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At least 379 records · Page 21

Worst case estimation of homology design by convex analysis

The methodology of homology design is investigated for optimum design of advanced structures. for which the achievement of delicate tasks by the aid of active control system is demanded. The proposed formulation of homology design, based on the finite element sensitivity analysis, necessarily requires the specification of external loadings. The formulation to evaluate the worst case for homology design caused by uncertain fluctuation of loadings is presented by means of the convex model of uncertainty, in which uncertainty variables are assigned to discretized nodal forces and are confined within a conceivable convex hull given as a hyperellipse. The worst case of the distortion from objective homologous deformation is estimated by the Lagrange multiplier method searching the point to maximize the error index on the boundary of the convex hull. The validity of the proposed method is demonstrated in a numerical example using the eleven-bar truss structure.

Yoshikawa, N.↗

Description of the Mast Flight System

The Mast Flight System is composed of several subsystems. Primary among these is the Deployable Mast Subsystem (DMS) which consists of a beam assembly and an associated mechanism for deploying and retracting the beam. The beam assembly is a joint dominated graphite epoxy and titanium truss as is expected of future large space structures. Integral to the beam assembly are actuators, sensors and associated electronics which are available for excitation and damping as desired by the experimenter. The beam structural characteristics can also be modified as desired by the experimenter using the Parameter Modification Device installed at the end of the beam. Data measured on the beam by the sensors and commands to the actuators are transmitted along the beam digitally at 150 Hz using a standard 1553 type bus. The Modular Distributed Information Sybsystem (MDIS) computer functions as bus master and ensures that all experimental data is saved for future analysis. The MDIS computer also performs a safing function to prevent inadvertent overexcitation of the beam. Finally, the Excitation and Damping Subsystem (EDS) computer is available to the experimenter for implementation of control algorithms or any other numerical operations as desired. Data from all system sensors can be accessed by the EDS computer.

Talcott, Ronald C.↗

Buckling of imperfect periodic lattice structures

A simplified buckling analysis is presented for a family of periodic lattice structures such as those proposed for large space structures. A transcendental 6 x 6 matrix of eigenvalues is shown to be sufficient for modeling buckling behavior because member stiffnesses are based on an exact solution of the beam-column equation. Exact stiffnesses are derived for a curved member, thus allowing modeling of imperfect lattice structures. Comparisons of predictions of the lattice model with those available from shell and beam theory underscore the inaccuracies introduced by treating the lattice structure as a continuum. Sample calculations are provided for an isogrid cylinder and a three element double-laced truss.

Anderson, M. S.↗

On the nature of the interaction between structures and proof-mass actuators

This paper presents an analysis of the interaction between a structure, an actuator used to control the vibration of the structure, and the control law to be implemented by the actuator. The control hardware used is a proof-mass actuator with experimentally verified dynamics capable of being used in a space structure configuration. A local rate-feedback control law is used. The control of two different structures is presented. The first structure is a cantilevered beam constructed of a quasi-isotropic composite material that is controlled by a single actuator forming the experimental component of the investigation. The second structure is a finite-element model of a truss system controlled by a single actuator. Models of both structures predict the presence of potential instabilities in system performance if proper consideration is not given to interactions between the control law, the structure, and the actuator.

Zimmerman, David C.↗

Exact methods for modal transient response analysis including feedback control

This paper presents a modal method for the analysis of controlled structural systems that retains the uncoupled nature of the classical transient response analysis of a structure subjected to a prescribed time-varying load. The control force is expanded as a Taylor series that remains on the right side of the equations, and it does not lead to a computational approach that requires coupling between modes on the left side. Retaining a sufficient number of terms in the series produces a solution to the modal equations that is accurate to machine precision. The approach is particularly attractive for large problems in which standard matrix exponential methods become computationally prohibitive. Numerical results are presented to show the accuracy and efficiency of the proposed approach for dynamic feedback compensation of a truss structure with local member modes in the controller bandwidth.

Anderson, Melvin S.↗

Analysis of elastically tailored viscoelastic damping member

For more than two decades, viscoelastic materials have been commonly used as a passive damping source in a variety of structures because of their high material loss factors. In most of the applications, viscoelastic materials are used either in series with or parallel to the structural load path. The latter is also known as the constrained-layer damping treatment. The advantage of the constrained-layer damping treatment is that it can be incorporated without loss in structural integrity, namely, stiffness and strength. However, the disadvantages are that: (1) it is not the most effective use of the viscoelastic material when compared with the series-type application, and (2) weight penalty from the stiff constraining layer requirement can be excessive. To overcome the disadvantages of the constrained-layer damping treatment, a new approach for using viscoelastic material in axial-type structural components, e.g., truss members, was studied in this investigation.

Chen, G.-S.↗

Dual keel space station control/structures interaction study

A study was made to determine the influence of truss bay size on the performance of the space station control system. The objective was to determine if any control problems existed during reboost and to assess the level of potential control/structures interaction during operation of the control moment gyros used for vertical stabilization. The models analyzed were detailed finite-element representations of the 5 meter and 9 foot growth versions of the 300 kW dual keel station. Results are presented comparing the performance of the reboost control system for both versions of the space station. Standards for comparison include flexible effects at the attitude control sensor locations and flexible contributions to pointing error at the solar collectors. Bode analysis results are presented for the attitude control system and control, structural, and damping sensitivities are examined.

Young, John W.↗

Experimental studies of adaptive structures for precision performance

An experimental study was made of the adaptive structure concept. Experimental data were obtained for a three-longeron, thirteen-bay truss-type test structure. This test structure can be softly suspended as well as rigidly clamped at the central bay. The load-carrying active member consists of a stack of concentric piezoelectric wafers, an eddy current displacement sensor, and a strain gage force sensor. A bridge (or compound) feedback technique developed in communication engineering is applied to the problem of active damping augmentation in adaptive structures. Using collocated force and velocity feedback around the active member, a desired output mechanical impedance can be implemented to maximize energy absorption by the active members. In addition, large gains can be implemented to linearize the active member's nonlinear behavior. Good agreements with linear finite element analysis was found for both static and dynamic structural responses. An 11 percent damping in the first bending mode was demonstrated in the closed-loop damping experiment.

Chen, G.-S.↗

Error Modeling of Multibaseline Optical Truss: Part 1: Modeling of System Level Performance

Global astrometry is the measurement of stellar positions and motions. These are typically characterized by five parameters, including two position parameters, two proper motion parameters, and parallax. The Space Interferometry Mission (SIM) will derive these parameters for a grid of approximately 1300 stars covering the celestial sphere to an accuracy of approximately 4uas, representing a two orders of magnitude improvement over the most precise current star catalogues. Narrow angle astrometry will be performed to a 1uas accuracy. A wealth of scientific information will be obtained from these accurate measurements encompassing many aspects of both galactic (and extragalactic science. SIM will be subject to a number of instrument errors that can potentially degrade performance. Many of these errors are systematic in that they are relatively static and repeatable with respect to the time frame and direction of the observation. This paper and its companion define the modeling of the, contributing factors to these errors and the analysis of how they impact SIM's ability to perform astrometric science.

meterology modeling↗

Aero-Structural Modeling of the Truss-Braced Wing Aircraft Using Potential Method with Correction Methods for Transonic Viscous Flow and Wing-Strut Interference Aerodynamics

This paper describes an aero-structural modeling method for the Transonic Truss-Braced Wing (TTBW) aircraft using VSPAERO. A vortex-lattice model of the TTBW aircraft is developed, and a transonic and viscous flow correction method is implemented in the VSPAERO models to account for transonic and viscous flow effects. A correction method for the wing-strut interference aerodynamics is developed and applied to the VSPAERO solver. Also, a structural dynamic finite-element model of the TTBW aircraft is developed. This finite-element model includes the geometric nonlinear effect due to the tension in the struts which cause a deflection dependent nonlinear stiffness. The VSPAERO models are coupled to the finite-element model to provide a rapid capability for aero-structural modeling and flutter analysis. A flight-optimized jig twist model is being developed and will be applied for the purpose of generating a full flight dynamic model of the TTBW aircraft.

Fugate, Jason↗

Subsonic Ultra Green Aircraft Research: Phase II- Volume III-Truss Braced Wing Aeroelastic Test Report

This Test Report summarizes the Truss Braced Wing (TBW) Aeroelastic Test (Task 3.1) work accomplished by the Boeing Subsonic Ultra Green Aircraft Research (SUGAR) team, which includes the time period of February 2012 through June 2014. The team consisted of Boeing Research and Technology, Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Virginia Tech, and NextGen Aeronautics. The model was fabricated by NextGen Aeronautics and designed to meet dynamically scaled requirements from the sized full scale TBW FEM. The test of the dynamically scaled SUGAR TBW half model was broken up into open loop testing in December 2013 and closed loop testing from January 2014 to April 2014. Results showed the flutter mechanism to primarily be a coalescence of 2nd bending mode and 1st torsion mode around 10 Hz, as predicted by analysis. Results also showed significant change in flutter speed as angle of attack was varied. This nonlinear behavior can be explained by including preload and large displacement changes to the structural stiffness and mass matrices in the flutter analysis. Control laws derived from both test system ID and FEM19 state space models were successful in suppressing flutter. The control laws were robust and suppressed flutter for a variety of Mach, dynamic pressures, and angle of attacks investigated.

Bradley, Marty K.↗

Study of Mach 0.8 Transonic Truss-Braced Wing Aircraft Wing-Strut Interference Effects

This paper presents computational study of transonic wing-strut interference effects of the Mach 0.8 Transonic Truss-Braced Wing (TTBW) aircraft using the high-fidelity CFD solver FUN3D. The study is conducted for the wing-strut and the wing-alone configurations at design Mach number0.8 and Reynolds number14.0 ́106.The interference effects are calculated by comparing the wing aerodynamics along the spanwise direction between the wing-strut and the wing-alone configurations. The presence of the strut underneath the wing induces a suction peak on the lower surface of the wing, which causes changes in aerodynamic forces and moments. The interference effects of the Mach 0.8 TTBW aircraft are compared with the Mach 0.745 TTBW aircraft. A transonic wing-strut interference aerodynamic correction model is developed for use in a lower-fidelity tool, VSPAERO, for rapid aerodynamic analysis of the Mach 0.8 TTBW aircraft.

TTBW↗

Results from the Middeck 0-gravity Dynamics Experiment

The experimental results of the Middick Zero-gravity Dynamics Experiment (MODE) are presented. MODE investigated the dynamics of two key spacecraft components; contained fluids and jointed truss structures. The change in the lateral slosh behavior of contained fluids and the changes in the modal parameters of space structural test articles from one- to zero-gravity were studied. The experimental apparatus used to determine the dynamic characteristics is described. For the MODE fluid experiments, the forced response characteristics of silicone oil and distilled water in cylinder tanks with either a flat or spherical bottom are reported and discussed. A comparison of the measured earth and space results identifies and highlights the effects of gravity on the linear and nonlinear slosh behavior of these fluids. For the MODE structural experiments, an analytic and experimental study is presented. Deployable, erectable, and rotary modules were assembled to form three one- and two-dimensional structures in which variations in bracing wire and rotary joint preload could be introduced. Analysis is compared with ground experimental measurements made on a spring/wire suspension system with a nominal plunge frequency of one Hertz, and with measurements made on the Shuttle middeck. The degree of change in linear modal parameters as well as the change in nonlinear nature of the response is examined. Trends in modal parameters are presented as a function of force amplitude, joint preload, and ambient gravity level.

Van Schoor, M. C.↗

CFD-Based Frequency Domain Method for Dynamic Stability Derivative Estimation with Application to Transonic Truss-Braced Wing

This paper presents a dynamic stability estimation technique obtained from high-fidelity CFD simulations of the Mach 0.8 Transonic Truss-Braced Wing (TTBW). A series of unsteady RANS CFD simulations in FUN3D is performed on the TTBW in pitch and plunge oscillations at various reduced frequencies. The time-domain data are transformed into the frequency-domain data by Fourier series. Transfer functions of the dynamic stability derivatives are then estimated by a frequency-domain regression. The dynamic stability derivatives with respect to the angle of attack are determined by the regression of the unsteady aerodynamic coefficients for the plunge motion. The dynamic stability derivatives with respect to the pitch rate are deter-mined by the regression of the differential unsteady aerodynamic coefficients for the pitch motion upon the removal of the angle of attack contribution by the plunge motion. The steady-state stability derivatives are then compared to the results obtained from a stability analysis code VSPAERO as well as steady-state FUN3D simulations. The comparison of the steady-state stability derivatives shows excellent agreement.

Dynamic Stability Derivatives↗

NASA Tech Briefs, October 2011

Topics covered include: Laser Truss Sensor for Segmented Telescope Phasing; Qualifications of Bonding Process of Temperature Sensors to Deep-Space Missions; Optical Sensors for Monitoring Gamma and Neutron Radiation; Compliant Tactile Sensors; Cytometer on a Chip; Measuring Input Thresholds on an Existing Board; Scanning and Defocusing Properties of Microstrip Reflectarray Antennas; Cable Tester Box; Programmable Oscillator; Fault-Tolerant, Radiation-Hard DSP; Sub-Shot Noise Power Source for Microelectronics; Asynchronous Message Service Reference Implementation; Zero-Copy Objects System; Delay and Disruption Tolerant Networking MACHETE Model; Contact Graph Routing; Parallel Eclipse Project Checkout; Technique for Configuring an Actively Cooled Thermal Shield in a Flight System; Use of Additives to Improve Performance of Methyl Butyrate-Based Lithium-Ion Electrolytes; Li-Ion Cells Employing Electrolytes with Methyl Propionate and Ethyl Butyrate Co-Solvents; Improved Devices for Collecting Sweat for Chemical Analysis; Tissue Photolithography; Method for Impeding Degradation of Porous Silicon Structures; External Cooling Coupled to Reduced Extremity Pressure Device; A Zero-Gravity Cup for Drinking Beverages in Microgravity; Co-Flow Hollow Cathode Technology; Programmable Aperture with MEMS Microshutter Arrays; Polished Panel Optical Receiver for Simultaneous RF/Optical Telemetry with Large DSN Antennas; Adaptive System Modeling for Spacecraft Simulation; Lidar-Based Navigation Algorithm for Safe Lunar Landing; Tracking Object Existence From an Autonomous Patrol Vehicle; Rad-Hard, Miniaturized, Scalable, High-Voltage Switching Module for Power Applications; and Architecture for a 1-GHz Digital RADAR.

Source record↗

Mechanical Testing of IN718 Lattice Block Structures

Lattice block construction produces a flat, structurally rigid panel composed of thin ligaments of material arranged in a three-dimensional triangulated truss-like structure. Low-cost methods of producing cast metallic lattice block panels are now available that greatly expand opportunities for using this unique material system in today's high-performance structures. Additional advances are being made in NASA's Ultra Efficient Engine Technology (UEET) program to extend the lattice block concept to superalloy materials. Advantages offered by this combination include high strength, light weight, high stiffness, and elevated temperature capabilities. Recently under UEET, the nickel-based superalloy Inconel 718 (IN718) was investment cast into lattice block panels with great success. To evaluate casting quality and lattice block architecture merit, individual ligaments, and structural subelement specimens were extracted from the panels. Tensile tests, structural compression, and bending strength tests were performed on these specimens. Fatigue testing was also completed for several bend test specimens. This paper first presents metallurgical and optical microscopy analysis of the castings. This is followed by mechanical test results for the tensile ligament tests and the subelement compression and bending strength tests, as well as for the fatigue tests that were performed. These tests generally showed comparable properties to base IN718 with the same heat treatment, and they underscored the benefits offered by lattice block materials. These benefits might be extended with improved architecture such as face sheets.

Krause, David L.↗

Improving stability and strength characteristics of framed structures with nonlinear behavior

In this paper an optimal design procedure is introduced to improve the overall performance of nonlinear framed structures. The design methodology presented here is a multiple-objective optimization procedure whose objective functions involve the buckling eigenvalues and eigenvectors of the structure. A constant volume with bounds on the design variables is used in conjunction with an optimality criterion approach. The method provides a general tool for solving complex design problems and generally leads to structures with better limit strength and stability. Many algorithms have been developed to improve the limit strength of structures. In most applications geometrically linear analysis is employed with the consequence that overall strength of the design is overestimated. Directly optimizing the limit load of the structure would require a full nonlinear analysis at each iteration which would be prohibitively expensive. The objective of this paper is to develop an algorithm that can improve the limit-load of geometrically nonlinear framed structures while avoiding the nonlinear analysis. One of the novelties of the new design methodology is its ability to efficiently model and design structures under multiple loading conditions. These loading conditions can be different factored loads or any kind of loads that can be applied to the structure simultaneously or independently. Attention is focused on optimal design of space framed structures. Three-dimensional design problems are more complicated to carry out, but they yield insight into real behavior of the structure and can help avoiding some of the problems that might appear in planar design procedure such as the need for out-of-plane buckling constraint. Although researchers in the field of structural engineering generally agree that optimum design of three-dimension building frames especially in the seismic regions would be beneficial, methods have been slow to emerge. Most of the research in this area has dealt with the optimization of truss and plane frame structures.

Pezeshk, Shahram↗

Parametric Cost Model for Ground and Space Telescopes

Parametric cost models can be used by designers and project managers to compare cost between major architectural cost drivers and allow high-level design trades; enable cost-benefit analysis for technology development investment; and, provide a basis for estimating total project cost between related concepts. The NASA Marshall Space Flight Center has developed a 5-parameter first-article optical telescope assembly cost model OTA$ (FY17) = $20M x 30(S/G)x D(1.7)x λ(-0.5)x T(-0.25)x e(-0.028) (Y-1960)Where S/G = 1 for space and 0 for ground telescopes, D = diameter, λ= diffraction limited wavelength, T = operating temperature and Y = year of development. The model explains 92% (Adjusted R2) of the cost variation in a database of 47 total ground and space telescope assemblies (OTA). The MSFC model estimates the most likely cost for only the OTA. Where an OTA is defined as the subsystem which collects electromagnetic radiation and focuses it (focal) or concentrates it (afocal) into the science instruments. An OTA consists of the primary mirror, secondary mirror, auxiliary optics and support structure (such as optical bench or truss structure, primary support structure, secondary support structure or spiders, straylight baffles, mechanisms for adjusting the optical components, electronics or power systems for operating these mechanisms, etc.). Finally, duplication only reduces cost for the manufacture of identical systems(i.e. multiple aperture sparse arrays or interferometers). And, while duplication does reduce the cost of manufacturing the mirrors of segmented primary mirror, this cost savings does not appear to manifest itself in the final primary mirror assembly(presumably because the structure for a segmented mirror is more complicated than for a monolithic mirror).

Space Telescope Cost Model, Parametric Cost Model↗