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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 55 records · Page 3

Dynamic Testing of a Subscale Sunshield for the Next Generation Space Telescope (NGST)

The NGST sunshield is a lightweight, flexible structure consisting of pretensioned membranes supported by deployable booms. The structural dynamic behavior of the sunshield must be well understood in order to predict its influence on observatory dynamic performance. A 1/10th scale model of the sunshield has been developed for ground testing to provide data to validate modeling techniques for thin-film membrane structures. The validated models can then be used to predict the behavior of the full-scale sunshield. This paper provides an overview of two test series performed on the 1/10th scale sunshield and a comparison of the results from the tests.

Ross, Brian↗

The global climate of December 1992-February 1993. Part 2: Large-scale variability across the tropical western Pacific during TOGA COARE

Recently, scientists from more than a dozen countries carried out the field phase of a project called the Coupled-Atmosphere Response Experiment (COARE), devoted to describing the ocean-atmosphere system of the western Pacific near-equatorial warm pool. The project was conceived, organized, and funded under the auspices of the International Tropical Ocean Global Atmosphere (TOGA) Program. Although COARE consisted of several field phases, including a year-long atmospheric enhanced monitoring period (1 July 1992 -- 30 June 1993), the heart of COARE was its four-month Intensive Observation Period (IOP) extending from 1 Nov. 1992 through 28 Feb. 1993. An overview of large-scale variability during COARE is presented. The weather and climate observed in the IOP is placed into context with regard to large-scale, low-frequency fluctuations of the ocean-atmosphere system. Aspects of tropical variability beginning in Aug. 1992 and extending through Mar. 1993, with some sounding data for Apr. 1993 are considered. Variability over the large-scale sounding array (LSA) and the intensive flux array (IFA) is emphasized.

Gutzler, D. S.↗

Development of Computational Materials Workflows for Additively Manufactured Metallic Materials to Enable Accelerated Prediction of Fatigue Performance

The maturation of computational materials approaches for fatigue performance prediction in a qualification and certification process is stifled by the ability to validate complex, microstructure-based simulations. Such a validation strategy bears immediate challenges including generating accurate virtual microstructures, efficiently solving physics-based mechanical simulations over relevant spatial and temporal scales, and acquiring high-fidelity calibration and validation data at the appropriate length scale. This presentation will overview these common challenges and present a case study to demonstrate a computational materials workflow for additively manufactured metallic materials. In this study, process-specific defects are characterized using segmented X-Ray micro-computed tomography measurements and overlaid on virtual microstructures. Accelerated crystal plasticity-based fatigue simulations are performed to demonstrate cyclic evolution and localization of mechanical fields in the vicinity of defects in response to their precise spatial configuration. An example of how this computational materials workflow may support next-generation qualification is discussed.

computational materials↗

Comet-solar wind interaction as viewed from the International Cometary Explorer Mission (ICE) and from the earth

An overview of large-scale plasma phenomena is presented based on results of the ICE spacecraft probing of comet Giacobini-Zinner and on worldwide submissions to the Large-Scale Phenomena Discipline Specialist Team of the International Halley Watch. Results indicate that the magnetic field capture and draping model, originated by Alfven, is correct. Examples of tail 'turn on' and evolution are presented with emphasis on the observed Disconnection Events (DEs). The sector boundary model of DEs is consistent with the data and a dramatic example of synergism between in situ data from the VEGAs and ground-based imagery for the DE originating March 8.6, 1986 is presented.

Brandt, John C.↗

Plasma structures in comets P/Halley and Giacobini-Zinner

An overview of large-scale plasma phenomena is presented based on results of spacecraft probing of comets Halley and Giacobini-Zinner and on worldwide submissions to the Large-Scale Phenomena Discipline Specialist Team of the International Halley Watch. Examples of tail phenomena and science are presented with emphasis on observed disconnection events. The archive of this material will clearly be very valuable for studying the comet/solar-wind interaction during the 1985-1986 apparition of Halley's comet.

Brandt, J. C.↗

Ocean color - Availability of the global data set

The use of satellite observations of ocean color to provide reliable estimates of marine phytoplankton biomass on synoptic scales is examined. An overview is given of the Coastal Zone Color Scanner data processing system. The archiving and distribution of ocean color data are discussed, and NASA-sponsored archive sites are listed.

Feldman, Gene↗

Ideal efficiency of propellers - Theodorsen revisited

Theodorsen's 1948 analog evaluation of the parameters governing the ideal (friction-free) efficiency of propellers is updated and extended by computer. The results are presented both in his format and in a much more convenient one by Kramer that avoids iteration: curves of power coefficient at constant ideal efficiency are plotted vs propeller advance coefficient. The curves for a wide range of blade numbers are collapsed into just three sets (with some approximation) by use of multiple, shifted (and distorted) abscissae scales. Along with an overview of Theodorsen's theory, analytic asymptotic results at low and high advance coefficients are given. At the low end, the disagreement with actuator disk theory is given support and physical interpretation. At the high end, exact agreement is found with the thrust of a slender twisted delta propeller.

Ribner, H. S.↗

Stress and tectonics on Mars

Deformation of the Martian lithosphere and the various theoretical formulations used to model its behavior on local, regional, and global scales are studied. An overview of the various classes of tectonic features found on Mars is presented. The tectonic record on Mars, which provides the basic framework for interpreting theoretical thermomechanical models in terms of major tectonic events and provinces is summarized. The thickness of the elastic lithosphere is estimated using its response to local surface loads, and significant spatial variability is found, with values ranging from 20 to 300 km. A comparison of the major radial graben systems with theoretical stress models shows that more than one mechanism of lithospheric deformation is required to produce its enormous extent.

Banerdt, W. B.↗

Doppler lidar sampling strategies and accuracies: Regional scale

It has been proposed that a Doppler lidar be placed in a polar orbit and scanned to provide estimates of lower tropospheric winds twice per day and with a spatial resolution of 300 km. Initial feasibility studies conducted primarily by NOAA and NASA presented an optimistic outlook for a space based lidar. The technology appeared within reach and initial computer simulations suggested that acceptable accuracies could be obtained. Those early studies exposed, however, several potential problem areas which included: (1) the algorithms for computing the wind vectors did not perform well when there were coherent gradients in the wind fields; and (2) the lifetime and power requirements of the lidar put severe restrictions on the pulse repetition frequency (PRF). These two basic problems are currently being addressed by a Doppler lidar simulation study focussed upon three primary objectives: (1) to develop optimum scan parameters and shot patterns for a satellite-based Doppler lidar; (2) to develop robust algorithms for computing wind vectors from lidar returns; and (3) to evaluate the impact of coherent mesoscale structures (wind gradients, clouds, aerosols) on up-scale wind estimates. An overview is provided of the simulation efforts with particular emphasis upon rationale and methodology. Since this research is currently underway, any results shown are meant only as evidence of progress.

Emmitt, G. D.↗

Adjoint-Based Algorithms for Adaptation and Design Optimizations on Unstructured Grids

Schemes based on discrete adjoint algorithms present several exciting opportunities for significantly advancing the current state of the art in computational fluid dynamics. Such methods provide an extremely efficient means for obtaining discretely consistent sensitivity information for hundreds of design variables, opening the door to rigorous, automated design optimization of complex aerospace configuration using the Navier-Stokes equation. Moreover, the discrete adjoint formulation provides a mathematically rigorous foundation for mesh adaptation and systematic reduction of spatial discretization error. Error estimates are also an inherent by-product of an adjoint-based approach, valuable information that is virtually non-existent in today's large-scale CFD simulations. An overview of the adjoint-based algorithm work at NASA Langley Research Center is presented, with examples demonstrating the potential impact on complex computational problems related to design optimization as well as mesh adaptation.

Nielsen, Eric J.↗

Control of Next Generation Aircraft and Wind Turbines

The first part of this talk will describe some of the exciting new next generation aircraft that NASA is proposing for the future. These aircraft are being designed to reduce aircraft fuel consumption and environmental impact. Reducing the aircraft weight is one approach that will be used to achieve these goals. A new control framework will be presented that enables lighter, more flexible aircraft to maintain aircraft handling qualities, while preventing the aircraft from exceeding structural load limits. The second part of the talk will give an overview of utility-scale wind turbines and their control. Results of collaboration with Dr. Balas will be presented, including new theory to adaptively control the turbine in the presence of structural modes, with the focus on the application of this theory to a high-fidelity simulation of a wind turbine.

Frost, Susan↗

Overview of the Transport Rotorcraft Airframe Crash Testbed (TRACT) Full Scale Crash Tests

The Transport Rotorcraft Airframe Crash Testbed (TRACT) full-scale tests were performed at NASA Langley Research Center's Landing and Impact Research Facility in 2013 and 2014. Two CH-46E airframes were impacted at 33-ft/s forward and 25-ft/s vertical combined velocities onto soft soil, which represents a severe, but potentially survivable impact scenario. TRACT 1 provided a baseline set of responses, while TRACT 2 included retrofits with composite subfloors and other crash system improvements based on TRACT 1. For TRACT 2, a total of 18 unique experiments were conducted to evaluate Anthropomorphic Test Devices (ATD) responses, seat and restraint performance, cargo restraint effectiveness, patient litter behavior, and activation of emergency locator transmitters and crash sensors. Combinations of Hybrid II, Hybrid III, and ES-2 ATDs were placed in forward and side facing seats and occupant results were compared against injury criteria. The structural response of the airframe was assessed based on accelerometers located throughout the airframe and using three-dimensional photogrammetric techniques. Analysis of the photogrammetric data indicated regions of maximum deflection and permanent deformation. The response of TRACT 2 was noticeably different in the horizontal direction due to changes in the cabin configuration and soil surface, with higher acceleration and damage occurring in the cabin. Loads from ATDs in energy absorbing seats and restraints were within injury limits. Severe injury was likely for ATDs in forward facing passenger seats.

Annett, Martin↗

Overview of Low-Speed Aerodynamic Tests on a 5.75% Scale Blended-Wing-Body Twin Jet Configuration

The NASA Environmentally Responsible Aviation (ERA) Project sponsored a series of computational and experimental investigations of the propulsion and airframe integration issues associated with Hybrid-Wing-Body (HWB) or Blended-Wing-Body (BWB) configurations. NASA collaborated with Boeing Research and Technology (BR&T) to conduct this research on a new twin-engine Boeing BWB transport configuration. The experimental investigations involved a series of wind tunnel tests with a 5.75-percent scale model conducted in two low-speed wind tunnels. This testing focused on the basic aerodynamics of the configuration and selection of the leading edge Krueger slat position for takeoff and landing. This paper reviews the results and analysis of these low-speed wind tunnel tests.

Vicroy, Dan D.↗

NASA’s Orion Crew Module Seakeeping Simulation and Test Comparisons in Ocean Wave Environments

The NASA Orion Crew Module (CM) post-landing seakeeping and uprighting capabilities are being evaluated across a variety of ocean wave conditions. This paper provides an overview of quarter-scale and full-scale test data and how it compares with the CM seakeeping dynamic simulation results evaluated using Wave Energy Convertor Simulator (WEC-Sim).This includes a discussion of the status of the dynamic modeling effort, correlation of model inputs with the wave field from the test, and a comparison of the results against the physical test data with emphasis on the full-scale results. Analysis in the frequency domain showed similar response characteristics between the model and the test and shows energy peaks corresponding to both the natural response and the forced response due to the wave environment. Time domain comparisons showed that the linear WEC-Sim model under predicted the amplitude of the pitch and roll motion of the test article, with improved matching for smaller, longer crested waves. An attempt was made to correlate the pitch/roll response to incident wave slope to account for a possible delay in the BTA’s response. The results did not show a strong relationship in the response characteristics to incident wave slope, but better correlation was seen by comparing responses in the frequency domain. Evaluation of the simulation’s ability to match test results aided in understanding the current fidelity of the CM model in WEC-Sim and identifying areas for model improvement

Abigail Lockard↗

Impact of Scaled Technology on Radiation Testing and Hardening

This presentation gives a brief overview of some of the radiation challenges facing emerging scaled digital technologies with implications on using consumer grade electronics and next generation hardening schemes. Commercial semiconductor manufacturers are recognizing some of these issues as issues for terrestrial performance. Looking at means of dealing with soft errors. The thinned oxide has indicated improved TID tolerance of commercial products hardened by "serendipity" which does not guarantee hardness or say if the trend will continue. This presentation also focuses one reliability implications of thinned oxides.

LaBel, Kenneth A.↗

Acoustic Model Testing Chronology

Scale models have been used for decades to replicate liftoff environments and in particular acoustics for launch vehicles. It is assumed, and analyses supports, that the key characteristics of noise generation, propagation, and measurement can be scaled. Over time significant insight was gained not just towards understanding the effects of thruster details, pad geometry, and sound mitigation but also to the physical processes involved. An overview of a selected set of scale model tests are compiled here to illustrate the variety of configurations that have been tested and the fundamental knowledge gained. The selected scale model tests are presented chronologically.

Nesman, Tom↗

Solar wind turbulence: Observations of MHD effects

Since the first in-situ observations it was realized that the solar wind is permeated by large-amplitude variations on a very extended range of scales. In this paper an overview of our present state of knowledge for fluctuations in the magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) regime is given. These fluctuations are an important component of the solar wind variability and notably contribute to the overall energy and momentum flux. They generally have a turbulent character and their amplitude is large enough to suggest the presence of nonlinear effects. In recent years the use of high time-resolution data on an extended range of heliocentric distances has allowed major steps towards a satisfactory understanding of the solar wind MHD fluctuations. Their radial evolution in the expanding wind has been determined through detailed analyses of the variations in their spectral features. correlations. and anisotropics. The role of interplanetary sources has been carefully investigated. The influence of interactions with structures convected by the solar wind has been examined. Fluctuations have been studied in the light of theories developed to draw together the effects of both incompressibility and compressibility. Increasing attention has been devoted to the intermittent character of the turbulence. Finally, very recent observations by Ulysses at high heliographic latitudes have allowed the first in-situ analysis of turbulence features in polar regions of the heliosphere.

Bavassano, B.↗