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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 343 records · Page 19
All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
NASA NTRS1993

Control of Complex Dynamic Systems by Neural Networks

This paper considers the use of neural networks (NN's) in controlling a nonlinear, stochastic system with unknown process equations. The NN is used to model the resulting unknown control law. The approach here is based on using the output error of the system to train the NN controller without the need to construct a separate model (NN or other type) for the unknown process dynamics. To implement such a direct adaptive control approach, it is required that connection weights in the NN be estimated while the system is being controlled. As a result of the feedback of the unknown process dynamics, however, it is not possible to determine the gradient of the loss function for use in standard (back-propagation-type) weight estimation algorithms. Therefore, this paper considers the use of a new stochastic approximation algorithm for this weight estimation, which is based on a 'simultaneous perturbation' gradient approximation that only requires the system output error. It is shown that this algorithm can greatly enhance the efficiency over more standard stochastic approximation algorithms based on finite-difference gradient approximations.

Spall, James C.↗
NASA NTRS1991

Time variant analysis of large scale constrained rotorcraft systems dynamics - An exploitation of IBM-3090 vector-processor's pipe-lining feature

A generalized algorithmic procedure is presented for handling the constraints in transmissions, which are treated as a multibody system of interconnected rigid/flexible bodies. The type of constraints are classified based on the interconnection of the bodies, assuming one or more points of contact to exist between them. The method is explained through flow charts and configuration/interaction tables. A significant increase in speed of execution is achieved by vectorizing the developed code in computationally intensive areas. The study of an example consisting of two meshing disks rotating at high angular velocity is carried out. The dynamic behavior of the constraint forces associated with the generalized coordinates of the system are plotted by selecting various modes. Applications are intended for the study of dynamic and subsequent prediction of constraint forces at the gear teeth contacting points in helicopter transmissions with the aim of improving performance dependability.

Amirouche, F. M. L.↗
NASA NTRS1995

Analysis of Solar Receiver Flux Distributions for US/Russian Solar Dynamic System Demonstration on the MIR Space Station

Analyses have been performed at the NASA Lewis Research Center's Power Systems Project Office to support the design and development of the joint U.S./Russian Solar Dynamic Flight Demonstration Project. The optical analysis of the concentrator and solar flux predictions on target receiver surfaces have an important influence on receiver design and control of the Brayton engine.

Source record↗
NASA NTRS1976

Earth-moon system: Dynamics and parameter estimation; numerical considerations and program documentation

Major activities included coding and verifying equations of motion for the earth-moon system. Some attention was also given to numerical integration methods and parameter estimation methods. Existing analytical theories such as Brown's lunar theory, Eckhardt's theory for lunar rotation, and Newcomb's theory for the rotation of the earth were coded and verified. These theories serve as checks for the numerical integration. Laser ranging data for the period January 1969 - December 1975 was collected and stored on tape. The main goal of this research is the development of software to enable physical parameters of the earth-moon system to be estimated making use of data available from the Lunar Laser Ranging Experiment and the Very Long Base Interferometry experiment of project Apollo. A more specific goal is to develop software for the estimation of certain physical parameters of the moon such as inertia ratios, and the third and fourth harmonic gravity coefficients.

Breedlove, W. J., Jr.↗
NASA NTRS1990

An ICAI architecture for troubleshooting in complex, dynamic systems

Ahab, an intelligent computer-aided instruction (ICAI) program, illustrates an architecture for simulator-based ICAI programs to teach troubleshooting in complex, dynamic environments. The architecture posits three elements of a computerized instructor: the task model, the student model, and the instructional module. The task model is a prescriptive model of expert performance that uses symptomatic and topographic search strategies to provide students with directed problem-solving aids. The student model is a descriptive model of student performance in the context of the task model. This student model compares the student and task models, critiques student performance, and provides interactive performance feedback. The instructional module coordinates information presented by the instructional media, the task model, and the student model so that each student receives individualized instruction. Concept and metaconcept knowledge that supports these elements is contained in frames and production rules, respectively. The results of an experimental evaluation are discussed. They support the hypothesis that training with an adaptive online system built using the Ahab architecture produces better performance than training using simulator practice alone, at least with unfamiliar problems. It is not sufficient to develop an expert strategy and present it to students using offline materials. The training is most effective if it adapts to individual student needs.

Fath, Janet L.↗
NASA NTRS1983

Time domain response envelope for structural dynamic systems

A transient envelope solution method is developed for payload structural systems. This method requires that the external forcing functions are decomposed into a quasi-static part and a dynamic part. The amplitude of the peak envelope and the corresponding varying frequencies for the generalized forcing functions are required for obtaining the response envelopes. The proposed method is applied to a sample problem as well as a spacecraft structural system and the results are in good agreement with the exact solution.

Chen, J.-C.↗
NASA NTRS2012

CoNNeCT Antenna Positioning System Dynamic Simulator Modal Model Correlation

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) developed an on-orbit, adaptable, Software Defined Radios (SDR)/Space Telecommunications Radio System (STRS)-based testbed facility to conduct a suite of experiments to advance technologies, reduce risk, and enable future mission capabilities on the International Space Station (ISS). The Communications, Navigation, and Networking reConfigurable Testbed (CoNNeCT) Project will provide NASA, industry, other Government agencies, and academic partners the opportunity to develop and field communications, navigation, and networking technologies in both the laboratory and space environment based on reconfigurable, software-defined radio platforms and the STRS Architecture. The CoNNeCT Payload Operations Nomenclature is SCAN Testbed, and this nomenclature will be used in all ISS integration, safety, verification, and operations documentation. The SCAN Testbed (payload) is a Flight Releasable Attachment Mechanism (FRAM) based payload that will launch aboard the Japanese H-II Transfer Vehicle (HTV) Multipurpose Exposed Pallet (EP-MP) to the International Space Station (ISS), and will be transferred to the Express Logistics Carrier 3 (ELC3) via Extravehicular Robotics (EVR). The SCAN Testbed will operate on-orbit for a minimum of two years.

Jones, Trevor M.↗
NASA NTRS2012

CoNNeCT Antenna Positioning System Dynamic Simulator Modal Model Correlation

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) developed an on-orbit, adaptable, Software Defined Radios (SDR)/Space Telecommunications Radio System (STRS)-based testbed facility to conduct a suite of experiments to advance technologies, reduce risk, and enable future mission capabilities on the International Space Station (ISS). The Communications, Navigation, and Networking reConfigurable Testbed (CoNNeCT) Project will provide NASA, industry, other Government agencies, and academic partners the opportunity to develop and field communications, navigation, and networking technologies in both the laboratory and space environment based on reconfigurable, software-defined radio platforms and the STRS Architecture. The CoNNeCT Payload Operations Nomenclature is "SCAN Testbed," and this nomenclature will be used in all ISS integration, safety, verification, and operations documentation. The SCAN Testbed (payload) is a Flight Releasable Attachment Mechanism (FRAM) based payload that will launch aboard the Japanese H-II Transfer Vehicle (HTV) Multipurpose Exposed Pallet (EP-MP) to the International Space Station (ISS), and will be transferred to the Express Logistics Carrier 3 (ELC3) via Extravehicular Robotics (EVR). The SCAN Testbed will operate on-orbit for a minimum of two years.

Jones, Tevor M.↗
NASA NTRS1993

Time-variant analysis of rotorcraft systems dynamics - An exploitation of vector processors

In this paper a generalized algorithmic procedure is presented for handling constraints in mechanical transmissions. The latter are treated as multibody systems of interconnected rigid/flexible bodies. The constraint Jacobian matrices are generated automatically and suitably updated in time, depending on the geometrical and kinematical constraint conditions describing the interconnection between shafts or gears. The type of constraints are classified based on the interconnection of the bodies by assuming that one or more points of contact exist between them. The effects due to elastic deformation of the flexible bodies are included by allowing each body element to undergo small deformations. The procedure is based on recursively formulated Kane's dynamical equations of motion and the finite element method, including the concept of geometrical stiffening effects. The method is implemented on an IBM-3090-600j vector processor with pipe-lining capabilities. A significant increase in the speed of execution is achieved by vectorizing the developed code in computationally intensive areas. An example consisting of two meshing disks rotating at high angular velocity is presented. Applications are intended for the study of the dynamic behavior of helicopter transmissions.

Amirouche, F. M. L.↗
NASA NTRS1971

Method for constructing periodic orbits in nonlinear dynamic systems

Method is modification of generalized Newton-Ralphson algorithm for analyzing two-point boundary problems. It constructs sequence of solutions that converge to precise dynamic solution in the sequence limit. Program calculates periodic orbits in either circular or elliptical restricted three-body problems.

Bennett, A. G.↗
NASA NTRS1986

Solving large-scale dynamic systems using band Lanczos method in Rockwell NASTRAN on CRAY X-MP

The improved cost effectiveness using better models, more accurate and faster algorithms and large scale computing offers more representative dynamic analyses. The band Lanczos eigen-solution method was implemented in Rockwell's version of 1984 COSMIC-released NASTRAN finite element structural analysis computer program to effectively solve for structural vibration modes including those of large complex systems exceeding 10,000 degrees of freedom. The Lanczos vectors were re-orthogonalized locally using the Lanczos Method and globally using the modified Gram-Schmidt method for sweeping rigid-body modes and previously generated modes and Lanczos vectors. The truncated band matrix was solved for vibration frequencies and mode shapes using Givens rotations. Numerical examples are included to demonstrate the cost effectiveness and accuracy of the method as implemented in ROCKWELL NASTRAN. The CRAY version is based on RPK's COSMIC/NASTRAN. The band Lanczos method was more reliable and accurate and converged faster than the single vector Lanczos Method. The band Lanczos method was comparable to the subspace iteration method which was a block version of the inverse power method. However, the subspace matrix tended to be fully populated in the case of subspace iteration and not as sparse as a band matrix.

Gupta, V. K.↗
DOE OSTI2025

Generative AI models for learning flow maps of stochastic dynamical systems in bounded domains

Simulating stochastic differential equations (SDEs) in bounded domains, presents significant computational challenges due to particle exit phenomena, which requires accurate modeling of interior stochastic dynamics and boundary interactions. Despite the success of machine learning-based methods in learning SDEs, existing learning methods are not applicable to SDEs in bounded domains because they cannot accurately capture the particle exit dynamics. We present a unified hybrid data-driven approach that combines a conditional diffusion model with an exit prediction neural network to capture both interior stochastic dynamics and boundary exit phenomena. Our ML model consists of two major components: a neural network that learns exit probabilities using binary cross-entropy loss with rigorous convergence guarantees, and a training-free diffusion model that generates state transitions for non-exiting particles using closed-form score functions. The two components are integrated through a probabilistic sampling algorithm that determines particle exit at each time step and generates appropriate state transitions. Here, the performance of the proposed approach is demonstrated via three test cases: a one-dimensional simplified problem for theoretical verification, a two-dimensional advection-diffusion problem in a bounded domain, and a three-dimensional problem of interest to magnetically confined fusion plasmas.

Bounded domains↗
NASA NTRS1982

Analytical model accuracy requirements for structural dynamic systems

A test/analysis correlation criterion for the analytical model accuracy requirement has been developed. It is based on the principle of equal errors from the model inaccuracy and the uncertainties of dynamic environments. The forcing functions are idealized to establish the base for uncertainty definition and the maximum allowable errors from these uncertainties are obtained. Then the model accuracy requirement is established by comparing the responses due to the model errors to those due to the forcing function uncertainties.

Chen, J.-C.↗
DOE OSTI2026

Enhanced accuracy through ensembling of randomly initialized auto-regressive models for dynamical systems

Computational mechanics simulations using traditional finite element methods (FEM) require prohibitively expensive computational resources for real-time engineering applications, design optimization, and digital twin implementations. While machine learning (ML) surrogate models offer significant computational speedups, autoregressive ML models for time-dependent mechanical systems suffer from error accumulation that compromises long-term prediction reliability - a critical concern for engineering applications where accuracy over extended time horizons is essential for safety and performance assessments. Here, we propose a deep ensemble framework specifically designed to address this challenge in computational mechanics applications, where multiple ML surrogate models with random weight initializations are trained in parallel and their predictions aggregated during inference. This approach leverages statistical diversity to maximize information gain from a fixed set of training data and to mitigate error propagation, while maintaining the computational efficiency that makes ML surrogates attractive for engineering practice. We validate the framework on three representative problems spanning critical areas of computational mechanics: stress field evolution in heterogeneous microstructures under complex loading (relevant to advanced materials design and composite analysis), planetary-scale shallow water dynamics (applicable to environmental and geotechnical engineering), and Gray-Scott reaction-diffusion systems (relevant to mass transport and chemical process engineering). Across all test cases, the ensemble approach demonstrates consistent error reduction of 15-33% compared to individual models. The codes for this work are available on GitHub (https://github.com/Graham-Brady-Research-Group/AutoregressiveEnsemble_SpatioTemporal_Evolution).

autoregressive prediction↗
NASA NTRS1988

Explicit modeling and concurrent processing in the simulation of multibody dynamic systems

The objective is to present the activities at TRW in developing the capability to simulate the behavior of large flexible multibody space structures. The features of the simulation tools are: (1) to accommodate all rigid/flexible body degrees-of-freedom which incorporate the control system models and external forces, (2) to provide the flexibility to incorporate engineering-defined models and to retain parameters of significance to the engineer, (3) to reduce the computation cost by one order of magnitude (two orders of magnitude compared to a CRAY 1S), and (4) to keep it versatile so that radical variations in anticipated space structures can be accommodated. The current computer tools to simulate multibody systems appear not only to be very costly and time consuming, but also do not produce the desired fidelity of the mathematical models. In summary, a multibody simulation tool will be developed in the near future which will allow solution of the dynamics and controls of the deployment of the LDR backup structure, or the problem associated with the robotic assembly of the structure. The tools will allow the engineer to define the modeling technique and solve problems in less time and at reduced cost.

Gluck, R.↗
NASA NTRS1991

System dynamic simulation of precision segmented reflector

A joint effort was undertaken on a Precision Segmented Reflector (PSR) Project. The missions in which the PSR is to be used will use large (up to 20 m in diameter) telescopes. The essential requirement for the telescopes is that the reflector surface of the primary mirror must be made extremely precise to allow no more than a few microns of errors and, additionally, this high surface precision must be maintained when the telescope is subjected to on-orbital mechanical and thermal disturbances. Based on the mass, size, and stability considerations, reflector surface formed by segmented, probably actively or passively controlled, composite panels are regarded as most suitable for future space based astronomical telescope applications. In addition to the design and fabrication of composite panels with a surface error of less than 3 microns RMS, PSR also develops related reflector structures, materials, control, and sensing technologies. As part of the planning effort for PSR Technology Demonstration, a system model which couples the reflector, consisting of panels, support truss and actuators, and the optical bench was assembled for dynamic simulations. Random vibration analyses using seismic data obtained from actual measurements at the test site designated for PSR Technology Demonstration are described.

Shih, Choon-Foo↗