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At least 73 records · Page 4

Considerations in the design and development of a space station scale model

Preliminary work at Langley Research Center (LaRC) related to the design, analysis and testing of a space station scale model is reviewed. Included are some rationale for focusing the scale model program on space station and the utilization of the model to achieve the program objectives. In addition, some considerations involved in designing a dynamics scale model, such as ground test facilities, sub-scale component fabrication and model replication vs. simulation are presented. Finally, some related research areas currently ongoing at LaRC in support of scale model development are discussed.

Mcgowan, Paul E.

Characterization of the Scale Model Acoustic Test Overpressure Environment using Computational Fluid Dynamics

The Scale Model Acoustic Test (SMAT) is a 5% scale test of the Space Launch System (SLS), which is currently being designed at Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC). The purpose of this test is to characterize and understand a variety of acoustic phenomena that occur during the early portions of lift off, one being the overpressure environment that develops shortly after booster ignition. The pressure waves that propagate from the mobile launcher (ML) exhaust hole are defined as the ignition overpressure (IOP), while the portion of the pressure waves that exit the duct or trench are the duct overpressure (DOP). Distinguishing the IOP and DOP in scale model test data has been difficult in past experiences and in early SMAT results, due to the effects of scaling the geometry. The speed of sound of the air and combustion gas constituents is not scaled, and therefore the SMAT pressure waves propagate at approximately the same speed as occurs in full scale. However, the SMAT geometry is twenty times smaller, allowing the pressure waves to move down the exhaust hole, through the trench and duct, and impact the vehicle model much faster than occurs at full scale. The DOP waves impact portions of the vehicle at the same time as the IOP waves, making it difficult to distinguish the different waves and fully understand the data. To better understand the SMAT data, a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis was performed with a fictitious geometry that isolates the IOP and DOP. The upper and lower portions of the domain were segregated to accomplish the isolation in such a way that the flow physics were not significantly altered. The Loci/CHEM CFD software program was used to perform this analysis.

Nielsen, Tanner

A thermal scale modeling study for Apollo and Apollo applications, volume 1

The program is reported for developing and demonstrating the capabilities of thermal scale modeling as a thermal design and verification tool for Apollo and Apollo Applications Projects. The work performed for thermal scale modeling of STB; cabin atmosphere/spacecraft cabin wall thermal interface; closed loop heat rejection radiator; and docked module/spacecraft thermal interface are discussed along with the test facility requirements for thermal scale model testing of AAP spacecraft. It is concluded that thermal scale modeling can be used as an effective thermal design and verification tool to provide data early in a spacecraft development program.

Shannon, R. L.

Bridging molecular-scale interfacial science with continuum-scale models

Solid–water interfaces are crucial for clean water, conventional and renewable energy, and effective nuclear waste management. However, reflecting the complexity of reactive interfaces in continuum-scale models is a challenge, leading to oversimplified representations that often fail to predict real-world behavior. This is because these models use fixed parameters derived by averaging across a wide physicochemical range observed at the molecular scale. Recent studies have revealed the stochastic nature of molecular-level surface sites that define a variety of reaction mechanisms, rates, and products even across a single surface. To bridge the molecular knowledge and predictive continuum-scale models, we propose to represent surface properties with probability distributions rather than with discrete constant values derived by averaging across a heterogeneous surface. This conceptual shift in continuum-scale modeling requires exponentially rising computational power. By incorporating our molecular-scale understanding of solid–water interfaces into continuum-scale models we can pave the way for next generation critical technologies and novel environmental solutions.

37 INORGANIC, ORGANIC, PHYSICAL, AND ANALYTICAL CH

Conceptual design and analysis of a dynamic scale model of the Space Station Freedom

This report documents the conceptual design study performed to evaluate design options for a subscale dynamic test model which could be used to investigate the expected on-orbit structural dynamic characteristics of the Space Station Freedom early build configurations. The baseline option was a 'near-replica' model of the SSF SC-7 pre-integrated truss configuration. The approach used to develop conceptual design options involved three sets of studies: evaluation of the full-scale design and analysis databases, conducting scale factor trade studies, and performing design sensitivity studies. The scale factor trade study was conducted to develop a fundamental understanding of the key scaling parameters that drive design, performance and cost of a SSF dynamic scale model. Four scale model options were estimated: 1/4, 1/5, 1/7, and 1/10 scale. Prototype hardware was fabricated to assess producibility issues. Based on the results of the study, a 1/4-scale size is recommended based on the increased model fidelity associated with a larger scale factor. A design sensitivity study was performed to identify critical hardware component properties that drive dynamic performance. A total of 118 component properties were identified which require high-fidelity replication. Lower fidelity dynamic similarity scaling can be used for non-critical components.

Davis, D. A.

A priori testing of subgrid-scale models for the velocity-pressure and vorticity-velocity formulations

Subgrid-scale models for Large Eddy Simulation (LES) in both the velocity-pressure and the vorticity-velocity formulations were evaluated and compared in a priori tests using spectral Direct Numerical Simulation (DNS) databases of isotropic turbulence: 128(exp 3) DNS of forced turbulence (Re(sub(lambda))=95.8) filtered, using the sharp cutoff filter, to both 32(exp 3) and 16(exp 3) synthetic LES fields; 512(exp 3) DNS of decaying turbulence (Re(sub(Lambda))=63.5) filtered to both 64(exp 3) and 32(exp 3) LES fields. Gaussian and top-hat filters were also used with the 128(exp 3) database. Different LES models were evaluated for each formulation: eddy-viscosity models, hyper eddy-viscosity models, mixed models, and scale-similarity models. Correlations between exact versus modeled subgrid-scale quantities were measured at three levels: tensor (traceless), vector (solenoidal 'force'), and scalar (dissipation) levels, and for both cases of uniform and variable coefficient(s). Different choices for the 1/T scaling appearing in the eddy-viscosity were also evaluated. It was found that the models for the vorticity-velocity formulation produce higher correlations with the filtered DNS data than their counterpart in the velocity-pressure formulation. It was also found that the hyper eddy-viscosity model performs better than the eddy viscosity model, in both formulations.

Winckelmans, G. S.

Cruise noise measurements of a scale model advanced ducted propulsor

A scale model Advanced Ducted Propulsor (ADP) was tested in NASA Lewis Research Center's 8- by 6-Foot Wind Tunnel to obtain acoustic data at cruise conditions. The model, designed and manufactured by Pratt & Whitney Division of United Technologies, was tested with three inlet lengths. The model has 16 rotor blades and 22 stator vanes, which results in a cut-on condition with respect to rotor-stator interaction noise. Comparisons of the noise directivity of the ADP with that of a previously tested high-speed, unducted propeller showed that the ADP peak blade passing tone was about 30 dB below that of the propeller, and therefore, should not present a cabin or enroute noise problem. The maximum blade passing tone first increased with increasing helical tip Mach number, peaked, and then decreased at a higher Mach number. The ADP tests with the shortest inlet showed more noise in the inlet arc than did tests with either of the other two inlet lengths.

Dittmar, James H.

Aerodynamic performance of a scale-model, counterrotating unducted fan

The aerodynamic performance of a scale model, counter-rotating unducted fan has been determined and the results are discussed. Experimental investigations were conducted using the scale model propulsor simulator and uniquely shaped fan blades. The blades, designed for a high disk loading at Mach 0.72 at 35,000 feet altitude maximum climb condition are aft-mounted on the simulator in a pusher configuration. Data are compared with analytical predictions at the design point and show good agreement.

Sullivan, T. J.

Verification of Ares I Liftoff Acoustic Environments via the Ares I Scale Model Acoustic Test

The Ares I Scale Model Acoustic Test (ASMAT) program was implemented to verify the predicted Ares I liftoff acoustic environments and to determine the acoustic reduction gained by using an above deck water sound suppression system. The test article included a 5% scale Ares I vehicle model and Mobile Launcher with tower. Acoustic and pressure data were measured by over 200 instruments. The ASMAT results are compared to Ares I-X flight data.

Counter, Douglas

Jet Noise Flyover and Scale Model Tests

Renewed interest in commercial supersonic flight has rekindled the need for accurate jet-noise predictions as this source is believed to dominate at aircraft takeoff conditions. The current study compares scale-model data acquired in the NASA Aero-Acoustic Propulsion Laboratory with data obtained using a well-instrumented Learjet 25 in a flyover test completed in September 2022. The flight test included 73 flyovers with engine conditions ranging from 1.5 to 2.0 engine pressure ratios and flight Mach numbers between 0.24 and 0.27. Acoustic data were acquired with an 800-ft linear ground plate microphone array. Wind speed data were acquired up to 1000-ft altitude with a ground-based LiDAR system. Layered ambient temperature, pressure, and humidity were acquired with a weather drone. A 6% increase in the physical scale factor for the scale-model data was found to reasonably align the peak frequencies of the scale-model and flight data and resulted in peak levels for the scale model being roughly 0.7 dB above those for the flight data at NPR = 1.56 and roughly 1 dB below those for the flight data at NPR = 1.91 in the peak jet-noise direction. Comparisons with the SAE ARP876 model were poor especially at emission angles greater than, or equal to, 110° and at high frequencies.

jet noise, supersonic transport

Jet Noise Flyover and Scale Model Tests

Renewed interest in commercial supersonic flight has rekindled the need for accurate jet-noise predictions as this source is believed to dominate at aircraft takeoff conditions. The current study compares scale-model data acquired in the NASA Aero-Acoustic Propulsion Laboratory with data obtained using a well-instrumented Learjet 25D in a flyover test completed in September 2022. The flight test included 73 flyovers with engine conditions ranging from 1.5 to 2.0 engine pressure ratios and flight Mach numbers between 0.24 and 0.27. Acoustic data were acquired with an 800-ft linear ground plate microphone array. Wind speed data were acquired up to 1000-sft altitude with a ground-based LiDAR system. Layered ambient temperature, pressure, and humidity were acquired with a weather drone. A 6% increase in the physical scale factor for the scale-model data was found to reasonably align the peak frequencies of the scale-model and flight data and resulted in peak levels for the scale model being roughly 0.7 dB above those for the flight data at NPR = 1.56 and roughly 1 dB below those for the flight data at NPR = 1.91 in the peak jet-noise direction. Comparisons with the SAE ARP876 model were poor especially at emission angles greater than, or equal to, 110° and at high frequencies.

Acoustics, jet noise, supersonic transport

Jet Noise Flyover and Scale Model Tests

Renewed interest in commercial supersonic flight has rekindled the need for accurate jet-noise predictions as this source is believed to dominate at aircraft takeoff conditions. The current study compares scale-model data acquired in the NASA Aero-Acoustic Propulsion Laboratory with data obtained using a well-instrumented Learjet 25 in a flyover test completed in September 2022. The flight test included 73 flyovers with engine conditions ranging from 1.5 to 2.0 engine pressure ratios and flight Mach numbers between 0.24 and 0.27. Acoustic data were acquired with an 800-ft linear ground plate microphone array. Wind speed data were acquired up to 1000-ft altitude with a ground-based LiDAR system. Layered ambient temperature, pressure, and humidity were acquired with a weather drone. A 6% increase in the physical scale factor for the scale-model data was found to reasonably align the peak frequencies of the scale-model and flight data and resulted in peak levels for the scale model being roughly 0.7 dB above those for the flight data at NPR = 1.56 and roughly 1 dB below those for the flight data at NPR = 1.91 in the peak jet-noise direction. Comparisons with the SAE ARP876 model were poor especially at emission angles greater than, or equal to, 110° and at high frequencies.

Acoustics, jet noise, supersonic transport

Aerodynamic performance of 0.4066-scale model of JT8D refan stage with S-duct inlet

A scale model of the JT8D refan stage was tested with a scale model of the S-duct inlet design for the refanned Boeing 727 center engine. Detailed survey data of pressures, temperatures, and flow angles were obtained over a range of flows at speeds from 70 to 97 percent of design speed. Two S-duct configurations were tested; one with a bellmouth inlet and the other with a flight lip inlet. The results indicated that the overall performance was essentially unaffected by the distortion generated by the S-duct inlet. The stall weight flow increased by less than 0.5 kg/sec (approximately 1.5% of design flow) with the S-duct inlet compared with that obtained with uniform flow. The detailed measurements indicated that the inlet guide vane (IGV) significantly reduced circumferential variations. For example, the flow angles ahead of the IGV were positive in the right half of the inlet and negative in the left half. Behind the IGV, the flow angles tended to be more uniform circumferentially.

Moore, R. D.

Simulation of Acoustics for Ares I Scale Model Acoustic Tests

The Ares I Scale Model Acoustics Test (ASMAT) is a series of live-fire tests of scaled rocket motors meant to simulate the conditions of the Ares I launch configuration. These tests have provided a well documented set of high fidelity acoustic measurements useful for validation including data taken over a range of test conditions and containing phenomena like Ignition Over-Pressure and water suppression of acoustics. To take advantage of this data, a digital representation of the ASMAT test setup has been constructed and test firings of the motor have been simulated using the Loci/CHEM computational fluid dynamics software. Results from ASMAT simulations with the rocket in both held down and elevated configurations, as well as with and without water suppression have been compared to acoustic data collected from similar live-fire tests. Results of acoustic comparisons have shown good correlation with the amplitude and temporal shape of pressure features and reasonable spectral accuracy up to approximately 1000 Hz. Major plume and acoustic features have been well captured including the plume shock structure, the igniter pulse transient, and the ignition overpressure.

Putnam, Gabriel

Multiphase Computational Fluid Dynamics Simulation of Ignition Overpressure and Plume-Water Interaction in the SLS Scale Model Acoustics Test

The solid rocket boosters (SRBs) on the Space Launch System (SLS) generate powerful ignition overpressure (IOP) waves that can potentially damage the vehicle and surrounding ground structures. Based on historical Shuttle experience, the IOP will be mitigated by utilizing an IOP/Sound Suppression (SS) water system which sprays water in and around the SRB and RS-25 engine plumes. However, the complex multiphase physics of the resulting plume-water interaction can lead to undesirable effects, such as high velocity water spray onto the engine nozzles and SRB nozzle side loads. Prior to launch, insight into this environment can be achieved through scale model testing and predictive computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modeling. The Scale Model Acoustic Test (SMAT) was conducted at Marshall Space Flight Center to provide the data necessary to develop the SLS liftoff acoustic environments by using a 5% scale SLS vehicle, fully integrated with a scaled IOP/SS water system, mobile launcher (ML), and tower. NASA engineers have put forth significant effort in validating the Loci/CHEM-Real Fluids multiphase CFD solver on a wet hold down test from the SMAT series. In this paper, the IOP acoustics and plume-water interactions predicted by the CFD model are compared and validated against the experiment, enabling relatively inexpensive, rapid turnaround for multiphase launch environment analyses to support future flights and design evolutions of SLS and other launch vehicles.

John E. Soto

CFD Simulation of Ignition Overpressure and Plume-Water Interaction in the SLS Scale Model Acoustics Test

The solid rocket boosters (SRBs) on the Space Launch System (SLS) generate powerful ignition overpressure (IOP) waves that can potentially damage the vehicle and surrounding ground structures. Based on historical Shuttle experience, the IOP will be mitigated by utilizing an IOP/Sound Suppression (SS) water system which sprays water in and around the SRB and RS-25 engine plumes. However, the complex multiphase physics of the resulting plume-water interaction can lead to undesirable effects, such as high velocity water spray onto the engine nozzles and SRB nozzle side loads. Prior to launch, insight into this environment can be achieved through scale model testing and predictive computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modeling. The Scale Model Acoustic Test (SMAT) was conducted at Marshall Space Flight Center to provide the data necessary to develop the SLS liftoff acoustic environments by using a 5% scale SLS vehicle, fully integrated with a scaled IOP/SS water system, mobile launcher (ML), and tower. NASA engineers have put forth significant effort in validating the Loci/CHEM-Real Fluids multiphase CFD solver on a wet hold down test from the SMAT series. In this paper, the IOP acoustics and plume-water interactions predicted by the CFD model are compared and validated against the experiment, enabling relatively inexpensive, rapid turnaround for multiphase launch environment analyses to support future flights and design evolutions of SLS and other launch vehicles.

Computational Fluid Dynamics