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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 775 records · Page 43

A review of helicopter control-display requirements for decelarating instrument approach

This paper reviews research and operational test programs that have dealt with control and display requirements for helicopters performing decelerating approaches in the terminal area under instrument flight conditions. A survey of literature concentrating on flight programs resulted in approximately 50 applicable references which were summarized and classified according to the type of stability/control augmentation that was emphasized. On this basis, display information requirements for each control system type were hypothesized consistent with documented results of these programs. Nine control-display combinations that appear to warrant further ground simulation and flight testing are defined and discussed.

Lebacqz, J. V.↗

A New Real - Time Fault Detection Methodology for Systems Under Test

The purpose of this research is focussed on the identification/demonstration of critical technology innovations that will be applied to various applications viz. Detection of automated machine Health Monitoring (BM, real-time data analysis and control of Systems Under Test (SUT). This new innovation using a High Fidelity Dynamic Model-based Simulation (BFDMS) approach will be used to implement a real-time monitoring, Test and Evaluation (T&E) methodology including the transient behavior of the system under test. The unique element of this process control technique is the use of high fidelity, computer generated dynamic models to replicate the behavior of actual Systems Under Test (SUT). It will provide a dynamic simulation capability that becomes the reference truth model, from which comparisons are made with the actual raw/conditioned data from the test elements.

Johnson, Roger W.↗

Application of piezoelectric devices to vibration suppression - From modeling and controller designs to implementation

Embedded piezoelectric devices may be ideally suited for vibration control of space structures, which lack an inertial ground. When subjected to an input voltage, an embedded piezoelectric actuator changes its dimensions, which in turn generates a pair of forces exerted on adjacent structural members. From the direct piezoelectric effect, an embedded piezoelectric transducer generates an electric charge proportional to the structural dynamic response. In this paper, the implementation, testing and modeling of an active truss structure consisting of piezoelectric sensors and actuators are described. Linear quadratic Gaussian (LQG), second-order, and direct rate feedback control schemes are designed to suppress the vibrations of the active structure. Simulation and test results are presented. It is shown that special model reduction considerations are required to achieve good correlation between test and analysis.

Won, Chin C.↗

Computational Methods for HSCT-Inlet Controls/CFD Interdisciplinary Research

A program aimed at facilitating the use of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations by the controls discipline is presented. The objective is to reduce the development time and cost for propulsion system controls by using CFD simulations to obtain high-fidelity system models for control design and as numerical test beds for control system testing and validation. An interdisciplinary team has been formed to develop analytical and computational tools in three discipline areas: controls, CFD, and computational technology. The controls effort has focused on specifying requirements for an interface between the controls specialist and CFD simulations and a new method for extracting linear, reduced-order control models from CFD simulations. Existing CFD codes are being modified to permit time accurate execution and provide realistic boundary conditions for controls studies. Parallel processing and distributed computing techniques, along with existing system integration software, are being used to reduce CFD execution times and to support the development of an integrated analysis/design system. This paper describes: the initial application for the technology being developed, the high speed civil transport (HSCT) inlet control problem; activities being pursued in each discipline area; and a prototype analysis/design system in place for interactive operation and visualization of a time-accurate HSCT-inlet simulation.

Cole, Gary L.↗

Digital electronic engine control fault detection and accommodation flight evaluation

The capabilities and performance of various fault detection and accommodation (FDA) schemes in existing and projected engine control systems were investigated. Flight tests of the digital electronic engine control (DEEC) in an F-15 aircraft show discrepancies between flight results and predictions based on simulation and altitude testing. The FDA methodology and logic in the DEEC system, and the results of the flight failures which occurred to date are described.

Baer-Ruedhart, J. L.↗

High-Alpha Research Vehicle (HARV) longitudinal controller: Design, analyses, and simulation resultss

This paper describes the design, analysis, and nonlinear simulation results (batch and piloted) for a longitudinal controller which is scheduled to be flight-tested on the High-Alpha Research Vehicle (HARV). The HARV is an F-18 airplane modified for and equipped with multi-axis thrust vectoring. The paper includes a description of the facilities, a detailed review of the feedback controller design, linear analysis results of the feedback controller, a description of the feed-forward controller design, nonlinear batch simulation results, and piloted simulation results. Batch simulation results include maximum pitch stick agility responses, angle of attack alpha captures, and alpha regulation for full lateral stick rolls at several alpha's. Piloted simulation results include task descriptions for several types of maneuvers, task guidelines, the corresponding Cooper-Harper ratings from three test pilots, and some pilot comments. The ratings show that desirable criteria are achieved for almost all of the piloted simulation tasks.

Ostroff, Aaron J.↗

Hardware-in-the-Loop Evaluation of an Advanced Distributed Energy Resource Management Algorithm

This paper presents the laboratory performance evaluation of voltage regulation under a new distributed energy resource management system (DERMS) algorithm via an advanced hardware-in-tbe-loop (HIL) platform. The HIL platform provides realistic testing in a laboratory environment, including the accurate modeling of a full-scale real-world distribution system from a utility partner, the DERMS software controller, and power hardware photovoltaic (PV) inverters. The new DERMS algorithm is developed based on online multiobjective optimization (OMOO) algorithms that perform fast dispatch of distributed solar PV simulated in a real-time digital simulator and real physical hardware devices. Experimental tests confirm the correct functioning of the HIL platform for evaluating controller algorithms and satisfactory voltage regulation performance of the developed OMOO algorithms.

41 EE - Solar Energy Technologies Office (EE-4S)↗

Hardware-in-the-Loop Evaluation of an Advanced Distributed Energy Resource Management Algorithm: Preprint

This paper presents the laboratory performance evaluation of voltage regulation under a new distributed energy resource management system (DERMS) algorithm via an advanced hardware-in-tbe-loop (HIL) platform. The HIL platform provides realistic testing in a laboratory environment, including the accurate modeling of a full-scale real-world distribution system from a utility partner, the DERMS software controller, and power hardware photovoltaic (PV) inverters. The new DERMS algorithm is developed based on online multiobjective optimization (OMOO) algorithms that perform fast dispatch of distributed solar PV simulated in a real-time digital simulator and real physical hardware devices. Experimental tests confirm the correct functioning of the HIL platform for evaluating controller algorithms and satisfactory voltage regulation performance of the developed OMOO algorithms.

41 EE - Solar Energy Technologies Office (EE-4S)↗

Electric Water Heaters for Transactive Systems: Model Evaluations and Performance Quantification

Electric water heaters (EWHs) are opportune appliances for implementing demand-side control. EWH models serve as a fundamental step toward accurately estimating EWH flexibility potential and designing proper control strategies. Existing studies have adapted numerous modeling approaches in evaluating the potential of EWHs for a variety of grid applications. This paper presents an analytical study that evaluates the performance of state-of-art EWH models in terms of accuracy and computational complexity for adaptation in evaluation studies for the transactive system. The work proposes a transactive control strategy that optimally utilizes the thermal inertia of EWHs for providing grid services. Here, the performance of the control strategy and the impact of modeling accuracy is evaluated for device-level and feeder-level use cases using the IEEE 123 node test distribution system appropriately populated with EWHs. The simulation results illustrate the effectiveness of the control strategy in reducing the feeder demand during peak period by 13% and also quantities the impact of using simplified modeling approaches for determining the potential of EWHs for providing grid services.

42 ENGINEERING↗

Design, implementation, simulation, and testing of digital flutter suppression systems for the active flexible wing wind-tunnel model

Active flutter suppression control laws were designed, implemented, and tested on an aeroelastically-scaled wind-tunnel model in the NASA Langley Transonic Dynamics Tunnel. One of the control laws was successful in stabilizing the model while the dynamic pressure was increased to 24 percent greater than the measured open-loop flutter boundary. Other accomplishments included the design, implementation, and successful operation of a one-of-a-kind digital controller, the design and use of two simulation methods to support the projet, and the development and successful use of a methodology for online controller performance evaluation.

Perry, Boyd, III↗

Study of the use of a nonlinear, rate-limited filter on pilot control signals

The use of a nonlinear, rate limited filter for rejecting the remnant (noise) in a pilot's control signal was studied through both an analytical study using pilot models and a simulation study using experienced test pilots. The nonlinear filter was compared with a linear filter and with no filter for both attitude and altitude control tasks. The results show that the nonlinear filter does promote rapid, steady maneuvering better than either the linear filter or the no filter condition. In addition, if the rate limit in the nonlinear filter is set so that it is too restrictive, a pilot induced unstable altitude oscillation can result.

Adams, J. J.↗

Comparison of scaled model data to full size energy efficient engine test results

Acoustic tests of a subscale fan and a subscale mixer nozzle were conducted in anechoic chambers over a variety of operating conditions. The subscale fan test was an investigation into the effects of vane/blade ratio and spacing on fan generated noise. A turbulence control structure (TCS) was used to simulate the 'turbulence-free' condition in flight. The subscale mixer nozzle test investigated the acoustic properties of several different forced mixer designs. A tertiary flow was utilized on the mixer model to simulate the forward velocity effects on the jet. The results were scaled up to full size conditions and compared with measured engine data. The comparisons showed good agreement between the component scaled model results and the full scale engine data.

Lavin, S. P.↗

Thermal performance of MSFC hot air collectors under natural and simulated conditions

The procedures used and the results obtained from an evaluation test program conducted to determine the thermal performance and structural characteristics of selected MSFC--designed hot air collectors under both real and simulated environmental conditions are described. Five collectors were tested in the three phased program. A series of outdoor tests were conducted to determine stagnation temperatures on a typical bright day and to determine each collector's ability to withstand these temperatures. Two of the collectors experienced structural deformation sufficient to eliminate them from the remainder of the test program. A series of outdoor tests to evaluate the thermal performance of collector S/N 10 under certain test conditions were performed followed by a series of indoor tests to evaluate the thermal performance of the collector under closely controlled simulated conditions.

Shih, K., Sr.↗

Experiments On Active Members In Large Space Structures

Report discusses continuing research on structures including active members, which incorporate sensors, actuators, and electronic circuits to monitor and control vibrations. Describes experiments on two structures with active members, progress in design, testing, and simulation of behavior of active members. Objective is to develop systems to enhance performances of large, flexible structures in space. Also applicable to some terrestrial structures and testing equipment involving close tolerances in feedback control of forces and/or positions.

Fanson, James L.↗

TRANSP-based optimization towards tokamak scenario development

An optimization approach that incorporates the predictive transport code TRANSP is proposed for tokamak scenario development. Optimization methods are often employed to develop open-loop control strategies to aid access to high performance tokamak scenarios. Generally, the optimization approaches use control-oriented models, i.e. models that are reduced in complexity and prediction accuracy as compared to physics-oriented transport codes such as TRANSP. In the presented approach, an optimization procedure using the TRANSP code to simulate the tokamak plasma is considered for improved predictive capabilities. As a test case, the neutral beam injection (NBI) power is optimized to develop a control strategy that maximizes the noninductive current fraction during the ramp-up phase for NSTX-U. Simulation studies towards the achievement of noninductive ramp-up in NSTX-U have already been carried out with the TRANSP code. The optimization-based approach presented in this work is used to maximize the noninductive current fraction during ramp-up in NSTX-U, demonstrating that the scenario development task can be automated. An additional test case considers optimization of the current ramp rate in DIII-D for obtaining a stationary plasma characterized by a flat loop voltage profile in the flattop phase.

70 PLASMA PHYSICS AND FUSION TECHNOLOGY↗

Design and Evaluation of a Model-Free Frequency Control Strategy in Islanded Microgrids with Power-Hardware-in-the-Loop Testing

The deterioration of inertial and primary frequency response of islanded microgrids has been a crucial issue for the proper operation of such microgrids. Several approaches, including inertia emulation strategies, have been proposed to improve the primary frequency response. However, the demonstrations of most inertia emulation research works are based on simulation-only testing which hinder their applicability in the field. In this paper, a novel model-free control (MFC) strategy for frequency response support in a diesel-wind microgrid system is presented, and it is tested for evaluation using a power-hardware-in-the-Ioop (PHIL) platform. The PHIL testing is one step closer to field testing since it allows real-time verification and accounts for the nonlinear grid dynamics, noise, and time delays that are usually ignored in simulation-only environments. The proposed MFC strategy is fully distributed, has low computational requirements, and can be easily implemented in resource constrained devices such as smart inverters. A PHIL microgrid platform consisting of two type-3 wind turbine generators and one diesel generator is used to test the proposed MFC strategy.

Ferrari Maglia, Max↗

Piloted Simulation Investigation of a Supersonic Transport Configuration (LaRC.4)

This report contains a description of the test facilities and software utilized during a joint NASA/aerospace industry study of improved control laws and desired inceptor characteristics for a candidate supersonic transport air-craft design. Details concerning the characteristics of the simulation cockpit, image generator and display systems, and motion platform are described. Depictions of the various display formats are included. The test schedule, session log, and flight cards describing the maneuvers performed is included. A brief summary of high-lights of the study is given. Modifications made to the industry-provided simulation model are described. This report is intended to serve as a reference document for industry researchers.

Jackson, E. Bruce↗

Development and Testing of an ISRU Soil Mechanics Vacuum Test Facility

For extraterrestrial missions, earth based testing in relevant environments is key to successful hardware development. This is true for both early component level development and system level integration. For In-Situ Resource Utilization (ISRU) on the moon, hardware must interface with the surface material, or regolith, in a vacuum environment. A relevant test environment will therefore involve a vacuum chamber with a controlled, properly conditioned bed of lunar regolith simulant. However, in earth-based granular media, such as lunar regolith simulant, gases trapped within the material pore structures and water adsorbed to all particle surfaces will release when exposed to vacuum. Early vacuum testing has shown that this gas release can occur violently, which loosens and weakens the simulant, altering the consolidation state. A mid-size chamber (3.66 m tall, 1.5 m inner diameter) at the NASA Glenn Research Center has been modified to create a soil mechanics test facility. A 0.64 m deep by 0.914 m square metric ton bed of lunar simulant was placed under vacuum using a variety of pumping techniques. Both GRC-3 and LHT-3M simulant types were used. Data obtained from an electric cone penetrometer can be used to determine strength properties at vacuum including: cohesion, friction angle, bulk density and shear modulus. Simulant disruptions, caused by off-gassing, affected the strength properties, but could be mitigated by reducing pump rate. No disruptions were observed at pressures below 2.5 Torr, regardless of the pump rate. The slow off-gassing of the soil at low pressure lead to long test times; a full week to reach 10(exp -5) Torr. Robotic soil manipulation would enable multiple ISRU hardware test within the same vacuum cycle. The feasibility of a robotically controlled auger and tamper was explored at vacuum conditions.

lunar regolith↗