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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

Practical implementation of an accurate method for multilevel design sensitivity analysis

Solution techniques for handling large scale engineering optimization problems are reviewed. Potentials for practical applications as well as their limited capabilities are discussed. A new solution algorithm for design sensitivity is proposed. The algorithm is based upon the multilevel substructuring concept to be coupled with the adjoint method of sensitivity analysis. There are no approximations involved in the present algorithm except the usual approximations introduced due to the discretization of the finite element model. Results from the six- and thirty-bar planar truss problems show that the proposed multilevel scheme for sensitivity analysis is more effective (in terms of computer incore memory and the total CPU time) than a conventional (one level) scheme even on small problems. The new algorithm is expected to perform better for larger problems and its applications on the new generation of computer hardwares with 'parallel processing' capability is very promising.

Nguyen, Duc T.↗

Polarimetry with multiple mirror telescopes

The polarizations of multiple mirror telescopes are calculated using Mueller calculus. It is found that the Multiple Mirror Telescope (MMT) produces a constant depolarization that is a function of wavelength and independent of sky position. The efficiency and crosstalk are modeled and experimentally verified. The two- and four-mirror new generation telescopes are found to produce sinusoidal depolarization for which an accurate interpretation of the incident Stokes vector requires inverse matrix calculations. Finally, the depolarization of f/1 paraboloids is calculated and found to be less than 0.1 percent at 3000 A.

West, S. C.↗

NASA space information systems overview

A major objective of NASA space missions is the gathering of information that when analyzed, compared, and interpreted furthers man's knowledge of his planet and surrounding universe. A space information system is the combination of data gathering, data processing, and data transport capabilities that interact to provide the underlying services that enable that advancement in understanding. Past space projects have been characterized by rather disjoint data systems that often did not satisfy user requirements. NASA has learned from those experiences, however, and now is conceptualizing a new generation of sophisticated, integrated space information systems suitable to the wide range of near future space endeavors. This paper examines the characteristics of recent data systems and, based upon that characterization, outlines the scope and attributes of future systems. A description if offered of the information system for the Space Station Program as one real example of such advanced capabilities.

Hall, Dana L.↗

Spinoff, 1986

The major programs that generate new technology and therefore expand the bank of knowledge available for future transfer are outlined. The focal point of this volume contains a representative sampling of spinoff products and processes that resulted from technology utilization, or secondary application. The various mechanisms NASA employs to stimulate technology utilization are described and in an appendix, are listed contact sources for further information.

Haggerty, James J.↗

Gear systems for advanced turboprops

A new generation of transport aircraft will be powered by efficient, advanced turboprop propulsion systems. Systems that develop 5,000 to 15,000 horsepower have been studied. Reduction gearing for these advanced propulsion systems is discussed. Allison Gas Turbine Division's experience with the 5,000 horsepower reduction gearing for the T56 engine is reviewed and the impact of that experience on advanced gear systems is considered. The reliability needs for component design and development are also considered. Allison's experience and their research serve as a basis on which to characterize future gear systems that emphasize low cost and high reliability.

Wagner, Douglas A.↗

Research and technology, 1987

Three broad goals were presented by NASA as a guide to meet the challenges of the future: to advance scientific knowledge of the planet Earth, the solar system, and the universe; to expand human presence beyond the Earth into the solar system; and to strengthen aeronautics research and technology. Near-term and new-generation space transportation and propulsion systems are being analyzed that will assure the nation access to and presence in space. Other key advanced studies include large astronomical observatories, space platforms, scientific and commercial payloads, and systems to enhance operations in Earth orbit. Longer-range studies include systems that would allow humans to explore the Moon and Mars during the next century. Research programs, both to support the many space missions studied or managed by the Center and to advance scientific knowledge in selected areas, involve work in the areas of atmospheric science, earth science, space science (including astrophysics and solar, magnetospheric, and atomic physics), and low-gravity science. Programs and experiment design for flights on the Space Station, free-flying satellites, and the Space Shuttle are being planned. To maintain a leadership position in technology, continued advances in liquid and solid propellant engines, materials and processes; electronic, structural, and thermal investigations; and environmental control are required. Progress during the fiscal year 1987 is discussed.

Source record↗

Langley aerospace test highlights, 1987

The role of the Langley Research Center is to perform basic and applied research necessary for the advancement of aeronautics and space flight, to generate new and advanced concepts for the accomplishment of related national goals, and to provide research advice, technological support, and assistance to other NASA installations, other government agencies, and industry. Some of the significant tests which were performed during the calender year 1987 in Langley test facilites are illustrated. Both the broad range of the research and technology activities at Langley and the contributions of this work toward maintaining the U.S. leadership in aeronautic and space research are illustrated.

Source record↗

World-wide aeronautical satellite communications

INMARSAT decided to expand the spectrum covered by its new generation of satellites, INMARSAT-2, to include 1 MHz (subsequently increased to 3 MHz) of the spectrum designed for aeronautical use. It began a design study that led to the specifications for the system that is now being implemented. Subsequently, INMARSAT awarded contracts for the design of avionics and high gain antennas to a number of manufactures, while several of the signatories that provide ground equipment for communicating with the INMARSAT satellites are modifying their earth stations to work with the avionic equipment. As a resullt of these activities, a world-wide aeronautical satellite system supporting both voice and data will become operational in 1989.

Wood, Peter↗

SCARES: A Spacecraft Control Anomaly Resolution Expert System

The current pace of technological development is reflected in the increased mission lifetime of each new generation of satellite. Coupled with this has come a reduced availability of experts to provide technical assistance in satellite operation on a day to day basis. Given such an environment, an expert system is discussed based on architecture for spacecraft anomaly resolution. By capturing deep knowledge about a spacecraft, the system is able to detect and diagnose fault better than previous conventional approaches. A prototype expert system named SCARES (applied only to spacecraft attitude control system) is discussed. Extension of the prototype to handle anomalies in other systems of the satellite is also discussed.

Hamilton, Marc↗

Recent trends in geographic information system research

This paper reviews recent contributions to the body of published research on Geographic Information Systems (GISs). Increased usages of GISs have placed a new demand upon the academic and research community and despite some lack of formalized definitions, categorizations, terminologies, and standard data structures, the community has risen to the challenge. Examinations of published GIS research, in particular on GIS data structures, reveal a healthy, active research community which is using a truly interdisciplinary approach. Future work will undoubtably lead to a clearer understanding of the problems of handling spatial data, while producing a new generation of highly sophisticated GISs.

Clarke, K. C.↗

Development of a thermal control coating for space suits

Past space suits and the current Shuttle suit, which are constructed primarily from fabric, use the Integrated Thermal and Micrometeoroid Garment, which insulates the astronaut from his environment. The new generation of hard suits affords designers the opportunity to incorporate thermal control into the suit structure. Environmental influence on the suit temperature and heat flux can then be minimized with a high reflectance coating. Candidate coatings have been identified and ranked on the basis of thermophysical properties; wear, corrosion and atomic oxygen degradation resistance; and coating process and cost. Laboratory determination of properties, thermal cycling and wear resistance tests are underway to identify the optimum coating. A computer model is being developed to evaluate various environmental configurations. Preliminary results are presented here.

Squire, Bernadette↗

An update on the Active Magnetospheric Particle Tracer Explorers (AMPTE) program

The principles involved in the AMPTE mission's active experiments are discussed together with the role of the AMPTE satellites (the Germany's Ion Release Module, IRM, the United Kingdom Subsatellite, and the U.S Charge Composition Explorer, CCE) in and the results of the ion-release experiments. The AMPTE orbit profile is described, with the times of solar-wind and magnetotail ion releases (two barium and two lithium releases were carried out as the IRM precessed through the magnetosheath) shown schematically. In addition to the results on the Van Allen radiation belts obtained through the ion-release experiments, studies of the radiation belts with the new generation of sensors aboard the CCE and IRM are described.

Mcentire, Richard W.↗

Progress toward an advanced condition monitoring system for reusable rocket engines

A new generation of advanced sensor technologies will allow the direct measurement of critical/degradable rocket engine components' health and the detection of degraded conditions before component deterioration affects engine performance, leading to substantial improvements in reusable engines' operation and maintenance. When combined with a computer-based engine condition-monitoring system, these sensors can furnish a continuously updated data base for the prediction of engine availability and advanced warning of emergent maintenance requirements. Attention is given to the case of a practical turbopump and combustion device diagnostic/prognostic health-monitoring system.

Maram, J.↗

S-Band ranging system for NASA mission support

The NASA Ground Network (GN) provides range and Doppler data for orbit determination of Space Shuttle and scientific missions from the Merritt Island, FL, Bermuda, and Wallops Island, VA, tracking stations. This paper describes a new generation of S-Band tone ranging equipment developed under the Goddard Space Flight Center, System Utilization Enhancement (SUE) Project. The Ranging Equipment incorporates several novel design features, emphasizing reliability and maintainability for support of NASA missions during the next decade.

Zilliig, David J.↗

Special relativity and interferometers

A new generation of gravitational wave detectors is expected to be based on interferometers. Yurke et al. (1986) introduced a class of interferometers characterized by SU(1,1) which can in principle achieve a phase sensitivity approaching 1/N, where N is thte total number of photons entering the interferometer. It is shown here that the SU(1,1) interferometer can serve as an analog computer for Wigner's little group of the Poincare\'| group.

Han, D.↗

Some key considerations for high-speed civil transports

Factors affecting the development of a new generation of high-speed (supersonic/hypersonic) transports are reviewed. Market projections of growth on long-range routes indicate a potential need for faster transport aircraft by the turn of the century. A review of NASA-sponsored studies shows how both market forces and technology combine to define mission performance and vehicle design constraints. The vehicle worth and price projected for a given vehicle are shown to relate to an assumed technology level. Preliminary results from an initial set of vehicle concepts lead to the conclusion that currently projected technology will need to be enhanced with increased research to meet the first market window around the year 2000.

Morris, Charles E. K., Jr.↗

NASA Structural Analysis System (NASTRAN)

NASTRAN used to design products ranging from aircraft to automobiles to printers. In addition to DEC VAX, IBM, CDC, and UNIVAC machine versions, NASTRAN available for MicroVAX under VMS and UNIX. COSMIC generates new release of NASTRAN each year.

Brugh, R. L.↗

The effects of magnetic nozzle configurations on plasma thrusters

Plasma thrusters have been operated at power levels from 10kW to 0.1MW. When these devices have had magnetic fields applied to them which form a nozzle configuration for the expanding plasma, they have shown marked increases in exhaust velocity which is in direct proportion to the magnitude of the applied field. Further, recent results have shown that electrode erosion may be influenced by applied magnetic fields. This research is directed to the experimental and computational study of the effects of applied magnetic field nozzles in the acceleration of plasma flows. Plasma source devices which eliminate the plasma interaction in normal thrusters are studied as most basic. Normal thruster configurations will be studied without applied fields and with applied magnetic nozzle fields. Unique computational studies will utilize existing codes which accurately include transport processes. Unique diagnostic studies will support the experimental studies to generate new data. Both computation and diagnostics will be combined to indicate the physical mechanisms and transport properties that are operative in order to allow scaling and accurate prediction of thruster performance.

York, Thomas M.↗