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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

System identification of the JPL micro-precision interferometer truss - Test-analysis reconciliation

The JPL Micro-Precision Interferometer (MPI) is a testbed for studying the use of control-structure interaction technology in the design of space-based interferometers. A layered control architecture will be employed to regulate the interferometer optical system to tolerances in the nanometer range. An important aspect of designing and implementing the control schemes for such a system is the need for high fidelity, test-verified analytical structural models. This paper focuses on one aspect of the effort to produce such a model for the MPI structure, test-analysis model reconciliation. Pretest analysis, modal testing, and model refinement results are summarized for a series of tests at both the component and full system levels.

Red-Horse, J. R.↗

Utilizing 3D-DIC on Mars 2020 Rover Wheel Assembly: Test-Analysis Correlation

Following the successful implementation of full-field photogrammetry, more specifically three-dimensional Digital Image Correlation (3D-DIC), on the Mars 2020 Heat Shield Structural Failure Review assessment, 3D-DIC was selected as one of the primary measurement techniques for the Mars 2020 Rover wheel assembly qualification test at the NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL). To validate the Rover wheel landing loads simulations, it was extremely important to have high confidence in the wheel models. Due to the large deformations and strains that the wheel would be subject to during landing, traditional instrumentation such as linear variable displacement transducers (LVDTs), electrical-resistance strain gages and string potentiometers, would not be sufficient on their own to provide all the necessary validation data. Therefore, the NASA Engineering and Safety Center (NESC) provided the 3D-DIC expertise and support to measure the high deformation and strain in the wheel flexures and qualify the overall structural response of the Mars 2020 rover wheel assembly. There were two key objectives for the photogrammetry technique: (1) monitor the wheel response in real-time, guarding against anomalous behavior and failure, and (2) provide test data for test-analysis correlation to validate and/or improve the high-fidelity computational model. The contents of this paper will focus on the challenges of applying 3D-DIC to the Mars 2020 Rover wheel assembly and how these challenges were overcome. Examples of test-analysis correlation during the stiffness characterization and structural qualification will be presented and discussed in detail. Experimental results were compared with the analysis and showed excellent agreement between the predicted behavior and helped validate the high-fidelity models.

Mars 2020 Rover Wheel↗

An Integrated Analysis-Test Approach

This viewgraph presentation provides an overview of a project to develop a computer program which integrates data analysis and test procedures. The software application aims to propose a new perspective to traditional mechanical analysis and test procedures and to integrate pre-test and test analysis calculation methods. The program also should also be able to be used in portable devices and allows for the 'quasi-real time' analysis of data sent by electronic means. Test methods reviewed during this presentation include: shaker swept sine and random tests, shaker shock mode tests, shaker base driven model survey tests and acoustic tests.

Kaufman, Daniel↗

Test Analysis Guidelines

Development of analysis guidelines for Exploration Life Support (ELS) technology tests was completed. The guidelines were developed based on analysis experiences gained from supporting Environmental Control and Life Support System (ECLSS) technology development in air revitalization systems and water recovery systems. Analyses are vital during all three phases of the ELS technology test: pre-test, during test and post test. Pre-test analyses of a test system help define hardware components, predict system and component performances, required test duration, sampling frequencies of operation parameters, etc. Analyses conducted during tests could verify the consistency of all the measurements and the performance of the test system. Post test analyses are an essential part of the test task. Results of post test analyses are an important factor in judging whether the technology development is a successful one. In addition, development of a rigorous model for a test system is an important objective of any new technology development. Test data analyses, especially post test data analyses, serve to verify the model. Test analyses have supported development of many ECLSS technologies. Some test analysis tasks in ECLSS technology development are listed in the Appendix. To have effective analysis support for ECLSS technology tests, analysis guidelines would be a useful tool. These test guidelines were developed based on experiences gained through previous analysis support of various ECLSS technology tests. A comment on analysis from an experienced NASA ECLSS manager (1) follows: "Bad analysis was one that bent the test to prove that the analysis was right to begin with. Good analysis was one that directed where the testing should go and also bridged the gap between the reality of the test facility and what was expected on orbit."

Jeng, Frank F.↗

Applications of Automation Methods for Nonlinear Fracture Test Analysis

As fracture mechanics material testing evolves, the governing test standards continue to be refined to better reflect the latest understanding of the physics of the fracture processes involved. The traditional format of ASTM fracture testing standards, utilizing equations expressed directly in the text of the standard to assess the experimental result, is self-limiting in the complexity that can be reasonably captured. The use of automated analysis techniques to draw upon a rich, detailed solution database for assessing fracture mechanics tests provides a foundation for a new approach to testing standards that enables routine users to obtain highly reliable assessments of tests involving complex, non-linear fracture behavior. Herein, the case for automating the analysis of tests of surface cracks in tension in the elastic-plastic regime is utilized as an example of how such a database can be generated and implemented for use in the ASTM standards framework. The presented approach forms a bridge between the equation-based fracture testing standards of today and the next generation of standards solving complex problems through analysis automation.

Allen, Phillip A.↗

Adhesively bonded joints: Testing, analysis, and design; Proceedings of the International Symposium, Baltimore, MD, Sept. 10-12, 1986

The papers contained in this volume provide an overview of the state of the art of testing, analysis, and design of adhesively bonded joints. The papers are grouped in the following sections: mechanical testing, stress analysis, failure mechanisms, and design and durability. Specific topics discussed include determination and verification of elastic parameters for adhesives; factors influencing elastic stresses in double cantilever beam specimens; special mixed finite elements for interfacial stress analysis of adhesively bonded joints; debonding characteristics of adhesively bonded woven Kevlar composites; and environmental durability of adhesively bonded joints.

Johnson, W. S.↗

The Test Analysis Retrieval System (TARS): Meeting the challenges of the network's test processes

The Networks Systems Test Section (GSFC 531.4) is responsible for managing a variety of engineering and operational tests used to assess the status of the Network elements relative to readiness certification for new and ongoing mission support and for performance trending. To conduct analysis of data collected during these tests, to disseminate and share the information, and to catalog and create reports based on the analysis is currently a cumbersome and inefficient task due primarily to the manual handling of paper products and the inability to easily exchange information between the various Networks elements. The Test Analysis and Retrieval System (TARS) is being implemented to promote concise data analysis, intelligible reporting of test results, to minimize test duplication by fostering a broad sharing of test data, and perhaps most importantly, to provide significantly improved response to the Network's internal and external customers. This paper outlines the intended application, architecture, and benefits of the TARS.

Stelmaszek, Robert L.↗

Criteria for analysis-test correlation of structural dynamic systems

A rational criterion for structural dynamic analysis-test correlation has been established by using a matrix perturbation technique. This criterion can be used for the verification of an analytical model by the test results. Also, the same technique can be applied to update the analytical results by using the test results without repeating the entire analytical procedure. A sample problem has been used to demonstrate this technique. Very satisfactory results are obtained with only the first-order perturbation solution included for transient loading. For periodic loading, higher-order perturbation solutions are needed to achieve the same accuracy.

Chen, J. C.↗

SAVY-4000 Finite-Element Drop Test Analysis

PFE Auxiliary Systems conducted drop testing on SAVY-4000 containers to evaluate structural response under 12-foot drop conditions. In support of that effort, a finite-element modeling capability was developed to simulate drop response across multiple container sizes and impact orientations. The purpose of this work was to provide a consistent analysis framework that could support interpretation of testing, compare response trends across multiple configurations, and generate quantities of interest for later comparison with experimental data. More broadly, the analysis and testing were intended to assess whether the containers continued to perform their primary function after a 12-foot drop, namely maintaining structural integrity and containment of the contents. The modeling approach combined an implicit preload analysis with an explicit drop simulation so that each drop event began from a mechanically realistic assembled condition, including compression of the silicone O-ring. Separate models were developed for 2-quart, 5-quart, 12-quart, and 10-gallon containers. The results were evaluated in terms of strain-gauge response, collar-lid gap behavior, and accumulated plastic strain. In addition, parametric studies were performed on the 2-quart container to assess sensitivity to O-ring stiffness, friction, canister thickness, geometry tolerance, and mesh density. The simulations showed that predicted drop responses depended strongly on both container size and drop orientation. Gap metrics identified cases in which the predicted collar-lid opening exceeded the nominal O-ring cross-section threshold, while plastic strain metrics identified localized regions of elevated permanent deformation. Parametric studies showed that the predicted response was especially sensitive to the assumed O-ring stiffness and contact friction, while the geometry tolerance study produced smaller changes in the cases examined. The main value of this work was that it established a repeatable modeling and simulation workflow to support drop-test implementation, evaluate effects of future configuration changes, and understand modeling assumptions that most influenced predicted response. At the current stage, the results were viewed as preliminary model predictions rather than validated predictions. The next step would be to compare drop-test data to the model so that predictive values of the workflow could be refined and used with greater confidence to assess whether the containers maintained structural integrity and containment of the contents after a 12-foot drop.

42 ENGINEERING↗

Ares-I-X Stability and Control Flight Test: Analysis and Plans

The flight test of the Ares I-X vehicle provides a unique opportunity to reduce risk of the design of the Ares I vehicle and test out design, math modeling, and analysis methods. One of the key features of the Ares I design is the significant static aerodynamic instability coupled with the relatively flexible vehicle - potentially resulting in a challenging controls problem to provide adequate flight path performance while also providing adequate structural mode damping and preventing adverse control coupling to the flexible structural modes. Another challenge is to obtain enough data from the single flight to be able to conduct analysis showing the effectiveness of the controls solutions and have data to inform design decisions for Ares I. This paper will outline the modeling approaches and control system design to conduct this flight test, and also the system identification techniques developed to extract key information such as control system performance (gain/phase margins, for example), structural dynamics responses, and aerodynamic model estimations.

Brandon, Jay M.↗

Correlation of full-scale drag predictions with flight measurements on the C-141A aircraft : Phase 2: Wind tunnel tests, analysis, and prediction techniques. Volume 2: Wind tunnel test and basic data

A research program has been conducted to determine the degree of cruise drag correlation on the C-141A aircraft between predictions based on wind tunnel test data, and flight test results. Information is presented on the wind tunnel test program and basic aerodynamic data on the C-141A wind-tunnel model used in the correlation studies.

Macwilkinson, D. G.↗

CPAS Preflight Drop Test Analysis Process

Throughout the Capsule Parachute Assembly System (CPAS) drop test program, the CPAS Analysis Team has developed a simulation and analysis process to support drop test planning and execution. This process includes multiple phases focused on developing test simulations and communicating results to all groups involved in the drop test. CPAS Engineering Development Unit (EDU) series drop test planning begins with the development of a basic operational concept for each test. Trajectory simulation tools include the Flight Analysis and Simulation Tool (FAST) for single bodies, and the Automatic Dynamic Analysis of Mechanical Systems (ADAMS) simulation for the mated vehicle. Results are communicated to the team at the Test Configuration Review (TCR) and Test Readiness Review (TRR), as well as at Analysis Integrated Product Team (IPT) meetings in earlier and intermediate phases of the pre-test planning. The ability to plan and communicate efficiently with rapidly changing objectives and tight schedule constraints is a necessity for safe and successful drop tests.

Englert, Megan E.↗

Image Distinguishability Analysis Testing Through Principal Components and Its Application to Hot Spot Scale Invariance

Hot spots are spatial regions of intense energy localization that govern initiation of secondary high explosives. Studies that characterize or compare simulated hot spots are frequently either qualitatively descriptive or resort to quantitative distribution functions that neglect stochastic variations and spatial correlations—effects that are also neglected in common comparison tests like the Kolmogorov–Smirnov test. To this end, we develop an image distinguishability analysis (IDA) test based on principal component (PC) analysis that makes pixel-by-pixel comparisons between small, for example, O(<10), image data sets. The IDA test makes comparisons through a generalized distance metric in the PC space and a test statistic that is derived to calculate mathematical equation-values. Here, we derive a statistical distribution and criticality criterion to determine whether images are distinguishable from established baselines. We apply the IDA test on images generated from molecular dynamics simulations of hot spots from pore collapse in TATB to assess scale invariance in the complex patterns of hot spots that form in a representative high explosive crystal. The IDA test shows that TATB hot spot spatial temperature fields and their derived temperature histograms exhibit scale-invariant features over specific intervals of shock orientation, strength, and initial pore diameter. However, the IDA test also shows that qualitatively different conclusions regarding invariance can be reached depending on whether the hot spot is treated as a spatially correlated field as opposed to a distribution function that lacks spatial information.

organic↗

Test-Analysis Correlation for Space Shuttle External Tank Foam Impacting RCC Wing Leading Edge Component Panels

The Space Shuttle Columbia Accident Investigation Board recommended that NASA develop, validate, and maintain a modeling tool capable of predicting the damage threshold for debris impacts on the Space Shuttle Reinforced Carbon-Carbon (RCC) wing leading edge and nosecap assembly. The results presented in this paper are one part of a multi-level approach that supported the development of the predictive tool used to recertify the shuttle for flight following the Columbia Accident. The assessment of predictive capability was largely based on test analysis comparisons for simpler component structures. This paper provides comparisons of finite element simulations with test data for external tank foam debris impacts onto 6-in. square RCC flat panels. Both quantitative displacement and qualitative damage assessment correlations are provided. The comparisons show good agreement and provided the Space Shuttle Program with confidence in the predictive tool.

Lyle, Karen H.↗

Ten Year Operating Test Results and Post-Test Analysis of a 1/10 Segment Stirling Sodium Heat Pipe, Phase III

High-temperature heat pipes are being evaluated for use in energy conversion applications such as fuel cells, gas turbine re-combustors, Stirling cycle heat sources; and with the resurgence of space nuclear power both as reactor heat removal elements and as radiator elements. Long operating life and reliable performance are critical requirements for these applications. Accordingly, long-term materials compatibility is being evaluated through the use of high-temperature life test heat pipes. Thermacore, Inc., has carried out a sodium heat pipe 10-year life test to establish long-term operating reliability. Sodium heat pipes have demonstrated favorable materials compatibility and heat transport characteristics at high operating temperatures in air over long time periods. A representative one-tenth segment Stirling Space Power Converter heat pipe with an Inconel 718 envelope and a stainless steel screen wick has operated for over 87,000 hr (10 yr) at nearly 700 C. These life test results have demonstrated the potential for high-temperature heat pipes to serve as reliable energy conversion system components for power applications that require long operating lifetime with high reliability. Detailed design specifications, operating history, and post-test analysis of the heat pipe and sodium working fluid are described.

Rosenfeld, John, H↗

Data Reduction and Its Impact on Test-Analysis Correlation

A research project has been initiated to improve crash test and analysis correlation. The research has focused on two specimen types: simple metallic beams and plates; and a representative composite fuselage section. Impact tests were performed under carefully controlled conditions. In addition, the specimens were densely instrumented to enable not only correlation with finite element simulations, but to also assess the repeatability of the data. Simulations utilizing a detailed finite element model were executed in a nonlinear transient dynamic code. The results presented in this paper concentrate on the effect of several data reduction processes, to include filtering frequency and sampling rate, on the correlation accuracy.

Lyle, Karen H.↗