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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 73 records · Page 4
All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
NASA NTRS2026

Electromagnetic Melt Processing: A Pathway to New Additive Manufacturing Technologies for Functional High-Performance Thermoplastics

In this study, we apply the electromagnetic (EM) melt processing of thermoplastics on an innovative EM field-driven powder bed fusion additive manufacturing (AM) concept for high-performance functional parts: Selective Microwave Melting/Sintering (SMM/SMS). This technique leverages the EM susceptibility of carbon nanotube-coated polymer micro-pellets to achieve rapid, localized heating and powder fusion. Thus, selective microwave melting (SMM) was used to fabricate multilayer specimens made of recycled polyphenylene sulfide (rPPS) and carbon nanotubes (CNTs). The resulting SMM specimens exhibited very good interlayer integrity, localized fusion at pellet boundaries, and tolerable residual porosity, indicating effective fusion and acceptable consolidation. CNT-rich interphases were retained after irradiation, generating anisotropic electrically active network pathways and enabling conductivity enhancement at low filler content. At only 1.0 wt% CNT, the specimens exhibited electrical conductivity approximately three orders of magnitude higher than neat rPPS. Dynamic mechanical analysis showed improved viscoelastic response relative to neat rPPS, while tensile testing confirmed that the SMM-processed specimens retained practical mechanical integrity despite localized voids. These results demonstrate that SMM can effectively consolidate EM susceptible thermoplastic powder beds while preserving their segregated conductive networks. This may become a scalable route for producing multifunctional thermoplastic parts with low filler loadings, tunable anisotropy, and structured materials and parts. Overall, the findings suggest that EM field-based AM can help overcome key limitations of conventional thermoplastic processing by enabling scalable, energy-efficient fabrication of nanostructured composites and expanding AM to a broader range of resins, including high-performance thermoplastics with customized functional properties.

Powder bed fusion↗
NASA NTRS1989

Dynamic analysis of flexible mechanical systems using LATDYN

A 3-D, finite element based simulation tool for flexible multibody systems is presented. Hinge degrees-of-freedom is built into equations of motion to reduce geometric constraints. The approach avoids the difficulty in selecting deformation modes for flexible components by using assumed mode method. The tool is applied to simulate a practical space structure deployment problem. Results of examples demonstrate the capability of the code and approach.

Wu, Shih-Chin↗
NASA NTRS1996

Layerwise mechanics and finite element for the dynamic analysis of piezoelectric composite plates

Laminate and structural mechanics for the analysis of laminated composite plate structures with piezoelectric actuators and sensors are presented. The theories implement layerwise representations of displacements and electric potential, and can model both the global and local electromechanical response of smart composite laminates. Finite-element formulations are developed for the quasi-static and dynamic analysis of smart composite structures containing piezoelectric layers. Comparisons with an exact solution illustrate the accuracy, robustness and capability of the developed mechanics to capture the global and local response of thin and/or thick laminated piezoelectric plates. Additional correlations and numerical applications demonstrate the unique capabilities of the mechanics in analyzing the static and free-vibration response of composite plates with distributed piezoelectric actuators and sensors.

Saravanos, Dimitris A.↗
NASA NTRS1980

Computer program documentation for the dynamic analysis of a noncontacting mechanical face seal

A computer program is presented which achieves a numerical solution for the equations of motion of a noncontacting mechanical face seal. The flexibly-mounted primary seal ring motion is expressed by a set of second order differential equations for three degrees of freedom. These equations are reduced to a set of first order equations and the GEAR software package is used to solve the set of first order equations. Program input includes seal design parameters and seal operating conditions. Output from the program includes velocities and displacements of the seal ring about the axis of an inertial reference system. One example problem is described.

Auer, B. M.↗
NASA NTRS1985

Application of the ADAMS program to deployable space truss structures

The need for a computer program to perform kinematic and dynamic analyses of large truss structures while deploying from a packaged configuration in space led to the evaluation of several existing programs. ADAMS (automatic dynamic analysis of mechanical systems), a generalized program from performing the dynamic simulation of mechanical systems undergoing large displacements, is applied to two concepts of deployable space antenna units. One concept is a one cube folding unit of Martin Marietta's Box Truss Antenna and the other is a tetrahedral truss unit of a Tetrahedral Truss Antenna. Adequate evaluation of dynamic forces during member latch-up into the deployed configuration is not yet available from the present version of ADAMS since it is limited to the assembly of rigid bodies. Included is a method for estimating the maximum bending stress in a surface member at latch-up. Results include member displacement and velocity responses during extension and an example of member bending stresses at latch-up.

Calleson, R. E.↗
NASA NTRS1984

Computer aided analysis and optimization of mechanical system dynamics

The purpose is to outline a computational approach to spatial dynamics of mechanical systems that substantially enlarges the scope of consideration to include flexible bodies, feedback control, hydraulics, and related interdisciplinary effects. Design sensitivity analysis and optimization is the ultimate goal. The approach to computer generation and solution of the system dynamic equations and graphical methods for creating animations as output is outlined.

Haug, E. J.↗
NASA NTRS2000

Use of Several Thermal Analysis Techniques to Study the Cracking of an Nitrile Butadiene Rubber (NBR) Insulator on the Booster Separation Motor (BSM) of the Space Shuttle

Two different vendor rubber formulations have been used to produce the silica-filled NBR insulators for the BSM used on both of the Solid Rocket Boosters (SRBs) of the Space Shuttle. A number of lots of the BSM insulator in 1998-99 exhibited surface cracks and/or crazing. Each insulator is bonded to the BSM aluminum aft closure with an epoxy adhesive. Induced insulator stresses from adhesive cure are likely greatest where the insulator/adhesive contour is the greatest, thus showing increased insulator surface cracking in this area. Thermal analysis testing by Dynamic Mechanical Analyzer (DMA) and Thermomechanical Analysis (TMA) was performed on one each of the two vendor BSM insulators previously bonded that exhibited the surface cracking. The TMA data from the film/fiber technique yielded the most meaningful results, with thin insulator surface samples containing cracks having roughly the same modulus (stiffness) as thin insulator bulk samples just underneath.

Wingard, Charles D.↗
NASA NTRS1953

Dynamics of mechanical feedback-type hydraulic servomotors under inertia loads

An analysis of the dynamics of mechanical feedback-type hydraulic servomotors under inertia loads is developed and experimental verification is presented. The analysis, which is developed in terms of two physical parameters, yields direct expressions for the following dynamic responses: (1) the transient response to a step input and the maximum cylinder pressure during the transient and (2) the variation of amplitude attenuation and phase shift with the frequency of a sinusoidally varying input. The validity of the analysis is demonstrated by means of recorded transient and frequency responses obtained on two servomotors. The calculated responses are in close agreement with the measured responses. The relations presented are readily applicable to the design as well as to the analysis of hydraulic servomotors.

Gold, Harold↗
NASA NTRSDate not supplied

Dynamical Mechanisms Underlying the 2022/23 California Flooding: Analysis With A Stationary Wave Model

In late December 2022 and the first half of January 2023, much of California experienced an unprecedented series of atmospheric rivers that produced heavy rains and near-record flooding. Previous work shows that a chain of dynamical events contributed to the extreme precipitation, including the development of a Rossby wave (as a result of forcing linked to the MJO) that emerged from the Indian Ocean in mid-December, and the subsequent development of a persistent positive Pacific North American (PNA) pattern that ultimately directed moisture onto the US West Coast starting in late December. Here, we use a stationary wave model (SWM) to further elucidate the dynamical and thermodynamical processes that drove the aforementioned chain of events. The results reveal the following: 1) The mid-December Rossby wave was likely induced by vorticity stretching and advection in the middle East linked indirectly to the MJO, 2) The initial development of the PNA in late December was triggered by transient and stretching sources of vorticity in the Pacific that were themselves induced by the aforementioned Rossby wave, and 3) The PNA was maintained through mid-January in part by diabatic heating west of Hawaii that was associated with anomalous precipitation influenced by the PNA circulation anomalies, thus representing a feedback on the PNA. One key finding from the SWM analysis is the limited direct role of tropical heating for inducing any of the dynamical mechanisms related to the California extreme event.

Anthony M. DeAngelis↗
NASA NTRSDate not supplied

Dynamical Mechanisms Underlying the 2022/23 California Flooding: Analysis With A Stationary Wave Model

In late December 2022 and the first half of January 2023, much of California experienced an unprecedented series of atmospheric rivers that produced heavy rains and near-record flooding. Previous work shows that a chain of dynamical events contributed to the extreme precipitation, including the development of a Rossby wave (as a result of forcing linked to the MJO) that emerged from the Indian Ocean in mid-December, and the subsequent development of a persistent positive Pacific North American (PNA) pattern that ultimately directed moisture onto the US West Coast starting in late December. Here, we use a stationary wave model (SWM) to further elucidate the dynamical and thermodynamical processes that drove the aforementioned chain of events. The results reveal the following: 1) The mid-December Rossby wave was likely induced by vorticity stretching and advection in the middle East linked indirectly to the MJO, 2) The initial development of the PNA in late December was triggered by transient and stretching sources of vorticity in the Pacific that were themselves induced by the aforementioned Rossby wave, and 3) The PNA was maintained through mid-January in part by diabatic heating west of Hawaii that was associated with anomalous precipitation influenced by the PNA circulation anomalies, thus representing a feedback on the PNA. One key finding from the SWM analysis is the limited direct role of tropical heating for inducing any of the dynamical mechanisms related to the California extreme event.

Anthony M. DeAngelis↗
NASA NTRS1987

The 58th Shock and Vibration Symposium, volume 1

The proceedings of the 58th Shock and Vibration Symposium, held in Huntsville, Alabama, October 13 to 15, 1987 are given. Mechanical shock, dynamic analysis, space shuttle main engine vibration, isolation and damping, and analytical methods are discussed.

Pilkey, Walter D.↗
NASA NTRS1993

Lifetime prediction of materials exposed to the natural space environment

The goal of this study is to model the lifetime of different types of seal materials based on results obtained from accelerated experiments. A semi-mechanistic approach was taken. Thermal aging data were taken from the literature whereas experiments were conducted at Auburn under this contract for selected environments. The seal materials of interest are Silicone 383, Silicone 650, Viton 835, and Viton 747. The relevant conditions include thermal, oxygen, inert gas, vacuum, and gamma radiation. Compression set data available from NASA were used to examine the thermal effect. Experiments were conducted at Auburn University and at NASA to isolate the role of thermal, oxygen, inert gas, vacuum, gamma irradiation, and proton irradiation. A simple discrete stress relaxation method was developed to determine the relaxation response of the elastomers. Dynamic mechanical thermal analysis was also used to characterize the mechanical response of the specimens. These provide a more meaningful correlation between mechanisms and degradation.

Zee, Ralph↗
NASA NTRS1994

Micro-measurements of mechanical properties for adhesives and composites using digital imaging technology

The need for a constituent based durability or accelerated life prediction procedure to be used for the engineering design of polymer matrix composites is discussed in the light of current plans for the High Speed Civil Transport (HSCT) concerns about the U.S. infrastructure (bridges, pipelines, etc.) and other technological considerations of national concern. It is pointed out that good measurement procedures for insitu resin properties are needed for both adhesives and composites. A double cantilever beam (DCB) specimen which shows promise for the easy determination of adhesive shear properties is presented and compared with measurements of strains within the bondline using a new optical digital imaging micro-measurement system (DIMMS). The DCB specimen is also used to assess damage in a bonded joint using a dynamic mechanical thermal analysis system (DMTA). The possible utilization of the same DIMMS and DMTA procedures to determine the insitu properties of the resin in a composite specimen are discussed as well as the use of the procedures to evaluate long term mechanical and physical aging. Finally, a discussion on the state-of-the art of the measurement of strains in micron and sub-micron domains is given.

Brinson, Hal F.↗
NASA NTRS2003

Hyper-X Stage Separation Trajectory Validation Studies

An independent twelve degree-of-freedom simulation of the X-43A separation trajectory was created with the Program to Optimize Simulated trajectories (POST II). This simulation modeled the multi-body dynamics of the X-43A and its booster and included the effect of two pyrotechnically actuated pistons used to push the vehicles apart as well as aerodynamic interaction forces and moments between the two vehicles. The simulation was developed to validate trajectory studies conducted with a 14 degree-of-freedom simulation created early in the program using the Automatic Dynamic Analysis of Mechanics Systems (ADAMS) simulation software. The POST simulation was less detailed than the official ADAMS-based simulation used by the Project, but was simpler, more concise and ran faster, while providing similar results. The increase in speed provided by the POST simulation provided the Project with an alternate analysis tool. This tool was ideal for performing separation control logic trade studies that required the running of numerous Monte Carlo trajectories.

Tartabini, Paul V.↗
NASA NTRS2013

Extraction and Separation Modeling of Orion Test Vehicles with ADAMS Simulation

The Capsule Parachute Assembly System (CPAS) project has increased efforts to demonstrate the performance of fully integrated parachute systems at both higher dynamic pressures and in the presence of wake fields using a Parachute Compartment Drop Test Vehicle (PCDTV) and a Parachute Test Vehicle (PTV), respectively. Modeling the extraction and separation events has proven challenging and an understanding of the physics is required to reduce the risk of separation malfunctions. The need for extraction and separation modeling is critical to a successful CPAS test campaign. Current PTV-alone simulations, such as Decelerator System Simulation (DSS), require accurate initial conditions (ICs) drawn from a separation model. Automatic Dynamic Analysis of Mechanical Systems (ADAMS), a Commercial off the Shelf (COTS) tool, was employed to provide insight into the multi-body six degree of freedom (DOF) interaction between parachute test hardware and external and internal forces. Components of the model include a composite extraction parachute, primary vehicle (PTV or PCDTV), platform cradle, a release mechanism, aircraft ramp, and a programmer parachute with attach points. Independent aerodynamic forces were applied to the mated test vehicle/platform cradle and the separated test vehicle and platform cradle. The aero coefficients were determined from real time lookup tables which were functions of both angle of attack ( ) and sideslip ( ). The atmospheric properties were also determined from a real time lookup table characteristic of the Yuma Proving Grounds (YPG) atmosphere relative to the planned test month. Representative geometries were constructed in ADAMS with measured mass properties generated for each independent vehicle. Derived smart separation parameters were included in ADAMS as sensors with defined pitch and pitch rate criteria used to refine inputs to analogous avionics systems for optimal separation conditions. Key design variables were dispersed in a Monte Carlo analysis to provide the maximum expected range of the state variables at programmer deployment to be used as ICs in DSS. Extensive comparisons were made with Decelerator System Simulation Application (DSSA) to validate the mated portion of the ADAMS extraction trajectory. Results of the comparisons improved the fidelity of ADAMS with a ramp pitch profile update from DSSA. Post-test reconstructions resulted in improvements to extraction parachute drag area knock-down factors, extraction line modeling, and the inclusion of ball-to-socket attachments used as a release mechanism on the PTV. Modeling of two Extraction parachutes was based on United States Air Force (USAF) tow test data and integrated into ADAMS for nominal and Monte Carlo trajectory assessments. Video overlay of ADAMS animations and actual C-12 chase plane test videos supported analysis and observation efforts of extraction and separation events. The COTS ADAMS simulation has been integrated with NASA based simulations to provide complete end to end trajectories with a focus on the extraction, separation, and programmer deployment sequence. The flexibility of modifying ADAMS inputs has proven useful for sensitivity studies and extraction/separation modeling efforts. 1

Fraire, Usbaldo, Jr.↗
NASA NTRS2015

CPAS Preflight Drop Test Analysis Process

Throughout the Capsule Parachute Assembly System (CPAS) drop test program, the CPAS Analysis Team has developed a simulation and analysis process to support drop test planning and execution. This process includes multiple phases focused on developing test simulations and communicating results to all groups involved in the drop test. CPAS Engineering Development Unit (EDU) series drop test planning begins with the development of a basic operational concept for each test. Trajectory simulation tools include the Flight Analysis and Simulation Tool (FAST) for single bodies, and the Automatic Dynamic Analysis of Mechanical Systems (ADAMS) simulation for the mated vehicle. Results are communicated to the team at the Test Configuration Review (TCR) and Test Readiness Review (TRR), as well as at Analysis Integrated Product Team (IPT) meetings in earlier and intermediate phases of the pre-test planning. The ability to plan and communicate efficiently with rapidly changing objectives and tight schedule constraints is a necessity for safe and successful drop tests.

Englert, Megan E.↗
NASA NTRS2015

Summary of CPAS EDU Testing Analysis Results

The Orion program's Capsule Parachute Assembly System (CPAS) project is currently conducting its third generation of testing, the Engineering Development Unit (EDU) series. This series utilizes two test articles, a dart-shaped Parachute Compartment Drop Test Vehicle (PCDTV) and capsule-shaped Parachute Test Vehicle (PTV), both of which include a full size, flight-like parachute system and require a pallet delivery system for aircraft extraction. To date, 15 tests have been completed, including six with PCDTVs and nine with PTVs. Two of the PTV tests included the Forward Bay Cover (FBC) provided by Lockheed Martin. Advancements in modeling techniques applicable to parachute fly-out, vehicle rate of descent, torque, and load train, also occurred during the EDU testing series. An upgrade from a composite to an independent parachute simulation allowed parachute modeling at a higher level of fidelity than during previous generations. The complexity of separating the test vehicles from their pallet delivery systems necessitated the use the Automatic Dynamic Analysis of Mechanical Systems (ADAMS) simulator for modeling mated vehicle aircraft extraction and separation. This paper gives an overview of each EDU test and summarizes the development of CPAS analysis tools and techniques during EDU testing.

Romero, Leah M.↗