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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 559 records · Page 31

Effects of discontinuous drooped wing leading-edge modifications on the spinning characteristics of a low-wing general aviation airplane

Wind tunnel and flight tests were conducted to determine the effects of several discontinuous drooped wing leading-edge configurations on the spinning characteristics of a light, single-engine, low-wing research airplane. Particular emphasis was placed on the identification of modifications which would improve the spinning characteristics. The spanwise length of a discontinuous outboard droop was varied and several additional inboard segments were added to determine the influence of such leading-edge configurations on the spin behavior. Results of the study indicated that the use of only the discontinuous outboard droop, over a specific spanwise area, was most effective towards improving spin and spin recovery characteristics, whereas the segmented configurations having both inboard and outboard droop exhibited a tendency to enter a flat spin.

Dicarlo, D. J.↗

F region above Kauai - Measurement, model, modification

Results of the Lagopedo II experiment conducted from Kauai, Hawaii to investigate the ionospheric modification that occurs when rocket combustion products are introduced into the O(+)-rich F region are presented. The experiment involved the detonation of a chemical explosion in the F2 peak accompanied by rocket-borne measurements of ion composition and electron content in the vicinity of the explosion. The experimental data is found to be in good agreement with the predictions of a model of the nighttime ion densities in the midlatitude laminar ionosphere, with the exception of N2(+) densities before the explosion. H2O(+) and H3O(+) currents produced by considerable H2O outgassing from the rocket are used to determine a H3O(+)/H2O(+) dissociative recombination rate averaging 1.6 to 1.08, depending on model assumptions. At the time of the explosion, an ionic void 1 km in radius is observed, the boundary of which is characterized by a steep gradient in ionic densities. Evidence of variations in the concentrations of ambient ion species, new reactant species and ionic depletion by sweeping is also obtained.

Johnson, C. Y.↗

Gas release and conductivity modification studies

The behavior of gas clouds produced by releases from orbital velocity in either a point release or venting mode is described by the modification of snowplow equations valid in an intermediate altitude regime. Quantitative estimates are produced for the time dependence of the radius of the cloud, the average internal energy, the translational velocity, and the distance traveled. The dependence of these quantities on the assumed density profile, the internal energy of the gas, and the ratio of specific heats is examined. The new feature is the inclusion of the effect of the large orbital velocity. The resulting gas cloud models are used to calculate the characteristics of the field line integrated Pedersen conductivity enhancements that would be produced by the release of barium thermite at orbital velocity in either the point release or venting modes as a function of release altitude and chemical payload weight.

Linson, L. M.↗

Modifications to the Flexible Spacecraft Dynamics Program

Modifications to existing subroutines are briefly described and a detailed description of new subroutines is given. The capability to simulate the Dynamics Explorer-B control system new developed and the formulation for this addition is given. The program variables in new labelled COMMON blocks are described in detail and the modified input and output for the d Flexible Spacecraft Dynamics Program is described.

Source record↗

Plasma surface modification of polymers

Thin plasma polymerization films are discussed from the viewpoint of simplicity in production stages. The application of selective, absorbent films and films used in selective permeability was tested. The types of surface modification of polymers discussed are: (1) plasma etching, (2) surface coating by plasma polymerized thin films, and (3) plasma activation surface graft polymerization.

Hirotsu, T.↗

Space Shuttle Orbiter trimmed center-of-gravity extension study. Volume 7: Effects of configuration modifications on the subsonic aerodynamic characteristics of the 1140 A/B orbbiter at high Reynolds numbers

Subsonic longitudinal andd laternal directional characteristics were obtained for several modified configurations of the 140 A/B orbiter (0.010 scale). These modifications, designed to extend longitudinal trim capability forward of the 65 percent fuselage length station, consisted of modified wing planform fillet and a canard. Tests were performed in the Langley Low Turbulence Pressure Tunnel at Reynolds numbers from about 4.2 million to 14.3 million based on the fuselage reference length.

Phillips, W. P.↗

Incidences from modifications of the computational methods of the psophic index

In France, the level of annoyance in areas around airports is represented by the psyphic index N. Various modifications were proposed in the method of calculating this indexing order to improve the index as an annoyance indicator. The quality of the modified N index as a prognosis index for annoyance caused by aircraft noise is included.

Francois, J.↗

Some modifications to, and operational experiences with, the two-dimensional, finite-difference, boundary-layer code, STAN5

The two-dimensional, finite-difference boundary-layer code, STAN5, is the primary tool used at the NASA-Lewis Research Center for predicting turbine blade gas-side heat-transfer coefficients. A number of modifications have been made to the program to enhance its usefulness for these calculations. Experience in using STAN5 has identified some problems in the program that can be treated through program input, without modifying the program. These include the presence of a small separation bubble near the leading edge, and the effect of full-coverage film cooling on transition to turbulence. Some of the techniques used to treat these problems are described.

Gaugler, R. E.↗

Effects of wingtip modifications on handling qualities of agricultural aircraft

The effect of wingtip modifications on the stability and control characteristics of an agricultural airplane has been studied by means of a nonplanar quasi-vortex-lattice method. The method is used to compute the changes in steady state and perturbed state lateral-directional stability and control derivatives produced by wingtip mounted winglets, vortex diffuser vanes, and tip extensions. The study shows that the combination of the excessive positive dihedral effect produced by the winglets and adverse yaw due to aileron deflection can have a detrimental effect on the roll control characteristics of the airplane. Introduction of an aileron-rudder-interconnect, and reduction of the effective dihedral by canting-in of the winglets, or addition of a lower winglet can eliminate the roll control problems.

Van Dam, C. P.↗

Modifications to CTVS TV cameras for space shuttle compatibility and evaluation

Five all solid state cockpit television system (CTVS) cameras, built to USAF requirements for high performance type F-16 aircraft, were modified and tested for possible use in the closed circuit television system on the space shuttle orbiter. The 400 HZ power supply in the electronics unit assembly was replaced with two DC/DC converters to enable operation from 28VDC spacecraft-type power sources. Nonessential circuit functions were deleted to minimize input power requirements. The normal 31 mm focal length lense assemblies were replaced with wider field-of-view 19 mm focal length lenses. Base plates for and housings were redesigned to facilitate mounting and heat-sinking of the camera in the space environment and short length (14") adapter cables were designed, fabricated, and tested to meet requirements for cameras configured to mount on the astronauts helmet/visor assembly. Technical requirements, design implementation, environmental tests, Modifications prodedures, and reliability/quality efforts are discussed. Schematics are included.

Hoagland, K.↗

Chemical modification of TiO2 surfaces with methylsilanes and characterization by infrared absorption spectroscopy

Infrared absorption spectra of methylsilanes bonded to a TiO2 powder were obtained. The reacting silanes include Me sub (4-n)SiX sub n (n=1-4; X=Cl, OMe) and hexamethyldisilazane (HMDS). Reactions were performed on hydroxylated-but-anhydrous TiO2 surfaces in the gas phase. IR spectra confirm the presence of a bonded silane layer. Terminal surface OH groups are found to react more readily than bridging OH groups. By-products of the modification adsorp tenaciously to the surface. The various silanes show only small differences in their ability to sequester surface OH groups. Following hydrolysis in moist air, Si-OH groups are observed only for the tetrafunctional silanes.

Finklea, H. O.↗

Chemical modification of semiconductor surfaces

Results of research on the chemical modification of TiO2 powders in the gas phase and the examination of the modified powders by infrared absorption spectroscopy are comprehensively summarized. The range of information obtainable by IR spectroscopy of chemically modified semiconductors, and a definition of the optimum reaction conditions for synthesizing a monolayer of methylsilanes using vapor phase reaction conditions were considered.

Finklea, H. O.↗

Ground cloud related weather modification effects

The principal concerns about inadvertent weather modification by the solar power satellite system rocket effluents are discussed, namely the possibility that the ground cloud might temporarily modify local weather and the cumulative effects of nearly 500 launches per year. These issues are discussed through the consideration of (1) the possible alteration of the microphysical processes of clouds in the general area due to rocket effluents and debris and cooling water entrained during the launch and (2) the direct dynamical and thermodynamical responses to the inputs of thermal energy and moisture from the rocket exhaust for given ambient meteorological conditions. The huge amount of thermal energy contained in the exhaust of the proposed launch vehicle would in some situations induce a saturated, wet convective cloud or enhance an existing convective activity. Nevertheless, the effects would be limited to the general area of the launch site. The observed long lasting high concentrations of cloud condensation nuclei produced during and after a rocket launch may appreciably affect the frequency of occurrence and persistence of fogs and haze. In view of the high mission frequency proposed for the vehicle launches, a potential exists for a cumulative effect.

Lee, J.↗

Aeolian modification of planetary surfaces

Any planet or satellite having a dynamic atmosphere and a solid surface is subject to aeolian or wind processes. A survey of the solar system shows that earth, Mars, Venus, and possibly Titan meet these criteria. Attention is given to the relevance of aeolian processes to planetary geology, approaches for investigating aeolian processes, observations on Mars, conditions on Venus, and studies of Titan with the aid of the Voyager spacecraft. It is found that aeolian processes play an important role in the modification of the surfaces of earth and Mars. Indirect evidence suggests that Venus and perhaps Titan also may experience aeolian activity. Study of aeolian activity in a planetary context thus affords the opportunity to examine a fundamental process under a wide range of environmental conditions. Each planet can be viewed as a vast natural laboratory.

Greeley, R.↗

Modifications and testing of a 4-95 Stirling engine for solar applications

The modifications and testing of a standard Stirling engine, required for connection to a 25 kW induction alternator, for use with a solar thermal parabolic dish electric module is described. Power was absorbed by a GE induction alternator connected to the utility grid. Also included are the results from recent testing of another solar engine at the DOE-Georgia Tech solar site. It was done in parallel with the testing at Edwards for the purpose of comparing performance of two solar-only receivers, which were based on the standard 4-95 involute heat exchanger.

Nelving, H. G.↗

Wind-tunnel Investigation of Effects of Rear Upper Surface Modification on a NASA Supercritical Airfoil

Wind tunnel tests were conducted at Mach numbers from 0.60 to 0.81 to examine the effects on supercritical airfoil of modifying the rear upper surface to reduce the magnitude of an intermediate off design second velocity peak. The modification was accomplished by increasing the upper surface curvature around the 50 percent chord station and reducing the curvature over approximately the rearmost 30 percent of the airfoil while maintaining the same trailing edge thickness.

Harris, C. D.↗

Modification and evaluation of a Barnes-type objective analysis scheme for surface meteorological data

The Purdue Regional Objective Analysis of the Mesoscale (PROAM) is a Barness-type scheme for the analysis of surface meteorological data. Modifications are introduced to the original version in order to increase its flexibility and to permit greater ease of usage. The code was rewritten for an interactive computer environment. Furthermore, a multiple iteration technique suggested by Barnes was implemented for greater accuracy. PROAM was subjected to a series of experiments in order to evaluate its performance under a variety of analysis conditions. The tests include use of a known analytic temperature distribution in order to quantify error bounds for the scheme. Similar experiments were conducted using actual atmospheric data. Results indicate that the multiple iteration technique increases the accuracy of the analysis. Furthermore, the tests verify appropriate values for the analysis parameters in resolving meso-beta scale phenomena.

Smith, D. R.↗

Flight evaluation of modifications to a digital electronic engine control system in an F-15 airplane

The third phase of a flight evaluation of a digital electronic engine control system in an F-15 has recently been completed. It was found that digital electronic engine control software logic changes and augmentor hardware improvements resulted in significant improvements in engine operation. For intermediate to maximum power throttle transients, an increase in altitude capability of up to 8000 ft was found, and for idle to maximum transients, an increase of up to 4000 ft was found. A nozzle instability noted in earlier flight testing was investigated on a test engine at NASA Lewis Research Center, a digital electronic engine control software logic change was developed and evaluated, and no instability occurred in the Phase 3 flight evaluation. The backup control airstart modification was evaluated, and gave an improvement of airstart capability by reducing the minimum airspeed for successful airstarts by 50 to 75 knots.

Burcham, F. W., Jr.↗