD mesh refinements. A particular focus is placed on computing failure probabilities: the probability that the wing will flutter within the flight envelope.

Stanford, Bret K.↗

Helios Prototype Vehicle Mishap: Technical Findings, Recommendations, and Lessons Learned

Instability associated with the Helios Prototype HPO3-2 vehicle was a nonlinear stability and control problem involving complex interactions among the flexible structure, the unsteady aerodynamics, the flight control system, the environmental conditions, and vehicle flight dynamics. Analysis tools and solution techniques were constrained by conventional and segmented linear methodologies that did not provide the proper level of complexity to understand the technology interactions on the vehicle s stability and control characteristics. More advanced, multidisciplinary (structures, aeroelastic, aerodynamics, atmospheric, materials, propulsion, controls, etc) "time-domain" analysis methods appropriate to highly flexible, "morphing" vehicles are required. Ground-test procedures and techniques appropriate to this class of vehicle are needed to validate new analysis methods and predictions

DelFrate, John H.↗

A study of aeroelastic and structural dynamic effects in multi-rotor systems with application to hybrid heavy lift vehicles

An aeroelastic model suitable for the study of aeroelastic and structural dynamic effects in multirotor vehicles simulating a hybrid heavy lift vehicle was developed and applied to the study of a number of diverse problems. The analytical model developed proved capable of modeling a number of aeroelastic problems, namely: (1) isolated blade aeroelastic stability in hover and forward flight, (2) coupled rotor/fuselage aeromechanical problem in air or ground resonance, (3) tandem rotor coupled rotor/fuselage problems, and (4) the aeromechanical stability of a multirotor vehicle model representing a hybrid heavy lift airship (HHLA). The model was used to simulate the ground resonance boundaries of a three bladed hingeless rotor model, including the effect of aerodynamic loads, and the theoretical predictions compared well with experimental results. Subsequently the model was used to study the aeromechanical stability of a vehicle representing a hybrid heavy lift airship, and potential instabilities which could occur for this type of vehicle were identified. The coupling between various blade, supporting structure and rigid body modes was identified.

Friedmann, P. P.↗

Aeroelastic Stability and Response of Rotating Structures

A summary of the work performed under NASA grant is presented. More details can be found in the cited references. This grant led to the development of relatively faster aeroelastic analysis methods for predicting flutter and forced response in fans, compressors, and turbines using computational fluid dynamic (CFD) methods. These methods are based on linearized two- and three-dimensional, unsteady, nonlinear aerodynamic equations. During the period of the grant, aeroelastic analysis that includes the effects of uncertainties in the design variables has also been developed.

Keith, Theo G., Jr.↗

Aeroelastic Stability & Response of Rotating Structures

A summary of the work performed under NASA grant NCC3-605 is presented. More details can be found in the cited references. This grant led to the development of relatively faster aeroelastic analyses methods for predicting flutter and forced response in fans, compressors, and turbines using computational fluid dynamic (CFD) methods.

Keith, Theo G., Jr.↗

Assessing Fan Flutter Stability in the Presence of Inlet Distortion Using One-way and Two-way Coupled Methods

Concerns regarding noise, propulsive efficiency, and fuel burn are inspiring aircraft designs wherein the propulsive turbomachines are partially (or fully)embedded within the airframe; such designs present serious concerns with regard to aerodynamic and aeromechanic performance of the compression system in response to inlet distortion. Previously, a preliminary design of a forward-swept high-speed fan exhibited flutter concerns in clean-inlet flows, and the present author then studied this fan further in the presence of off-design distorted in-flows. A three-dimensional, unsteady, Navier-Stokes computational fluid dynamics code is applied to analyze and corroborate fan performance with clean inlet flow. This code, already validated in its application to assess aerodynamic damping of vibrating blades at various flow conditions using a loosely-coupled approach, is modified to include a tightly-coupled aeroelastic simulation capability, and then loosely-coupled and tightly-coupled methods arecompared in their evaluation of flutter stability in distorted in-flows.

fluid-structure interaction↗

Helicopter gust alleviation, attitude stabilization, and vibration alleviation using individual-blade-control through a conventional swash plate

The novel active control system presented for helicopter rotor aerodynamic and aeroelastic problems involves the individual control of each blade in the rotating frame over a wide range of frequencies (up to the sixth harmonic of rotor speed). This Individual Blade Control (IBC) system controls blade pitch by means of broadband electrohydraulic actuators attached to the swash plate (in the case of three blades) or individually to each blade, using acceleratometer signals to furnish control commands to the actuators. Attention is given to IBC's application to blade lag, flapping, and bending dynamics. It is shown that gust alleviation, attitude stabilization, vibration alleviation, and air/ground resonance suppression, are all achievable with a conventional helicopter swash plate.

Ham, N. D.↗

Aircraft System Identification from Multisine Inputs and Frequency Responses

A frequency-domain approach is described for estimating parameters, such as stability and control derivatives, in aircraft flight dynamic models from measured input and output data. The approach uses orthogonal phase-optimized multisines for moving the aircraft control effectors, Fourier analysis for computing multiple-input multiple-output frequency responses, and a maximum likelihood estimator called frequency response error (FRE) for determining values and uncertainties for the model parameters. The approach is demonstrated using flight test data for two subscale airplanes: the T-2 generic transport model and the X-56A aeroelastic demonstrator. Results and comparisons with the output-error method indicated that the approach produced accurate estimates of stability and control derivatives and their uncertainties from flight test data.

Grauer, Jared A.↗