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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 415 records · Page 23

Cost reduction potential of the DSN data base

The cost of the DSN data base can be reduced by computerizing and unifying the current multiplicity of separate manual, computer, and hybrid data bases. Savings would accrue from eliminating all manual system costs, increasing efficiency in data base implementation and maintenance-and-operation, and increasing data accuracy. By applying a simple mathematical savings model to current data base costs, this study estimates the probable range of net ten-year savings. The minimum net savings, under the assumptions of the study, are calculated as $7.5 million.

Mckenzie, M.↗

Economic benefits of improved meteorological forecasts - The construction industry

Estimates are made of the potential economic benefits accruing to particular industries from timely utilization of satellite-derived six-hour weather forecasts, and of economic penalties resulting from failure to utilize such forecasts in day-to-day planning. The cost estimate study is centered on the U.S. construction industry, with results simplified to yes/no 6-hr forecasts on thunderstorm activity and work/no work decisions. Effects of weather elements (thunderstorms, snow and sleet) on various construction operations are indicated. Potential dollar benefits for other industries, including air transportation and other forms of transportation, are diagrammed for comparison. Geosynchronous satellites such as STORMSAT, SEOS, and SMS/GOES are considered as sources of the forecast data.

Bhattacharyya, R. K.↗

Accelerated/abbreviated test methods of the low-cost silicon solar array project. Study 4, task 3: Encapsulation

Methods of accelerated and abbreviated testing were developed and applied to solar cell encapsulants. These encapsulants must provide protection for as long as 20 years outdoors at different locations within the United States. Consequently, encapsulants were exposed for increasing periods of time to the inherent climatic variables of temperature, humidity, and solar flux. Property changes in the encapsulants were observed. The goal was to predict long term behavior of encapsulants based upon experimental data obtained over relatively short test periods.

Kolyer, J. M.↗

Swath width study. A simulation assessment of costs and benefits of a sensor system for agricultural application

Satellites provide an excellent platform from which to observe crops on the scale and frequency required to provide accurate crop production estimates on a worldwide basis. Multispectral imaging sensors aboard these platforms are capable of providing data from which to derive acreage and production estimates. The issue of sensor swath width was examined. The quantitative trade trade necessary to resolve the combined issue of sensor swath width, number of platforms, and their orbits was generated and are included. Problems with different swath width sensors were analyzed and an assessment of system trade-offs of swath width versus number of satellites was made for achieving Global Crop Production Forecasting.

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Langley program of GaAs solar cells

A brief overview of the development of GaAs solar cell technology is provided. An 18 to 20 percent AMO efficiency, stability under radiation and elevated-temperature operation, and high power-to-weight ratio are among the factors studied. Cell cost and availability are also examined.

Conway, E. J.↗

A solar-energy system in Pennsylvania

Report describes development of solar-heating system for single-family residence at site in Pennsylvania. 143 page document, containing detailed drawings, performance specifications, cost tradeoff studies, and other material, can assist those planning similar systems in areas of similar climate.

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A solar-energy system in Minnesota

Report discusses system for Minnesota residence. Final design was arrived at that will meet 45 percent of total average heating load and will supply 40 gallons of potable ater at 140 deg F. Document contains detailed drawings, specifications, and cost tradeoff studies. Also included are outline of proposed installation, operation and maintenance manual, and analysis of hazards.

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The space science data service: A study of its efficiencies and costs

Factors affecting the overall advantages and disadvantages of a centralized facility for both the data base and processing capability for NASA's Office of Space Science programs are examined in an effort to determine the best approach to data management in the light of the increasing number of data bits collected annually. Selected issues considered relate to software and storage savings, security precautions, and the phase-in plan. Information on the current mode of processing and on the potential impact of changes resulting from a conversion to a space science data base service was obtained from five user groups and is presented as an aid in determining the dollar benefits and advantages of a centralized system.

Vette, J. I.↗

Solar energy heating system design package for a single-family residence at New Castle, Pennsylvania

The design of a solar heating and hot water system for a single family dwelling is described. Cost trade studies on the energy conservation and architectural features of the solar house are discussed. The present status of verification for the single family heating system, i.e., proof that the components and the system meet applicable physical and functional requirements, is reported. The system integration drawings, the major subsystems drawings, and the architect's specifications and plans are included.

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Parametric study of helicopter aircraft systems costs and weights

Weight estimating relationships (WERs) and recurring production cost estimating relationships (CERs) were developed for helicopters at the system level. The WERs estimate system level weight based on performance or design characteristics which are available during concept formulation or the preliminary design phase. The CER (or CERs in some cases) for each system utilize weight (either actual or estimated using the appropriate WER) and production quantity as the key parameters.

Beltramo, M. N.↗

Development of processes for the production of solar grade silicon from halides and alkali metals

High temperature reactions of silicon halides with alkali metals for the production of solar grade silicon in volume at low cost were studied. Experiments were performed to evaluate product separation and collection processes, measure heat release parameters for scaling purposes, determine the effects of reactants and/or products on materials of reactor construction, and make preliminary engineering and economic analyses of a scaled-up process.

Dickson, C. R.↗

NASA Redox Project status summary

This report is a summary of the results of the Redox Project effort during Cy 1982. It was presented at the Fifth U.S. Department of Energy Battery and Electrochemical Contractors Conference, Arlington, Va., Dec. 7-9, 1982. The major development during 1982 was the shift from Redox system operation at 25 C with unmixed reactants to operation at 65 C with mixed reactants. This change has made possible a two- or three-fold increase in operating current density, to about 65 mA/sq cm, and an increase in reactant utilization from 40% to about 90%. Both of these improvements will lead to significant system cost reductions. Contract studies have indicated that Redox reactant costs also will be moderate. A new catalyst for the chromuim electrode offers all the advantages of the conventional gold-lead catalyst while being easier to apply and more forgiving in use.

Hagedorn, N. H.↗

Shuttle interaction study extension

Plans for space shuttle missions as they effect the Space Operation Center (SOC) were examined. Shuttle fleet utilization, traffic analysis, SOC assembly operations, SOC propellant storage, and flight support facilities were studied with cost estimates, and completion schedules included.

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Preliminary analysis of space mission applications for electromagnetic launchers

The technical and economic feasibility of using electromagnetically launched EML payloads propelled from the Earth's surface to LEO, GEO, lunar orbit, or to interplanetary space was assessed. Analyses of the designs of rail accelerators and coaxial magnetic accelerators show that each is capable of launching to space payloads of 800 KG or more. A hybrid launcher in which EML is used for the first 2 KM/sec followed by chemical rocket stages was also tested. A cost estimates study shows that one to two EML launches per day are needed to break even, compared to a four-stage rocket. Development models are discussed for: (1) Earth orbital missions; (2) lunar base supply mission; (3) solar system escape mission; (4) Earth escape missions; (5) suborbital missions; (6) electromagnetic boost missions; and (7) space-based missions. Safety factors, environmental impacts, and EML systems analysis are discussed. Alternate systems examined include electrothermal thrustors, an EML rocket gun; an EML theta gun, and Soviet electromagnetic accelerators.

Miller, L. A.↗

Rapid evaluation of ion thruster lifetime using optical emission spectroscopy

A major life-limiting phenomenon of electric thrusters is the sputter erosion of discharge chamber components. Thrusters for space propulsion are required to operate for extended periods of time, usually in excess of 10,000 hr. Lengthy and very costly life-tests in high-vacuum facilities have been required in the past to determine the erosion rates of thruster components. Alternative methods for determining erosion rates which can be performed in relatively short periods of time at considerably lower costs are studied. An attempt to relate optical emission intensity from an ion bombarded surface (screen grid) to the sputtering rate of that surface is made. The model used a kinetic steady-state (KSS) approach, balancing the rates of population and depopulation of ten low-lying excited states of the sputtered molybdenum atom (MoI) with those of the ground state to relate the spectral intensities of the various transitions of the MoI to the population densities. Once this is accomplished, the population density can be related to the sputtering rate of the target. Radiative and collisional modes of excitation and decay are considered. Since actual data has not been published for MoI excitation rate and decay constants, semiempirical equations are used. The calculated sputtering rate and intensity is compared to the measured intensity and sputtering rates of the 8 and 30 cm ion thrusters.

Rock, B. A.↗

Evaluation of propfan propulsion applied to general aviation

Propfan propulsion on business aircraft was evaluated. Comparisons, in terms of cost and performance, were made between propfan propulsion systems and conventional turbofan propulsion systems on a typical business aircraft. In addition, configuration and cost sensitivity studies were conducted to further assess the potential of propfan propulsion.

Awker, R. W.↗