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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
All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
NASA NTRS1999

Technology for Elevated Temperature Tests of Structural Panels

A technique for full-field measurement of surface temperature and in-plane strain using a single grid imaging technique was demonstrated on a sample subjected to thermally-induced strain. The technique is based on digital imaging of a sample marked by an alternating line array of La2O2S:Eu(+3) thermographic phosphor and chromium illuminated by a UV lamp. Digital images of this array in unstrained and strained states were processed using a modified spin filter. Normal strain distribution was determined by combining unstrained and strained grid images using a single grid digital moire technique. Temperature distribution was determined by ratioing images of phosphor intensity at two wavelengths. Combined strain and temperature measurements demonstrated on the thermally heated sample were DELTA-epsilon = +/- 250 microepsilon and DELTA-T = +/- 5 K respectively with a spatial resolution of 0.8 mm.

Thornton, E. A.↗
NASA NTRS2003

A High Performance Image Data Compression Technique for Space Applications

A highly performing image data compression technique is currently being developed for space science applications under the requirement of high-speed and pushbroom scanning. The technique is also applicable to frame based imaging data. The algorithm combines a two-dimensional transform with a bitplane encoding; this results in an embedded bit string with exact desirable compression rate specified by the user. The compression scheme performs well on a suite of test images acquired from spacecraft instruments. It can also be applied to three-dimensional data cube resulting from hyper-spectral imaging instrument. Flight qualifiable hardware implementations are in development. The implementation is being designed to compress data in excess of 20 Msampledsec and support quantization from 2 to 16 bits. This paper presents the algorithm, its applications and status of development.

Yeh, Pen-Shu↗
NASA NTRS1979

A digital scene matching technique for geometric image correction and autonomous navigation

A technique is described for precise registration of two images of the same area, taken under different conditions. The technique, called AUTO-MATCH, involves digital preprocessing of the images to extract edge contours, followed by a correlation of corresponding edge end points. The availability of an array of endpoints makes possible subpixed registration accuracy. The technique is applied to a system for assessment of geometric image quality, to be installed at NASA-Goddard. This system measures the registration vectors over an array of window pairs from LANDSAT images, so as to determine the distortion between them. Similar measurements could be used to infer relative positioning of the spacecraft. The technique is considered for updating the inertial navigation systems of missiles or aircraft. Scene matching between an image obtained aboard the vehicle and a stored reference can eliminate the drift of an inertial platform in order to demonstrate this capability in real time. A laboratory demonstration of AUTO-MATCH is described.

Tisdale, G. E.↗
NASA NTRS2015

Characterization of Apollo Regolith by X-Ray and Electron Microbeam Techniques: An Analog for Future Sample Return Missions

The Apollo missions collected 382 kg of rock and regolith from the Moon; approximately 1/3 of the sample mass collected was regolith. Lunar regolith consists of well mixed rocks, minerals, and glasses less than 1-centimeter n size. The majority of most surface regolith samples were sieved into less than 1, 1-2, 2-4, and 4-10- millimiter size fractions; a portion of most samples was re-served unsieved. The initial characterization and classification of most Apollo regolith particles was done primarily by binocular microscopy. Optical classification of regolith is difficult because (1) the finest fraction of the regolith coats and obscures the textures of the larger particles, and (b) not all lithologies or minerals are uniquely identifiable optically. In recent years, we have begun to use more modern x-ray beam techniques [1-3], coupled with high resolution 3D optical imaging techniques [4] to characterize Apollo and meteorite samples as part of the curation process. These techniques, particularly in concert with SEM imaging of less than 1-millimeter regolith grain mounts, allow for the rapid characterization of the components within a regolith.

Zeigler, Ryan A.↗
NASA NTRS2008

A Novel 24 GHz One-Shot, Rapid and Portable Microwave Imaging System

Development of microwave and millimeter wave imaging systems has received significant attention in the past decade. Signals at these frequencies penetrate inside of dielectric materials and have relatively small wavelengths. Thus. imaging systems at these frequencies can produce images of the dielectric and geometrical distributions of objects. Although there are many different approaches for imaging at these frequencies. they each have their respective advantageous and limiting features (hardware. reconstruction algorithms). One method involves electronically scanning a given spatial domain while recording the coherent scattered field distribution from an object. Consequently. different reconstruction or imaging techniques may be used to produce an image (dielectric distribution and geometrical features) of the object. The ability to perform this accurate~v and fast can lead to the development of a rapid imaging system that can be used in the same manner as a video camera. This paper describes the design of such a system. operating at 2-1 GHz. using modulated scatterer technique applied to 30 resonant slots in a prescribed measurement domain.

Ghasr, M. T.↗
NASA NTRS1976

Frequency band justifications for passive sensors, 1 to 10 GHz

Remote sensor systems operating in the microwave region of the frequency spectrum provide information unobtainable with basic imaging techniques such as photography, television, or multispectral imaging. The frequency allocation requirements for passive microwave sensors used in the earth exploration satellite and space research services are presented for: (1) agriculture, forestry, and range resources; (2) land use survey and mapping: (3) water resources; (4) weather and climate; (5) environmental quality; and (6) marine resources, estuarine and oceans. Because measurements are required simultaneously in multiple frequency bands to adequately determine values of some phenomena, the relationships between frequency bands are discussed. The various measurement accuracies, dynamic range, resolutions and frequency needs are examined. A band-by-band summary of requirements, unique aspects, and sharing analyses of the required frequency bands is included.

Source record↗
NASA NTRS1991

Progress in extra-solar planet detection

Progress in extra-solar planet detection is reviewed. The following subject areas are covered: (1) the definition of a planet; (2) the weakness of planet signals; (3) direct techniques - imaging and spectral detection; and (4) indirect techniques - reflex motion and occultations.

Brown, Robert A.↗
NASA NTRS1992

A Ground-based Search for Lunar Resources Using High-resolution Imaging in the Infrared

When humans return to the Moon, lunar resources will play an important role in the successful deployment and maintenance of the lunar base. Previous studies have illustrated the abundance of resource materials available on the surface of the Moon, as well as their ready accessibility. Particularly worth considering are the lunar regional (2,000-30,000 sq km) pyroclastic deposits scattered about the lunar nearside. These 30-50-m-thick deposits are composed of fine-grained unconsolidated titanium- and iron-rich mafic glasses and may be used as bulk feedstock for the beneficiation of oxygen, iron, titanium, sulfur, and other solar wind gases, or simply used as is for construction and shielding purposes. A groundbased observing survey of the resource-rich regions on the lunar nearside using a new imaging technique designed to obtain much higher resolution images, and more precise compositional analyses than previously obtainable is proposed.

Coombs, C. R.↗
NASA NTRS2007

Comparison of Focused and Near-Field Imaging of Spray on Foam Insulation (SOFI) at Millimeter Wave Frequencies

Millimeter wave imaging techniques can provide high spatial-resolution images of various composites. Lens antennas may be incorporated into the imaging system to provide a small incident beam footprint. Another approach may involve the use of horn antennas, which if operating in their near-fields, images with reasonably high spatial-resolutions may also be obtained. This paper gives a comparison between such near-field and focused far-field imaging of the Space Shuttle Spray on Foam Insulation (SOFI) used in its external fuel tank at millimeter wave frequencies. Small horn antennas and lens antennas with relatively long depth of focus were used in this investigation.

Kharkovshy, S.↗
NASA NTRS1998

Advanced x-ray imaging spectrometer

An x-ray spectrometer that also provides images of an x-ray source. Coded aperture imaging techniques are used to provide high resolution images. Imaging position-sensitive x-ray sensors with good energy resolution are utilized to provide excellent spectroscopic performance. The system produces high resolution spectral images of the x-ray source which can be viewed in any one of a number of specific energy bands.

Callas, John L.↗
NASA NTRS2013

Method and Apparatus for Computed Imaging Backscatter Radiography

Systems and methods of x-ray backscatter radiography are provided. A single-sided, non-destructive imaging technique utilizing x-ray radiation to image subsurface features is disclosed, capable of scanning a region using a fan beam aperture and gathering data using rotational motion.

Shedlock, Daniel↗
NASA NTRS1988

A machine vision identification technique from range images

An orientation-independent identification technique from three-dimensional surface maps or range images is developed. Given the range image of an object, it is decomposed into orientation-independent patches using the sign of Gaussian curvature. A relational graph is then set up such that a node represents a patch and an edge represents the adjacency of two patches. The identification of the object is achieved by matching its graph representation to a number of model graphs. The matching is performed by employing the best-first search strategy. Examples of real range images show the merit of the technique.

Kehtarnavaz, N.↗
NASA NTRS1972

Analyses of requirements for computer control and data processing experiment subsystems. Volume 1: ATM experiment S-056 image data processing system techniques development

The solar imaging X-ray telescope experiment (designated the S-056 experiment) is described. It will photograph the sun in the far ultraviolet or soft X-ray region. Because of the imaging characteristics of this telescope and the necessity of using special techniques for capturing images on film at these wave lengths, methods were developed for computer processing of the photographs. The problems of image restoration were addressed to develop and test digital computer techniques for applying a deconvolution process to restore overall S-056 image quality. Additional techniques for reducing or eliminating the effects of noise and nonlinearity in S-056 photographs were developed.

Source record↗
NASA NTRSDate not supplied

Designing the Imaging and Breadboard System for FBCE-TL Project

This presentation outlines the support work done on designing the imaging and breadboard system of the Transfer Line (TL) project, which is the third module for the Flow Boiling and Condensation Experiment (FBCE) operating in the Fluids Integrated Rack on-board the International Space Station (ISS). The goal of the FBCE is to serve as a facility for flow boiling and condensation investigating two-phase flow and heat transfer data in microgravity. The TL module aims use existing FBCE hardware to study cryogenic chilldown, a large component of cryogenic propellant tank transfer research. The TL test module will perform chilldown studies with normal-perfluorohexane (nPFH), a cryogenic simulant, flowing through a super-heated line, which is heated through the process of Joule-heating. SolidWorks and Creo were used to create electrically conductive pipe junctions that connect and seal several Indium Tin Oxide (ITO) coated sapphire tube sections together to allow for low leak probability fluid flow and circumferentially uniform electrical current density. It is necessary to understand and calculate the thermal expansion of the tubing sections such that the junctions would not leak at anticipated operating temperatures and pressures, would maintain electrical contact, and not crack the crystalline tubes. Optical imaging techniques were used to build an experimentally validated image remapping process for flight-like setups of cylindrical tubes. Then MATLAB was used to create an algorithm that distorts an image based on the refraction of light passing through the mediums we were imaging through to accurately visualize the cryogenic chilldown that is of scientific interest. This research will assist NASA to move forward with long-duration spaceflight missions where knowledge of efficient heat transfer processes becomes more critical.

imaging system↗
NASA NTRSDate not supplied

Evaluating Electroluminescence Imaging and Image Processing as a Quantitative Solar Cell Characterization Method

Mitigating dust accumulation on the surface of solar arrays is crucial for maintaining maximum power output. We propose investigating electroluminescence imaging paired with image processing as a means of evaluating various dust mitigation techniques. Image processing was able to clearly differentiate between pristine and dusted solar cells. Paired with traditional analysis techniques, this method proves to be a quick and powerful characterization tool.

Photovoltaic↗
NASA NTRS2003

Investigation of Critical Heat Flux in Reduced Gravity Using Photomicrographic Techniques

Experiments were performed to examine the effects of body force on flow boiling critical heat flux (CHF). FC-72 was boiled along one wall of a transparent rectangular flow channel that permitted photographic study of the vapor-liquid interface just prior to CHF. High-speed video imaging techniques were used to identify dominant CHF mechanisms corresponding to different flow orientations and liquid velocities. Six different CHF regimes were identified: Wavy Vapor Layer, Pool Boiling, Stratification, Vapor Counterflow, Vapor Stagnation, and Separated Concurrent Vapor Flow. CHF showed significant sensitivity to orientation for flow velocities below 0.2 m/s, where extremely low CHF values where measured, especially with downward-facing heated wall and downflow orientations. High flow velocities dampened the effects of orientation considerably. The CHF data were used to assess the suitability of previous CHF models and correlations. It is shown the Interfacial Lift-off Model is very effective at predicting CHF for high velocities at all orientations. The flooding limit, on the other hand, is useful at estimating CHF at low velocities and for downflow orientations. A new method consisting of three dimensionless criteria is developed for determining the minimum flow velocity required to overcome body force effects on near-saturated flow boiling CHF. Vertical upflow boiling experiments were performed in pursuit of identifying the trigger mechanism for subcooled flow boiling CHF. While virtually all prior studies on flow boiling CHF concern the prediction or measurement of conditions that lead to CHF, this study was focused on events that take place during the CHF transient. High-speed video imaging and photomicrographic techniques were used to record the transient behavior of interfacial features from the last steady-state power level before CHF until the moment of power cut-off following CHF. The video records show the development of a wavy vapor layer which propagates along the heated wall, permitting cooling prior to CHF only in wetting fronts corresponding to the wave troughs. Image analysis software was developed to estimate void fraction from the individual video images. The void fraction records for subcooled flow boiling show the CHF transient is accompanied by gradual lift-off of wetting fronts culminating in some maximum vapor layer mean thickness, following which the vapor layer begins to thin down as the transition to film boiling ensues. This study proves the Interfacial Lift-off Model, which has been validated for near-saturated flow boiling CHF, is equally valid for subcooled conditions.

Mudawar, Issam↗