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At least 73 records · Page 4

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NASA NTRS1983

Performance measurements of a pilot superconducting solenoid model core for a wind tunnel magnetic suspension and balance system

The results of experimental demonstrations of a superconducting solenoid model core in the Southampton University Magnetic Suspension and Balance System are detailed. Technology and techniques relevant to large-scale wind tunnel MSBSs comprise the long term goals. The magnetic moment of solenoids, difficulties peculiar to superconducting solenoid cores, lift force and pitching moment, dynamic lift calibration, and helium boil-off measurements are discussed.

Goodyer, M. J.↗

NASA NTRS1988

The effect of sting interference at low speeds on the drag coefficient of an ellipsoidal body using a magnetic suspension and balance system

A Boltz body of revolution (fineness ratio 7.5:1) was tested in the Southampton University Magnetic Suspension and Balance System. The effects of sting interference on the drag coefficient of the model at zero angle of attack were noted as well as the effects on drag coefficient values at boundary layer trips. The drag coefficient values were compared with other sources and seemed to show agreement. The pressure distribution over the rear of the model with no sting interference was investigated including the use of boundary layer trips.

Newcomb, A. W.↗

NASA NTRS1986

Further investigation into calibration techniques for a magnetic suspension and balance system

Calibrations performed on three different magnetic cores for wind tunnel models suspended in the Southampton University Magnetic Suspension and Balance System (SUMSBS) are detailed. The first core investigated was the Southampton University pilot Superconducting Solenoid model, first flown in July 1983. Static calibrations of lift force, drag force and pitching moment, together with lift force and pitching moment calibrations determined by the dynamic method are detailed in this report. Other types of core investigated in a similar manner were conventional permanent magnets, Alnico and samarium-cobalt. All static calibrations gave a linear dependence of force on electromagnet current as expected. Dynamic calibrations are faster to perform but are proving to be not as easily analyzed as static calibrations. There are still some effects to be explained but dynamic lift calibration results were obtained agreeing to within 2 percent of the static calibration value.

Eskins, J.↗

NASA NTRS1989

The 13-inch magnetic suspension and balance system wind tunnel

NASA Langley has a small, subsonic wind tunnel in use with the 13-inch Magnetic Suspension and Balance System (MSBS). The tunnel is capable of speeds up to Mach 0.5. This report presents tunnel design and construction details. It includes flow uniformity, angularity, and velocity fluctuation data. It also compares experimental Mach number distribution data with computed results for the General Electric Streamtube Curvature Program.

Johnson, William G., Jr.↗

NASA NTRS1988

An investigation into force-moment calibration techniques applicable to a magnetic suspension and balance system

The problem of determining the forces and moments acting on a wind tunnel model suspended in a Magnetic Suspension and Balance System is addressed. Two calibration methods were investigated for three types of model cores, i.e., Alnico, Samarium-Cobalt, and a superconducting solenoid. Both methods involve calibrating the currents in the electromagnetic array against known forces and moments. The first is a static calibration method using calibration weights and a system of pulleys. The other method, dynamic calibration, involves oscillating the model and using its inertia to provide calibration forces and moments. Static calibration data, found to produce the most reliable results, is presented for three degrees of freedom at 0, 15, and -10 deg angle of attack. Theoretical calculations are hampered by the inability to represent iron-cored electromagnets. Dynamic calibrations, despite being quicker and easier to perform, are not as accurate as static calibrations. Data for dynamic calibrations at 0 and 15 deg is compared with the relevant static data acquired. Distortion of oscillation traces is cited as a major source of error in dynamic calibrations.

Eskins, Jonathan↗

NASA NTRS1978

The RSRA Active Isolation/Rotor Balance System

The Rotor Systems Research Aircraft (RSRA) includes provisions for the installation of an Active Transmission Isolation/Rotor Loads Balance System (AIBS). The purpose of this system is to enable aircraft operation with an arbitrary rotor system over a wide rotor speed range and maneuver envelope without vibration envelope restrictions, while simultaneously providing measurement of rotor system loads. The present paper reviews the history of the design and development of this system, which culminated in successful flight test evaluation in 1977. Consideration is given to highlights of the design, ground test, and flight test.

Kuczynski, W. A.↗

NASA NTRS1998

Wind Tunnel Magnetic Suspension and Balance Systems With Transversely Magnetized Model Cores

This paper discusses the possibility of using vertically magnetized model cores for wind tunnel Magnetic Suspension and Balance Systems (MSBS) in an effort to resolve the traditional "roll control" problem. A theoretical framework is laid out, based on previous work related to generic technology development efforts at NASA Langley Research Center. The impact of the new roll control scheme on traditional wind tunnel MSBS configurations is addressed, and the possibility of demonstrating the new scheme with an existing electromagnet assembly is explored. The specific system considered is the ex- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), ex-NASA, 6-inch MSBS currently in the process of recommissioning at Old Dominion University. This system has a sufficiently versatile electromagnet configuration such that straightforward "conversion" to vertically magnetized cores appears possible.

Britcher, Colin P.↗

NASA NTRSDate not supplied

Dynamic Stability Test Technique for Blunt Bodies in a Magnetic Suspension and Balance System

Techniques for the measurement of subsonic dynamic stability derivatives of blunt-body re-entry capsules are being developed using a Magnetic Suspension and Balance System at NASA Langley Research Center. The measured aerodynamics of a 45-degree sphere-cone similar to configurations being considered for Mars Sample Return Earth Entry Vehicle are reported. A novel test method has been developed where forced oscillatory translation of a test article is used to excite yaw attitude oscillations. The forced motion is then halted to observe free-to-oscillate behavior of the test article. Parameter identification methods are used to extract drag as well as static and dynamic yawing moment stability characteristics from the measured forces and observed attitude histories. This combination of forced excitation followed by free-to-oscillate dynamics is a repeatable method to produce test article attitude histories that can be used to measure aerodynamic characteristics.

Entry Systems Modeling↗

NASA NTRSDate not supplied

Dynamic Stability Test Technique for Blunt Bodies in a Magnetic Suspension and Balance System

Entry Systems Modeling↗

NASA NTRS1988

Progress towards extreme attitude testing with Magnetic Suspension and Balance Systems

Progress is reported in a research effort aimed towards demonstration of the feasibility of suspension and aerodynamic testing of models at high angles of attack in wind tunnel Magnetic Suspension and Balance Systems. Extensive modifications, described in this paper, have been made to the Southampton University suspension system in order to facilitate this work. They include revision of electromagnet configuration, installation of all-new position sensors and expansion of control system programs. An angle of attack range of 0 to 90 deg is expected for axisymmetric models. To date, suspension up to 80 deg angle of attack has been achieved.

Britcher, Colin P.↗

NASA NTRSDate not supplied

Electromagnetic Modeling of Wind tunnel Magnetic Suspension and Balance Systems

An analytical framework for the open-loop behavior of a permanent magnet element levitated within an applied magnetic field are shown, in the context of application to wind tunnel Magnetic Suspension and Balance Systems (MSBS). Various modes of motion are identified, which correlate with observed behavior of the NASA/ODU 6-inch MSBS. This system is being developed as a technology demonstrator for dynamic stability testing of atmospheric entry capsules, with possible application to a supersonic wind tunnel. The analytic equations are populated with field information from experimental measurements and a finite element model. Finally, a system simulation can provide alternative estimates of system dynamic behavior via model linearization, with preliminary comparisons presented. Taken together, the analytical framework, experimental measurement, finite element analysis, and dynamic simulation provide a complete understanding of the characteristics and behavior of the MSBS.

magnetic suspension↗

NASA NTRS1989

Drag measurements on a modified prolate spheroid using a magnetic suspension and balance system

Low-speed wind tunnel drag force measurements were taken on a modified prolate spheroid free of support interference. This body was tested at zero incidence in the NASA Langley 13 inch Magnetic Suspension and Balance System. This shape was one of two bodies tested to determine the drag force measuring capabilities of the 13 inch MSBS. In addition, support interference on this shape at zero incidence was quantified by using a dummy sting. The drag force calibrations and wind-on repeatability data make it possible to assess the drag force measuring capabilities of the 13 inch MSBS. Comparisons with and without the sting showed differences in the drag coefficients with the dummy sting case resulting in lower drag coefficients.

Dress, David A.↗

NASA NTRS1989

Drag measurements on a laminar-flow body of revolution in the 13-inch magnetic suspension and balance system

Low speed wind tunnel drag force measurements were taken on a laminar flow body of revolution free of support interference. This body was tested at zero incidence in the NASA Langley 13 in. Magnetic Suspension and Balance System (MSBS). The primary objective of these tests was to substantiate the drag force measuring capabilities of the 13 in. MSBS. The drag force calibrations and wind-on repeatability data provide a means of assessing these capabilities. Additional investigations include: (1) the effects of fixing transition; (2) the effects of fins installed in the tail; and (3) surface flow visualization using both liquid crystals and oil flow. Also two simple drag prediction codes were used to assess their usefulness in estimating overall body drag.

Dress, David A.↗

NASA NTRS1988

Drag measurements on a laminar flow body of revolution in Langley's 13 inch magnetic suspension and balance system

Low-speed wind tunnel drag force measurements were taken on a laminar flow body of revolution free of support interference. This body was tested at zero incidence in the NASA Langley 13 inch Magnetic Suspension and Balance System (MSBS). The primary objective of these tests was to substantiate the drag force measuring capabilities of the 13 inch MSBS. A secondary objective was to obtain support interference free drag measurements on an axisymmetric body of interest. Both objectives were met. The drag force calibrations and wind-on repeatability data provide a means of assessing the drag force measuring capabilities of the 13 inch MSBS. The measured drag coefficients for this body are of interest to researchers actively involved in designing minimum drag fuselage shapes. Additional investigations included: the effects of fixing transition; the effects of fins installed in the tail; surface flow visualizations using both liquid crystals and oil flow; and base pressure measurements using a one-channel telemetry system. Two drag prediction codes were used to assess their usefulness in estimating overall body drag. These theoretical results did not compare well with the measured values because of the following: incorrect or non-existent modeling of a laminar separation bubble on the body and incorrect of non-existent estimates of base pressure drag.

Dress, David A.↗

NASA NTRS1990

Magnetic suspension and balance system advanced study, phase 2

The design improvements for the system encompass 14 or 18 external superconductive coils mounted on a 8 x 8 foot wind tunnel, a superconductive model core magnet on a holmium mandrel to fit an F-16 model, model wings of permanent magnet material Nd2Fe14B, and fiber glass epoxy structure. The Magnetic Suspension and Balance System (MSBS) advanced design is confirmed by the successful construction and test of a full size superconductive model core solenoid with holmium mandrel. The solenoid is 75 cm long and 12.6 cm in diameter and produces 6.1 tesla for a hold time of 47 minutes. An integrated coil system design of a new compact configuration without specific coils for roll or pitch shows promise of simplicity; magnet reductions of 30 percent compared to the most recent 1985 design are possible.

Boom, R. W.↗

NASA NTRS1989

Test techniques: A survey paper on cryogenic tunnels, adaptive wall test sections, and magnetic suspension and balance systems

The ability to get good experimental data in wind tunnels is often compromised by things seemingly beyond our control. Inadequate Reynolds number, wall interference, and support interference are three of the major problems in wind tunnel testing. Techniques for solving these problems are available. Cryogenic wind tunnels solve the problem of low Reynolds number. Adaptive wall test sections can go a long way toward eliminating wall interference. A magnetic suspension and balance system (MSBS) completely eliminates support interference. Cryogenic tunnels, adaptive wall test sections, and MSBS are surveyed. A brief historical overview is given and the present state of development and application in each area is described.

Kilgore, Robert A.↗

NASA NTRS1987

Static calibration of the RSRA active-isolator rotor balance system

The Rotor Systems Research Aircraft (RSRA) active-isolator system is designed to reduce rotor vibrations transmitted to the airframe and to simultaneously measure all six forces and moments generated by the rotor. These loads are measured by using a combination of load cells, strain gages, and hydropneumatic active isolators with built-in pressure gages. The first static calibration of the complete active-isolator rotor balance system was performed in l983 to verify its load-measurement capabilities. Analysis of the data included the use of multiple linear regressions to determine calibration matrices for different data sets and a hysteresis-removal algorithm to estimate in-flight measurement errors. Results showed that the active-isolator system can fulfill most performance predictions. The results also suggested several possible improvements to the system.

Acree, C. W., Jr.↗

NASA NTRS1987

User guide for the digital control system of the NASA/Langley Research Center's 13-inch Magnetic Suspension and Balance System

The technical background to the development of the digital control system of the NASA/Langley Research Center's 13 inch Magnetic Supension and Balance Systen (MSBS) is reviewed. The implementation of traditional MSBS control algorithms in digital form is examined. Extensive details of the 13-inch MSBS digital controller and related hardware are given, together with the introductory instructions for systems operators. Full listings of software are included in the Appendices.

Britcher, Colin P.↗