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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 667 records · Page 37
All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
NASA NTRS1991

UV spectroscopy of Titan's atmosphere, planetary organic chemistry and prebiological synthesis. II - Interpretation of new IUE observations in the 220-335 nm range

The theoretical model developed by McKay et al. (1989) to characterize the size distribution, thermal structure, and chemical composition of the stratospheric haze of Titan is applied to new 220-335-nm albedo measurements obtained with the long-wavelength prime camera of the IUE during August 1987. Data and model predictions are presented in extensive graphs and discussed in detail. It is shown that a simple model with particles of one size at a given altitude does not accurately reproduce the observed features in all spectral regions, but that good general agreement is obtained using a model with a uniformly mixed layer at 150-600 km and a bimodal distribution of small 'polymer' haze particles (radius less than 20 nm) and larger haze particles (radius 100-500 nm). The number densities implied by this model require, however, a mechanism such as electrostatic charging or reaction kinetics to inhibit coagulation of the smaller particles.

Courtin, Regis↗
NASA NTRS1992

Internal Friction And Instabilities Of Rotors

Report describes study of effects of internal friction on dynamics of rotors prompted by concern over instabilities in rotors of turbomachines. Theoretical and experimental studies described. Theoretical involved development of nonlinear mathematical models of internal friction in three joints found in turbomachinery - axial splines, Curvic(TM) splines, and interference fits between smooth cylindrical surfaces. Experimental included traction tests to determine the coefficients of friction of rotor alloys at various temperatures, bending-mode-vibration tests of shafts equipped with various joints and rotordynamic tests of shafts with axial-spline and interference-fit joints.

Walton, J.↗
NASA NTRS1991

Direct solar pumping of semiconductor lasers: A feasibility study

The primary goals of the feasibility study are the following: (1) to provide a preliminary assessment of the feasibility of pumping semiconductor lasers in space directly focused sunlight; and (2) to identify semiconductor laser structures expected to operate at the lowest possible focusing intensities. It should be emphasized that the structures under consideration would provide direct optical-to-optical conversion of sunlight into laser light in a single crystal, in contrast to a configuration consisting of a solar cell or battery electrically pumping a current injection laser. With external modulation, such lasers may prove to be efficient sources for intersatellite communications. We proposed to develop a theoretical model of semiconductor quantum-well lasers photopumped by a broadband source, test it against existing experimental data where possible, and apply it to estimating solar pumping requirements and identifying optimum structures for operation for operation at low pump intensities. This report outlines our progress toward these goals. Discussion of several technical details are left to the attached summary abstract.

Anderson, Neal G.↗
NASA NTRS1992

Analysis of a novel non-contacting waveguide backshort

A new non-contacting waveguide backshort has been developed for millimeter and submillimeter wave frequencies. The design consists of a metal bar with rectangular or circular holes cut into it, which is covered with a dielectric (mylar) layer to form a snug fit with the walls of a waveguide. Hole geometries are adjusted to obtain a periodic variation of the guide impedance on the correct length scale, in order to produce efficient reflection of RF power. It is a mechanically rugged design which can be easily fabricated for frequencies from 1 to 1000 GHz and is thus a sound alternative to the miniaturization of conventional non-contacting shorts. To aid in high-frequency design, a rigorous full-wave analysis has been completed, which will allow variations of the size, number and spacing of the holes to be easily analyzed. This paper will review the backshort design and the method developed for theoretical characterization, followed by a comparison of the experimental and numerical results. Low frequency models operating from 4-6 GHz are shown to demonstrate return loss of greater than -0.2 dB over a 33 percent bandwidth. The theory is in good agreement with measured data.

Weller, T. M.↗
NASA NTRS1993

Resource utilization model for the algorithm to architecture mapping model

The analytical model for resource utilization and the variable node time and conditional node model for the enhanced ATAMM model for a real-time data flow architecture are presented in this research. The Algorithm To Architecture Mapping Model, ATAMM, is a Petri net based graph theoretic model developed at Old Dominion University, and is capable of modeling the execution of large-grained algorithms on a real-time data flow architecture. Using the resource utilization model, the resource envelope may be obtained directly from a given graph and, consequently, the maximum number of required resources may be evaluated. The node timing diagram for one iteration period may be obtained using the analytical resource envelope. The variable node time model, which describes the change in resource requirement for the execution of an algorithm under node time variation, is useful to expand the applicability of the ATAMM model to heterogeneous architectures. The model also describes a method of detecting the presence of resource limited mode and its subsequent prevention. Graphs with conditional nodes are shown to be reduced to equivalent graphs with time varying nodes and, subsequently, may be analyzed using the variable node time model to determine resource requirements. Case studies are performed on three graphs for the illustration of applicability of the analytical theories.

Stoughton, John W.↗
NASA NTRS1992

The He I 2.06 microns/Br-gamma ratio in starburst galaxies - An objective constraint on the upper mass limit to the initial mass function

The use of the He I 2.06 microns/Br-gamma ratio as a constraint on the massive stellar population in star-forming galaxies is developed. A theoretical relationship between the He I 2.06 microns/Br-gamma ratio and the effective temperature of the exciting star in H II regions is derived. The effects of collisional excitation and dust within the nebula on the ratio are also considered. It is shown that the He I 2.06 microns/Br-gamma ratio is a steep function of the effective temperature, a property which can be used to determine the upper mass limit of the initial mass function (IMF) in galaxies. This technique is reliable for upper mass limits less than about 40 solar masses. New near-infrared spectra of starburst galaxies are presented. The He I 2.06 microns/Br-gamma ratios observed imply a range of upper mass limits from 27 to over 40 solar masses. There is also evidence that the upper mass limit is spatially dependent within a given galaxy. These results suggest that the upper mass limit is not a uniquely defined parameter of the IMF and probably varies with local physical conditions.

Doyon, Rene↗
NASA NTRS1991

A promising new thermoelectric material - Ruthenium silicide

Experimental and theoretical efforts directed toward increasing thermoelectric figure of merit values by a factor of 2 or 3 have been encouraging in several respects. An accurate and detailed theoretical model developed for n-type silicon-germanium (SiGe) indicates that ZT values several times higher than currently available are expected under certain conditions. These new, high ZT materials are expected to be significantly different from SiGe, but not unreasonably so. Several promising candidate materials have been identified which may meet the conditions required by theory. One such candidate, ruthenium silicide, currently under development at JPL, has been estimated to have the potential to exhibit figure of merit values 4 times higher than conventional SiGe materials. Recent results are summarized.

Vining, Cronin B.↗
NASA NTRS1993

Visibility of sunspots

The premier record of long-term solar activity is the sunspot count. After developing a theoretical model of sunspot visibility, this model is tested against observations, and recommendations are made for improved calculation of sunspot counts. The theoretical model's result is a predicted threshold size for sunspot visibility with the unaided (but filtered) eye, direct vision through a telescope, pinhole camera, and telescope projection. Also reported are over 3250 days of sunspot observations from six observers, 38 yr of daily observations by an experienced observer, 1837 days of observations from a network with over 50 experienced observers, observations from 30 inexperienced observers, as well as summaries of results from 102 AAVSO solar observers. The comparison of the observed thresholds with the predicted thresholds reveals agreement to within the uncertainties, so that the model is validated by observation.

Schaefer, Bradley E.↗
NASA NTRS1993

A method for the compensation of the effects of surface cloth impressions on polar backscatter applied to porous epoxy and biaxial graphite/epoxy composites

The anisotropy of polar backscatter from graphite/epoxy composites is a potentially useful parameter for the characterization of porosity levels. However, the effects of release-cloth impressions on measured integrated polar backscatter levels are sufficient to inhibit the detection of porosity with this method. Recently, we developed a theoretical model to predict the frequency distribution of the backscattered power along the high-symmetry directions of release-cloth impressions. This study investigates experimentally the usefulness of limiting the bandwidth to regions not dominated by the scattering from the surface impressions, hence increasing the probability of detecting flaws such as porosity.

Madaras, Eric I.↗
NASA NTRS1949

Transient Behavior of Lumped-Constant Systems for Sensing Gas Pressures

The development of theoretical equations describing the behavior of a lumped-constant pressure-sensing system under transient operation Is presented with experimental data that show agreement with the equations. A pressure-sensing system 'consisting of a tube terminating in a reservoir is investigated for the transient relation between a presSure disturbance at the open end of the tube and the pressure response in the reservoir. Design parameters are presented that can be adjusted to achieve a desired performance fran such a system when the system is considered as a transfer member of a control loop.

INSTRUMENTS - PRESSURE↗
NASA NTRS1954

On the use of the indicial-function concept in the analysis of unsteady motions of wings and wing-tail combinations

The concept of indicial aerodynamic functions is applied to the analysis of the short-period pitching mode of aircraft. By the use of simple physical relationships associated with the indicial-function relationships concept, quantitative studies are made of the separate effects on the damping in pitch of changes in Mach number, aspect ratio, plan-form shape, and frequency. The concept is further shown to be of value in depicting physically the induced effects on a tail surface which follows in the wake of a starting forward surface. Considerable effort is devoted to the development of theoretical techniques whereby the transient response in lift at the tail to the wing wake may be estimated. Numerical results for several representative cases are presented, and these are analyzed to reassess the importance of the contribution to the rotary damping moment of the interference lift at the tail.

Tobak, Murray↗
NASA NTRS1924

Diaphragms for Aeronautic Instruments

This investigation was carried out at the request of the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics and comprises an outline of historical developments and theoretical principles, together with a discussion of expedients for making the most effective use of existing diaphragms actuated by the hydrostatic pressure form an essential element of a great variety instruments for aeronautic and other technical purposes. The various physical data needed as a foundation for rational methods of diaphragm design have not, however, been available hitherto except in the most fragmentary form.

Hersey, M D↗
NASA NTRS1925

Nonmetallic Diaphragms for Instruments

This report, the second of a series of reports relating to the general subject of instrument diaphragms. The first report of the series was published as Technical Report no. 165, "diaphragms for aeronautic instruments," and comprised an outline of historical developments and theoretical principles. The present report relates entirely to nonmetallic diaphragms, the use of which in certain types of pressure elements has been increasing for some time. Little, if any, information has been available to aid the designer of instruments using this form of pressure element. It was to attempt to meet the need for such information that the investigation reported in this paper was undertaken. The report describes the various materials which have been used as nonmetallic diaphragms, discusses the factors which affect the performance of the diaphragms and gives the results of tests made for the purpose of investigating the effect produced by these factors.

Eaton, H N↗
NASA NTRS1993

Piloting Vertical Flight Aircraft: A Conference on Flying Qualities and Human Factors

This document contains papers from a specialists' meeting entitled "Piloting Vertical Flight Aircraft. A Conference on Flying Qualities and Human Factors." The conference was co-sponsored by the American Helicopter Society--San Francisco Bay Chapter, and the NASA Ames Research Center. It was held January 20-22, 1993 at the Sheraton Hotel Fisherman's Wharf, San Francisco, California. Vertical flight aircraft, including helicopters and a variety of Vertical Takeoff and Landing (VTOL) concepts, place unique requirements on human perception, control, and performance for the conduct of their design missions. The intent of this conference was to examine, for these vehicles, advances in: (1) design of flight control systems for ADS-33C standards; (2) assessment of human factors influences of cockpit displays and operational procedures; (3) development of VTOL design and operational criteria; and (4) development of theoretical methods or models for predicting pilot-vehicle performance and mission suitability. Recognizing that human capabilities and limitations form an integral aspect of the operations for these classes of vehicles, a secondary goal of the conference was to provide an initial venue for enhanced interaction between human factors and handling qualities specialists.

Helicopter↗
NASA NTRS1993

Exploiting structure: Introduction and motivation

Research activities performed during the period of 29 June 1993 through 31 Aug. 1993 are summarized. The Robust Stability of Systems where transfer function or characteristic polynomial are multilinear affine functions of parameters of interest in two directions, Algorithmic and Theoretical, was developed. In the algorithmic direction, a new approach that reduces the computational burden of checking the robust stability of the system with multilinear uncertainty is found. This technique is called 'Stability by linear process.' In fact, the 'Stability by linear process' described gives an algorithm. In analysis, we obtained a robustness criterion for the family of polynomials with coefficients of multilinear affine function in the coefficient space and obtained the result for the robust stability of diamond families of polynomials with complex coefficients also. We obtained the limited results for SPR design and we provide a framework for solving ACS. Finally, copies of the outline of our results are provided in the appendix. Also, there is an administration issue in the appendix.

Xu, Zhong Ling↗
NASA NTRS1993

Dust in the Small Magellanic Cloud

Observations of reddened stars in the Small Magellanic Cloud (SMC) indicate that the interstellar grains in that galaxy may show distinct optical properties from those in the Galaxy. In a careful study of three SMC objects, Prevot showed that the UV extinction law in the SMC is almost linear with inverse wavelength and the 2200A feature is generally absent. The first results of a program to determine the wavelength dependence of the interstellar optical polarization in the SMC indicate that highly polarized objects are scarce. Our study has uncovered, however, several objects with optical polarization greater than around 1 percent: AZV 126, AZV 211, AZV 221, AZV 398, and AZV 456. The latter two have already had their UV extinction law determined. Our aim was to obtain International Ultraviolet Explorer (IUE) data and determine the UV extinction law also for AZV 126, AZV 211, and AZV 221. AZV 456, which presents a 'galactic' extinction law, has a 'normal' value for its wavelength of maximum polarization, lmax, while AZV 398, which shows a 'typical' SMC extinction curve, shows a somewhat smaller value for such wavelength. AZV 126, AZV 211, and AZV 221 all present extreme small values of lmax but had not had its extinction curve in the W determined yet. We therefore aimed at ultimately determining the extinction law in the direction of these three objects. Such results, in combination with the optical polarization data, have an important bearing on constraining the composition and size distribution of the interstellar dust in the SMC. In the last report, the images gathered with IUE, their processing, and the extinction curves derived from them were described. Such extinction curves and the theoretical models developed to interpret the SMC extinction and polarization data are discussed. Details are presented in an enclosed preprint. The activities in our ongoing polarimetric program of determining the magnetic field structure of the SMC and the images collected at Cerro Tololo Interamerican Observatory during the period are also briefly described. Other activities are also described.

Magalhaes, A. M.↗
NASA NTRS1993

Research in progress and other activities of the Institute for Computer Applications in Science and Engineering

This report summarizes research conducted at the Institute for Computer Applications in Science and Engineering in applied mathematics and computer science during the period April 1, 1993 through September 30, 1993. The major categories of the current ICASE research program are: (1) applied and numerical mathematics, including numerical analysis and algorithm development; (2) theoretical and computational research in fluid mechanics in selected areas of interest to LaRC, including acoustic and combustion; (3) experimental research in transition and turbulence and aerodynamics involving LaRC facilities and scientists; and (4) computer science.

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