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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 721 records · Page 40

Transform approach to electromagnetic scattering

In this paper, a comprehensive review of the Fourier transform technique as applied to the problem of high-frequency scattering is presented and the concepts of the spectral theory of diffraction (STD) are introduced. In contrast to the more commonly employed ray-optical method for high-frequency scattering, the STD approach interprets the scattered field as the spectrum, or the Fourier transform of the induced current on the scatterer. Such an interpretation offers several important advantages: uniform nature of representation, capacity to improve and extend the ray-optical formulas in a systematic manner, and convenient accuracy tests for the results. Methods for combining integral equation methods with the Galerkin procedure and asymptotic techniques in the transform domain are described, and representative examples illustrating the application of the spectral approach are included.

Mittra, R.↗

A non-interactive approach to land use determination

An operational procedure for use by the Corps of Engineers to acquire land use information for hydrologic planning purposes is described. The operational constraints preclude the use of dedicated, interactive image processing facilities. The procedure combines manual interpretation techniques and the batch-mode computer analysis of Landsat digital data. An example of the application of the procedure to an urban watershed is described.

Algazi, V. R.↗

Solution of electromagnetic scattering and radiation problems using a spectral domain approach - A review

This paper presents a brief review of some recent developments on the use of the spectral-domain approach for deriving high-frequency solutions to electromagnetics scattering and radiation problems. The spectral approach is not only useful for interpreting the well-known Keller formulas based on the geometrical theory of diffraction (GTD), it can also be employed for verifying the accuracy of GTD and other asymptotic solutions and systematically improving the results when such improvements are needed. The problem of plane wave diffraction by a finite screen or a strip is presented as an example of the application of the spectral-domain approach.

Mittra, R.↗

On the numerical solution of time-dependent viscous incompressible fluid flows involving solid boundaries

An inherent numerical problem associated with the fully explicit pseudospectral numerical simulation of the incompressible Navier-Stokes equation for viscous flows with no-slip walls is described. A semi-implicit scheme which circumvents this numerical difficulty is presented. In this algorithm the equation of continuity rather than the Poisson equation for pressure is solved directly. Pseudospectral formulation of the channel flow problem using Fourier series and Chebyshev polynomials expansions is given for this scheme. An example demonstrating the applicability of the method is given.

Moin, P.↗

A computer-aided design system geared toward conceptual design in a research environment

A computer-aided design system has recently been developed specifically for the small research group environment. The system is implemented on a Prime 400 minicomputer linked with a CDC 6600 computer. The goal was to assign the minicomputer specific tasks, such as data input and graphics, thereby reserving the large mainframe computer for time-consuming analysis codes. The basic structure of the design system consists of GEMPAK, a computer code that generates detailed configuration geometry from a minimum of input; interface programs that reformat GEMPAK geometry for input to the analysis codes; and utility programs that simplify computer access and data interpretation. The working system has had a large positive impact on the quantity and quality of research performed by the originating group. This paper describes the system, the major factors that contributed to its particular form, and presents examples of its application.

STACK S. H.↗

Remote Raman measurement techniques

The use of laser Raman measurement techniques in remote sensing applications is surveyed. A feasibility index is defined as a means to characterize the practicality of a given remote Raman measurement application. Specific applications of Raman scattering to the measurement of atmospheric water vapor profiles, methane plumes from liquid natural gas spills, and subsurface ocean temperature profiles are described. This paper will survey the use of laser Raman measurement techniques in remote sensing applications using as examples specific systems that the Computer Genetics Corporation (CGC) group has developed and engineered.

Leonard, D. A.↗

Development of a comprehensive analysis for rotorcraft. I - Rotor model and wake analysis

The development of a comprehensive analytical model of rotorcraft aerodynamics and dynamics is described. Particular emphasis is given to describing the reasons behind the choices and decisions involved in constructing the model. The analysis is designed to calculate rotor performance, loads and noise; helicopter vibration and gust response; flight dynamics and handling qualities; and system aeroelastic stability. It is intended for use in the design, testing and evaluation of a wide class of rotors and rotorcraft, and to be the basis for further development of rotary wing theories. The general characteristics of the geometric, structural, inertial, and aerodynamic models used for the rotorcraft components are described, including the assumptions introduced by the chosen models and the resulting capabilities and limitations. Finally, some examples from recent applications of the analysis are given.

Johnson, W.↗

Evaluation and universal curves of the photon loss probability

In the transfer of radiation in a plasma, an important parameter (which measures the coupling between the radiation field and the electron gas) is the photon loss probability per scattering epsilon, defined as the ratio of collisional de-excitation to total de-excitation. The evaluation of epsilon requires normally knowledge of specific collisional excitation rates and radiative transition rate coefficients. In the considered investigation a general formula for epsilon is obtained which depends only on electron density, temperature, and line wavelength. Use is made of a simple Bethe-Coulomb expression recently derived by Kastner (1980) for the collisional excitation rate coefficient. Epsilon is obtained as a function of the three variables, and universal curves of it can be constructed with one of the variables as parameter. As an example of the application of the considered procedure, the variation of epsilon with height h in the solar atmosphere is shown in a graph for several solar lines.

Kastner, S. O.↗

Astronomical data bases and retrieval systems

The status of the development of machine-readable stellar and extragalactic data bases is summarized, including several examples of astronomical applications using these data sets. The creation of a computerized bibliographical data base for cometary research is described.

Mead, J. M.↗

Contribution to CCN Workshop report from University of Wyoming group

The group's CCN counter is described. It is a static, horizontal, parallel plate thermal gradient diffusion chamber. Examples of the application of the CCN are presented and include the CCN spectra measured during the winter of 1978-79 near Elk Mountain, Wyoming. Comparisons of droplet concentrations derived from upwind CCN spectra are covered.

Rogers, D. C.↗

Cloud-encounter and particle-concentration variabilities from GASP data

Summary statistics, tabulations, and variability studies are presented for cloud encounter and particle concentration data taken as part of the NASA global atmospheric sampling program. Cloud encounter was experienced in about 15 percent of the data samples; however, the percentage varies with season, latitude, and altitude (particularly distance from the tropopause). In agreement with classical storm models, the data show more clouds in the upper troposphere in anticyclones than in cyclones. The concentration of particles with a diameter greater than 3 micron also varies with time and location, depending primarily on the horizontal extent of cloudiness. Some examples of the application of the statistical data to the estimation of the frequency of cloud encounter and laminar flow loss to be expected on long range airline routes are also presented.

Nastrom, G. D.↗

A determination of the current density in electron beams

Current gathering rotating probe techniques were used to examine the envelope shape and power density profile of electron beams used in electron beam welding devices. The electron power density contours which determine the shape of the weld vapor cavity, penetration, and local heat distribution were considered. A mathematical analysis consistent with a rotating probe technique necessary to determine the current density distribution (assumed symmetrically radial) in a cross-section of the beam is provided. An explanation of the experimental technique for obtaining data, a BASIC language computer program to determine the current density from the data, and a study indicating the level of confidence to be associated with results obtained are also provided. An example of the application of the analysis to some experimental electron beam data is included.

Beil, R. J.↗

Urban area change detection procedures with remote sensing data

The underlying factors affecting the detection and identification of nonurban to urban land cover change using satellite data were studied. Computer programs were developed to create a digital scene and to simulate the effect of the sensor point spread function (PSF) on the transfer of modulation from the scene to an image of the scene. The theory behind the development of a digital filter representing the PSF is given as well as an example of its application. Atmospheric effects on modulation transfer are also discussed. A user's guide and program listings are given.

Maxwell, E. L.↗

A noninteractive procedure for land-use determination

A complete operational procedure designed for use by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for the determination of land-use information for hydrologic planning purposes is reported. The procedure combines photo interpretation techniques and the batch-mode computer analysis of Landsat digital data. Since the operational constraints preclude the use of dedicated, interactive image processing facilities, several novel approaches to geometric correction, classification, and data input/output were developed. The procedure is summarized, and examples of the application of the procedure to urban watersheds are described. In spite of the constraints, the procedure provides results comparable in accuracy and lower in cost than those provided by commercial services using interactive techniques.

Ford, G. E.↗

Tethers open new space options

Several examples of possible applications of the tethering concept in space are examined. In particular, attention is given to a practical design of a 500-kg satellite system to be tethered at a distance of 100 km from the Space Shuttle. The satellite body has the form of a sphere, aerodynamically stabilized and fitted with a dockline adapter that mates with a capture mechanism at the tip of an extendable boom; the tether is a very flexible synthetic line 1-2 mm in diameter. Other applications include a wholly passive stable platform created by tethering two rows of empty Shuttle External Tanks or similar masses 10-20 km apart, a remote docking port for a space station, and constellations of space objects, with tethers used to tie them together and constrain their relative motions.

Bekey, I.↗

In situ trace element microanalysis

The use of particle-track-radiography and X-ray- fluorescence techniques in the in situ measurement of trace (less than 1000 ppm) elements in single mineral phases of polished sections is surveyed, and examples of their application to ordinary, carbonaceous and enstatite chondrites are provided. Radiographic methods surveyed include fission-track radiography (for U, Th, and Pu-244), alpha radiography using nuclear reactions (for Li and B), alpha autoradiography (for Bi and Pb), and beta autoradiography (for several elements in synthetic or biological samples). Two X-ray-fluorescence methods are compared: (1) photon-induced X-ray emission (PIXE), and (2) the potential use of synchrotron radiation. The latter is shown to allow much greater sensitivity than current PIXE technology and a much broader range of elements than particle-track radiography: the ppm analysis of 10-micron grains for all elements heavier than Na. These advantages are seen as balancing the high cost of accelerator use.

Burnett, D. S.↗

Laser diagnostic methods - A summary

This is a summary and discussion of the state of the art in the use of laser diagnostics in fluid and plasma dynamics. This will encompass: interferometry, scattering, spectroscopy, and velocimetry. Examples of such applications will be provided in the area of fluid dynamics of particle generation and breakup, analysis of three-dimensional density fields, and applications in combustion.

Trolinger, J. D.↗

Shuttle measured contaminant environment and modeling for payloads. Preliminary assessment of the space telescope environment in the shuttle bay

A baseline gaseous and particulate environment of the Shuttle bay was developed based on the various measurements which were made during the first four flights of the Shuttle. The environment is described by the time dependent pressure, density, scattered molecular fluxes, the column densities and including the transient effects of water dumps, engine firings and opening and closing of the bay doors. The particulate conditions in the ambient and on surfaces were predicted as a function of the mission time based on the available data. This basic Shuttle environment when combined with the outgassing and the particulate contributions of the payloads, can provide a description of the environment of a payload in the Shuttle bay. As an example of this application, the environment of the Space Telescope in the bay, which may be representative of the environment of several payloads, was derived. Among the many findings obtained in the process of modeling the environment, one is that the payloads environment in the bay is not substantially different or more objectionable than the self-generated environment of a large payload or spacecraft. It is, however, more severe during ground facilities operations, the first 15 to 20 hours of the flight, during and for a short period after ater was dumped overboard, and the reaction control engines are being fired.

Scialdone, J. J.↗