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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 289 records · Page 16

Advancements in frequency-domain methods for rotorcraft system identification

A new method for frequency-domain identification of rotorcraft dynamics is presented. Nonparametric frequency-response identification and parametric transfer-function modeling methods are extended to allow the extraction of state-space (stability and control derivative) representations. An interactive computer program DERIVID is described for the iterative solution of the multi-input/multi-output frequency-response matching approach used in the identification. Theoretical accuracy methods are used to determine the appropriate model structure and degree-of-confidence in the identified parameters. The method is applied to XV-15 tilt-rotor aircraft data in hover. Bare-airframe stability and control derivatives for the lateral/directional dynamics are shown to compare favorably with models previously obtained using time-domain identification methods and the XV-15 simulation program.

Tischler, Mark B.↗

Software for Estimating Costs of Testing Rocket Engines

A high-level parametric mathematical model for estimating the costs of testing rocket engines and components at Stennis Space Center has been implemented as a Microsoft Excel program that generates multiple spreadsheets. The model and the program are both denoted, simply, the Cost Estimating Model (CEM). The inputs to the CEM are the parameters that describe particular tests, including test types (component or engine test), numbers and duration of tests, thrust levels, and other parameters. The CEM estimates anticipated total project costs for a specific test. Estimates are broken down into testing categories based on a work-breakdown structure and a cost-element structure. A notable historical assumption incorporated into the CEM is that total labor times depend mainly on thrust levels. As a result of a recent modification of the CEM to increase the accuracy of predicted labor times, the dependence of labor time on thrust level is now embodied in third- and fourth-order polynomials.

Hines, Merion M.↗

Software for Estimating Costs of Testing Rocket Engines

A high-level parametric mathematical model for estimating the costs of testing rocket engines and components at Stennis Space Center has been implemented as a Microsoft Excel program that generates multiple spreadsheets. The model and the program are both denoted, simply, the Cost Estimating Model (CEM). The inputs to the CEM are the parameters that describe particular tests, including test types (component or engine test), numbers and duration of tests, thrust levels, and other parameters. The CEM estimates anticipated total project costs for a specific test. Estimates are broken down into testing categories based on a work-breakdown structure and a cost-element structure. A notable historical assumption incorporated into the CEM is that total labor times depend mainly on thrust levels. As a result of a recent modification of the CEM to increase the accuracy of predicted labor times, the dependence of labor time on thrust level is now embodied in third- and fourth-order polynomials.

Hines, Merlon M.↗

Simple parametrization of fragment reduced widths in heavy ion collisions

A systematic analysis of the observed reduced widths obtained in relativistic heavy ion fragmentation reactions is used to develop a phenomenological parametrization of these data. The parametrization is simple, accurate, and completely general in applicability.

NASA Program Radiation Health↗

Software for Estimating Costs of Testing Rocket Engines

A high-level parametric mathematical model for estimating the costs of testing rocket engines and components at Stennis Space Center has been implemented as a Microsoft Excel program that generates multiple spreadsheets. The model and the program are both denoted, simply, the Cost Estimating Model (CEM). The inputs to the CEM are the parameters that describe particular tests, including test types (component or engine test), numbers and duration of tests, thrust levels, and other parameters. The CEM estimates anticipated total project costs for a specific test. Estimates are broken down into testing categories based on a work-breakdown structure and a cost-element structure. A notable historical assumption incorporated into the CEM is that total labor times depend mainly on thrust levels. As a result of a recent modification of the CEM to increase the accuracy of predicted labor times, the dependence of labor time on thrust level is now embodied in third- and fourth-order polynomials.

Hines, Merlon M.↗

Small Satellite-sized Hypersonic Inflatable Aerodynamic Decelerators for Interplanetary Science Missions

To make the most of ridesharing opportunities, small satellite (SmallSat) mission designers endeavor to pack as much payload into a SmallSat-class form factor as possible. The mass and volume constraints of this smaller vehicle class present a challenge for interplanetary mission sets that require a means of achieving orbit insertion at their destination of interest. For a fully propulsive orbit insertion design, this may translate to the propellant mass being a significant fraction of the overall vehicle mass and prolonged insertion time. Aerocapture is a single quick maneuver that can significantly reduce the required propellant mass for orbit insertion. Because aerocapture uses a planet’s atmosphere to achieve the necessary change in velocity, a protective aeroshell is needed. The constraints imposed on secondary payloads render traditional rigid aeroshells mass and space prohibitive for the SmallSat class of vehicles; thus, warranting consideration of deployable designs that can be stowed compactly until needed for atmospheric entry. The Hypersonic Inflatable Aerodynamic Decelerator (HIAD) is a deployable aeroshell that leverages inflatable toroids to achieve the large drag area needed for aerodynamic deceleration. While the technology is currently being analyzed for Mars human-scale missions, it has the potential applicability for interplanetary SmallSat-scale missions as well. This paper highlights a study conducted during an internship at NASA Langley Research Center to investigate the feasibility of using a scaled-down HIAD design in SmallSat aerocapture missions. Several scaling methodologies are investigated including use of parametric models and direct computer-aided design (CAD) model scaling. Candidate HIAD configurations that conform to secondary payload adapter requirements are identified. The Program to Optimize Simulated Trajectories II (POST2) is utilized to conduct orbit insertion performance and trajectory sensitivity studies using the candidate configurations at Earth, Venus, and Mars. The results of the study indicate that multiple SmallSat-sized HIAD designs, targeting a range of SmallSat payload classes, are feasible for planetary aerocapture missions to Mars and Venus as well as Earth-based aerocapture missions.

Shelly C. Mann↗

A review and update of the NASA aircraft noise prediction program propeller analysis system

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Aircraft Noise Prediction Program (ANOPP) Propeller Analysis System (PAS) is a set of computational modules for predicting the aerodynamics, performance, and noise of propellers. The ANOPP PAS has the capability to predict noise levels for propeller aircraft certification and produce parametric scaling laws for the adjustment of measured data to reference conditions. A technical overview of the prediction techniques incorporated into the system is presented. The prediction system has been applied to predict the noise signature of a variety of propeller configurations including the effects of propeller angle of attack. A summary of these validation studies is discussed with emphasis being placed on the wind tunnel and flight test programs sponsored by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for the Piper Cherokee Lance aircraft. A number of modifications and improvements have been made to the system and both DEC VAX and IBM-PC versions of the system have been added to the original CDC NOS version.

Golub, Robert A.↗

Robust Control Design via Linear Programming

This paper deals with the problem of synthesizing or designing a feedback controller of fixed dynamic order. The closed loop specifications considered here are given in terms of a target performance vector representing a desired set of closed loop transfer functions connecting various signals. In general these point targets are unattainable with a fixed order controller. By enlarging the target from a fixed point set to an interval set the solvability conditions with a fixed order controller are relaxed and a solution is more easily enabled. Results from the parametric robust control literature can be used to design the interval target family so that the performance deterioration is acceptable, even when plant uncertainty is present. It is shown that it is possible to devise a computationally simple linear programming approach that attempts to meet the desired closed loop specifications.

Keel, L. H.↗

Extended parametric representation of compressor fans and turbines. Volume 3: MODFAN user's manual (parametric modulating flow fan)

A modeling technique for single stage flow modulating fans or centrifugal compressors has been developed which will enable the user to obtain consistent and rapid off-design performnce from design point input. The fan flow modulation may be obtained by either a VIGV (variable inlet guide vane) or a VPF (variable pitch rotor) option. Only the VIGV option is available for the centrifugal compressor. The modeling technique has been incorporated into a time-sharing program to facilitate its use. Because this report contains a description of the input output data, values of typical inputs, and examples cases, it is suitable as a user's manual. This report is the last of a three volume set describing the parametric representation of compressor fans, and turbines. The titles of the three volumes are as follows: (1) Volume 1 CMGEN USER's Manual (Parametric Compressor Generator); (2) Volume 2 PART USER's Manual (Parametric Turbine); (3) Volume 3 MODFAN USER's Manual (Parametric Modulating Flow Fan).

Converse, G. L.↗

An automated procedure for computing flutter eigenvalues.

A new, fast and economical automated procedure for implementing the traditional V-g method of flutter solution is described. The procedure requires as input the generalized aerodynamic forces for a range of reduced frequencies obtained from an aerodynamic program. These aerodynamic forces are interpolated with respect to reduced frequency using a newly developed, partially tabulated cubic spline that is both fast in execution and economical in storage. The flutter solution is then obtained using an eigenvalue routine that has been developed to take advantage of the parametric nature of the V-g type of solution. Furthermore, the routine takes care of the fundamental and troublesome problem of properly sorting the output eigenvalues. By solving the root-sorting problem, the interpolation for flutter crossings and automatic plotting are accomplished efficiently. The computational techniques used in this new program are described and some sample results are given.

Desmarais, R. N.↗

Computer model for refinery operations with emphasis on jet fuel production. Volume 2: Data and technical bases

The FORTRAN computing program predicts the flow streams and material, energy, and economic balances of a typical petroleum refinery, with particular emphasis on production of aviation turbine fuel of varying end point and hydrogen content specifications. The program has provision for shale oil and coal oil in addition to petroleum crudes. A case study feature permits dependent cases to be run for parametric or optimization studies by input of only the variables which are changed from the base case. The report has sufficient detail for the information of most readers.

Dunbar, D. N.↗

Computer model for refinery operations with emphasis on jet fuel production. Volume 1: Program description

A FORTRAN computer program is described for predicting the flow streams and material, energy, and economic balances of a typical petroleum refinery, with particular emphasis on production of aviation turbine fuel of varying end point and hydrogen content specifications. The program has provision for shale oil and coal oil in addition to petroleum crudes. A case study feature permits dependent cases to be run for parametric or optimization studies by input of only the variables which are changed from the base case.

Dunbar, D. N.↗

NASTRAN Structural Model for the Large 64-meter Antenna Pedestal. Part 3: Applications to Hydrostatic Bearing Oil Film

Investigations are conducted on the 64-meter antenna hydrostatic bearing oil film thickness under a variety of loads and elastic moduli. These parametric studies use a NASTRAN pedestal structural model to determine the deflections under the hydrostatic bearing pad. The deflections form the input for a computer program to determine the hydrostatic bearing oil film thickness. For the future 64-meter to 70-meter antenna extension and for the 2.2-meter (86-in.) haunch concrete replacement cases, safe oil film thickness (greater than 0.13 mm (0.005 in.) at the corners of the pad) are predicted. The effects of varying moduli of elasticity for different sections of the pedestal and the film height under distressed runner conditions are also studied.

Chian, C. T.↗

NASTRAN structural model for the large ground antenna pedestal with applications to hydrostatic bearing of film

Investigations were conducted on the 64-meter antenna hydrostatic bearing oil film thickness under a variety of loads and elastic moduli. These parametric studies used a NASTRAN pedestal structural model to determine the deflections under the hydrostatic bearing pad. The deflections formed the input for a computer program to determine the hydrostratic bearing oil film thickness. For the future 64-meter to 70-meter antenna extension and for the 2.2-meter (86-in.) haunch concrete replacement cases, the program predicted safe oil film thickness (greater than 0.13 mm (0.005 in.) at the corners of the pad). The effects of varying moduli of elasticity for different sections of the pedestal and the film height under stressed runner conditions were also studied.

Chian, C. T.↗

Development of an Advanced Trapezoidal Axially Grooved (ATAG) heat pipe

This paper discusses the breadboard development of an Advanced Trapezoidal Axially Grooved (ATAG) heat pipe, which will satisfy space constructible radiator heat rejection requirements for large space power systems. The ATAG heat pipe development program includes a technology demonstration of Space Station heat load and temperature requirements through the design, fabrication, and testing of breadboard and preprototype units. A parametric analysis was conducted to determine trapezoidal groove geometries that could meet the transport performance goal and could be fabricated by available extrusion technology for a diameter chosen to be compatible with an existing development test unit of a cylindrical, pressure-actuated contact heat exchanger. Performance test results for the breadboard heat pipes are presented.

Richter, R. F. G.↗

Multiresolution and Explicit Methods for Vector Field Analysis and Visualization

We first report on our current progress in the area of explicit methods for tangent curve computation. The basic idea of this method is to decompose the domain into a collection of triangles (or tetrahedra) and assume linear variation of the vector field over each cell. With this assumption, the equations which define a tangent curve become a system of linear, constant coefficient ODE's which can be solved explicitly. There are five different representation of the solution depending on the eigenvalues of the Jacobian. The analysis of these five cases is somewhat similar to the phase plane analysis often associate with critical point classification within the context of topological methods, but it is not exactly the same. There are some critical differences. Moving from one cell to the next as a tangent curve is tracked, requires the computation of the exit point which is an intersection of the solution of the constant coefficient ODE and the edge of a triangle. There are two possible approaches to this root computation problem. We can express the tangent curve into parametric form and substitute into an implicit form for the edge or we can express the edge in parametric form and substitute in an implicit form of the tangent curve. Normally the solution of a system of ODE's is given in parametric form and so the first approach is the most accessible and straightforward. The second approach requires the 'implicitization' of these parametric curves. The implicitization of parametric curves can often be rather difficult, but in this case we have been successful and have been able to develop algorithms and subsequent computer programs for both approaches. We will give these details along with some comparisons in a forthcoming research paper on this topic.

Source record↗

Thermal Ablation Modeling for Silicate Materials

A general thermal ablation model for silicates is proposed. The model includes the mass losses through the balance between evaporation and condensation, and through the moving molten layer driven by surface shear force and pressure gradient. This model can be applied in the ablation simulation of the meteoroid and the glassy ablator for spacecraft Thermal Protection Systems. Time-dependent axisymmetric computations are performed by coupling the fluid dynamics code, Data-Parallel Line Relaxation program, with the material response code, Two-dimensional Implicit Thermal Ablation simulation program, to predict the mass lost rates and shape change. The predicted mass loss rates will be compared with available data for model validation, and parametric studies will also be performed for meteoroid earth entry conditions.

Ablation↗

Automation of the CFD Process on Distributed Computing Systems

A script system was developed to automate and streamline portions of the CFD process. The system was designed to facilitate the use of CFD flow solvers on supercomputer and workstation platforms within a parametric design event. Integrating solver pre- and postprocessing phases, the fully automated ADTT script system marshalled the required input data, submitted the jobs to available computational resources, and processed the resulting output data. A number of codes were incorporated into the script system, which itself was part of a larger integrated design environment software package. The IDE and scripts were used in a design event involving a wind tunnel test. This experience highlighted the need for efficient data and resource management in all parts of the CFD process. To facilitate the use of CFD methods to perform parametric design studies, the script system was developed using UNIX shell and Perl languages. The goal of the work was to minimize the user interaction required to generate the data necessary to fill a parametric design space. The scripts wrote out the required input files for the user-specified flow solver, transferred all necessary input files to the computational resource, submitted and tracked the jobs using the resource queuing structure, and retrieved and post-processed the resulting dataset. For computational resources that did not run queueing software, the script system established its own simple first-in-first-out queueing structure to manage the workload. A variety of flow solvers were incorporated in the script system, including INS2D, PMARC, TIGER and GASP. Adapting the script system to a new flow solver was made easier through the use of object-oriented programming methods. The script system was incorporated into an ADTT integrated design environment and evaluated as part of a wind tunnel experiment. The system successfully generated the data required to fill the desired parametric design space. This stressed the computational resources required to compute and store the information. The scripts were continually modified to improve the utilization of the computational resources and reduce the likelihood of data loss due to failures. An ad-hoc file server was created to manage the large amount of data being generated as part of the design event. Files were stored and retrieved as needed to create new jobs and analyze the results. Additional information is contained in the original.

Tejnil, Ed↗