Terrain modeling and path selection by an autonomous Martian exploratory vehicle
Computerized simulation of terrain sensing and modeling for unmanned surface vehicle on Mars surface
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Computerized simulation of terrain sensing and modeling for unmanned surface vehicle on Mars surface
Computerized simulation and performance analysis of rendezvous charts for Apollo lunar module mission
Operational abort plan for Apollo 8 flight with computerized simulation
Performance improvement analysis for Apollo unified S band system, including computerized simulation techniques and phase lock loop studies
Mariner 7 preencounter anomaly in radio tracking data and trajectory investigated by computerized simulation
Computerized simulation of control systems for nuclear light bulb engine during start-up and at nominal full power operation
Computerized simulation of tether docking by orbiting spacecrafts
Voltage transients due to phase angle switching of speed control power for Brayton cycle alternator examined by computerized simulation
Computerized simulation of shock waves and flow fields behind supersonic edge delta wings and wing-body combinations
Computerized simulation of disturbance torques of spin stabilized spacecraft in near earth orbit
Electron transfer bulk oscillators negative conductivity as function of geometry, field and doping nonuniformities, using computerized simulation for device frequency-voltage characteristics
Silica reusable surface insulation is analyzed for its cold soak properties, bond properties at low temperature, gap and step heating effects, and aerodynamic surface roughness effects to determine space shuttle weight and cost sensitivity to structure subsystem weights. Computerized simulation studies show that total program cost savings of silica (vs. mullite) exceed thermal protection system design and development costs and that an early introduction of silica increases total program cost savings.
An investigation was made into certain methods of reliability analysis that are particularly suitable for complex mechanisms or systems in which there are many interactions. The methods developed were intended to assist in the design of such mechanisms, especially for analysis of failure sensitivity to parameter variations and for estimating reliability where extensive and meaningful life testing is not feasible. The system is modeled by a network of interconnected nodes. Each node is a state or mode of operation, or is an input or output node, and the branches are interactions. The network, with its probabilistic and time-dependent paths is also analyzed for reliability and failure modes by a Monte Carlo, computerized simulation of system performance.
The steady state characteristics and starting behavior of some widely used self-oscillating magnetically coupled square wave inverters were studied and the development of LC-tuned square wave inverters is reported. An analysis on high amplitude voltage spikes which occur in dc-to-square-wave parallel converters shows the importance of various circuit parameters for inverter design and for the suppression of spikes. A computerized simulation of an inductor energy storage dc-to-dc converter with closed loop regulators and of a preregulating current step-up converter are detailed. Work continued on the computer aided design of two-winding energy storage dc-to-dc converters.
Observations and research progress of the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory are reported. Satellite tracking networks (ground stations) are discussed and equipment (Baker-Nunn cameras) used to observe the satellites is described. The improvement of the accuracy of a laser ranging system of the ground stations is discussed. Also, research efforts in satellite geodesy (tides, gravity anomalies, plate tectonics) is discussed. The use of data processing for geophysical data is examined, and a data base for the Earth and Ocean Physics Applications Program is proposed. Analytical models of the earth's motion (computerized simulation) are described and the computation (numerical integration and algorithms) of satellite orbits affected by the earth's albedo, using computer techniques, is also considered. Research efforts in the study of the atmosphere are examined (the effect of drag on satellite motion), and models of the atmosphere based on satellite data are described.
Incremental motion devices provide accurate and rapid movement of spacecraft science platforms, antennas and related mechanisms. The paper considers the computerized simulation of a stepper motor/gear train/ science platform system that will be launched on the Mariner Jupiter Saturn 1977. It was determined that a smaller stepper motor could be used as the prime mover for the science platform, and it was concluded that the existing digital controller was unable to achieve the required pointing accuracy, and a new controller design was necessary.
A computerized simulation analysis for a number of scatterometer antenna configuration and polarization modes including the Seasat scatterometer (SASS) is presented. The results of the simulations were expressed in terms of performance statistics. These statistics relate to the wind direction alias removal capability and to the rms sensing errors for friction velocity and wind direction X. The statistics are analyzed, and optimum scatterometer configurations are recommended. The accuracy of the SASS in measuring U* and X, and its capability to resolve wind direction aliases are assessed.
Measurements of system optical modulation functions (MTF, SWR) may be distorted by time-dependent environmental effects (thermal, vibration, flexure) and by electronics drift. Fast data collection may therefore be advantageous by minimizing drift time. The problem of fast data collection is accentuated when modulation data must be taken on a large number of detectors in a focal plane array. A method has been developed for the generation and storage of knife edge data from focal plane arrays, where data collection time per detector is in the submillisecond range. Once knife edge collects are completed, MTF response is found using conventional convolution techniques. SWR is obtained directly from knife edge response using a computerized simulation algorithm which bypasses use of MTF harmonics. Requirements for detector electronics speed, damping, and dynamic range are considered.