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At least 469 records · Page 26

On the nature of the interaction between structures and actuators in vibration suppression

This lecture presents a summary of work on the analysis of the interaction between a structure, an actuator used to suppress the vibration of the structure, and the control law implemented by the actuator. Two control applications are considered. First, a proof-mass actuator with experimentally verified dynamics, capable of being used in a space structure configuration is examined. This is connected to a cantilevered beam modeled as a single degree of freedom system. Secondly, an electric motor, again with experimentally verified dynamics, is used to slew a beam modeled by a partial differential equation. Both the experimental and numerical configuration 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. In addition, an understanding of the interaction is shown to greatly effect performance. In particular it is shown that judicious choice of actuator parameters greatly improves closed loop performance.

Inman, Daniel J.↗

The method of space-time and conservation element and solution element: A new approach for solving the Navier-Stokes and Euler equations

A new numerical framework for solving conservation laws is being developed. This new framework differs substantially in both concept and methodology from the well-established methods, i.e., finite difference, finite volume, finite element, and spectral methods. It is conceptually simple and designed to overcome several key limitations of the above traditional methods. A two-level scheme for solving the convection-diffusion equation is constructed and used to illuminate the major differences between the present method and those previously mentioned. This explicit scheme, referred to as the a-mu scheme, has two independent marching variables.

Chang, Sin-Chung↗

Adaptive Multi-Layer LMS Controller Design and Application to Active Vibration Suppression on a Truss and Proposed Impact Analysis Technique

This research develops an adaptive controller that actively suppresses a single frequency disturbance source at a remote position and tests the system on the NPS Space Truss. The experimental results are then compared to those predicted by an ANSYS finite element model. The NPS space truss is a 3.7-meter long truss that simulates a space-borne appendage with sensitive equipment mounted at its extremities. One of two installed piezoelectric actuators and an Adaptive Multi-Layer LMS control law were used to effectively eliminate an axial component of the vibrations induced by a linear proof mass actuator mounted at one end of the truss. Experimental and analytical results both demonstrate reductions to the level of system noise. Vibration reductions in excess of 50dB were obtained through experimentation and over 100dB using ANSYS, demonstrating the ability to model this system with a finite element model. This report also proposes a method to use distributed quartz accelerometers to evaluate the location, direction, and energy of impacts on the NPS space truss using the dSPACE data acquisition and processing system to capture the structural response and compare it to known reference Signals.

Barney, Timothy A.↗

Processing and transmission of information

Techniques, useful in transmitting and processing information, are discussed. In particular, restrictions of the law of conservation of energy on allowable forms of interaction Hamiltonians and optimum quantum measurement by extension of Hilbert space technique are discussed.

Source record↗

Multidisciplinary capability for analysis of the dynamics and control of flexible space structures

The paper describes a computerized data distribution capability, IMAT, in place at the NASA Langley Research Center for the multidisciplinary analysis of the dynamics and control of large flexible space structures. The paper includes results obtained in using IMAT to investigate the influence of the structural response of the space station framework on the control of a 300kw class, solar-dynamic-powered, dual-keel space station during an orbital reboost maneuver. The method of control, using an unfiltered proportional-plus-differential control law, led to a stable control system even with local flexible response measured at the control sensor location included as a part of the control error signal. The flexible response at the outboard solar dynamic system sun-line axis was close to the maximum rotation allowed for efficient operation; thus, active local control of each solar dynamic system may be necessary to limit sun-line axis rotations effectively during a reboost maneuver.

Cooper, P. A.↗

Space Infrared Telescope Facility/Multimission Modular Spacecraft Attitude Control System conceptual design

A control system utilizing the Multi-mission Modular Spacecraft (MMS) Attitude Control System (ACS) was developed and analyzed for the Space Infrared Telescope Facility (SIRTF) spacecraft. Alternative torquer augmentation schemes were studied to determine viable ACS approaches. A control law was developed to use a dual set of single-axis Control Moment Gyros (CMGs) for two-axis control. Flexible structural models were developed using a high fidelity, flight tested NASTRAN model of the MMS, coupled with a NASTRAN model of the SIRTF telescope. Modal significance criteria were employed to reduce the structural model. Multivariable interactive techniques were used to synthesize the control system (including the structural filters). Control system performance for the SIRTF operational modes (quiescent inertial hold, slewing, nodding, and rastering) was then determined using both single-axis and three-axis simulations). The control system described met performance requirements for all modes but the raster with the use of CMGs. The raster performance was limited by the structural flexibility.

Class, Brian F.↗

High resolution finite volume methods on arbitrary grids via wave propagation

A generalization of Godunov's method for systems of conservation laws has been developed and analyzed that can be applied with arbitrary time steps on arbitrary grids in one space dimension. Stability for arbitrary time steps is achieved by allowing waves to propagate through more than one mesh cell in a time step. The method is extended here to second order accuracy and to a finite volume method in two space dimensions. This latter method is based on solving one dimensional normal and tangential Riemann problems at cell interfaces and again propagating waves through one or more mesh cells. By avoiding the usual time step restriction of explicit methods, it is possible to use reasonable time steps on irregular grids where the minimum cell area is much smaller than the average cell. Boundary conditions for the Euler equations are discussed and special attention is given to the case of a Cartesian grid cut by an irregular boundary. In this case small grid cells arise only near the boundary, and it is desirable to use a time step appropriate for the regular interior cells. Numerical results in two dimensions show that this can be achieved.

Leveque, Randall J.↗

High resolution finite volume methods on arbitrary grids via wave propagation

A generalization of Godunov's method for systems of conservation laws has been developed and analyzed that can be applied with arbitrary time steps on arbitrary grids in one space dimension. Stability for arbitrary time steps is achieved by allowing waves to propagate through more than one mesh cell in a time step. The method is extended here to second order accuracy and to a finite volume method in two space dimensions. This latter method is based on solving one dimensional normal and tangential Rieman problems at cell interfaces and again propagating waves through one or more mesh cells. By avoiding the usual time step restriction of explicit methods, it is possible to use reasonable time steps on irregular grids where the minimum cell area is much smaller than the average cell. Boundary conditions for the Euler equations are discussed and special attention is given to the case of a Cartesian grid cut by an irregular boundary. In this case small grid cells arise only near the boundary, and it is desirable to use a time step appropriate for the regular interior cells. Numerical results in two dimensions show that this can be achieved.

Leveque, Randall J.↗

A globally well-posed finite element algorithm for aerodynamics applications

A finite element CFD algorithm is developed for Euler and Navier-Stokes aerodynamic applications. For the linear basis, the resultant approximation is at least second-order-accurate in time and space for synergistic use of three procedures: (1) a Taylor weak statement, which provides for derivation of companion conservation law systems with embedded dispersion-error control mechanisms; (2) a stiffly stable second-order-accurate implicit Rosenbrock-Runge-Kutta temporal algorithm; and (3) a matrix tensor product factorization that permits efficient numerical linear algebra handling of the terminal large-matrix statement. Thorough analyses are presented regarding well-posed boundary conditions for inviscid and viscous flow specifications. Numerical solutions are generated and compared for critical evaluation of quasi-one- and two-dimensional Euler and Navier-Stokes benchmark test problems.

Iannelli, G. S.↗

Spectral Tests of the Homogeneity of Gamma-Ray Bursts

We proposed to determine whether the spectral-hardness-intensity relation found when comparing dim and bright bursts is also found within the set of bright bursts. In the simplest cosmological burst paradigm all bursts have the same intrinsic brightness (they are "standard candles") and the faintest BATSE bursts are at a redshift of approx. 1. The cumulative intensity distribution, which is a -3/2 power law at the bright end but flatter at the low intensity end, is explained by the cosmological curvature of space. Thus bursts at the bright end should be at such low redshifts that they do not suffer cosmological redshifting of their spectra or time dilation of their lightcurves. The spectral-hardness and burst intensity are correlated when dim and bright bursts are compared, consistent with cosmological redshifting. However, the actual redshifts of a number of bursts have been determined, showing that bursts are not standard candles, and that their redshifts are frequently greater than approx. 1; the maximum redshift is 3.4! Consequently many bright bursts are at redshifts where cosmological effects are significant. We had proposed to determine A,hether the redshifting effect continued into the bright bursts; even moderately bright bursts should be at cosmological distances.

Band, David L.↗

X-38 Experimental Controls Laws

X-38 Experimental Control Laws X-38 is a NASA JSC/DFRC experimental flight test program developing a series of prototypes for an International Space Station (ISS) Crew Return Vehicle, often called an ISS "lifeboat." X- 38 Vehicle 132 Free Flight 3, currently scheduled for the end of this month, will be the first flight test of a modem FCS architecture called Multi-Application Control-Honeywell (MACH), originally developed by the Honeywell Technology Center. MACH wraps classical P&I outer attitude loops around a modem dynamic inversion attitude rate loop. The dynamic inversion process requires that the flight computer have an onboard aircraft model of expected vehicle dynamics based upon the aerodynamic database. Dynamic inversion is computationally intensive, so some timing modifications were made to implement MACH on the slower flight computers of the subsonic test vehicles. In addition to linear stability margin analyses and high fidelity 6-DOF simulation, hardware-in-the-loop testing is used to verify the implementation of MACH and its robustness to aerodynamic and environmental uncertainties and disturbances.

Munday, Steve↗

Global Summary MGS TES Data and Mars-Gram Validation

Mars Global Reference Atmospheric Model (Mars-GRAM 2001) is an engineering-level Mars atmosphere model widely used for many Mars mission applications. From 0-80 km, it is based on NASA Ames Mars General Circulation Model (MGCM), while above 80 km it is based on University of Arizona Mars Thermospheric General Circulation Model. Mars-GRAM 2001 and MGCM use surface topograph$ from Mars Global Surveyor Mars Orbiting Laser Altimeter (MOLA). Validation studies are described comparing Mars-GRAM with a global summary data set of Mars Global Surveyor Thermal Emission Spectrometer (TES) data. TES averages and standard deviations were assembled from binned TES data which covered surface to approx. 40 km, over more than a full Mars year (February, 1999 - June, 2001, just before start of a Mars global dust storm). TES data were binned in 10-by-10 degree latitude-longitude bins (i.e. 36 longitude bins by 19 latitude bins), 12 seasonal bins (based on 30 degree increments of Ls angle). Bin averages and standard deviations were assembled at 23 data levels (temperature at 21 pressure levels, plus surface temperature and surface pressure). Two time-of day bins were used: local time near 2 or 14 hours local time). Two dust optical depth bins wereused: infrared optical depth either less than or greater than 0.25 (which corresponds to visible optical depth either less than or greater than about 0.5). For interests in aerocapture and precision entry and landing, comparisons focused on atmospheric density. TES densities versus height were computed from TES temperature versus pressure, using assumptions of perfect gas law and hydrostatics. Mars-GRAM validation studies used density ratio (TES/Mars-GRAM) evaluated at data bin center points in space and time. Observed average TES/Mars-GRAM density ratios were generally 1+/-0.05, except at high altitudes (15-30 km, depending on season) and high latitudes (> 45 deg N), or at most altitudes in the southern hemisphere at Ls approx. 90 and 180deg). Compared to TES averages for a given latitude and season, TES data had average density standard deviation about the mean of approx. 65-10.5% (varying with height) for all data, or approx. 5-12%, depending on time of day and dust optical depth. Average standard deviation of TES/Mars-GRAM density ratio was 8.9% for local time 2 hours and 7.1% for local time 14 hours. Thus standard deviation of observed TES/Mars-GRAM density ratio, evaluated at matching positions and times, is about the same as the standard deviation of TES data about the TES mean value at a given position and season.

Justus, C.↗

Physics of the Cosmos: Program Annual Technology Report

From ancient times, humans have looked up at the night sky and wondered: Are we alone? How did the universe come to be? How does the universe work? PCOS focuses on that last question. Scientists investigating this broad theme use the universe itself as their laboratory, investigating its fundamental laws and properties. They test Einstein's General Theory of Relativity to see if our current understanding of space-time is borne out by observations. They examine the behavior of the most extreme environments - supermassive black holes, active galactic nuclei, and others - and the farthest reaches of the universe, to expand our understanding. With instruments sensitive across the spectrum, from radio, through infrared (IR), visible light, ultraviolet (UV), to X rays and gamma rays, as well as gravitational waves (GWs), they peer across billions of light-years, observing echoes of events that occurred instants after the Big Bang. The Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO) recently recorded the first direct measurement of long-theorized GWs. Another surprising recent discovery is that the universe is expanding at an ever-accelerating rate, the first hint of so-called "dark energy," estimated to account for 75% of mass-energy in the universe. Dark matter, so called because we can only observe its effects on regular matter, accounts for another 20%, leaving only 5% for regular matter and energy. Scientists now also search for special polarization in the cosmic microwave background to support the notion that in the split-second after the Big Bang, the universe inflated faster than the speed of light! The most exciting aspect of this grand enterprise today is that we can finally develop the tools needed for such discoveries.

COR↗

Program Annual Technology Report: Physics of the Cosmos Program Office

From ancient times, humans have looked up at the night sky and wondered: Are we alone? How did the universe come to be? How does the universe work? PCOS focuses on that last question. Scientists investigating this broad theme use the universe as their laboratory, investigating its fundamental laws and properties. They test Einstein’s General Theory of Relativity to see if our current understanding of space-time is borne out by observations. They examine the behavior of the most extreme environments – supermassive black holes, active galactic nuclei, and others – and the farthest reaches of the universe, to expand our understanding. With instruments sensitive across the spectrum, from radio, through infrared (IR), visible light, ultraviolet (UV), to X rays and gamma rays, as well as gravitational waves (GWs), they peer across billions of light-years, observing echoes of events that occurred instants after the Big Bang. Last year, the LISA Pathfinder (LPF) mission exceeded expectations in proving the maturity of technologies needed for the Laser Interferometer Space Antenna (LISA) mission, and the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO) recorded the first direct measurements of long-theorized GWs. Another surprising recent discovery is that the universe is expanding at an ever-accelerating rate, the first hint of so-called “dark energy,” estimated to account for 75% of mass-energy in the universe. Dark matter, so called because we can only observe its effects on regular matter, is thought to account for another20%, leaving only 5% for regular matter and energy. Scientists now also search for special polarization in the cosmic microwave background to support the notion that in the split-second after the Big Bang, the universe inflated faster than the speed of light! The most exciting aspect of this grand enterprise today is the extraordinary rate at which we can harness technologies to enable these key discoveries.

COR↗

A Method for Incorporating Quartz Crystal Microbalance Thermo-Gravimetric Assessment Data in Contamination Modeling

The science objectives of increasingly ambitious space missions require meeting stringent contamination requirements. Contamination transport models are based on established principles such as Fick’s law for contamination diffusion within the source material, Arrhenius factors to account for temperature variations and free molecular transport for spacecraft operating in vacuum. In addition to the science principles, empirical data obtained from ASTM E1559 testing is used for engineering contamination modeling. The ASTM E1559 test provides outgassing rate data for materials at expected spacecraft temperatures during a mission. Multiple quartz crystal microbalances (QCMs) can be operated at different temperatures to measure the amount of contamination condensation that can occur on various spacecraft surfaces. At the conclusion of the ASTM E1559 test a thermo-gravimetric assessment (TGA) can be performed by heating the QCMs at a linear rate to obtain contamination desorption data. This TGA data provides a wealth of information that can be incorporated into contamination models. A method for applying this data is presented.

Anderson, John R↗

Lightweight Radiators Being Developed or Advanced Stirling Radioisotope Power Systems

The thermodynamic heat-to-electric power conversion efficiency of Stirling systems is 3 to 5 times higher than that of thermoelectric converters. Hence for unmanned deep space probes, Stirling advanced radioisotope power systems (ARPS) could deliver up to 5 times as much power as radioisotope thermoelectric generators for the same amount of radioisotope, or they could require one-third to one-fifth as much isotope inventory for the same power output. However, Stirling power systems reject unconverted heat at much lower temperatures than radioisotope thermoelectric generators. Normally, this requires larger and heavier heat-rejection subsystems because of the greater radiator areas, which are proportional to the first power of the heat rejected and the fourth power of the absolute heat-rejection temperature, as specified by the Stefan-Boltzmann radiation heat transfer law. The development of directly coupled disk radiators using very high conductivity encapsulated thermopyrolitic graphite materials represents a significant advance in Stirling ARPS space heat-rejection subsystem technology. A conceptual Stirling ARPS with two engines coupled to a radioisotope general-purpose heat source (GPHS) is shown in the illustration.

Juhasz, Albert J.↗

The OMICS of Sports & Space: How Genomics is Transforming Both Fields

Join top 10 New York Times Bestseller “The Sports Gene” author David Epstein and NASA Twins Study investigator Christopher E. Mason, Ph.D., in the debate as old as physical competition—nature versus nurture. From personal experience, Epstein tackles the great debate and traces how far science has come in solving this timeless riddle, and how genetics has entered into the field of sports. He’s an investigative science reporter for ProPublica and longtime contributor to Sports Illustrated. Epstein will share insights into performance-enhancing drugs, the lucky genetics that separate a professional athlete from a less talented athlete, and his research into the death of a friend with Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM).From an epigenomic viewpoint, Mason examines the benefits and risks for astronauts who face extreme spaceflight conditions and what it means for the future of human space travel. He is an associate professor in the Department of Physiology and Biophysics, The Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute (BMRI) & The Institute for Computational Biomedicine at Weill Cornell Medicine. He is also part of the Tri-Institutional Program on Computational Biology and a Medicine Fellow of Genomics, Ethics, and Law in the Information Society Project at Yale Law School.The study of omics shows tremendous potential in prevention, diagnosis and treatment of injuries and diseases but genetic discrimination and molecular privacy concerns are raised in both sports and space.

Reeves, Katherine↗

Verification of large beam-type space structures

The verification approach here proposed for large, beam-type space structures consists of a first part, which removes the gravity effect on the substructure tested and identifies its on-orbit dynamic characteristics, on the basis of ground test measurements, and a second part which develops an adequate scaling law that extrapolates the dynamic characteristics of the prototype structure by using results from the substructure. These approaches are presently demonstrated for the cases of a wrap-rib antenna's feed support structure and a candidate Space Shuttle flight experiment.

Shih, C.-F.↗