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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 199 records · Page 11

Direct computation of turbulence and noise

Jet exhaust turbulence noise is computed using a time dependent solution of the three dimensional Navier-Stokes equations to supply the source terms for an acoustic computation based on the Phillips convected wave equation. An extrapolation procedure is then used to determine the far field noise spectrum in terms of the near field sound. This will lay the groundwork for studies of more complex flows typical of noise suppression nozzles.

Berman, C.↗

Some examples of exact and approximate solutions in small particle scattering - A progress report

The formulation of basic equations from which the scattering of radiation by a localized variation in a medium is discussed. These equations are developed in both the differential and the integral form. Primary interest is in the scattering of electromagnetic waves for which the solution of the vector wave equation with appropriate boundary conditions must be considered. Scalar scattering by an infinite homogeneous isotropic circular cylinder, and scattering of electromagnetic waves by infinite circular cylinders are treated, and the case of the finite circular cylinder is considered. A procedure is given for obtaining angular scattering distributions from spheroids.

Greenberg, J. M.↗

Supergranulation-driven Alfven waves in the solar chromosphere and related phenomena.

It has recently been recognized that Alfven waves frequently dominate the microstructure of the solar wind at the orbit of the earth. We seek a solar source for these waves, and consider here their excitation by the supergranular motions. The wave equation is solved in a horizontally stratified, bi-exponential solar atmosphere. The interaction of Alfven wave motions associated with adjacent supergranules is discussed qualitatively. The Alfven wave effectively conveys the supergranular motions to great heights in the chromosphere. These motions are oppositely directed above intersupergranule boundaries, and compress the magnetic field there. A naive calculation of the compression, based on balancing dynamic and magnetic pressures, leads to adequate agreement with observations of the chromospheric network. We find that the magnetic field is appreciably compressed only below about 1500 km, and on this basis we reject theories of spicule formation which require large vertical magnetic fields at the heights reached by spicules. We advance a theory for spicule formation, in which spicules form as a result of matter being squeezed upward, out of the compression region between adjacent supergranules.

Hollweg, J. V.↗

Minisuperspace.

The model universe in which a Klein-Gordon type equation was first studied is reviewed, as well as a Hamiltonian statement of the corresponding classical problem of solving Einstein's equation. Developments are generalized to a minisuperspace with a nondiagonal metric in place of an appropriate wave equation, in which case minisuperspace is no longer flat. The basic commutation relations for quantization in this curved space are then related to its Killing vectors.

Misner, C. W.↗

Stability of localized plasma model in two and three dimensions

Stability against catastrophic radial collapse is demonstrated for initially well-behaved, localized solutions in a class of two- and three-dimensional wave equations characterized by saturating nonlinearities, which model various electrostatic and electromagnetic 'caviton' structures in an asymptotically uniform plasma. This result contrasts sharply with mathematical predictions of equations with low-order nonlinearities. Discrete classes of possible quasistationary modes exhibit features comparable to atomic wave functions and differ qualitatively from one-dimensional structures.

Wilcox, J. Z.↗

A mathematical formulation of the Scole control problem, part 1

A mathematical formulation of the SCOLE control problem in terms of a continuous model described by partial differential equations with delta functions on the boundary is presented along with three techniques of solution. The abstract wave equation approach leads immediately to a linear feedback law that can ensure (strong) stability. The boundary control approach yields an explicit solution, albeit in a simple case.

Balakrishnan, A. V.↗

An introduction to three-dimensional climate modeling

The development and use of three-dimensional computer models of the earth's climate are discussed. The processes and interactions of the atmosphere, oceans, and sea ice are examined. The basic theory of climate simulation which includes the fundamental equations, models, and numerical techniques for simulating the atmosphere, oceans, and sea ice is described. Simulated wind, temperature, precipitation, ocean current, and sea ice distribution data are presented and compared to observational data. The responses of the climate to various environmental changes, such as variations in solar output or increases in atmospheric carbon dioxide, are modeled. Future developments in climate modeling are considered. Information is also provided on the derivation of the energy equation, the finite difference barotropic forecast model, the spectral transform technique, and the finite difference shallow water waved equation model.

Washington, W. M.↗

The cutoff frequency for fast-mode magnetohydrodynamic waves in an isothermal atmosphere with a uniform horizontal magnetic field

This study analytically examines conditions for reflection of MHD fast-mode waves propagating upward in an isothermal atmosphere. A new method of transforming the linearized wave equation into Klein-Gordon form is utilized to calculate a local cutoff (critical) frequency for these waves. This critical frequency determines the height in the atmosphere at which reflection dominates and above which wave propagation is effectively cut off. Comparison of our results to those previously obtained shows that earlier calculations of the critical frequency for MHD fast mode waves were done incorrectly. The results may be helpful in explaining the short-period end of the spectrum of the solar global p-mode oscillations. They may also be important in studies of wave propagation and wave trapping in highly magnetized stellar atmospheres.

Stark, B. A.↗

Global Discrete Artificial Boundary Conditions for Time-Dependent Wave Propagation

We construct global artificial boundary conditions (ABCs) for the numerical simulation of wave processes on unbounded domains using a special non-deteriorating algorithm that has been developed previously for the long-term computation of wave-radiation solutions. The ABCs are obtained directly for the discrete formulation of the problem; in so doing, neither a rational approximation of 'non-reflecting kernels,' nor discretization of the continuous boundary conditions is required. The extent of temporal nonlocality of the new ABCs appears fixed and limited; in addition, the ABCs can handle artificial boundaries of irregular shape on regular grids with no fitting/adaptation needed and no accuracy loss induced. The non-deteriorating algorithm, which is the core of the new ABCs is inherently three-dimensional, it guarantees temporally uniform grid convergence of the solution driven by a continuously operating source on arbitrarily long time intervals, and provides unimprovable linear computational complexity with respect to the grid dimension. The algorithm is based on the presence of lacunae, i.e., aft fronts of the waves, in wave-type solutions in odd-dimension spaces, It can, in fact, be built as a modification on top of any consistent and stable finite-difference scheme, making its grid convergence uniform in time and at the same time keeping the rate of convergence the same as that of the non-modified scheme. In the paper, we delineate the construction of the global lacunae-based ABCs in the framework of a discretized wave equation. The ABCs are obtained for the most general formulation of the problem that involves radiation of waves by moving sources (e.g., radiation of acoustic waves by a maneuvering aircraft). We also present systematic numerical results that corroborate the theoretical design properties of the ABCs' algorithm.

Ryabenkii, V. S.↗

Finite-difference algorithms for the time-domain Maxwell's equations - A numerical approach to RCS analysis

The applications of two CFD-based finite-difference methods to computational electromagnetics are investigated. In the first method, the time-domain Maxwell's equations are solved using the explicit Lax-Wendroff scheme and in the second method, the second-order wave equations satisfying the Maxwell's equations are solved using the implicit Crank-Nicolson scheme. The governing equations are transformed to a generalized curvilinear coordinate system and solved on a body-conforming mesh using the scattered-field formulation. The induced surface current and the bistatic radar cross section are computed and the results are validated for several two-dimensional test cases involving perfectly-conducting scatterers submerged in transverse-magnetic plane waves.

Vinh, Hoang↗

Solid Rocket Motor Combustion Instability Modeling in COMSOL Multiphysics

Combustion instability modeling of Solid Rocket Motors (SRM) remains a topic of active research. Many rockets display violent fluctuations in pressure, velocity, and temperature originating from the complex interactions between the combustion process, acoustics, and steady-state gas dynamics. Recent advances in defining the energy transport of disturbances within steady flow-fields have been applied by combustion stability modelers to improve the analysis framework. Employing this more accurate global energy balance requires a higher fidelity model of the SRM flow-field and acoustic mode shapes. The current industry standard analysis tool utilizes a one dimensional analysis of the time dependent fluid dynamics along with a quasi-three dimensional propellant grain regression model to determine the SRM ballistics. The code then couples with another application that calculates the eigenvalues of the one dimensional homogenous wave equation. The mean flow parameters and acoustic normal modes are coupled to evaluate the stability theory developed and popularized by Culick. The assumption of a linear, non-dissipative wave in a quiescent fluid remains valid while acoustic amplitudes are small and local gas velocities stay below Mach 0.2. The current study employs the COMSOL Multiphysics finite element framework to model the steady flow-field parameters and acoustic normal modes of a generic SRM. This work builds upon previous efforts to verify the use of the acoustic velocity potential equation (AVPE) laid out by Campos. The acoustic velocity potential (psi) describing the acoustic wave motion in the presence of an inhomogeneous steady high-speed flow is defined by, del squared psi - (lambda/c) squared psi - M x [M x del((del)(psi))] - 2((lambda)(M)/c + M x del(M) x (del)(psi) - 2(lambda)(psi)[M x del(1/c)] = 0. with M as the Mach vector, c as the speed of sound, and λ as the complex eigenvalue. The study requires one way coupling of the CFD High Mach Number Flow (HMNF) and mathematics module. The HMNF module evaluates the gas flow inside of a SRM using St. Robert's law to model the solid propellant burn rate, slip boundary conditions, and the supersonic outflow condition. Results from the HMNF model are verified by comparing the pertinent ballistics parameters with the industry standard code outputs (i.e. pressure drop, axial velocity, exit velocity). These results are then used by the coefficient form of the mathematics module to determine the complex eigenvalues of the AVPE. The mathematics model is truncated at the nozzle sonic line, where a zero flux boundary condition is self-satisfying. The remaining boundaries are modeled with a zero flux boundary condition, assuming zero acoustic absorption on all surfaces. The one way coupled analysis is perform four times utilizing geometries determined through traditional SRM modeling procedures. The results of the steady-state CFD and AVPE analyses are used to calculate the linear acoustic growth rate as is defined by Flandro and Jacob. In order to verify the process implemented within COMSOL we first employ the Culick theory and compare the results with the industry standard. After the process is verified, the Flandro/Jacob energy balance theory is employed and results displayed.

Fischbach, S. R.↗

Tension waves in tethered satellite cables

A one-degree-of-freedom simulation of the Tethered Satellite System (TSS) was programmed using a distributed system model of the tether based on the one-dimensional wave equation. This model represents the time varying tension profile along the tether as the sum of two traveling waves of tension moving in opposite directions. A control loop was devised which combines a deployment rate command with the measured tension at the deployer to produce a smooth, stable rate of deployment of the subsatellite. Simulation results show a buildup of periodic bursts of high frequency oscillation in tension. This report covers the mathematical modelling and simulation results and explains the reason for the observed oscillations. The design of a possible vibration damping device is discussed.

Lallman, F. J.↗

The effect of parallel currents on auroral micropulsations

Field aligned currents play an important role in the global coupling between the magnetosphere and the ionosphere and in their relationship to the auroral phenomena. Moreover, there exists evidence that resonant oscillations are related to large-scale Birkeland currents. The spatial confinement of the field-aligned currents forms an inhomogeneous system susceptible to low-frequency oscillations, which can be excited due to periodic variations in the solar wind pressure or to the Kelvin-Helmholtz (KH) instability. In this paper we present a study of ultralow-frequency (ULF) oscillations in an inhomogeneous magnetic field formed by a large-scale current. We investigate the effects of the field-aligned currents on the generation of localized Alfven waves. The field oscillations are described by an eigenvalue wave equation which includes the effects of the field aligned currents and which produces a discrete spectrum of Alfven waves. These waves are observed mainly in three regions of the magnetosphere: in the magnetosheath, in the polar cusp, and in the plasmasphere. In the present study we limit our investigation to the auroral region.

Tavares, M.↗

On the equations governing the axisymmetric perturbations of the Kerr black hole

It is shown how Teukolsky's equation, governing the perturbations of the Kerr black hole, can be reduced, in the axisymmetric case, to a one-dimensional wave equation with four possible potentials. The potentials are implicitly dependent on the frequency; and besides, depending on circumstances, they can be complex. In all cases (i.e. whether or not the potentials are real or complex), the problem of the reflexion and the transmission of gravitational waves by the potential barriers can be formulated, consistently, with the known conservation laws. It is further shown that all four potentials lead to the same reflexion and transmission coefficients.

Chandrasekhar, S.↗

Computer program for analysis of coupled-cavity traveling wave tubes

A flexible, accurate, large signal computer program was developed for the design of coupled cavity traveling wave tubes. The program is written in FORTRAN IV for an IBM 360/67 time sharing system. The beam is described by a disk model and the slow wave structure by a sequence of cavities, or cells. The computational approach is arranged so that each cavity may have geometrical or electrical parameters different from those of its neighbors. This allows the program user to simulate a tube of almost arbitrary complexity. Input and output couplers, severs, complicated velocity tapers, and other features peculiar to one or a few cavities may be modeled by a correct choice of input data. The beam-wave interaction is handled by an approach in which the radio frequency fields are expanded in solutions to the transverse magnetic wave equation. All significant space harmonics are retained. The program was used to perform a design study of the traveling-wave tube developed for the Communications Technology Satellite. Good agreement was obtained between the predictions of the program and the measured performance of the flight tube.

Connolly, D. J.↗

Discretized energy minimization in a wave guide with point sources

An anti-noise problem on a finite time interval is solved by minimization of a quadratic functional on the Hilbert space of square integrable controls. To this end, the one-dimensional wave equation with point sources and pointwise reflecting boundary conditions is decomposed into a system for the two propagating components of waves. Wellposedness of this system is proved for a class of data that includes piecewise linear initial conditions and piecewise constant forcing functions. It is shown that for such data the optimal piecewise constant control is the solution of a sparse linear system. Methods for its computational treatment are presented as well as examples of their applicability. The convergence of discrete approximations to the general optimization problem is demonstrated by finite element methods.

Propst, G.↗

An Analytical Comparison of the Acoustic Analogy and Kirchhoff Formulation for Moving Surfaces

The Lighthill acoustic analogy, as embodied in the Ffowcs Williams-Hawkings (FW-H) equation, is compared with the Kirchhoff formulation for moving surfaces. A comparison of the two governing equations reveals that the main Kirchhoff advantage (namely nonlinear flow effects are included in the surface integration) is also available to the FW-H method if the integration surface used in the FW-H equation is not assumed impenetrable. The FW-H equation is analytically superior for aeroacoustics because it is based upon the conservation laws of fluid mechanics rather than the wave equation. This means that the FW-H equation is valid even if the integration surface is in the nonlinear region. This is demonstrated numerically in the paper. The Kirchhoff approach can lead to substantial errors if the integration surface is not positioned in the linear region. These errors may be hard to identify. Finally, new metrics based on the Sobolev norm are introduced which may be used to compare input data for both quadrupole noise calculations and Kirchhoff noise predictions.

Brentner, Kenneth S.↗

A Study of Supersonic Surface Sources: The Ffowcs Williams-Hawkings Equation and the Kirchhoff Formula

In this paper we address the mathematical problem of noise generation from high speed moving surfaces. The problem we are solving is the linear wave equation with sources on a moving surface. The Ffowcs Williams-Hawkings (FW-H) equation as well as the govern- ing equation for deriving the Kirchhoff formula for moving surfaces are both this type of partial differential equation. We give a new exact solution of this problem here in closed form which is valid for subsonic and supersonic motion of the surface but it is particularly suitable for supersonically moving surfaces. This new solution is the simplest of all high speed formulations of Langley and is denoted formulation 4 following the tradition of numbering of our major results for the prediction of the noise of rotating blades. We show that for a smooth surface moving at supersonic speed, our solution has only removable singularities. Thus it can be used for numerical work.

Farassat, F.↗