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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

A Summary of the Pioneer 10 Maneuver Strategy

The Pioneer Project placed a number of interesting and precise requirements on the navigation of the Pioneer 10 spacecraft flyby mission to Jupiter during 1972-1973. To satisfy these requirements the Pioneer navigation team employed a number of versatile computer programs to evaluate the strategies and maneuver sequences required to execute midcourse corrections. The Pioneer 10 mission objectives and the midcourse strategies used to satisfy these objectives are summarized.

Frauenholz, R. B.↗

Properties of heuristic search strategies

A directed graph is used to model the search space of a state space representation with single input operators, an AND/OR is used for problem reduction representations, and a theorem proving graph is used for state space representations with multiple input operators. These three graph models and heuristic strategies for searching them are surveyed. The completeness, admissibility, and optimality properties of search strategies which use the evaluation function f = (1 - omega)g = omega(h) are presented and interpreted using a representation of the search process in the plane. The use of multiple output operators to imply dependent successors, and thus obtain a formalism which includes all three types of representations, is discussed.

Vanderbrug, G. J.↗

Maneuver strategy for a possible Pioneer 11 extended mission

The Jupiter-bound Pioneer 11 spacecraft was launched in April 1973, eight months before the Jupiter encounter of the front-running twin spacecraft, Pioneer 10. Depending on the content of the Pioneer 10 science, the Pioneer 11 mission objectives may be modified to explore different regions about Jupiter, including an aimpoint region providing for an extended trajectory to Saturn. Following launch, early maneuver aiming strategies were designed to retain a later retargeting maneuver capability to repeat Pioneer 10 or to encounter alternate Jupiter aimpoints. This paper identifies the ground rules and information required for the adaptive design of these strategies, considering a variety of mission objectives and Project constraints for later retargeting maneuvers.

Frauenholz, R. B.↗

Orbit determination strategy and results for the Pioneer 10 Jupiter mission

Pioneer 10 is the first earth-based vehicle to encounter Jupiter and occult its moon, Io. In contributing to the success of the mission, the Orbit Determination Group evaluated the effects of the dominant error sources on the spacecraft's computed orbit and devised an encounter strategy minimizing the effects of these error sources. The encounter results indicated that: (1) errors in the satellite model played a very important role in the accuracy of the computed orbit, (2) encounter strategy was sound, (3) all mission objectives were met, and (4) Jupiter-Saturn mission for Pioneer 11 is within the navigation capability.

Wong, S. K.↗

Mode shift strategies in intercity transportation and their effect on energy consumption

Policies are examined which, if implemented, could lead to significant energy savings in intercity travel in the northeast corridor arena, without restricting the traveler's freedom of mode choice. The effects on arena energy consumption of introducing new, more energy-efficient aircraft are investigated; and several strategies unrelated to the implementation of new aircraft are introduced to yield reductions in overall intercity energy use. In both parts of this analysis, resulting changes in patronage (modal share) and energy use are demonstrated, leading to new insights into the effectiveness of different potential policies for achieving energy conservation. Some observations on induced demand trends that could be associated with certain strategies and the resultant potential effect on energy conservation are provided.

Sokolsky, S.↗

Random coding strategies for minimum entropy

This paper proves that there exists a fixed random coding strategy for block coding a memoryless information source to achieve the absolute epsilon entropy of the source. That is, the strategy can be chosen independent of the block length. The principal new tool is an easy result on the semicontinuity of the relative entropy functional of one probability distribution with respect to another. The theorem generalizes a result from rate-distortion theory to the 'zero-infinity' case.

Posner, E. C.↗

Contractor relationships and inter-organizational strategies in NASA's R and D acquisition process

Interorganizational analysis of NASA's acquisition process for research and development systems is discussed. The importance of understanding the contractor environment, constraints, and motives in selecting an acquisition strategy is demonstrated. By articulating clear project goals, by utilizing information about the contractor and his needs at each stage in the acquisition process, and by thorough analysis of the inter-organizational relationship, improved selection of acquisition strategies and business practices is possible.

Guiltinan, J.↗

An improved lunar moment of inertia determination - A proposed strategy

A strategy for determining an improved lunar moment of inertia is proposed. An improved uncertainty in the lunar inhomogeneity parameter could reduce the core density error from 4.20 gr/cu cm to 0.1 gm/cu cm for the case of a lunar density model having a 300 km core radius. The current error of 0.0025 for the lunar inhomogeneity parameter is mostly due to the uncertainties in the C20 and C22 gravity harmonics. An optimum reduction strategy for obtaining an order of magnitude improvement in the gravity estimates is based on covariance analyses of Doppler data. The long-arc reduction method is shown to provide better results than the short-arc technique, and the use of an orbit with a 7000 km semimajor axis along with certain terms of up to degree and order eight is recommended.

Ananda, M. P.↗

A split band-Cholesky equation solving strategy for finite element analysis of transient field problems

The paper describes the split-Cholesky strategy for banded matrices arising from the large systems of equations in certain fluid mechanics problems. The basic idea is that for a banded matrix the computation can be carried out in pieces, with only a small portion of the matrix residing in core. Mesh considerations are discussed by demonstrating the manner in which the assembly of finite element equations proceeds for linear trial functions on a triangular mesh. The FORTRAN code which implements the out-of-core decomposition strategy for banded symmetric positive definite matrices (mass matrices) of a coupled initial value problem is given.

Cooke, C. H.↗

The SETI Radio Observational Project - Strategy, instrumentation, and objectives

The paper describes strategies, tradeoffs, instrumentation, and overall objectives for the SETI Radio Observation Project. Novel approaches have been formulated in order to achieve coverage of the desirable frequency and spatial regimes (about 80% of the sky and in the frequency range of 1.4-25 GHz). A mixed strategy has been developed which uses the survey capability of small antennas and the sensitivity of modern maser amplifiers to achieve sensitivities comparable to those reached by previous observers, but with as much as 10,000 times the scope of both the frequency and spatial coverage possible to those experimenters.

Edelson, R. E.↗

Voyager 1 Saturn targeting strategy

A trajectory targeting strategy for the Voyager 1 Saturn encounter has been designed to accomodate predicted uncertainties in Titan's ephemeris while maximizing spacecraft safety and science return. The encounter is characterized by a close Titan flyby 18 hours prior to Saturn periapse. Retargeting of the nominal trajectory to account for late updates in Titan's estimated position can disperse the ascending node location, which is nominally situated at a radius of low expected particle density in Saturn's ring plane. The strategy utilizes a floating Titan impact vector magnitude to minimize this dispersion. Encounter trajectory characteristics and optimal tradeoffs are presented.

Cesarone, R. J.↗

Central station market development strategies for photovoltaics

Federal market development strategies designed to accelerate the market penetration of central station applications of photovoltaic energy system are analyzed. Since no specific goals were set for the commercialization of central station applications, strategic principles are explored which, when coupled with specific objectives for central stations, can produce a market development implementation plan. The study includes (1) background information on the National Photovoltaic Program, photovoltaic technology, and central stations; (2) a brief market assessment; (3) a discussion of the viewpoints of the electric utility industry with respect to solar energy; (4) a discussion of commercialization issues; and (5) strategy principles. It is recommended that a set of specific goals and objectives be defined for the photovoltaic central station program, and that these goals and objectives evolve into an implementation plan that identifies the appropriate federal role.

Source record↗

Analogical acts as conceptual strategies in science, engineering and the humanities

The composing models which operate by means of analogy are identified. The importance of analogical acts in the prewriting stage of the composing process is discussed. The relations between analogical acts and concept formation are explored. A basic correspondence between the analogical thinking employed in successful learning and analogical thinking as a composing strategy is discussed. Teaching analogical acts as conceptual strategies for exploring problems and generating the form and content of discourse is presented in support of the contention that writing is a unique mode of learning.

Winkler, V. M.↗

A computer simulation approach to measurement of human control strategy

Human control strategy is measured through use of a psychologically-based computer simulation which reflects a broader theory of control behavior. The simulation is called the human operator performance emulator, or HOPE. HOPE was designed to emulate control learning in a one-dimensional preview tracking task and to measure control strategy in that setting. When given a numerical representation of a track and information about current position in relation to that track, HOPE generates positions for a stick controlling the cursor to be moved along the track. In other words, HOPE generates control stick behavior corresponding to that which might be used by a person learning preview tracking.

Green, J.↗

Application of a pilot control strategy identification technique to a joint FAA/NASA ground-based simulation of head-up displays for CTOL aircraft

A technique for measuring a pilot's control strategy was developed, evaluated, and applied to a joint FAA-NASA ground-based simulation of two competing concepts of head-up displays for use in conventional takeoff and landing aircraft. The technique, called the Non-Intrusive Pilot Identification Program (NIPIP), estimates the pilot's input-output describing function and combined pilot-vehicle performance parameters such as crossover frequency and phase margin by using a time domain model of the pilot and a least-squares identification algorithm. NIPIP functions in realtime and uses a sliding time window to maintain freshness in the data; thus time-varying characteristics in the pilot's control strategy can be measured.

Jewell, W. F.↗

Space Operations Center orbit altitude selection strategy

The strategy for the operational altitude selection has to respond to the Space Operation Center's (SOC) maintenance requirements and the logistics demands of the missions to be supported by the SOC. Three orbit strategies are developed: two are constant altitude, and one variable altitude. In order to minimize the effect of atmospheric uncertainty the dynamic altitude method is recommended. In this approach the SOC will operate at the optimum altitude for the prevailing atmospheric conditions and logistics model, provided that mission safety constraints are not violated. Over a typical solar activity cycle this method produces significant savings in the overall logistics cost.

Indrikis, J.↗

Analysis of pilot control strategy

Methods for nonintrusive identification of pilot control strategy and task execution dynamics are presented along with examples based on flight data. The specific analysis technique is Nonintrusive Parameter Identification Procedure (NIPIP), which is described in a companion user's guide (NASA CR-170398). Quantification of pilot control strategy and task execution dynamics is discussed in general terms followed by a more detailed description of how NIPIP can be applied. The examples are based on flight data obtained from the NASA F-8 digital fly by wire airplane. These examples involve various piloting tasks and control axes as well as a demonstration of how the dynamics of the aircraft itself are identified using NIPIP. Application of NIPIP to the AFTI/F-16 flight test program is discussed. Recommendations are made for flight test applications in general and refinement of NIPIP to include interactive computer graphics.

Heffley, R. K.↗

A new strategy for stress analysis using the finite element method

In the paper the authors examine the effectiveness of the Powell-Toint strategy for evaluating the Hessian of the potential energy surface of a finite element model that can be used for linear stress analysis and transient response predictions of structures. Cases for which the Powell-Toint strategy may be cost-effective with the conventional method of stress analysis are identified.

Kamat, M. P.↗