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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

Elastic analysis of a mode II fatigue crack test specimen

Elastic displacements and stress intensity measurements for a mode II specimen have been obtained over a range of a/W values between 0.500 and 0.900 using the MARC general purpose finite element program. Stress intensity factors were experimentally determined using load point displacement values. Good general agreement between numerical and experimental results for crack mouth, crack surface, and load point displacements, and for stress intensity factors, demonstrates the accuracy of the present method.

Gross, B.↗

Stress-intensity factors and crack-opening displacements for round compact specimens

A two dimensional, boundary collocation stress analysis was used to analyze various round compact specimens. The influence of the round external boundary and of pin-loaded holes on stress intensity factors and crack opening displacements was determined as a function of crack-length-to-specimen-width ratios. A wide-range equation for the stress intensity factors was developed. Equations for crack-surface displacements and load-point displacements were also developed. In addition, stress intensity factors were calculated from compliance methods to demonstrate that load-displacement records must be made at the loading points and not along the crack line for crack-length-to-specimen-width ratios less than about 0.4.

Newman, J. C., Jr.↗

Evaluation of the Edge Crack Torsion (ECT) Test for Mode 3 Interlaminar Fracture Toughness of Laminated Composites

An analytical and experimental investigation was carried out on G40-800/R6376 graphite epoxy laminates to evaluate the Edge Crack Torsion (ECT) test as a candidate for a standard Mode 3 interlaminar fracture toughness test for laminated composites. The ECT test consists of a (90/(+/- 45)(sub 3)/(+/- 45)(sub 3)/90))(sub s) laminate with a delamination introduced by a non-adhesive film at the mid-plane along one edge and loaded in a special fixture to create torsion along the length of the laminate. Dye penetrate enhanced X-radiograph of failed specimens revealed that the delamination initiated at the middle of the specimen length and propagated in a self similar manner along the laminate mid-plane. A three-dimensional finite element analysis was performed that indicated that a pure Mode 3 delamination exists at the middle of specimen length away from both ends. At the ends near the loading point a small Mode 2 component exists. However, the magnitude of this Mode 2 strain energy release rate at the loading point is small compared to the magnitude of Mode 3 component in the mid-section of the specimen. Hence, the ECT test yielded the desired Mode 3 delamination. The Mode 3 fracture toughness was obtained from a compliance calibration method and was in good agreement with the finite element results. Mode 2 End-Notched Flexure (ENF) tests and Mode 1 Double Cantilever Beam (DCB) tests were also performed for the same composite material. The Mode 1 fracture toughness was much smaller than both the Mode 2 and Mode 3 fracture toughness. The Mode 2 fracture toughness was found to be 75% of the Mode 3 fracture toughness.

Li, Jian↗

Static Loads Testing of a High Aspect Ratio Tow-Steered Wingbox

Static loads testing was performed on a 39-foot, high-aspect-ratio wingbox comprising carbon fiber tow-steered wing skins that were tailored for aircraft fuel efficiency under aeroelastic loads. The test article was designated the Passive Aeroelastic Tailored (PAT) wing. To date, the PAT wing, which has an aspect ratio of 13.5, is the largest wingbox designed and built to employ variably oriented carbon fibers along the span of the wing. During testing, distributed point loads were applied to the wingbox to simulate both -1g and 2.5g maneuver loads. To determine the wingbox’s flexural axis location, individual point loads were applied. The global response of the wing (displacement and rotation measurements) showed similar trends compared to the finite element model predictions, though discrepancies of up to 17% were observed when comparing actual values between model and test. It was concluded that the boundary conditions and nonstructural features of the wingbox were the likely cause of the inconsistencies. The local response of the wingbox (strain measurements), which was much less affected by factors unrelated to tow-steering, exhibited good agreement with the model predictions, validating the modelling techniques employed for tow-steered composites.

Tow-steered composites↗

Contact stresses in gear teeth: A new method of analysis

A new, innovative procedure called point load superposition for determining the contact stresses in mating gear teeth. It is believed that this procedure will greatly extend both the range of applicability and the accuracy of gear contact stress analysis. Point load superposition is based upon fundamental solutions from the theory of elasticity. It is an iterative numerical procedure which has distinct advantages over the classical Hertz method, the finite element method, and over existing applications with the boundary element method. Specifically, friction and sliding effects, which are either excluded from or difficult to study with the classical methods, are routinely handled with the new procedure. Presented here are the basic theory and the algorithms. Several examples are given. Results are consistent with those of the classical theories. Applications to spur gears are discussed.

Somprakit, Paisan↗

Contact stresses in gear teeth - A new method of analysis

A new, innovative procedure called point load superposition for determining the contact stresses in mating gear teeth is presented. It is believed that this procedure will greatly extend both the range of applicability and the accuracy of gear contact stress analysis. Point load superposition is based upon fundamental solutions from the theory of elasticity. It is an iterative numerical procedure which has distinct advantages over the classical Hertz method, the finite element method, and over existing applications with the boundary element method. Specifically, friction and sliding effects, which are either excluded from or difficult to study with the classical methods, are routinely handled with the new procedure. Presented here are the basic theory and the algorithms. Several examples are given. Results are consistent with those of the classical theories. Applications to spur gears are discussed.

Somprakit, Paisan↗

Solution and sensitivity analysis of nonlinear equations using a hypercomplex-variable Newton-Raphson method

Here, the classical Newton-Raphson (NR) method for solving nonlinear equations is enhanced in two ways through the use of hypercomplex variables and algebra. In particular, i) the Jacobian is computed in a highly accurate and automated way, and ii) the derivative of the solution to the nonlinear equations is computed with respect to any parameter contained within the system of equations. These advances provide two significant enhancements in that it is straightforward to provide an accurate Jacobian and to construct a reduced order model (ROM) of arbitrary order with respect to any parameter of the system. The ROM can then be used to approximate the solution for other parameter values without requiring additional solutions of the nonlinear equations. Several case studies are presented including 1D and 2D academic examples with fully functioning Python code provided. Additionally, a case of study of the catenary of an elastic cable subject to its own weight and a vertical point load. Derivatives up to 10th order were computed with respect to material, loading, and geometrical parameters. The derivatives were used to generate reduced order models of the cable deformation and reaction forces at its ends with respect to multiple input parameters. Results show that from a single hypercomplex evaluation of the cable under a single vertical point load, it is possible to generate an accurate reduced order model capable of predicting the cable deformation with 1.5 times the load in the opposite direction and with 3.5 times the load in the same direction without resolving the system of equations.

97 MATHEMATICS AND COMPUTING↗

Design and Metamodel-Based Optimization of a High Power Density Wound Field Traction Motor

Traction motors onboard electric vehicles (EVs) are faced with ever-increasing power density requirements and cost reduction challenges. Although permanent magnet (PM) traction motors have been favored for their potential of higher power densities, the price and supply volatilities of PM materials are the major drawbacks. Instead of a single load point, the performance of a traction motor needs to be optimized over various combinations of torque and speed to represent real-world vehicular driving scenarios, which tends to be a time-consuming task with direct optimizations. In this paper, as a PM-free solution, a wound field synchronous motor (WFSM) is designed and optimized using a metamodel-based approach to maximize its efficiency over a custom set of load points, while utilizing a fully per-unitized geometry template. The workflow has proven to be timesaving and the selected design is prototyped.

33 ADVANCED PROPULSION SYSTEMS↗

Implementation of a Metamodel-Based Optimization for the Design of a High Power Density Wound Field Traction Motor

Traction motors onboard electric vehicles (EVs) are faced with ever-increasing power density requirements and cost reduction challenges. Although permanent magnet (PM) traction motors have been favored for their potential of higher power densities, the price and supply volatility of PM materials are the major drawbacks. Instead of a single load point, the performance of a traction motor needs to be optimized over various combinations of torque and speed to represent real-world vehicular driving scenarios, which tends to be a time-consuming task with direct optimizations. In this study, as a PM-free solution, a wound field synchronous motor (WFSM) is designed and optimized using a metamodel-based approach to maximize its efficiency over a custom set of load points, while utilizing a fully per-unitized geometry template. The workflow has proven to be timesaving and the optimal design is prototyped and tested.

33 ADVANCED PROPULSION SYSTEMS↗

Simplified data reduction methods for the ECT test for mode 3 interlaminar fracture toughness

Simplified expressions for the parameter controlling the load point compliance and strain energy release rate were obtained for the Edge Crack Torsion (ECT) specimen for mode 3 interlaminar fracture toughness. Data reduction methods for mode 3 toughness based on the present analysis are proposed. The effect of the transverse shear modulus, G(sub 23), on mode 3 interlaminar fracture toughness characterization was evaluated. Parameters influenced by the transverse shear modulus were identified. Analytical results indicate that a higher value of G(sub 23) results in a low load point compliance and lower mode 3 toughness estimation. The effect of G(sub 23) on the mode 3 toughness using the ECT specimen is negligible when an appropriate initial delamination length is chosen. A conservative estimation of mode 3 toughness can be obtained by assuming G(sub 23) = G(sub 12) for any initial delamination length.

Li, Jian↗

Loads on a Jacket-Supported Wind Turbine During Hurricane Sandy Simulation

Abstract The dynamic response of a jacket-supported offshore wind turbine under coupled wind, wave, and current fields during Hurricane Sandy is the subject of this study. To illustrate the detailed procedure related to the response evaluation of a 5-MW offshore wind turbine with a jacket support structure, we consider a single site where the water depth is 50 m. Loads are computed using two simulation tools, fast and abaqus, with partial coupling. Aerodynamic loads on the turbine rotor are first evaluated using a wind turbine model in fast with a fixed base; then, these rotor aerodynamic loads are applied as point loads at the top of a model of a tower that is supported by a jacket structure in abaqus. On the basis of stochastic simulations, we discuss the applicability of the abaqus jacket modeling and describe the characteristics and comparisons of the aerodynamic and hydrodynamic effects on loads on the jacket members. Details related to the structural model and soil–pile interaction model employed in the analyses are also discussed.

Engineering↗

Operational loopwheel suspension systems for Mars Rover demonstration model: Loopwheel failure report

The results are presented from the analysis of a failure which occurred in the fiberglass loop of one of the Loopwheel traction elements delivered to the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) for use on the JPL Mars Rover demonstration model. The loop failed in compression in the outer fibers forming a hinge which, through cycling, caused the inner fibers to break. The probable cause of this failure was the load being introduced as point loads at the center of the loop causing high compressive stresses and early buckling. To decrease the stress level and delay buckling, the tread lugs can be reshaped so that the entire lug contacts the ground when the loop is loaded. This can be accomplished through removal of lug material, starting with zero removal at the outer edge and linearly increasing to one-half of the lug thickness at the center.

West, E. J. M.↗

Investigation of Optimal Control Allocation for Gust Load Alleviation in Flight Control

Advances in sensors and avionics computation power suggest real-time structural load measurements could be used in flight control systems for improved safety and performance. A conventional transport flight control system determines the moments necessary to meet the pilot's command, while rejecting disturbances and maintaining stability of the aircraft. Control allocation is the problem of converting these desired moments into control effector commands. In this paper, a framework is proposed to incorporate real-time structural load feedback and structural load constraints in the control allocator. Constrained optimal control allocation can be used to achieve desired moments without exceeding specified limits on monitored load points. Minimization of structural loads by the control allocator is used to alleviate gust loads. The framework to incorporate structural loads in the flight control system and an optimal control allocation algorithm will be described and then demonstrated on a nonlinear simulation of a generic transport aircraft with flight dynamics and static structural loads.

Frost, Susan A.↗

Low-to-Medium Power Single Chip Digital Controlled DC-DC Regulator for Point-of-Load Applications

A DC-DC converter for generating a DC output voltage includes: a digitally controlled pulse width modulator (DPWM) for controlling a switching power stage to supply a varying voltage to an inductor; and a digital voltage feedback circuit for controlling the DPWM in accordance with a feedback voltage corresponding to the DC output voltage, the digital voltage feedback circuit including: a first voltage controlled oscillator for converting the feedback voltage into a first frequency signal and to supply the first frequency signal to a first frequency discriminator; a second voltage controlled oscillator for converting a reference voltage into a second frequency signal and to supply the second frequency signal to a second frequency discriminator; a digital comparator for comparing digital outputs of the first and second frequency discriminators and for outputting a digital feedback signal; and a controller for controlling the DPWM in accordance with the digital feedback signal.

Adell, Philippe C.↗

Combination Space Station Handrail Clamp and Pointing Device

A device for attaching an experiment carrier to a space station handrail is provided. The device has two major components, a clamping mechanism for attachment to a space station handrail, and a pointing carrier on which an experiment package can be mounted and oriented. The handrail clamp uses an overcenter mechanism and the carrier mechanism uses an adjustable preload ball and socket for carrier positioning. The handrail clamp uses a stack of disk springs to provide a spring loaded button. This configuration provides consistent clamping force over a range of possible handrail thicknesses. Three load points are incorporated in the clamping mechanism thereby spreading the clamping load onto three separate points on the handrail. A four bar linkage is used to provide for a single actuation lever for all three load points. For additional safety, a secondary lock consisting of a capture plate and push lock keeps the clamp attached to the handrail in the event of main clamp failure. For the carrier positioning mechanism, a ball in a spring loaded socket uses friction to provide locking torque; however. the ball and socket are torque limited so that the ball ran slip under kick loads (125 pounds or greater). A lead screw attached to disk spring stacks is used to provide an adjustable spring force on the socket. A locking knob is attached to the lead screw to allow for hand manipulation of the lead screw.

Hughes, Stephen J.↗

Pressure-Equalizing Cradle for Booster Rocket Mounting

A launch system and method improve the launch efficiency of a booster rocket and payload. A launch aircraft atop which the booster rocket is mounted in a cradle, is flown or towed to an elevation at which the booster rocket is released. The cradle provides for reduced structural requirements for the booster rocket by including a compressible layer, that may be provided by a plurality of gas or liquid-filled flexible chambers. The compressible layer contacts the booster rocket along most of the length of the booster rocket to distribute applied pressure, nearly eliminating bending loads. Distributing the pressure eliminates point loading conditions and bending moments that would otherwise be generated in the booster rocket structure during carrying. The chambers may be balloons distributed in rows and columns within the cradle or cylindrical chambers extending along a length of the cradle. The cradle may include a manifold communicating gas between chambers.

Rutan, Elbert L.↗