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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 325 records · Page 18

The role of coherent structures in the generation of noise for subsonic jets

The coherent structure in high Reynolds number (184,000 to 262,000), Mach number 0.6 to 0.8 axisymmetric cold air jets exhausting at atmospheric pressure was studied. The mean flow and the statistical time averaged turbulence properties were measured. Spectra showed a very broad frequency content which shifted towards the lower frequencies as the flow progressed downstream. Axial wave number measurements indicate that the axial wave number-frequency relationship was the same for a wide range of Mach (0.3 to 2.5) and Reynolds (3,700 to over 200,000) numbers. Measurements of the azimuthal mode numbers show that several modes from n = -3 to +3 exist simultaneously in various quantities that the different frequencies studied. Acoustic measurements were made in the near field of the Mach number 0.6 jet. Sound pressure level contours showed that noise appeared to be radiated from a location near the end of the potential core. Directivity plots revealed that the spectra of this noise shifted towards higher frequencies as the angle from the jet axis increased. It was also found that mid-band excitation frequencies produced an increase in full spectrum noise.

Morrison, G. L.↗

Radar observations of inertial period waves in the lower stratosphere over Arecibo

Several hundred hours of wind velocity measurements made with the Arecibo 430-MHz radar during the past few years have indicated the presence of persistent wave like structures just above the tropopause. To further investigate these structures, a nearly continuous times series of wind measurements in the upper troposphere and lower stratosphere was made from May 5 to May 12, 1982 at Arecibo. Each of 16 compass points was sampled as the 430-MHz feed was rotated in a velocity azimuth display (VAD) mode at a zenith angle of 15 degrees off-vertical. Using a nonlinear least squares parameter estimation technique line of sight velocities were calculated from Doppler shifts of the received spectra. These velocities were reduced to zonal and meridional components of the wind vector; the vertical component of the wind vector will be available after further reduction.

Cornish, C. R.↗

VLF line radiation in the earth's magnetosphere and its association with power system radiation

In a recent experiment, discrete VLF emissions from the magnetosphere were triggered by a transmitter at Siple Station in Antarctica. Spectrograms of these signals as received at the conjugate point, Roberval, Quebec, showed changes in slope, entrainments, and cutoffs at frequencies (several kilohertz) close to the harmonic induction lines from the local 60-Hz power system. This observation led to the suggestion that harmonic radiation from the power system enters the magnetosphere and interacts with the triggered emissions. New evidence supporting this suggestion has been found in spectrograms of simultaneous recordings made at Roberval and at Siple Station in Antarctica. It is shown that line radiation, near harmonics of 60 Hz, travels along the earth's magnetic field in the whistler mode and is received in the conjugate hemisphere at Siple Station. Echoing of the line radiation between Siple and Roberval is often observed. The magnetospheric lines are usually shifted in frequency by 20-30 Hz with respect to the adjacent induction line, but their spacings are near 120 Hz. They may trigger and cut off emissions as do signals from VLF transmitters.

Helliwell, R. A.↗

Analysis and design of a high power, digitally-controlled spacecraft power system

The progress to date on the analysis and design of a high power, digitally controlled spacecraft power system is described. Several battery discharger topologies were compared for use in the space platform application. Updated information has been provided on the battery voltage specification. Initially it was thought to be in the 30 to 40 V range. It is now specified to be 53 V to 84 V. This eliminated the tapped-boost and the current-fed auto-transformer converters from consideration. After consultations with NASA, it was decided to trade-off the following topologies: (1) boost converter; (2) multi-module, multi-phase boost converter; and (3) voltage-fed push-pull with auto-transformer. A non-linear design optimization software tool was employed to facilitate an objective comparison. Non-linear design optimization insures that the best design of each topology is compared. The results indicate that a four-module, boost converter with each module operating 90 degrees out of phase is the optimum converter for the space platform. Large-signal and small-signal models were generated for the shunt, charger, discharger, battery, and the mode controller. The models were first tested individually according to the space platform power system specifications supplied by NASA. The effect of battery voltage imbalance on parallel dischargers was investigated with respect to dc and small-signal responses. Similarly, the effects of paralleling dischargers and chargers were also investigated. A solar array and shunt model was included in these simulations. A model for the bus mode controller (power control unit) was also developed to interface the Orbital replacement Unit (ORU) model to the platform power system. Small signal models were used to generate the bus impedance plots in the various operating modes. The large signal models were integrated into a system model, and time domain simulations were performed to verify bus regulation during mode transitions. Some changes have subsequently been incorporated into the models. The changes include the use of a four module boost discharger, and a new model for the mode controller, which includes the effects of saturation. The new simulations for the boost discharger show the improvement in bus ripple that can be achieved by phase-shifted operation of each of the boost modules.

Lee, F. C.↗

Large-Scale Circulation and Climate Variability

The causes of regional climate trends cannot be understood without considering the impact of variations in large-scale atmospheric circulation and an assessment of the role of internally generated climate variability. There are contributions to regional climate trends from changes in large-scale latitudinal circulation, which is generally organized into three cells in each hemisphere-Hadley cell, Ferrell cell and Polar cell-and which determines the location of subtropical dry zones and midlatitude jet streams. These circulation cells are expected to shift poleward during warmer periods, which could result in poleward shifts in precipitation patterns, affecting natural ecosystems, agriculture, and water resources. In addition, regional climate can be strongly affected by non-local responses to recurring patterns (or modes) of variability of the atmospheric circulation or the coupled atmosphere-ocean system. These modes of variability represent preferred spatial patterns and their temporal variation. They account for gross features in variance and for teleconnections which describe climate links between geographically separated regions. Modes of variability are often described as a product of a spatial climate pattern and an associated climate index time series that are identified based on statistical methods like Principal Component Analysis (PC analysis), which is also called Empirical Orthogonal Function Analysis (EOF analysis), and cluster analysis.

Perlwitz, J.↗

Compact piezoelectric resonance mass balance for sample verification and mass quantification and mixing.

There is a need for sample verification and mass quantification of rock, soil and/or ice obtained by sample acquisition mechanisms on extraterrestrial bodies. For many scientific instruments information about the mass of the sample would aid in the interpretation of the data and help prevent the portioning system from overloading instrument ports. Additionally, on a potential sample return mission it is likely that a sample confirmation or mass determination requirement would be implemented before the spacecraft would be commanded to return to Earth or Lunar orbit. In an effort to meet these potential requirements, a piezoelectric resonance balance is being developed to measure a frequency change proportional to the sample mass change. In previous work1 we developed a resonance balance which produced large non-linear frequency changes due to the addition of a large mass. In this study we have looked at a variety of resonator geometries in an effort to linearize the frequency shift with mass. In addition, we have investigated the use of oscillator/counter circuitry to track the frequency shift of the piezoelectric mass balance. In this new design the frequency shifts automatically when a mass is placed on the balance and the counter circuit calculates the frequency shift. This frequency is then converted to a mass using calibration tables determined previously. An additional feature we have implemented is the use of a high frequency thickness mode piezoelectric resonator to mix the sample and a reactant or solvent. This allows for measuring both sample and reagent prior to ingestion by the instrument. This paper will focus on the design requirements and how they are affected by the local gravity and acoustic properties of the sample. Designs which allow for easy loading and unloading of the balance will also be discussed.

Yahnker, Christopher R.↗

A theoretical and experimental study of non-ducted VLF waves after propagation through the magnetosphere.

The nonducted propagation of artificial VLF waves through the magnetosphere has been studied by means of data obtained by the FR-1 satellite experiment, in which fixed frequency (16.8 kHz) waves radiated by a transmitter at the ground (at L equals 2.1) are received by the satellite, at 750 km altitude, both in the zone close to the transmitter and in the conjugate zone. From the wave-normal directions and Doppler shifts measured in the conjugate zone, it has been possible to identify waves that have been propagated from the Northern to the Southern Hemisphere in both ducted and nonducted modes. In this paper, the main features of the nonducted wave have been interpreted by ray tracing in models of the magnetosphere. The results improve our understanding as to why very few whistlers are observed on the ground at low latitudes.

Cerisier, J. C.↗

Integrated Application of Active Controls (IAAC) technology to an advanced subsonic transport project: Wing planform study and final configuration selection

The Wing Planform Study and Final Configuration Selection Task of the Integrated Application of Active Controls (IAAC) Technology Project within the Energy Efficient Transport Program is documented. Application of Active Controls Technology (ACT) in combination with increased wing span resulted in significant improvements over the Conventional Baseline Configuration (Baseline) and the Initial ACT Configuration previously established. The configurations use the same levels of technology, takeoff gross weight, and payload as the Baseline. The Final ACT Configuration (Model 768-107) incorporates pitch-augmented stability (which enabled an approximately 10% aft shift in cruise center of gravity and a 44% reduction in horizontal tail size), lateral/directional-augmented stability, an angle-of-attack limiter, and wing-load alleviation. Flutter-mode control was not beneficial for this configuration. This resulted in an 890 kg (1960 lb) reduction in airplane takeoff gross weight and a 9.8% improvement in cruise lift/drag. At the Baseline mission range (3589 km 1938 nmi), this amounts to 10% block-fuel reduction. Results of this task strongly indicate that the IAAC Project should proceed with the Final ACT evaluation, and begin the required control system development and test.

Source record↗

Integrated Application of Active Controls (IAAC) technology to an advanced subsonic transport project: Wing planform study and final configuration selection

This report summarizes the Wing Planform Study Task and Final Configuration Selection of the Integrated Application of Active Controls (IAAC) Technology Project within the Energy Efficient Transport Program. Application of Active Controls Technology (ACT) in combination with increased wing span resulted in significant improvements over the Conventional Baseline Configuration (Baseline) and the Initial ACT Configuration previously established. The configurations use the same levels of technology (except for ACT), takeoff gross weight, and payload as the Baseline. The Final ACT Configuration (Model 768-107) incorporates pitch-augmented stability (which enabled an approximately 10% aft shift in cruise center of gravity and a 45% reduction in horizontal tail sizes), lateral/directional-augmented stability, an angle-of-attack limiter, and wing-load alleviation. Flutter-mode control was not beneficial for this configuration. This resulted in an 890 kg (1960 lb) reduction in airplane takeoff gross weight and a 9.8% improvement in cruise lift/drag. At the Baseline mission range (3590 km) (1938 nmi), this amounts to 10% block fuel reduction. Good takeoff performance at high-altitude airports on a hot day was also achieved. Results of this task strongly indicate that the IAAC Project should proceed with the Final ACT evaluation and begin the required control system development and testing.

Source record↗

Horizons and Opportunities in Lunar Sample Science

The Moon is the cornerstone of planetary science. Lunar sample studies were fundamental in developing an understanding of the early evolution and continued development of planetary bodies, and have led to major revisions in understanding of processes for the accumulation of planetesimals and the formation of planets. Studies of lunar samples have increased an understanding of impact cratering, meteoroid and micrometeoroid fluxes, the interaction of planetary surfaces with radiations and particles, and even the history of the Sun. The lunar sample research program was especially productive, but by no means have all the important answers been determined; continued study of lunar samples will further illuminate the shadows of our knowledge about the solar system. Further, the treasures returned through the Apollo program provide information that is required for a return to the Moon, beginning with new exploration (Lunar Geoscience Observer (LGO)), followed by intensive study (new sample return missions), and eventually culminating in a lunar base and lunar resource utilization. The few years during and following Apollo were a hectic time for lunar science. Since then, considerable maturation of the science and distinct changes in the mode of operation have developed. Funding (and hence the number of investigators) has naturally declined. Studies have become far more problem-oriented than descriptive. Many sample investigators have shifted their sights away from planetary evolution, for which the Moon holds considerable information, toward processes and materials in the pre-planetary solar nebula, for which the Moon has no direct evidence. Nonetheless, unique scientific opportunities are still supplied by the samples returned from the Apollo and Luna missions and by lunar meteorites. These 382 kg of samples constitute a priceless resource that still has enormous scientific potential. Continued interaction between NASA and the scientific community, especially through the advice of groups such as the Lunar and Planetary Sample Team (LAPST), is essential in maintaining the current level of excellence of the program. LAPST has reviewed its role, the role of the sample research community, and the perceived role of future researchers over the next decade in ensuring the effective use of lunar sample studies in space exploration and exploitation. The review encompasses: (I) lunar sample science; (2) lunar materials applications; (3) lunar sample studies and their relation to future space missions; and (4) lunar sample curation. Plans in all four areas are summarized in this document.

Source record↗

Efficiency functions for a 316 g/mm echelle grating

The radiometric response function of the High Resolution Spectrograph (HRS) for the Hubble Space Telescope was measured in 1984. From the system efficiency measurements made in the HRS echelle modes, the relative efficiencies ('ripple' functions) of 14 HRS echelle orders have been deduced. The results agree well with a theoretical model of echelle efficiency, except for a residual shift of apparent blaze angle with spectral order. The discrepancy between nominal and fitted blaze angle decreases with increasing order number.

Cushman, G. W.↗

Analyses of near- and far-field two-lobe patterns outside the output endface of a two-mode fiber

The behaviors of the near- and far-field two-lobe radiation patterns from a circular-core two-mode fiber are studied by using both the mode and Kirchhoff diffraction theories. The electric field outside the output endface of the fiber is derived from the electric field distribution of the LP sub 01 and LP sub 11 modes at the fiber endface using the Kirchhoff diffraction formula. Different phenomena are studied by solving this expression numerically at near-and far-fields. The Gouy phase shifts are quantitatively evaluated at cross-sections of the near field. The results reveal the distortion and dislocation of the far-field two-lobe pattern induced by an inclination angle of the fiber endface.

Wang, A.↗

Optical gyroscope system

Light beams pass in opposite directions through a single mode fiber optic wave guide that extends in a circle or coil in an optical gyroscope system which measures the rotation rate of the coil by measuring the relative phase shifts of the beams by interferometric techniques. Beam splitting and phase shifting of the light are facilitated by utilizing brief pulses of light and by using light-controlling devices which are operated for a brief time only when the light pulse passes in one direction through the device but not at a different time when the pulse is passing in the opposite direction through the device. High accuracy in rotation measurement is achieved at both very slow and very fast rotation rates, by alternately operating the system so that at zero rotation the interfering waves are alternately 90 out of phase and in phase. Linear polarization of the light beams is maintained by coiling the full length of the optic fiber in a single plane.

Goss, W. C.↗

Time composite sounding

In the time composite sounding mode, the Vertical Atmospheric Sounder (VAS) data is collected in a series of images of one spin each rather than in the dwell sound mode where single lines are repeatedly scanned. A drawback of the time composite method is temporal smearing of the data, but to compensate this there is also the chance that shifting cloud patterns will permit better spatial coverage. Time composite sounding was performed for a single case study, June 14, 1984. Four, ten minute single spin swaths were processed. The principal conclusion was that the time composite results were at least equivalent to the conventional dwell sounding results, despite the fact that compositing was done in a less than optimum way because of software limitations.

Hayden, C.↗

Single-mode laser studies: Design and performance of a fixed-wave length source and coupling of lasers to thin-film optical waveguides

A module developed for the generation of a stable single wavelength to be used for a fiber optic multiplexing scheme is described. The laser is driven with RZ pulses, and the temperature is stabilized thermoelectrically. The unit is capable of maintaining a fixed wavelength within about 6 A as the pulse duty cycle is changed between 0 and 100 percent. This is considered the most severe case, and much tighter tolerances are obtainable for constant input power coding schemes. Using a constricted double heterostructure laser, a wavelength shift of 0.083 A mA is obtained due to laser self-heating by a dc driving current. The thermoelectric unit is capable of maintaining a constant laser heat-sink temperature within 0.02 C. In addition, miniature lenses and couplers are described which allow efficient coupling of single wavelength modes of junction lasers to thin film optical waveguides. The design of the miniature cylinder lenses and the prism coupling techniques allow 2 mW of single wavelength mode junction laser light to b coupled into thin film waveguides using compact assemblies. Selective grating couplers are also studied.

Ladany, I.↗

LPV Modeling of a Flexible Wing Aircraft Using Modal Alignment and Adaptive Gridding Methods

One of the earliest approaches in gain-scheduling control is the gridding based approach, in which a set of local linear time-invariant models are obtained at various gridded points corresponding to the varying parameters within the flight envelop. In order to ensure smooth and effective Linear Parameter-Varying control, aligning all the flexible modes within each local model and maintaining small number of representative local models over the gridded parameter space are crucial. In addition, since the flexible structural models tend to have large dimensions, a tractable model reduction process is necessary. In this paper, the notion of s-shifted H2- and H Infinity-norm are introduced and used as a metric to measure the model mismatch. A new modal alignment algorithm is developed which utilizes the defined metric for aligning all the local models over the entire gridded parameter space. Furthermore, an Adaptive Grid Step Size Determination algorithm is developed to minimize the number of local models required to represent the gridded parameter space. For model reduction, we propose to utilize the concept of Composite Modal Cost Analysis, through which the collective contribution of each flexible mode is computed and ranked. Therefore, a reduced-order model is constructed by retaining only those modes with significant contribution. The NASA Generic Transport Model operating at various flight speeds is studied for verification purpose, and the analysis and simulation results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed modeling approach.

LPV Modeling↗

Low order equivalent models of highly augmented aircraft determined from flight data using maximum likelihood estimation

This paper presents the results of a study of the feasibility of using low order equivalent mathematical models of a highly augmented aircraft, the F-8 digital fly-by-wire (DFBW), for flying qualities research. Increasingly complex models were formulated and evaluated using flight data and maximum likelihood estimation techniques. The aircraft actuator was modeled alone first. Next the equivalent derivatives were used to model the longitudinal unaugmented F-8 DFBW aircraft dynamics. The most complex model incorporated a pure time shift of the pilot input, a first order lag, and the basic longitudinal airframe model. This same model was then implemented for the F-8 DFBW aircraft in a highly augmented mode. Excellent matching of the dynamics resulted for this model, indicating that low order equivalent models which are good representations of the highly augmented F-8 DFBW aircraft can be formulated with these methods.

Shafer, M. F.↗