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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

A uniformly valid solution for motion about the interior libration point of the perturbed elliptic-restricted problem

Bounded motion about Lagrange collinear libration points is considered for a perturbed elliptic-restricted problem. A practical application is the motion of a satellite near a libration point collinear with the sun and the earth-moon barycenter. Such a system is treated here as an earth-sun-satellite elliptic restricted problem with lunar perturbations. The method of dual time scales is utilized to develop a uniformly valid three-dimensional analytical solution to the satellite's equations of motion. The analytical development applies somewhat generally to that class of four-body problems where the second primary mass is much greater than the first, and the third primary mass is much greater than the second.

Richardson, D. L.↗

Characterization of the Modal Characteristics of Structures Operating in Dense Liquid Oxygen Turbopumps

A number of valuable conclusions can be drawn from this study. First, knockdown factors for a specific fluid are not constant but instead are dependent on the mode shape, although the largest this variability gets is about 10% for LOX, the densest fluid. The factors decrease the most for lower frequency shapes and less for higher ones. It follows, therefore, that mode number mismatch between air and fluid operation becomes not only possible, but common, as a knockdown factor for a particular mode shape may be higher than for another mode shape. Since this is a function of added mass, the mismatch is more prevalent for higher density fluids, but it initiates even for very low density ones. Another important conclusion reached is that it appears that the basic mode shapes of a structure do not change if it is fully symmetric, which includes its geometry and boundary conditions. There is some indication of small changes in the relative magnitudes within the mode shape. This conclusion is evident in the results from the cantilever rectangular plate and the inducer, which are not symmetric, and the fixed-fixed plate and the annular disk, which are. For non-symmetric structures, though, the mode shapes almost universally change for dense fluids, as shown by the very low MAC calculations. For the inducer in particular, the changes follow a trend of reduced parabolic and sine wavelengths with increasing density. It is critical to recognize the change in mode shape for several reasons. First, model updating with modal test becomes problematic if the shapes change. Second, design to avoid resonance is highly critical on the mode shape for modes other than the primary ones, as resonance is only a factor when the excitation shape matches the mode shape. Finally, application of the modal superposition method of forced response analysis is dependent on the use of accurate mode shapes. A more-refined assessment of the "knockdown" factor values and ranges than any previously reported in the literature for a realistic engineering structure is also presented in this paper. This data is of tremendous benefit for preliminary analysis and design, where a quick estimate is necessary. These results are important not just for rocket engine turbomachinery, but for water pumps and turbines, propellers, and any other structure operating in a heavy fluid with dynamic excitation. The clear avenue for future work for this endeavor is to expand the analytical techniques discussed in the literature to develop analytical expressions and justification for the mode shape changes and associated frequency knockdowns. These expressions must be able to accurately predict the functional relationship to the shapes, which will enable accurate tracing of the mode number from vacuum analysis (or testing in air) to analysis and operation in the intended fluid environment.

Chiu, Joseph↗

Discrete-Layer Piezoelectric Plate and Shell Models for Active Tip-Clearance Control

The objectives of this work were to develop computational tools for the analysis of active-sensory composite structures with added or embedded piezoelectric layers. The targeted application for this class of smart composite laminates and the analytical development is the accomplishment of active tip-clearance control in turbomachinery components. Two distinct theories and analytical models were developed and explored under this contract: (1) a discrete-layer plate theory and corresponding computational models, and (2) a three dimensional general discrete-layer element generated in curvilinear coordinates for modeling laminated composite piezoelectric shells. Both models were developed from the complete electromechanical constitutive relations of piezoelectric materials, and incorporate both displacements and potentials as state variables. This report describes the development and results of these models. The discrete-layer theories imply that the displacement field and electrostatic potential through-the-thickness of the laminate are described over an individual layer rather than as a smeared function over the thickness of the entire plate or shell thickness. This is especially crucial for composites with embedded piezoelectric layers, as the actuating and sensing elements within these layers are poorly represented by effective or smeared properties. Linear Lagrange interpolation polynomials were used to describe the through-thickness laminate behavior. Both analytic and finite element approximations were used in the plane or surface of the structure. In this context, theoretical developments are presented for the discrete-layer plate theory, the discrete-layer shell theory, and the formulation of an exact solution for simply-supported piezoelectric plates. Finally, evaluations and results from a number of separate examples are presented for the static and dynamic analysis of the plate geometry. Comparisons between the different approaches are provided when possible, and initial conclusions regarding the accuracy and limitations of these models are given.

Heyliger, P. R.↗

Experimental Investigations into the Material Response of Heatshields, High-Temperature Coatings, and Meteors.

Phenolic Impregnated Carbon Ablator (PICA) gained heritage during the Stardust mission and is the baseline thermal protection system (TPS) material for missions to Mars. However, PICA is friable, so a thin layer of siloxane resin (NuSil) is applied to the surface of the heatshield to suppress the spread of particulate matter during cleanroom activities. Until recently, the thermochemical response of NuSil had not been accounted for in material response models. Therefore, a test campaign was executed at the Hypersonic Materials Environmental Test System (HyMETS) facility to investigate the material response of NuSil and provide crucial insight for model development. Finally, salient results from an experiment supported by the Asteroid Threat Assessment Project (ATAP) will be discussed, which probed the material response of the Tamdakht meteorite and notable analogs. Bio: Dr. Bessire is a senior research scientist in the thermal protection system materials branch at the NASA Ames Research Center. His research focuses on developing analytical techniques designed to inform and validate the development of material response models.

Brody K. Bessire↗

VALT parameter identification flight test

The paper describes a method of establishing the accuracy of previously developed analytical models of research vehicles for a program for developing avionics technology for VTOL aircraft. The research vehicle is a Boeing-Vertol CH-47 tandem rotor transport helicopter equipped with a fly-by-wire control system. The specialized flight test was designed to take into account the presence of winds at flight conditions from hover through transition to cruise. The test provided data to obtain estimates of derivatives by parameter identification.

Tomaine, R. L.↗

Stirling engine external heat system design with heat pipe heater

This final report presents the conceptual design of a liquid fueled external heating system (EHS) and the preliminary design of a heat pipe heater for the STM-4120 Stirling cycle engine, to meet the Air Force mobile electric power (MEP) requirement for units in the range of 20 to 60 kW. The EHS design had the following constraints: (1) Packaging requirements limited the overall system dimensions to about 330 mm x 250 mm x 100 mm; (2) Heat flux to the sodium heat pipe evaporator was limited to an average of 100 kW/m and a maximum of 550 kW/m based on previous experience; and (3) The heat pipe operating temperature was specified to be 800 C based on heat input requirements of the STM4-120. An analysis code was developed to optimize the EHS performance parameters and an analytical development of the sodium heat pipe heater was performed; both are presented and discussed. In addition, construction techniques were evaluated and scale model heat pipe testing performed.

Godett, Ted M.↗

Development and applications of supersonic unsteady consistent aerodynamics for interfering parallel wings

The analytical development of unsteady supersonic aerodynamic influence coefficients for isolated and nearly parallel interfering coplanar and noncoplanar wings is described. Numerical formulations based on triangular discretizations of wings and diaphragms are handled in a kinematically consistent manner. Examples of isolated wing cases are compared with respect to aerodynamic influence coefficients and flutter boundaries. Aerodynamic influence coefficients for interfering wings are compared where corresponding results are available.

Appa, K.↗

Testing and Analytical Modeling for Purging Process of a Cryogenic Line

To gain confidence in developing analytical models of the purging process for the cryogenic main propulsion systems of upper stage, two test series were conducted. The test article, a 3.35 m long with the diameter of 20 cm incline line, was filled with liquid or gaseous hydrogen and then purged with gaseous helium (GHe). Total of 10 tests were conducted. The influences of GHe flow rates and initial temperatures were evaluated. The Generalized Fluid System Simulation Program (GFSSP), an in-house general-purpose fluid system analyzer computer program, was utilized to model and simulate selective tests. The test procedures, modeling descriptions, and the results are presented in the following sections.

Hedayat, A.↗

Testing and Analytical Modeling for Purging Process of a Cryogenic Line

To gain confidence in developing analytical models of the purging process for the cryogenic main propulsion systems of upper stage, two test series were conducted. The test article, a 3.35 m long with the diameter of 20 cm incline line, was filled with liquid or gaseous hydrogen and then purged with gaseous helium (GHe). Total of 10 tests were conducted. The influences of GHe flow rates and initial temperatures were evaluated. The Generalized Fluid System Simulation Program (GFSSP), an in-house general-purpose fluid system analyzer computer program, was utilized to model and simulate selective tests. The test procedures, modeling descriptions, and the results are presented in the following sections.

Hedayat, A.↗

Testing and Analytical Modeling for Purging Process of a Cryogenic Line

To gain confidence in developing analytical models of the purging process for the cryogenic main propulsion systems of upper stage, two test series were conducted. Test article, a 3.35m long with the diameter of 20 cm incline line, was filled with liquid (LH2)or gaseous hydrogen (GH2) and then purged with gaseous helium (GHe). Total of 10 tests were conducted. Influences of GHe flow rates and initial temperatures were evaluated. Generalized Fluid System Simulation Program (GFSSP), an in-house general-purpose fluid system analyzer, was utilized to model and simulate selective tests.

Hedayat, A.↗

Historical review of missile aerodynamic developments

A comprehensive development history to about 1970 is presented for missile technologies and their associated capabilities and difficulties. Attention is given to the growth of an experimental data base for missile design, as well as to the critical early efforts to develop analytical methods applicable to missiles. Most of the important missile development efforts made during the period from the end of the Second World War to the early 1960s were based primarily on experiences gained through wind tunnel and flight testing; analytical techniques began to demonstrate their usefulness in the design process only in the late 1960s.

Spearman, M. Leroy↗

Chemical Detection and Identification Techniques for Exobiology Flight Experiments

Exobiology flight experiments require highly sensitive instrumentation for in situ analysis of the volatile chemical species that occur in the atmospheres and surfaces of various bodies within the solar system. The complex mixtures encountered place a heavy burden on the analytical Instrumentation to detect and identify all species present. The minimal resources available onboard for such missions mandate that the instruments provide maximum analytical capabilities with minimal requirements of volume, weight and consumables. Advances in technology may be achieved by increasing the amount of information acquired by a given technique with greater analytical capabilities and miniaturization of proven terrestrial technology. We describe here methods to develop analytical instruments for the detection and identification of a wide range of chemical species using Gas Chromatography. These efforts to expand the analytical capabilities of GC technology are focused on the development of detectors for the GC which provide sample identification independent of the GC retention time data. A novel new approach employs Penning Ionization Electron Spectroscopy (PIES).

Kojiro, Daniel R.↗

Fission Surface Power System Initial Concept Definition

Under the NASA Exploration Technology Development Program (ETDP) and in partnership with the Department of Energy (DOE), NASA has embarked on a project to develop Fission Surface Power (FSP) technology. The primary goals of the project are to 1) develop FSP concepts that meet expected surface power requirements at reasonable cost with added benefits over other options, 2) establish a hardwarebased technical foundation for FSP design concepts and reduce overall development risk, 3) reduce the cost uncertainties for FSP and establish greater credibility for flight system cost estimates, and 4) generate the key products to allow NASA decision-makers to consider FSP as a preferred option for flight development. The FSP project was initiated in 2006 as the Prometheus Program and the Jupiter Icy Moons Orbiter (JIMO) mission were phased-out. As a first step, NASA Headquarters commissioned the Affordable Fission Surface Power System Study to evaluate the potential for an affordable FSP development approach. With a cost-effective FSP strategy identified, the FSP team evaluated design options and selected a Preliminary Reference Concept to guide technology development. Since then, the FSP Preliminary Reference Concept has served as a point-of-departure for several NASA mission architecture studies examining the use of nuclear power and has provided the foundation for a series of "Pathfinder" hardware tests. The long-term technology goal is a Technology Demonstration Unit (TDU) integrated system test using full-scale components and a non-nuclear reactor simulator. The FSP team consists of Glenn Research Center (GRC), Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) and the DOE National Laboratories at Los Alamos (LANL), Idaho (INL), Oak Ridge (ORNL), and Sandia (SNL). The project is organized into two main elements: Concept Definition and Risk Reduction. Under Concept Definition, the team performs trade studies, develops analytical tools, and formulates system concepts. Under Risk Reduction the team develops hardware prototypes and conducts laboratory-based testing.

Source record↗

Stratospheric HNO3 measurements from 0.002/cm resolution solar occultation spectra and improved spectroscopic line parameters in the 5.8-micron region

Very-high-resolution FWHM solar-occultation spectra are investigated with a balloon-borne interferometer using revised spectroscopic line parameters for HNO3, O3, and H2O. The O3 and H2O data are evaluated to determine their capacity for interference in the HNO3 line which is studied in the nu sub 2 band at 5.8 microns. The line parameters developed with the stratospheric data are compared to data based on a HITRAN compilation as well as laboratory spectra with a 0.002/cm resolution. The line list is calculated and shown to include J and Ka transitions which improve the line parameters for HNO3 by accounting for the weaker absorption features in the stratospheric spectra. The stratospheric HNO3 profile developed analytically is compared to those based on reported measurements, and the one developed with the stratospheric solar spectra is found to be consistent with the measurements and confirm inherent measurement biases.

Goldman, A.↗

Residual acceleration data analysis for Spacelab missions

A two-level reduction plan is developed analytically with references to existing experimental data that can be used to develop accelerometer databases for postflight experiment analyses. Residual-acceleration data from previous experiments are studied with attention given to the differences in magnitude among the databases. First-level processing is based on the identification of instances in which tolerable acceleration levels are exceeded so that the time intervals requiring further scrutiny are found. Acceleration time histories including magnitude and orientation are utilized with frequency data for the second level of processing, and the data required for a given time window are reduced by means of data decimation. The identification and processing of limited windows of acceleration data facilitates the characterization of the acceleration environment. These characterizations are of use in the design, location, and utilization of low-gravity laboratory equipment.

Rogers, Melissa J. B.↗

Multipurpose Crew Restraints for Long Duration Space Flights

With permanent human presence onboard the International Space Station (ISS), a crew will be living and working in microgravity, interfacing with their physical environment. Without optimum restraints and mobility aids (R&MA' s), the crewmembers may be handicapped for perfonning some of the on-orbit tasks. In addition to weightlessness, the confined nature of a spacecraft environment results in ergonomic challenges such as limited visibility and access to the activity area and may cause prolonged periods of unnatural postures. Thus, determining the right set of human factors requirements and providing an ergonomically designed environment are crucial to astronauts' well-being and productivity. The purpose of this project is to develop requirements and guidelines, and conceptual designs, for an ergonomically designed multi-purpose crew restraint. In order to achieve this goal, the project would involve development of functional and human factors requirements, design concept prototype development, analytical and computer modeling evaluations of concepts, two sets of micro gravity evaluations and preparation of an implementation plan. It is anticipated that developing functional and design requirements for a multi-purpose restraint would facilitate development of ergonomically designed restraints to accommodate the off-nominal but repetitive tasks, and minimize the performance degradation due to lack of optimum setup for onboard task performance. In addition, development of an ergonomically designed restraint concept prototype would allow verification and validation of the requirements defined. To date, we have identified "unique" tasks and areas of need, determine characteristics of "ideal" restraints, and solicit ideas for restraint and mobility aid concepts. Focus group meetings with representatives from training, safety, crew, human factors, engineering, payload developers, and analog environment representatives were key to assist in the development of a restraint concept based on previous flight experiences, the needs of future tasks, and crewmembers' preferences. Also, a catalog with existing IVA/EVA restraint and mobility aids has been developed. Other efforts included the ISS crew debrief data on restraints, compilation of data from MIR, Skylab and ISS on restraints, and investigating possibility of an in-flight evaluation of current restraint systems. Preliminary restraint concepts were developed and presented to long duration crewmembers and focus groups for feedback. Currently, a selection criterion is being refined for prioritizing the candidate concepts. Next steps include analytical and computer modeling evaluations of the selected candidate concepts, prototype development, and microgravity evaluations.

Whitmore, Mihriban↗

TRAC performance estimates

This report documents the performance characteristics of a Targeting Reflective Alignment Concept (TRAC) sensor. The performance will be documented for both short and long ranges. For long ranges, the sensor is used without the flat mirror attached to the target. To better understand the capabilities of the TRAC based sensors, an engineering model is required. The model can be used to better design the system for a particular application. This is necessary because there are many interrelated design variables in application. These include lense parameters, camera, and target configuration. The report presents first an analytical development of the performance, and second an experimental verification of the equations. In the analytical presentation it is assumed that the best vision resolution is a single pixel element. The experimental results suggest however that the resolution is better than 1 pixel. Hence the analytical results should be considered worst case conditions. The report also discusses advantages and limitations of the TRAC sensor in light of the performance estimates. Finally the report discusses potential improvements.

Everett, L.↗