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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 NTRS1991

Design of a hydraulic actuator for active control of rotating machinery

A hydraulic actuator is described which consists of a pump, a hydraulic servo-valve, and a thin elastic plate which transduces the generated pressure variations into forces acting on a mass which simulates the bearing of a rotor system. An actuator characteristic number is defined to provide a base for an optimum design of force actuators with combined weight, frequency, and force considerations. This characteristic number may also be used to compare hydraulic and electromagnetic force actuators. In tests, this actuator generated 182.3 Newton force at a frequency of 100 Hz and a displacement amplitude of 5.8 x 10 exp -5 meter.

Rashidi, Majid↗
NASA NTRS1994

An investigation of angular stiffness and damping coefficients of an axial spline coupling in high-speed rotating machinery

This paper provided an opportunity to quantify the angular stiffness and equivalent viscous damping coefficients of an axial spline coupling used in high-speed turbomachinery. A unique test methodology and data reduction procedures were developed. The bending moments and angular deflections transmitted across an axial spline coupling were measured while a nonrotating shaft was excited by an external shaker. A rotor dynamics computer program was used to simulate the test conditions and to correlate the angular stiffness and damping coefficients. In addition, sensitivity analyses were performed to show that the accuracy of the dynamic coefficients do not rely on the accuracy of the data reduction procedures.

Ku, C.-P. Roger↗
NASA NTRS1998

Rotor Blade Pressure Measurement in a Rotating Machinery Using Pressure and Temperature Sensitive Paints

Pressure and temperature sensitive paints have been utilized for the measurement of blade surface pressure and temperature distributions in a high speed axial compressor and an Allied Signal F109 gas turbine engine. Alternate blades were painted with temperature sensitive paints and then pressure sensitive paint. This combination allows temperature distributions to be accounted for when determining the blade suction surface pressure distribution. Measurements were taken and pressure maps on the suction surface of a blade were obtained over a range of rotational speeds. Pressure maps of the suction surface show-strong shock waves at the higher speeds.

Torgerson, S.↗
NASA NTRS2015

Nonlinear Dynamic Modeling of a Supersonic Commercial Transport Turbo-Machinery Propulsion System for Aero-Propulso-Servo-Elasticity Research

This paper covers the development of an integrated nonlinear dynamic model for a variable cycle turbofan engine, supersonic inlet, and convergent-divergent nozzle that can be integrated with an aeroelastic vehicle model to create an overall Aero-Propulso-Servo-Elastic (APSE) modeling tool. The primary focus of this study is to provide a means to capture relevant thrust dynamics of a full supersonic propulsion system by using relatively simple quasi-one dimensional computational fluid dynamics (CFD) methods that will allow for accurate control algorithm development and capture the key aspects of the thrust to feed into an APSE model. Previously, propulsion system component models have been developed and are used for this study of the fully integrated propulsion system. An overview of the methodology is presented for the modeling of each propulsion component, with a focus on its associated coupling for the overall model. To conduct APSE studies the de- scribed dynamic propulsion system model is integrated into a high fidelity CFD model of the full vehicle capable of conducting aero-elastic studies. Dynamic thrust analysis for the quasi-one dimensional dynamic propulsion system model is presented along with an initial three dimensional flow field model of the engine integrated into a supersonic commercial transport.

Propulsion↗
NASA NTRS2015

Nonlinear Dynamic Modeling of a Supersonic Commercial Transport Turbo-Machinery Propulsion System for Aero-Propulso-Servo-Elasticity Research

This paper covers the development of an integrated nonlinear dynamic model for a variable cycle turbofan engine, supersonic inlet, and convergent-divergent nozzle that can be integrated with an aeroelastic vehicle model to create an overall Aero-Propulso-Servo-Elastic (APSE) modeling tool. The primary focus of this study is to provide a means to capture relevant thrust dynamics of a full supersonic propulsion system by using relatively simple quasi-one dimensional computational fluid dynamics (CFD) methods that will allow for accurate control algorithm development and capture the key aspects of the thrust to feed into an APSE model. Previously, propulsion system component models have been developed and are used for this study of the fully integrated propulsion system. An overview of the methodology is presented for the modeling of each propulsion component, with a focus on its associated coupling for the overall model. To conduct APSE studies the described dynamic propulsion system model is integrated into a high fidelity CFD model of the full vehicle capable of conducting aero-elastic studies. Dynamic thrust analysis for the quasi-one dimensional dynamic propulsion system model is presented along with an initial three dimensional flow field model of the engine integrated into a supersonic commercial transport.

Control Theory↗
NASA NTRS2020

Probabilistic Modeling of Heavy Machinery Using Machine Learning

NASA Glenn Research Center’s facility operations seeks to leverage its extensive instrumentation and historical data with machine learning to increase system efficiencies. The ultimate goal of this effort is to probabilistically model the behavior of Glenn’s central air service compressors for optimal decision making and planning. This project is a first step in that direction. We propose a multimodel approach that uses high-dimensional models to ask simple questions about complex dependent structures, and low-dimensional models to ask complex questions about simple dependent structures. While the low-dimensional models make strong assumptions, they can be visualized and they can be insightful. We show good fits for univariate models of compressor sensors, and preliminary work on high-dimensional multivariate models.

Machine learning↗
NASA NTRS1992

Accelerometer method and apparatus for integral display and control functions

Vibration analysis has been used for years to provide a determination of the proper functioning of different types of machinery, including rotating machinery and rocket engines. A determination of a malfunction, if detected at a relatively early stage in its development, will allow changes in operating mode or a sequenced shutdown of the machinery prior to a total failure. Such preventative measures result in less extensive and/or less expensive repairs, and can also prevent a sometimes catastrophic failure of equipment. Standard vibration analyzers are generally rather complex, expensive, and of limited portability. They also usually result in displays and controls being located remotely from the machinery being monitored. Consequently, a need exists for improvements in accelerometer electronic display and control functions which are more suitable for operation directly on machines and which are not so expensive and complex. The invention includes methods and apparatus for detecting mechanical vibrations and outputting a signal in response thereto. The apparatus includes an accelerometer package having integral display and control functions. The accelerometer package is suitable for mounting upon the machinery to be monitored. Display circuitry provides signals to a bar graph display which may be used to monitor machine condition over a period of time. Control switches may be set which correspond to elements in the bar graph to provide an alert if vibration signals increase over the selected trip point. The circuitry is shock mounted within the accelerometer housing. The method provides for outputting a broadband analog accelerometer signal, integrating this signal to produce a velocity signal, integrating and calibrating the velocity signal before application to a display driver, and selecting a trip point at which a digitally compatible output signal is generated. The benefits of a vibration recording and monitoring system with controls and displays readily mountable on the machinery being monitored and having capabilities described will be appreciated by those working in the art.

Bozeman, Richard J., Jr.↗
NASA NTRS1995

Direct-Circulation Stirling-Cycle Refrigerator

In proposed cryogenic system, cold working fluid (helium) circulated directly from Stirling-cycle refrigerator machinery through loop of tubing to provide 15 W of cooling power at temperature of 80 K to scientific instruments or other devices located at some distance from machinery. (Separation of cooled devices from machinery may be dictated by engineering requirements including, need to isolate cooled devices from vibrations of machinery.) Advantages include less complexity, smaller size, lighter weight, and lower power consumption.

Ellison, Woody↗
NASA NTRS1998

RNA Research

It is generally believed that an RNA World existed at an early stage in the history of life. During this early period, RNA molecules are seen to be potentially involved in both catalysis and the storage of genetic information. It is widely believed that this RNA World was extensive and therefore a sophisticated nucleic acid replication machinery would presumably predate the translation machinery which would not be needed until later stages in the development of life. This view of an extended RNA World is not necessarily correct. From the point of view of exobiology, the difference in these two views mainly affects the significance of studies of the extent of catalysis possible by RNA- In either case, the origin of the translation machinery and the principles of RNA evolution remain central problems in exobiology. Translation presents several interrelated themes of inquiry for exobiology. First, it is essential, for understanding the very origin of life, how peptides and eventually proteins might have come to be made on the early Earth in a template directed manner. Second, it is necessary to understand how a machinery of similar complexity to that found in the ribosomes of modem organisms came to exist by the time of the last common ancestor (as detected by 16S RRNA sequence studies). Third, the RNAs that comprise the ribosome are themselves likely of very early origin and studies of their history may be very informative about the nature of the RNA World. Moreover, studies of these RNAs will contribute to a better understanding of the potential roles of RNA in early evolution.

Source record↗
NASA NTRS1993

Active magnetic bearings applied to industrial compressors

The design and shop test results are given for a high-speed eight-stage centrifugal compressor supported by active magnetic bearings. A brief summary of the basic operation of active magnetic bearings and the required rotor dynamics analysis are presented with specific attention given to design considerations for optimum rotor stability. The concerns for retrofits of magnetic bearings in existing machinery are discussed with supporting analysis of a four-stage centrifugal compressor. The current status of industrial machinery in North America using this new support system is presented and recommendations are given on design and analysis requirements for successful machinery operation of either retrofit or new design turbomachinery.

Kirk, R. G.↗
NASA NTRS1992

The challenge of constraining mass for planetary construction

The challenges facing the designers of planetary construction machinery, construction methods, and indigenous construction materials are examined. Machinery and methods are studied from the perspective of mass and power constraints, and indigenous material use is viewed from a technical and mass-benefit vantage point. It is argued that the value of an object on the lunar surface is inexorably linked to its mass due to the high cost of space transportation. Payload capabilities and delivery costs for selected U.S. launch vehicles are given in tabular form. Power vs mass for selected construction vehicles and lunar surface hardware is illustrated. It is concluded that construction materials must be evaluated on their mass-cost of production vs the mass of equal materials delivered direct. Machinery must be designed to be both mass and power efficient, with a premium on performance per unit of mass and power.

Connolly, John F.↗
NASA NTRS1999

Dreams, Hopes, Realities: NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center, the First Forty Years

Throughout history, the great achievements of civilizations and cultures have been recorded in lists of dates and events. But to look only at the machinery, discoveries, or milestones is to miss the value of these achievements. Each goal achieved or discovery or made represents a supreme effort on the part of individual people who came and worked together for a purpose greater than themselves. Driven by an innate curiosity of the spirit, we have built civilizations and discovered new worlds, always reaching out beyond what we knew or thought was possible. These efforts may have used ships or machinery, but the achievement was that of the humans who made those machines possible- remarkable people willing to endure discomfort, frustration, fatigue, and the risk of failure in the hope of finding out something new. This is the case with the history of the Goddard Space Flight Center. This publication traces the legacy of successes, risks, disappointments and internationally recognized triumphs of the Center's first 40 years. It is a story of technological achievement and scientific discovery; of reaching back to the dawn of time and opening up a new set of eyes on our own planet Earth. In the end, it is not a story about machinery or discoveries, but a story about ourselves. If we were able to step off our planet, and if we continue to discover new mysteries and better technology, it is because the people who work at Goddard always had a passion for exploration and the dedication to make it happen. The text that follows is a testimony to the challenges people at the Goddard Space Flight Center have faced and overcome over almost half a century. Today, we stand on the threshold of a new and equally challenging era. It will once again test our ingenuity, skills, and flexibility as we find new ways of working with our colleagues in industry, government, and academia. Doing more with less is every bit as ambitious as designing the first science instrument to study the heavens. But if we are to continue exploring our world and our universe, it is every bit as important. Robert H. Goddard once said, "The dream of yesterday is the hope of today and the reality of tomorrow." This is our heritage. Our challenge is to keep our spirit of dedication, vision, and innovative thinking alive, so we can turn today's dreams into a new century of possibility and progress. Our journeys into space are the greatest ongoing adventure the human race has ever undertaken, and everyone here has played an important role in that endeavor. This book is about everyone who has worked at the Goddard Space Flight Center.

Wallace, Lane E.↗
NASA NTRS2013

Adaptive Phase Delay Generator

There are several experimental setups involving rotating machinery that require some form of synchronization. The adaptive phase delay generator (APDG) the Bencic-1000 is a flexible instrument that allows the user to generate pulses synchronized to the rising edge of a tachometer signal from any piece of rotating machinery. These synchronized pulses can vary by the delay angle, pulse width, number of pulses per period, number of skipped pulses, and total number of pulses. Due to the design of the pulse generator, any and all of these parameters can be changed independently, yielding an unparalleled level of versatility. There are two user interfaces to the APDG. The first is a LabVIEW program that has the advantage of displaying all of the pulse parameters and input signal data within one neatly organized window on the PC monitor. Furthermore, the LabVIEW interface plots the rpm of the two input signal channels in real time. The second user interface is a handheld portable device that goes anywhere a computer is not accessible. It consists of a liquid-crystal display and keypad, which enable the user to control the unit by scrolling through a host of command menus and parameter listings. The APDG combines all of the desired synchronization control into one unit. The experimenter can adjust the delay, pulse width, pulse count, number of skipped pulses, and produce a specified number of pulses per revolution. Each of these parameters can be changed independently, providing an unparalleled level of versatility when synchronizing hardware to a host of rotating machinery. The APDG allows experimenters to set up quickly and generate a host of synchronizing configurations using a simple user interface, which hopefully leads to faster results.

Greer, Lawrence↗
NASA NTRSDate not supplied

Characterizing the Impact of Equatorial Plasma Bubbles on GNSS Accuracy for Crop Yield Estimation in Brazil with NASA GOLD Data

In Brazil, equatorial plasma bubbles are the primary space weather phenomenon impacting the performance of Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS), causing signal disruptions and positional inaccuracies in agricultural machinery used for mapping fields, guiding machinery, and ensuring accurate planting, spraying, and harvesting. As a result, farmers and stakeholders face challenges in maintaining accurate operational capabilities, often needing to shut down machinery to mitigate these effects. This project evaluated the feasibility of using NASA’s Heliophysics observations for a case study in March 2024. Data from NASA's Global-scale Observations of the Limb and Disk (GOLD) instrument were used to characterize equatorial plasma bubbles, while amplitude and phase indices from ground-based GNSS receivers confirmed their presence and impact on signal disruptions. Additionally, data from a local farm's rover receiver assessed the practical implications of these disruptions on Real-Time Kinematic (RTK) GNSS-based operations by calculating the 2-dimensional error. The project involved collaboration across multiple different organizations and sectors, including NASA’s Crustal Dynamics Data Information System (CDDIS) researchers, John Deere, a Brazilian farm for data acquisition, and Brazilian universities for data interpretation. The results aim to inform Brazilian farmers about position errors affecting their precision agriculture operations and provide insights into the needs of space weather data users and modeling. Lessons from this case study will guide future integration of space weather data and modeling with end users.

Melissa Marquez↗
NASA NTRS1974

Cavitation in liquid cryogens. 4: Combined correlations for venturi, hydrofoil, ogives, and pumps

The results of a series of experimental and analytical cavitation studies are presented. Cross-correlation is performed of the developed cavity data for a venturi, a hydrofoil and three scaled ogives. The new correlating parameter, MTWO, improves data correlation for these stationary bodies and for pumping equipment. Existing techniques for predicting the cavitating performance of pumping machinery were extended to include variations in flow coefficient, cavitation parameter, and equipment geometry. The new predictive formulations hold promise as a design tool and universal method for correlating pumping machinery performance. Application of these predictive formulas requires prescribed cavitation test data or an independent method of estimating the cavitation parameter for each pump. The latter would permit prediction of performance without testing; potential methods for evaluating the cavitation parameter prior to testing are suggested.

Hord, J.↗
NASA NTRS1973

Analysis of a combined refrigerator-generator space power system

Description of a single-shaft and a two-shaft rotating machinery arrangements using neon for application in a combined refrigerator-generator power system for space missions. The arrangements consist of combined assemblies of a power turbine, alternator, compressor, and cry-turbine with a single-stage radial-flow design. A computer program was prepared to study the thermodynamics of the dual system in the evaluation of its cryocooling/electric capacity and appropriate weight. A preliminary analysis showed that a two-shaft arrangement of the power- and refrigeration-loop rotating machinery provided better output capacities than a single-shaft arrangement, without prohibitive operating compromises.

Klann, J. L.↗