Conceptualizing UAM: Technologies and Methods for Safe and Efficient Urban Air Transportation
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Lidia Zewde↗
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Dynamic Ride-Matching for Large-Scale Transportation Systems
Efficient dynamic ride-matching (DRM) in large-scale transportation systems is a key driver in transport simulations to yield answers to challenging problems. Although the DRM problem is simple to solve, it quickly becomes a computationally challenging problem in large-scale transportation system simulations. Therefore, this study thoroughly examines the DRM problem dynamics and proposes an optimization-based solution framework to solve the problem efficiently. To benefit from parallel computing and reduce computational times, the problem’s network is divided into clusters utilizing a commonly used unsupervised machine learning algorithm along with a linear programming model. Then, these sub-problems are solved using another linear program to finalize the ride-matching. At the clustering level, the framework allows users adjusting cluster sizes to balance the trade-off between the computational time savings and the solution quality deviation. A case study in the Chicago Metropolitan Area, U.S., illustrates that the framework can reduce the average computational time by 58% at the cost of increasing the average pick up time by 26% compared with a system optimum, that is, non-clustered, approach. Another case study in a relatively small city, Bloomington, Illinois, U.S., shows that the framework provides quite similar results to the system-optimum approach in approximately 62% less computational time.
33 ADVANCED PROPULSION SYSTEMS↗
The NASA Aircraft Energy Efficiency Program
The objective of the NASA Aircraft Energy Efficiency Program is to accelerate the development of advanced technology for more energy-efficient subsonic transport aircraft. This program will have application to current transport derivatives in the early 1980s and to all-new aircraft of the late 1980s and early 1990s. Six major technology projects were defined that could result in fuel savings in commercial aircraft: (1) Engine Component Improvement, (2) Energy Efficient Engine, (3) Advanced Turboprops, (4) Energy Efficiency Transport (aerodynamically speaking), (5) Laminar Flow Control, and (6) Composite Primary Structures.
Klineberg, J. M.↗
Tailoring Molecular-Scale Contact at Perovskite/Polymeric Hole Transporting Material Interface for Efficient Solar Cells
Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have delivered more than 25% of power conversion efficiency (PCE) and incorporating polymers as hole transporting layers (HTLs) can further enhance the stability of devices towards the goal of commercialization. Among various polymeric hole transporting materials, poly(triaryl amine) (PTAA) is one of the promising HTL candidates with good stability; however, the hydrophobicity of PTAA causes problematic interfacial contact with perovskite, limiting the device performance. Using molecular side-chain engineering, we successfully constructed a uniform two-dimensional (2D) perovskite interlayer with conjugated ligands, between three-dimensional (3D) perovskites and PTAA. Further, employing conjugated ligands as cohesive elements, perovskite/PTAA interfacial adhesion was significantly improved. As a result, the thin and lateral extended 2D/3D heterostructure enabled the as-fabricated PTAA-based PSCs to achieve a PCE of 23.7%, improved from the 18% of reference devices. Owing to the increased ion migration energy barrier and conformal 2D coating, unencapsulated devices with the new ligands exhibited both superior thermal stability under 60°C heating and moisture stability in ambient conditions.
14 SOLAR ENERGY↗
A Solution Methodology and Computer Program to Efficiently Model Thermodynamic and Transport Coefficients of Mixtures
A solution methodology has been developed to efficiently model multi-specie, chemically frozen, thermally perfect gas mixtures. The method relies on the ability to generate a single (composite) set of thermodynamic and transport coefficients prior to beginning a CFD solution. While not fundamentally a new concept, many applied CFD users are not aware of this capability nor have a mechanism to easily and confidently generate new coefficients. A database of individual specie property coefficients has been created for 48 species. The seven coefficient form of the thermodynamic functions is currently used rather then the ten coefficient form due to the similarity of the calculated properties, low temperature behavior and reduced CPU requirements. Sutherland laminar viscosity and thermal conductivity coefficients were computed in a consistent manner from available reference curves. A computer program has been written to provide CFD users with a convenient method to generate composite specie coefficients for any mixture. Mach 7 forebody/inlet calculations demonstrated nearly equivalent results and significant CPU time savings compared to a multi-specie solution approach. Results from high-speed combustor analysis also illustrate the ability to model inert test gas contaminants without additional computational expense.
Ferlemann, Paul G.↗
Tuning electrochemical and transport processes to achieve extreme performance and efficiency in solid oxide cells
Solid oxide cells (SOCs) have important applications as fuel cells and electrolyzers. The application for storage of renewable electricity is also becoming increasingly relevant; however, it is difficult to meet stringent area-specific resistance (ASR) and long-term stability targets needed to achieve required efficiency and cost. Here we show a new SOC that utilizes a very thin Gd-doped ceria (GDC)/yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) bi-layer electrolyte, Ni–YSZ cell support with enhanced porosity, and electrode surface modification using PrO x and GDC nanocatalysts to achieve unprecedented low ASR values < 0.1 Ω cm 2 , fuel cell power density ~3 W cm –2 , and electrolysis current density ~4 A cm –2 at 800 °C. Besides this exceptionally high performance, fuel cell and electrolysis life tests suggest very promising stability in fuel cell and steam electrolysis modes. Furthermore, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy analysis done using a novel impedance subtraction method shows how rate-limiting electrode processes are impacted by the new SOC materials and design.
25 ENERGY STORAGE↗
Long-Range Exciton Diffusion in Two-Dimensional Assemblies of Cesium Lead Bromide Perovskite Nanocrystals
Förster resonant energy transfer (FRET)-mediated exciton diffusion through artificial nanoscale building block assemblies could be used as an optoelectronic design element to transport energy. However, so far, nanocrystal (NC) systems supported only diffusion lengths of 30 nm, which are too small to be useful in devices. In this work, we demonstrate a FRET-mediated exciton diffusion length of 200 nm with 0.5 cm 2 /s diffusivity through an ordered, two-dimensional assembly of cesium lead bromide perovskite nanocrystals (CsPbBr 3 PNCs). Exciton diffusion was directly measured via steady-state and time-resolved photoluminescence (PL) microscopy, with physical modeling providing deeper insight into the transport process. This exceptionally efficient exciton transport is facilitated by PNCs' high PL quantum yield, large absorption cross section, and high polarizability, together with minimal energetic and geometric disorder of the assembly. This FRET-mediated exciton diffusion length matches perovskites' optical absorption depth, thus enabling the design of device architectures with improved performances and providing insight into the high conversion efficiencies of PNC-based optoelectronic devices.
37 INORGANIC, ORGANIC, PHYSICAL, AND ANALYTICAL CH↗
Efficiency of a statistical transport model for turbulent particle dispersion
In developing its theory for turbulent dispersion transport, the Litchford and Jeng (1991) statistical transport model for turbulent particle dispersion took a generalized approach in which the perturbing influence of each turbulent eddy on consequent interactions was transported through all subsequent eddies. Nevertheless, examinations of this transport relation shows it to be able to decay rapidly: this implies that additional computational efficiency may be obtained via truncation of unneccessary transport terms. Attention is here given to the criterion for truncation, as well as to expected efficiency gains.
Litchford, Ron J.↗
Incorporating the effects of objects in an approximate model of light transport in scattering media
A computationally efficient radiative transport model is presented that predicts a camera measurement and accounts for the light reflected and blocked by an object in a scattering medium. The model is in good agreement with experimental data acquired at the Sandia National Laboratory Fog Chamber Facility (SNLFC). The model is applicable in computational imaging to detect, localize, and image objects hidden in scattering media. Here, a statistical approach was implemented to study object detection limits in fog.
42 ENGINEERING↗
A Probabilistic Assessment of NASA Ultra-Efficient Engine Technologies for a Large Subsonic Transport
NASA's Ultra Efficient Engine Technology (UEET) program features advanced aeropropulsion technologies that include highly loaded turbomachinery, an advanced low-NOx combustor, high-temperature materials, intelligent propulsion controls, aspirated seal technology, and an advanced computational fluid dynamics (CFD) design tool to help reduce airplane drag. A probabilistic system assessment is performed to evaluate the impact of these technologies on aircraft fuel burn and NOx reductions. A 300-passenger aircraft, with two 396-kN thrust (85,000-pound) engines is chosen for the study. The results show that a large subsonic aircraft equipped with the UEET technologies has a very high probability of meeting the UEET Program goals for fuel-burn (or equivalent CO2) reduction (15% from the baseline) and LTO (landing and takeoff) NOx reductions (70% relative to the 1996 International Civil Aviation Organization rule). These results are used to provide guidance for developing a robust UEET technology portfolio, and to prioritize the most promising technologies required to achieve UEET program goals for the fuel-burn and NOx reductions.
Tong, Michael T.↗
Managing changes in peak demand from building and transportation electrification with energy efficiency [Slides]
The Department of Energy funded Berkeley Lab to provide technical assistance to two municipal utilities on how energy efficiency and demand flexibility can mitigate the peak demand impacts of building and transportation electrification. Berkeley Lab worked with these utilities, Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD) and Fort Collins Utilities, to identify research questions that supported their planning needs. For both utilities, Berkeley Lab developed scenario-based load forecasts that considered baseline and high-efficiency building electrification. For SMUD, the forecast also explored the sensitivity of peak demand to extreme weather (a winter cold snap) at the system-level. For Fort Collins Utilities, the forecast addressed the impacts of low, medium, and high levels of building and transportation technology adoption on select distribution feeders. Berkeley Lab is also developing a guidance document for utilities that will draw on lessons learned from the technical assistance and provide a framework for conducting similar analyses.
24 POWER TRANSMISSION AND DISTRIBUTION↗
A hole-transport material that also passivates perovskite surface defects for solar cells with improved efficiency and stability
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99 GENERAL AND MISCELLANEOUS↗
High-Fidelity Computational Methodology for Stitched Composite Aerospace Structures
Due to the high demands for energy efficient commercial transportation, the aviation industry has taken a leading role in the integration of composite structures. Among the leading concepts to develop lighter, more fuel-efficient commercial transport is the Pultruded Rod Stitched Efficient Unitized Structure (PRSEUS) concept, an enabling technology for hybrid wing bodies. Many proof-of-concept tests have been performed to demonstrate that the use of PRSEUS has improved the residual strength of damaged structures compared to conventional composite structures, but efficient computational tools must be developed before the concept can be commercially certified and implemented. In an attempt to address the need for efficient computational tools, a comprehensive modeling approach is developed and applied to investigate applications of PRSEUS at multiple scales. Therefore, a computational methodology has been progressively developed based on physically realistic concepts. The focus of the work described herein is to define the modeling characteristics required to accurately simulate the damage progression and failure of PRSEUS at the coupon scale. The work herein is focused on the development and analysis of a PRSEUS stringer, the methodology for which may be extended to other PRSEUS coupons and components.
Brandon Horton↗
An efficient HZETRN (a galactic cosmic ray transport code)
An accurate and efficient engineering code for analyzing the shielding requirements against the high-energy galactic heavy ions is needed. The HZETRN is a deterministic code developed at Langley Research Center that is constantly under improvement both in physics and numerical computation and is targeted for such use. One problem area connected with the space-marching technique used in this code is the propagation of the local truncation error. By improving the numerical algorithms for interpolation, integration, and grid distribution formula, the efficiency of the code is increased by a factor of eight as the number of energy grid points is reduced. The numerical accuracy of better than 2 percent for a shield thickness of 150 g/cm(exp 2) is found when a 45 point energy grid is used. The propagating step size, which is related to the perturbation theory, is also reevaluated.
Shinn, Judy L.↗
Evaluate the System-Level Impact of Connected and Automated Vehicles Coupled with Shared Mobility: An Agent-based Simulation Approach
With the rapid growth of information and communication technologies, Connected and Automated Vehicles (CAVs) are deemed to be disruptive with the potential to significantly improve overall transportation system efficiency, however, may bring Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) increase or other issues. Further, shared mobility systems are another disruptive force that is reshaping our travel patterns. To quantify the combined impact of CAV and shared mobility on travel behavior, traffic performance and energy efficiency, we develop a mesoscopic simulation-based framework for mobility and energy efficiency evaluation considering the disruptive transportation technologies. Under this framework, we develop novel models for energy intensity and modal activity, and evaluated a variety of energy scenarios for different combinations of CAV applications, various levels of automation, roadway characteristics, and traffic conditions, while also varying different vehicle types and fuel/powertrain technologies. Based applying this modeling suite to a calibrated BEAM simulation network in Riverside California, it was found that cooperative automated driving in general will improve mobility, but automated vehicles, even when deployed in a shared autonomous fleet, will likely bring an increase of VMT (up to 36%) due to mode shifts and deadheading. Ride-hailing vehicles typically have better energy efficiency and a higher share of electric vehicles, which helps offset the negative impact from VMT increases when estimating the system-level energy consumption. In general, simulation results show a 6% increase in energy consumption for the scenarios with an increasing shift to ride-hailing modes.
42 ENGINEERING↗
Possibilities of efficient high-speed transport airplanes
Comparisons of wing-body combinations may not disclose the full effect of a loss in aerodynamic efficiency. If the thrust needs to be increased at a given altitude then more or larger engines will have to be used and the possibility of concealing them becomes less. In this process the lift drag ratio of the complete airplane may become still more unfavorable than indicated by the comparison. Primarily aerodynamic and structural considerations point toward the development of turbojet engines specifically adapted to operation in an atmosphere of one tenth normal density. In addition to the numerous other technological problems associated with operation at these high altitudes, the problems of safe descent and effective limitation to low speeds at low altitudes seem important.
Jones, R. T.↗
Area-Scalable Zn 2 SnO 4 Electron Transport Layer for Highly Efficient and Stable Perovskite Solar Modules
The development of a scalable chemical bath deposition (CBD) process facilitates the realization of electron-transporting layers (ETLs) for large-area perovskite solar modules (PSMs). In this work, a method to prepare a uniform and scalable thick Zn 2 SnO 4 ETL by CBD, which yielded high-performance PSMs, is reported. This Zn 2 SnO 4 ETL exhibits excellent electrical properties and enhanced optical transmittance in the visible region. Moreover, the Zn 2 SnO 4 ETL influences the perovskite layer formation, yielding enhanced crystallinity, increased grain size, and a smoother surface, thus facilitating electron extraction and collection from the perovskite to the ETL. Zn 2 SnO 4 thereby yields PSMs with a remarkable photovoltaic performance, low hysteresis index, and high device reproducibility. The champion PSM exhibited a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 22.59%, being among the highest values published so far. In addition, the CBD Zn 2 SnO 4 -based PSMs exhibit high stability, retaining more than 88% of initial efficiency over 1000 h under continuous illumination. This demonstrates that CBD Zn 2 SnO 4 is an appropriate ETL for high-efficiency PSMs and a viable new process for their industrialization.
17 WIND ENERGY↗
Quantum closures for neutrino moment transport
A computationally efficient method for calculating the transport of neutrino flavor in simulations is to use angular moments of the neutrino one-body reduced density matrix, i.e., “quantum moments.” As with any moment-based radiation transport method, a closure is needed if the infinite tower of moment evolution equations is truncated. We derive a general parametrization of a quantum closure and the limits the parameters must satisfy in order for the closure to be physical. We then derive from multiangle calculations the evolution of the closure parameters in two test cases which we then progressively insert into a moment evolution code and show how the parameters affect the moment results until the full multiangle results are reproduced. This parametrization paves the way to setting prescriptions for genuine quantum closures adapted to neutrino transport in a range of situations.
79 ASTRONOMY AND ASTROPHYSICS↗