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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 307 records · Page 17
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NASA NTRS1991

On the joint inversion of geophysical data for models of the coupled core-mantle system

Joint inversion of magnetic, earth rotation, geoid, and seismic data for a unified model of the coupled core-mantle system is proposed and shown to be possible. A sample objective function is offered and simplified by targeting results from independent inversions and summary travel time residuals instead of original observations. These data are parameterized in terms of a very simple, closed model of the topographically coupled core-mantle system. Minimization of the simplified objective function leads to a nonlinear inverse problem; an iterative method for solution is presented. Parameterization and method are emphasized; numerical results are not presented.

Voorhies, Coerte V.↗
NASA NTRS2004

CME Eruption Onset Observations from EIT and SXT

Why CMEs erupt is a major outstanding puzzle of solar physics. Signatures observable at the earliest stages of eruption onset may hold precious clues about the onset mechanism. We present observations in EUV from SOHO/EIT and in soft X-rays from Yohkoh/SXT of the re-eruption and eruption phases of CME expulsion, along with the eruption's magnetic setting found from SOHO/MDI magnetograms. Most of our events involve clearly-observable filament eruptions and multiple neutral lines, and we use the magnetic settings and motions of the filaments to help infer the geometry and behavior of the associated erupting magnetic fields. Pre-eruption and early-eruption signatures include a relatively slow filament rise prior to eruption, and intensity "dimmings" and brightenings, both in the immediate neighborhood of the "core" (location of greatest magnetic shear) of the erupting fields and at locations remote from the core. These signatures and their relative timings place observational constraints on eruption mechanisms; our recent work has focused on implications for the so-called "tether cutting" and "breakout" models, but the same observational constraints are applicable to any model.

Sterling, A. C.↗
NASA NTRS2004

X-ray and EUV Observations of CME Eruption Onset

Why Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs) erupt is a major outstanding puzzle of solar physics. Signatures observable at the earliest stages of eruption onset may hold precious clues about the onset mechanism. We present observations from SOHO/EIT and from TRACE in EUV, and from Yohkoh/SXT in soft X-rays of the pre-eruption and eruption phases of CME expulsion, along with the eruption's magnetic setting found from SOHO/MDI magnetograms. Most of our events involve clearly-observable filament eruptions and multiple neutral lines, and we use the magnetic settings and motions of the filaments to help infer the geometry and behavior of the associated erupting magnetic fields. Pre-eruption and early-eruption signatures include a relatively slow filament rise prior to eruption, and intensity "dimmings" and brightenings, both in the immediate neighborhood of the "core" (location of greatest magnetic shear) of the erupting fields and at locations remote from the core. These signatures and their relative timings place observational constraints on eruption mechanisms; our recent work has focused on implications for the so-called "tether cutting" and "breakout" models, but the same observational constraints are applicable to any model.

Sterling, A. C.↗
NASA NTRS1992

Steady induction effects in geomagnetism. Part 1A: Steady motional induction of geomagnetic chaos

Geomagnetic effects of magnetic induction by hypothetically steady fluid motion and steady magnetic flux diffusion near the top of Earth's core are investigated using electromagnetic theory, simple magnetic earth models, and numerical experiments with geomagnetic field models. The problem of estimating a steady fluid velocity field near the top of Earth's core which induces the secular variation indicated by broad-scale models of the observed geomagnetic field is examined and solved. In Part 1, the steady surficial core flow estimation problem is solved in the context of the source-free mantle/frozen-flux core model. In the first paper (IA), the theory underlying such estimates is reviewed and some consequences of various kinematic and dynamic flow hypotheses are derived. For a frozen-flux core, fluid downwelling is required to change the mean square normal magnetic flux density averaged over the core-mantle boundary. For surficially geostrophic flow, downwelling implies poleward flow. The solution of the forward steady motional induction problem at the surface of a frozen-flux core is derived and found to be a fine, easily visualized example of deterministic chaos. Geomagnetic effects of statistically steady core surface flow may well dominate secular variation over several decades. Indeed, effects of persistent, if not steady, surficially geostrophic core flow are described which may help explain certain features of the present broad-scale geomagnetic field and perhaps paleomagnetic secular variation.

Voorhies, Coerte V.↗
NASA NTRS2003

Martian Crustal Magnetism: What Have We Learned After Approximately 6 Years of MGS Observations?

The MAG/ER investigation aboard the Mars Global Surveyor (MGS) has established conclusively that an internal, dynamo-generated field does not currently exist at Mars and discovered, unexpectedly, strong magnetization in the crust. An estimate of the upper limit of the current Mars dipole moment derived from the MGS data yields M < ~2 x 10(exp 17) A-m2, which corresponds to a surface equatorial field strength of < 0.5 nT. The intense magnetization of the crust is closely associated with the ancient, heavily cratered high terrain, which lies south of Mars dichotomy boundary. The correlation of magnetization with the old terrain and the role of impacts, which have modified the magnetic properties of the crust, constitute a new and powerful diagnostic tool that is providing a unique view into the early thermal history of the planet, which was almost totally unknown prior to the arrival of MGS. Data from the Lunar Prospector mission complement contemporary analyses and interpretation of crustal magnetism in planetary system bodies that do not currently possess core dynamos. The observation of magnetic lineations over Terra Sirenum (Sirenum Fossae) and Terra Cimmeria, are suggestive of tectonic processes observed at Earth in association with sea-floor spreading and geomagnetic field reversals. If this association is correct, it would indicate the possible existence of plate tectonics and magnetic field reversals in Mars' early history. Alternative models involving fault/graben formation associated with the fracturing of a thin, magnetized crustal layer by tectonic or volcanism-induced stresses, yield equally valid interpretations. To date, no reliable correlation between topography, geology and crustal magnetism has been established and the origin of these remarkable Martian magnetic anomalies remains a mystery.

M H Acuna↗
NASA NTRS1994

Implementation of a decoupled controller for a magnetic suspension system using electromagnets mounted in a planar array

An implementation of a decoupled, single-input/single-output control approach for a large angle magnetic suspension test fixture is described. Numerical and experimental results are presented. The experimental system is a laboratory model large gap magnetic suspension system which provides five degree-of-freedom control of a cylindrical suspended element. The suspended element contains a core composed of permanent magnet material and is levitated above five electromagnets mounted in a planar array.

Cox, D. E.↗
NASA NTRS2004

Magnetohydrodynamic Convection in the Outer Core and its Geodynamic Consequences

The Earth's fluid outer core is in vigorous convection through much of the Earth's history. In addition to generating and maintaining Earth s time-varying magnetic field (geodynamo), the core convection also generates mass redistribution in the core and a dynamical pressure field on the core-mantle boundary (CMB). All these shall result in various core-mantle interactions, and contribute to surface geodynamic observables. For example, electromagnetic core-mantle coupling arises from finite electrically conducting lower mantle; gravitational interaction occurs between the cores and the heterogeneous mantle; mechanical coupling may also occur when the CMB topography is aspherical. Besides changing the mantle rotation via the coupling torques, the mass-redistribution in the core shall produce a spatial-temporal gravity anomaly. Numerical modeling of the core dynamical processes contributes in several geophysical disciplines. It helps explain the physical causes of surface geodynamic observables via space geodetic techniques and other means, e.g. Earth's rotation variation on decadal time scales, and secular time-variable gravity. Conversely, identification of the sources of the observables can provide additional insights on the dynamics of the fluid core, leading to better constraints on the physics in the numerical modeling. In the past few years, our core dynamics modeling efforts, with respect to our MoSST model, have made significant progress in understanding individual geophysical consequences. However, integrated studies are desirable, not only because of more mature numerical core dynamics models, but also because of inter-correlation among the geophysical phenomena, e.g. mass redistribution in the outer core produces not only time-variable gravity, but also gravitational core-mantle coupling and thus the Earth's rotation variation. They are expected to further facilitate multidisciplinary studies of core dynamics and interactions of the core with other components of the Earth.

Kuang, Weijia↗
NASA NTRS1996

Design and Performance Improvements of the Prototype Open Core Flywheel Energy Storage System

A prototype magnetically suspended composite flywheel energy storage (FES) system is operating at the University of Maryland. This system, designed for spacecraft applications, incorporates recent advances in the technologies of composite materials, magnetic suspension, and permanent magnet brushless motor/generator. The current system is referred to as an Open Core Composite Flywheel (OCCF) energy storage system. This paper will present design improvements for enhanced and robust performance. Initially, when the OCCF prototype was spun above its first critical frequency of 4,500 RPM, the rotor movement would exceed the space available in the magnetic suspension gap and touchdown on the backup mechanical bearings would occur. On some occasions it was observed that, after touchdown, the rotor was unable to re-suspend as the speed decreased. Additionally, it was observed that the rotor would exhibit unstable oscillations when the control system was initially turned on. Our analysis suggested that the following problems existed: (1) The linear operating range of the magnetic bearings was limited due to electrical and magnetic saturation; (2) The inductance of the magnetic bearings was affecting the transient response of the system; (3) The flywheel was confined to a small movement because mechanical components could not be held to a tight tolerance; and (4) The location of the touchdown bearing magnifies the motion at the pole faces of the magnetic bearings when the linear range is crucial. In order to correct these problems an improved design of the flywheel energy storage system was undertaken. The magnetic bearings were re-designed to achieve a large linear operating range and to withstand load disturbances of at least 1 g. The external position transducers were replaced by a unique design which were resistant to magnetic field noise and allowed cancellation of the radial growth of the flywheel at high speeds. A central rod was utilized to ensure the concentricity of the magnetic bearings, the motor/generator, and the mechanical touchdown bearings. In addition, the mechanical touchdown bearings were placed at two ends of the magnetic bearing stack to restrict the motion at pole faces. A composite flywheel was made using a multi-ring interference assembled design for a high specific energy density. To achieve a higher speed and better efficiency, a permanent magnet DC brushless motor was specially designed and fabricated. A vacuum enclosure was constructed to eliminate windage losses for testing at high speeds. With the new improvements the OCCF system was tested to 20,000 RPM with a total stored energy of 15.9 WH and an angular momentum of 54.8 N-m-s (40.4 lb-ft-s). Motor current limitation, caused by power loss in the magnetic bearings, was identified as causing the limit in upper operating speed.

Pang, D.↗
NASA NTRS1994

Comparison between Liouville's theorem and observed latitudinal distributions of trapped ions in the plasmapause region

The presence of anisotropic plasma distributions, trapped at the Earth's magnetic equator, has consequences for the electric field structure which must exist in equilibrium along the magnetic field line. Data from SCATHA and Dynamics Explorer 1 indicate that the core ion distributions at the magnetic equator can be well described as bi-Maxwellian distributions, with a perpendicular temperature an order of magnitude larger than the parallel temperature. A collisionless model is developed for the variation in plasma parameters, following the forms developed by Whipple (1977). If the core electron anisotropy is low, the resulting electric field of approximately 0.1 microV/m is pointed away from the equator. Under these conditions the self-consistent electric field will not overcome the effects of magnetic trapping. The resulting potential distribution results in a local maximum in total plasma density at the equator. Only when the electron distribution is primarily field-aligned can there be a density minimum at the equator. Comparisons are made between this model and the observed variations in DE 1 plasma parameters with latitude.

Olsen, R. C.↗
NASA NTRS1970

Extended-life magnetic recording heads

Recording head has standard ferrite core directly coated with a thin film of a magnetic alloy composed of aluminum, iron, and silicon. Coated head has a lifespan from five to ten times longer than that of conventional heads and shows superior inductance characteristics and frequency response.

Kern, J. D.↗
NASA NTRS1972

Two-stage magnetometer measures weak magnetic fields

Sensitive magnetometer capable of measuring field strengths of 10 nanogauss is described. High permeability core is aligned parallel to magnetic field in first stage. In second stage, ferromagnetic toroid saturates rapidly. Adjustment of turns and area ratios of each stage provides wide range of sensitivities.

Buntenbach, R. W.↗
NASA NTRS2001

Geodynamo Modeling of Core-Mantle Interactions

Angular momentum exchange between the Earth's mantle and core influences the Earth's rotation on time scales of decades and longer, in particular in the length of day (LOD) which have been measured with progressively increasing accuracy for the last two centuries. There are four possible coupling mechanisms for transferring the axial angular momentum across the core-mantle boundary (CMB): viscous, magnetic, topography, and gravitational torques. Here we use our scalable, modularized, fully dynamic geodynamo model for the core to assess the importance of these torques. This numerical model, as an extension of the Kuang-Bloxham model that has successfully simulated the generation of the Earth's magnetic field, is used to obtain numerical results in various physical conditions in terms of specific parameterization consistent with the dynamical processes in the fluid outer core. The results show that depending on the electrical conductivity of the lower mantle and the amplitude of the boundary topography at CMB, both magnetic and topographic couplings can contribute significantly to the angular momentum exchange. This implies that the core-mantle interactions are far more complex than has been assumed and that there is unlikely a single dominant coupling mechanism for the observed decadal LOD variation.

Kuang, Wei-Jia↗
NASA NTRS1995

An active magnetic bearing with high T(sub c) superconducting coils and ferromagnetic cores

A proof-of-feasibility demonstration showed that high-T(sub c) superconductor (HTS) coils can be used in a high-load, active magnetic bearing in LN2. A homopolar radial bearing with commercially wound HTS (Bi 2223) bias and control coils produced over 890 N (200 lb) radial load capacity (measured non-rotatings) and supported a shaft to 14,000 rpm. The goal was to show that HTS coils can operate stably with ferromagnetic cores in a feedback controlled system at a current density similar to that for Cu in LN2. The bias coil, wound with non-twisted, multifilament HTS conductor, dissipated negligible power for its direct current. The control coils, wound with monofilament HTS sheathed in Ag, dissipated negligible power for direct current. AC losses increased rapidly with frequency and quadratically with AC amplitude. Above about 2 Hz, the effective resistance of the control coils exceeds that of the silver which is in electrical parallel with the oxide superconductor. These results show that twisted multifilament conductor is not needed for stable levitation but may be desired to reduce control power for sizable dynamic loads.

Brown, G. V.↗
NASA NTRS1972

The effects of boundary condition asymmetries on the interplanetary magnetic field-moon interaction.

Boundary condition asymmetries inherent in the solar wind flow past the moon are included in a cylindrical model of the interplanetary magnetic field-moon interaction. Numerical examinations of the sunward side response of this model are compared in the frequency domain with those of symmetrically excited spherical and cylindrical models and two characteristic differences are observed: the response of the asymmetric model is depressed at low frequencies due to magnetic diffusion around a conducting core, and is flattened at high frequencies because of the finite application time of the incident interplanetary magnetic field. The diffusion of field lines around the core is also evident in the time response of the model in the antisolar cavity. The above features of the lunar response resulting from boundary condition asymmetries are shown to be evident in observational measurements.

Reisz, A. C.↗
NASA NTRS1977

Air-Gapped Structures as Magnetic Elements for Use in Power Processing Systems

Methodical approaches to the design of inductors for use in LC filters and dc-to-dc converters using air gapped magnetic structures are presented. Methods for the analysis and design of full wave rectifier LC filter circuits operating with the inductor current in both the continuous conduction and the discontinuous conduction modes are also described. In the continuous conduction mode, linear circuit analysis techniques are employed, while in the case of the discontinuous mode, the method of analysis requires computer solutions of the piecewise linear differential equations which describe the filter in the time domain. Procedures for designing filter inductors using air gapped cores are presented. The first procedure requires digital computation to yield a design which is optimized in the sense of minimum core volume and minimum number of turns. The second procedure does not yield an optimized design as defined above, but the design can be obtained by hand calculations or with a small calculator. The third procedure is based on the use of specially prepared magnetic core data and provides an easy way to quickly reach a workable design.

Ohri, A. K.↗
NASA NTRS1972

Viscosity of the earth's core

Estimates of the coefficient of kinematical viscosity nu of the earth's liquid metallic core that are given in the geophysical literature range from approximately 0.001 sq cm/s, the viscosity of molten iron at ordinary pressures, to approximately less than 10 to the 8th power sq cm/s, based on the observation that compressional waves traverse the core without suffering serious attenuation. Bumps on the core-mantle boundary with typical horizontal dimensions up to a few thousand km and vertical dimensions h of a few km would produce the topographic coupling between the core and mantle that is evidently implied by the observed decade variations in the length of the day (unless the coupling is due to the presence of rapidly fluctuating magnetic fields in the core).

Hide, R.↗
NASA NTRS1982

Investigation of geomagnetic field forecasting and fluid dynamics of the core

Progress in the development, testing, and evaluation of kinematic geomagnetic forecast models and their utility in magnetic prediction of the core-mantle boundary of the Earth and in determination of the core radius is reported. The GFSC 9/80 model, which uses MAGSAT data, was determined to be of high quality.

Benton, E. R.↗
NASA NTRS1982

Measurements of the lunar induced magnetic moment in the geomagnetic tail - Evidence for a lunar core

Apollo 15 and 16 subsatellite fluxgate magnetometer data have been analyzed for all intervals in which the moon was in the lobes of the geomagnetic tail to obtain an improved estimate of the average magnitude of the induced dipole moment of the moon. The resulting set of estimates yields an induced magnetic moment of -4.23 x 10 to the 22nd Gauss-cu cm per Gauss of applied field, corresponding to a G-factor of -0.008 + or - 0.001. These measurements do not place strong constraints on the conductivity of the lunar core. The observed effects would be detected as long as the core conductivity was greater than about 10 mho/m. If the outer cool layers of the moon that are at temperatures below the effective Curie point contain little or no free iron, then these measurements are consistent with the presence of a conducting core whose radius is slightly larger than 400 km. If these outer layers of the moon contain significant amounts of free iron and hence exhibit the paramagnetism expected in such a situation the core size could be even greater.

Russell, C. T.↗