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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 37 records · Page 2
All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
NASA NTRS1977

Technology requirements for advanced earth-orbital transportation systems, dual-mode propulsion

The application of dual-mode propulsion concepts to fully reusable single-stage-to-orbit (SSTO) vehicles is discussed. Dual-mode propulsion uses main rocket engines that consume hydrocarbon fuels as well as liquid hydrogen fuel. Liquid oxygen is used as the oxidizer. These engine concepts were integrated into transportation vehicle designs capable of vertical takeoff, delivering a payload to earth orbit, and return to earth with a horizontal landing. Benefits of these vehicles were assessed and compared with vehicles using single-mode propulsion (liquid hydrogen and oxygen engines). Technology requirements for such advanced transportation systems were identified. Figures of merit, including life-cycle cost savings and research costs, were derived for dual-mode technology programs, and were used for assessments of potential benefits of proposed technology activities. Dual-mode propulsion concepts display potential for significant cost and performance benefits when applied to SSTO vehicles.

Haefeli, R. C.↗
NASA NTRS1978

The orbiting deep space relay station - A study report

This paper is an interim report on a study being carried out to assess the requirements for tracking and communications with deep-space probes in the post-1985 time frame and to evaluate approaches to meeting those requirements. The orbiting deep-space relay station (ODSRS) is one approach to meeting those requirements that appears to have some significant advantages over ground-based stations. A detailed conceptual design of an ODSRS is compared with other tracking and communications system configuration options. The comparison includes a life-cycle cost analysis as well as operations and performance capabilities. Reported results of the study to date include a preliminary assessment of post-1985 requirements, a discussion of planned ODSRS system capabilities as well as of tracking and communications system advantages and problems that are peculiar to an OSDRS, a look at the current status of the conceptual design of the ODSRS, and a summary of the plan for the remainder of the study.

Hunter, J. A.↗
NASA NTRS1978

Solar thermal power systems point-focusing distributed receiver /PFDR/ technology - A project description

The goal of the Project is to support the industrial development of PFDR technology that will provide favorable life-cycle costs per unit of electrical or thermal energy produced. The technology will be made available in the early 1980s for applications project experiments. PFDR systems utilize concentrator dishes to furnish energy to their own individual receivers and power conversion subsystems. Initial effort is with steam Rankine and gas Brayton cycles. Periodic assessments will be made to confirm or change the cycles initially selected. Subsystems will be designed, fabricated and tested together in modules as appropriate. This paper describes PFDR systems briefly, outlines the project goals and organization, discusses the plans and current status of the project, and lists the benefits of PFDR technology concepts.

Lucas, J. W.↗
NASA NTRS1979

Design and operations technologies - Integrating the pieces

As major elements of life-cycle costs (LCC) having critical impacts on the initiation and utilization of future space programs, the areas of vehicle design and operations are reviewed in order to identify technology requirements. Common to both areas is the requirement for efficient integration of broad, complex systems. Operations technologies focus on the extension of space-based capabilities and cost reduction through the combination of innovative design, low-maintenance hardware, and increased manpower productivity. Design technologies focus on computer-aided techniques which increase productivity while maintaining a high degree of flexibility which enhances creativity and permits graceful design changes.

Eldred, C. H.↗
NASA NTRS1982

Economic Evaluation of Dual-Level-Residence Solar-Energy System

105-page report is one in a series of economic evaluations of different solar-energy installations. Using study results, an optimal collector area is chosen that minimizes life-cycle costs. From this optimal size thermal and economic performance is evaluated.

Source record↗
NASA NTRS1982

The Economics of Solar Heating

SHCOST program assesses economic feasibility of solar energy for single-family residences and light commercial applications. Program analyzes life-cycle costs as well as sensitivity studies to aid designer in selecting most economically attractive solar system for single-family residence or light commercial application. SHCOST includes fairly comprehensive list of cost elements from which user may select.

Forney, J. A.↗
NASA NTRS1980

Cost/benefit analysis of advanced materials technology candidates for the 1980's, part 2

Cost/benefit analyses to evaluate advanced material technologies projects considered for general aviation and turboprop commuter aircraft through estimated life-cycle costs, direct operating costs, and development costs are discussed. Specifically addressed is the selection of technologies to be evaluated; development of property goals; assessment of candidate technologies on typical engines and aircraft; sensitivity analysis of the changes in property goals on performance and economics, cost, and risk analysis for each technology; and ranking of each technology by relative value. The cost/benefit analysis was applied to a domestic, nonrevenue producing, business-type jet aircraft configured with two TFE731-3 turbofan engines, and to a domestic, nonrevenue producing, business type turboprop aircraft configured with two TPE331-10 turboprop engines. In addition, a cost/benefit analysis was applied to a commercial turboprop aircraft configured with a growth version of the TPE331-10.

Dennis, R. E.↗
NASA NTRS1981

Component research for future propulsion systems

A review of factors related to the acquisition and life-cycle cost, and mission reliability of helicopters is given. The potential for advanced vehicle configurations with improvements in energy efficiency, operating economics, and characteristics to satisfy the demands of the future market are identified. Special attention is given to advanced propulsion systems and related component technologies, and system requirements, powerplants and component thrusts, compressor designs, combustion systems, turbine efficiency, blade tip treatment concepts and shaft dynamics are discussed in detail.

Walker, C. L.↗
NASA NTRS1980

Low-frequency radio navigation for the Army's Mobile Automated Field Instrumentation System /MAFIS/

The Jet Propulsion Laboratory is engaged in the early phases of conceptual, preliminary design, and feasibility demonstration studies leading to determination of a design and implementation of the Army's proposed Mobile Automated Field Instrumentation System (MAFIS). An overview is provided of the current design concept for an experimental radio navigation subsystem to be implemented in the field as a part of the MAFIS study effort. Objectives of MAFIS include mobility, field-ruggedness and longevity of equipment, and low acquisition and life-cycle costs. The navigation subsystem comprises a 4-station radio transmitter network, plus the navigation receivers, network monitoring receivers and communications links, and interface to the command/control 'central' for transmitter status monitoring. Attention is given to accuracy goals, radio propagation effects, transmitter arrangement, radio-frequency allocations, position initialization and lane resolution, and transmitter and receiver functions.

Wallis, D. E.↗
NASA NTRS1981

An optimization model for energy generation and distribution in a dynamic facility

An analytical model is described using linear programming for the optimum generation and distribution of energy demands among competing energy resources and different economic criteria. The model, which will be used as a general engineering tool in the analysis of the Deep Space Network ground facility, considers several essential decisions for better design and operation. The decisions sought for the particular energy application include: the optimum time to build an assembly of elements, inclusion of a storage medium of some type, and the size or capacity of the elements that will minimize the total life-cycle cost over a given number of years. The model, which is structured in multiple time divisions, employ the decomposition principle for large-size matrices, the branch-and-bound method in mixed-integer programming, and the revised simplex technique for efficient and economic computer use.

Lansing, F. L.↗
NASA NTRS1982

Power Systems integration

Power systems integration in large flexible space structures is discussed with emphasis upon body control. A solar array is discussed as a typical example of spacecraft configuration problems. Information on how electric batteries dominate life-cycle costs is presented in chart form. Information is given on liquid metal droplet generators and collectors, hot spot analysis, power dissipation in solar arrays, solar array protection optimization, and electromagnetic compatibility for a power system platform.

Brantley, L. W.↗
NASA NTRS1983

Scaled centrifugal compressor, collector and running gear program

The Scaled Centrifugal Compressor, Collector and Running gear Program was conducted in support of an overall NASA strategy to improve small-compressor performance, durability, and reliability while reducing initial and life-cycle costs. Accordingly, Garrett designed and provided a test rig, gearbox coupling, and facility collector for a new NASA facility, and provided a scaled model of an existing, high-performance impeller for evaluation scaling effects on aerodynamic performance and for obtaining other performance data. Test-rig shafting was designed to operate smoothly throughout a speed range up to 60,000 rpm. Pressurized components were designed to operate at pressures up to 300 psia and at temperatures to 1000 F. Nonrotating components were designed to provide a margin-of-safety of 0.05 or greater; rotating components, for a margin-of-safety based on allowable yield and ultimate strengths. Design activities were supported by complete design analysis, and the finished hardware was subjected to check-runs to confirm proper operation. The test rig will support a wide range of compressor tests and evaluations.

Kenehan, J. G.↗
NASA NTRS1982

Space station automation and autonomy - Advantages and problems

Design guidelines and functional systems being considered in the process of defining the configuration of the automated systems for a manned space station are outlined. The requirements are dependent on life-cycle costing and will set the necessary level of automation, as well as autonomy from outside commands. Fault protection routines have been largely devised according to successful programming on the Voyager spacecraft. An analysis is still needed of the housekeeping functions, including human necessities, machine functions, and mission objectives. A data base will result, defining the functions that have historically been delegated to either man or machine. Care must be taken to coordinate and document stationkeeping functions that might interface with mission functions. A data management system that is flexible with regards to changing mission objectives and to the MTBF factors, which will determine the level of technology to be used is required. Expert systems will be integrated into the automation to guide the machines in problem solving, including ensuring adequate management of the battery subsystem.

Carlisle, R. F.↗
NASA NTRS1983

Field test experience

As a part of the Flat-Plate Solar Array Project (FSA), a field-test program was developed to obtain solar photovoltaic (PV) module performance and endurance data. These data are used to identify the specific characteristics of module designs under various environmental conditions. The information obtained from field testing is useful to all participants in the National Photovoltaics Program, from the research planner to the life-cycle cost analyst.

Weaver, R. W.↗
NASA NTRS1982

Photovoltaic array reliability optimization

An overview of the photovoltaic array reliability problem is presented, and a high reliability/minimum cost approach to this problem is presented. Design areas covered are cell failure, interconnect fatigue, and electrical insulation breakdown, and three solution strategies are discussed. The first involves controlling component failures in the solar cell (cell cracking, cell interconnects) and at the module level (must be statistically treated). Second, a fault tolerant circuit is designed which reduces array degradation, improves module yield losses, and controls hot-spot heating. Third, cost optimum module replacement strategies are also effective in reducing array degradation. This can be achieved by minimizing the life-cycle energy cost of the photovoltaic system. The integration of these solutions is aimed at reducing the 0.01% failure rate.

Ross, R. G., Jr.↗
NASA NTRS1981

An assessment of the industrial cogeneration market for parabolic dish systems

The value analysis technique used is straightforward. Maximum allowable life-cycle system cost for the cogeneration system is determined as the sum of the present value of fuels displaced plus the present value of revenues from exported power. Each conventional fuel displaced is described by a unit cost in the first year, a uniform annual consumption rate, and a uniform annual escalation rate for unit cost. Exported energy flows are treated the same as displaced energy.

Doane, J. W.↗
NASA NTRS1980

Flat-plate photovoltaic array design optimization

An analysis is presented which integrates the results of specific studies in the areas of photovoltaic structural design optimization, optimization of array series/parallel circuit design, thermal design optimization, and optimization of environmental protection features. The analysis is based on minimizing the total photovoltaic system life-cycle energy cost including repair and replacement of failed cells and modules. This approach is shown to be a useful technique for array optimization, particularly when time-dependent parameters such as array degradation and maintenance are involved.

Ross, R. G., Jr.↗
NASA NTRS1978

Terrestrial central station array life-cycle analysis support study

Plant elements evaluated included designs for module, panel and array structures, as well as balance-of-plant systems. Installation and maintenance procedures and the impact of site environment were also evaluated. In terms of the cost of energy produced, the horizontal array configuration was found to be less expensive than the tandem array at latitudes less than 40 deg. Both of these configurations are less expensive than the rack design. However, the costs of energy for all three configurations are within approximately ?10 percent of each other. For flat plate panels, the seasonally adjusted and tracking array configurations are not economically attractive when compared to the three other designs. Balance-of-plant costs are approximately equal to (goal) module costs. The array structures and foundations are the most expensive items in the balance-of-plant costs.

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