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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 109 records · Page 6

NASA F-106B lightning tests

Lightning simulation ground tests conducted on the NASA F-106B research aircraft to elicit natural strikes are summarized. The purpose of the test program was to measure the response of the aircraft's electromagnetic sensors and interior wire circuits to a controlled ground test environment that simulates the electromagnetic effects of a lightning strike. Both direct attachment and radiated field tests were conducted. In most cases, the aircraft's engine was running and test data were gathered simultaneously from NASA and MCAIR sensors on both the aircraft's own instrumentation system and the remote MCAIR computer-controlled data acquisition system. During the direct attachment tests, the input inductance, output condition (hard-wired or spark gap), and the output location were varied to provide a wide variety of test conditons. The radiated tests to the isolated aircraft were conducted to excite and measure the natural resonances of the F-106B aircraft.

Heady, B. D.↗

Development of Shape Memory Alloys- Challenges and Solutions

Shape memory alloys (SMAs) are a unique class of multifunctional materials that have the ability to recover large deformations or generate high stresses in response to thermal, mechanical andor electromagnetic stimuli. These abilities have made them a viable option for actuation systems in aerospace, medical, and automotive applications, amongst others. However, despite many advantages and the fact that SMA actuators have been developed and used for many years, so far they have only found service in a limited range of applications. In order to expand their applications, further developments are needed to increase their reliability and stability and to address processing, testing and qualification needed for large-scale commercial application of SMA actuators. In this seminar, historical inhibitors of SMA applications and current research efforts by NASA Glenn Research Center and collaborators will be discussed. Relationships between fundamental physicalscientific understanding, and the direct transition to engineering and design of mechanisms using these novel materials will be highlighted. Examples will be presented related to targeted alloy development, microstructural control, and bulk-scale testing as a function of stresses, temperatures and harsh environments. The seminar will conclude with a summary of SMA applications under development and current advances.

Shape Memory Alloy↗

Variety in the Variability of Accreting Supermassive Binary Black Holes

Accreting supermassive binary black holes are key multi-messenger sources for LISA, yet are challenging to simulate realistically as solving the radiation magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) equations over the full dynamic spatio-temporal range of the problem is computationally infeasible at present. We report on our collaboration's progress simulating these systems using general relativistic MHD simulations and dynamic GR. In order to cover a larger temporal range in one set of simulations, we constrain our view to the circumbinary disk region and measure the effects binary mass ratio, accretion disk size, and black hole spin have on the structure and variability of the accretion flow. We particularly emphasize how these parameters influence the overdensity feature, which orbits the binary near the edge of the cavity, since it is responsible for most of the electromagnetic emission's variability and variability is a key signature of a system being a binary. Extending to smaller length scales, we will report on simulations following accretion all the down to the event horizons so that we can begin to investigate how black hole spin affects mini-disk dynamics, accretion rate, and jet power.

Scott C Noble↗

Shape Memory Alloys – Not Your Ordinary Metal

Sixty years after the discovery of shape memory alloys (SMAs), many actuation and structural applications using these materials have been conceived and developed. SMAs are a unique class of multifunctional materials that have the ability to recover large deformations and generate high stresses in response to thermal, mechanical and/or electromagnetic stimuli. These abilities have made them a viable option for actuation/structural systems in aerospace applications, amongst others. However, designing with SMAs is a paradigm shift from the conventional way we look at metals and mechanisms. In this course, you will learn how the unique properties of SMAs can be applied to designing mechanisms and the associated benefits. Basic primer will be provided on what they are and why they work with examples of the most successful applications that have been imagined. Common design tool and properties-database will be discussed.

Othmane Benafan↗

Variety in the Variability of Accreting Supermassive Binary Black Holes

Accreting supermassive binary black holes are key multi-messenger sources for LISA, yet are challenging to simulate realistically as solving the radiation magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) equations over the full dynamic spatio-temporal range of the problem is computationally infeasible at present. We will provide a brief summary of the the progress made in the field to understand these systems theoretically and what new directions groups are pursuing. We will also report on our collaboration's progress to simulate these systems using general relativistic MHD and dynamic GR. In order to cover a larger temporal range in one set of simulations, we constrain our view to the circumbinary disk region and measure how the binary mass ratio, accretion disk size, and black hole spin have on the structure and variability of the accretion flow. We particularly emphasize how these parameters influence the overdensity feature, which orbits the binary near the edge of the cavity, since it is responsible for most of the electromagnetic emission's variability and variability is a key signature of a system being a binary. Extending to smaller length scales, we will report on simulations following accretion all the down to the event horizons so that we can begin to investigate how black hole spin affects mini-disk dynamics, accretion rate, and jet power. The novel computational methods enabling inclusion of the black holes in the domain, including multi-patch methods, will be described.

Scott C Noble↗

Physics of Rotation Powered Pulsars and Their Nebulae

This letter is my progress report for the Astrophysics Theory grant. The first goal of the research supported by this grant is to produce a time dependent theory of the unsteady relativistic collisionless shock wave terminating the relativistic wind from a pulsar, and compare the predicted surface brightness fluctuations to Hubble Space Telescope observations of the wisps in the Crab Nebula. The second goal is to model the production of electron-positron pairs over the polar caps of rotation powered pulsars, and use the results to predict the heating of the surface due to particle trapping and bombardment of the atmosphere at the base of the polar field lines. We have succeeded in creating a one dimensional hybrid code, in which the electron-positron pairs incident on the shock structure are modeled as a relativistic, adiabatic, ideal MHD fluid, while the heavy ions are treated as particles using a particle-in-cell algorithm. The electromagnetic fields are evaluated from the currents and charge densities in the pairs and the ions, while the particles and the fluid accelerate in response to the computed self-consistent electromagnetic fields. The results are promising, in that the underlying ion cyclotron instability generates finite amplitude, propagating magnetosonic waves in the pairs, whose wavelengths and frequencies, when translated into physical units, are comparable to the observed running waves of brightness observed by HST near the Crab pulsar. The code is undergoing a number of tests, to assure us that this preliminary correspondence is not an artifact. In the coming year, the observational appearance of the models will be computed and compared to the HST observations of the Crab now in hand, and used to predict the HST results which will be obtained the year after next. WE also developed a one dimensional cascade theory for pair creation over pulsars' polar caps. A linear integral equation describing the synchrotron cascade has been derived and solved by iterative techniques, in the case when a high energy electron moving parallel to a star centered dipole magnetic field initiates the cascade through curvature gamma ray emission.

Arons, Jonathan↗

Coupled multi-disciplinary composites behavior simulation

The capabilities of the computer code CSTEM (Coupled Structural/Thermal/Electro-Magnetic Analysis) are discussed and demonstrated. CSTEM computationally simulates the coupled response of layered multi-material composite structures subjected to simultaneous thermal, structural, vibration, acoustic, and electromagnetic loads and includes the effect of aggressive environments. The composite material behavior and structural response is determined at its various inherent scales: constituents (fiber/matrix), ply, laminate, and structural component. The thermal and mechanical properties of the constituents are considered to be nonlinearly dependent on various parameters such as temperature and moisture. The acoustic and electromagnetic properties also include dependence on vibration and electromagnetic wave frequencies, respectively. The simulation is based on a three dimensional finite element analysis in conjunction with composite mechanics and with structural tailoring codes, and with acoustic and electromagnetic analysis methods. An aircraft engine composite fan blade is selected as a typical structural component to demonstrate the CSTEM capabilities. Results of various coupled multi-disciplinary heat transfer, structural, vibration, acoustic, and electromagnetic analyses for temperature distribution, stress and displacement response, deformed shape, vibration frequencies, mode shapes, acoustic noise, and electromagnetic reflection from the fan blade are discussed for their coupled effects in hot and humid environments. Collectively, these results demonstrate the effectiveness of the CSTEM code in capturing the coupled effects on the various responses of composite structures subjected to simultaneous multiple real-life loads.

Singhal, Surendra N.↗

Application of Fresnel Zone to Cross Talk

Unintentional radiation results in cross coupling to nearby cables. As frequency increases, the amount of this coupling becomes significant especially in high speed data transmission and space lab experiments. There has been a considerable amount of research to model this radiation and design the electronic equipment accordingly so that operation of space lab instruments will be immune to unwanted radiation. Here at MSFC, the Electromagnetics and Aerospace Environment Branch has the responsibility to analyze, test, and make the necessary recommendation as to the safe operation of instruments used in the space program. Rules, regulation, and limits as set by this group are published in Electromagnetic Compatibility Design and Interference Control (MEDIC) Handbook. This document contains both conducted and radiate emission rules and limits are set by NASA. However cross coupling have not been included. At the time of assigning the research task for the author, the Group decided that a more in-depth investigation of Near Field is needed before establishing a set of rules and limits for cross coupling. Thus this task was assigned to the author with hope that his work will be more beneficial to NASA's Space mission experiments. The model and the method which will be described shortly is intended to improve the present approach of this Group and suggests a method for measuring the cross field coupling capacitance.

Javan, Hank↗

Radiation sensitive area detection device and method

A radiation sensitive area detection device for use in conjunction with an X ray, ultraviolet or other radiation source is provided which comprises a phosphor containing film which releases a stored diffraction pattern image in response to incoming light or other electromagnetic wave. A light source such as a helium-neon laser, an optical fiber capable of directing light from the laser source onto the phosphor film and also capable of channelling the fluoresced light from the phosphor film to an integrating sphere which directs the light to a signal processing means including a light receiving means such as a photomultiplier tube. The signal processing means allows translation of the fluoresced light in order to detect the original pattern caused by the diffraction of the radiation by the original sample. The optical fiber is retained directly in front of the phosphor screen by a thin metal holder which moves up and down across the phosphor screen and which features a replaceable pinhole which allows easy adjustment of the resolution of the light projected onto the phosphor film. The device produces near real time images with high spatial resolution and without the distortion that accompanies prior art devices employing photomultiplier tubes. A method is also provided for carrying out radiation area detection using the device of the invention.

Carter, Daniel C.↗

Semiconductor crystal growth in crossed electric and magnetic fields: Center Director's Discretionary Fund

A unique growth cell was designed in which crossed electric and magnetic fields could be separately or simultaneously applied during semiconductor crystal growth. A thermocouple was inserted into an InSb melt inside the growth cell to examine the temperature response of the fluid to applied electromagnetic fields. A static magnetic field suppressed time-dependent convection when a destabilizing thermal field was applied. The simultaneous application of electric and magnetic fields resulted in forced convection in the melt. The InSb ingots grown in the cell were polycrystalline. An InGaSb crystal, 0.5 cm in diameter and 23-cm long, was grown without electromagnetic fields applied. The axial composition results indicated that complete mixing in the melt occurred for this large aspect ratio.

Mazuruk, K.↗

Shape Memory Alloy Research and Development at NASA Glenn - Current and Future Progress

Shape memory alloys (SMAs) are a unique class of multifunctional materials that have the ability to recover large deformations or generate high stresses in response to thermal, mechanical and or electromagnetic stimuli. These abilities have made them a viable option for actuation systems in aerospace, medical, and automotive applications, amongst others. However, despite many advantages and the fact that SMA actuators have been developed and used for many years, so far they have only found service in a limited range of applications. In order to expand their applications, further developments are needed to increase their reliability and stability and to address processing, testing and qualification needed for large-scale commercial application of SMA actuators.

Challenges↗

Actuators Using Piezoelectric Stacks and Displacement Enhancers

Actuators are used to drive all active mechanisms including machines, robots, and manipulators to name a few. The actuators are responsible for moving, manipulating, displacing, pushing and executing any action that is needed by the mechanism. There are many types and principles of actuation that are responsible for these movements ranging from electromagnetic, electroactive, thermo-mechanic, piezoelectric, electrostrictive etc. Actuators are readily available from commercial producers but there is a great need for reducing their size, increasing their efficiency and reducing their weight. Studies at JPL’s Non Destructive Evaluation and Advanced Actuators (NDEAA) Laboratory have been focused on the use of piezoelectric stacks and novel designs taking advantage of piezoelectric’s potential to provide high torque/force density actuation and high electromechanical conversion efficiency. The actuators/motors that have been developed and reviewed in this paper are operated by various horn configurations as well as the use of pre-stress flexures that make them thermally stable and increases their coupling efficiency. The use of monolithic designs that pre-stress the piezoelectric stack eliminates the use of compression stress bolt. These designs enable the embedding of developed solid-state motors/actuators in any structure with the only macroscopically moving parts are the rotor or the linear translator. Finite element modeling and design tools were used to determine the requirements and operation parameters and the results were used to simulate, design and fabricate novel actuators/motors. The developed actuators and performance will be described and discussed in this paper.

rotary devices↗

The Feasibility of Motion Tracking Camera System for Magnetic Suspension Wind Tunnel Tests

The Entry Systems Modeling (ESM) Program at NASA has actively participated in the re-development of the Magnetic Suspension Balance System (MSBS) at the six-inch subsonic wind tunnel at NASA Langley Research Center. This initiative aims to enhance the MSBS system's capabilities, enabling the testing of stingless entry vehicle models at supersonic speeds. To achieve this, control algorithms are required to ensure magnetic levitation control and stability for models during free-oscillation dynamic responses. Currently, the system relies on electromagnetic position sensors to provide real-time 3 degrees of freedom in a rigid body. While this approach has proven successful for subsonic speeds, expanding testing under higher pressure conditions may necessitate the incorporation of real-time roll and pitch measurements to quantify the dynamic stability characteristics of the models in free-oscillation. In collaboration with Old Dominion University, the team at NASA Langley Research Center proposes the implementation of a motion-tracking camera system. This system will provide real-time five degrees of freedom output, which will be utilized within a closed feedback control system and a two-step system identification model to isolate aerodynamic forces from their corresponding magnetic forces. The motion-tracking cameras will offer precise and accurate control over the levitation system, facilitating precise and repeatable experiments within the wind tunnel. The real-time feedback provided by the cameras enables prompt adjustments to ensure the maintenance of stable levitation throughout the testing process.

Entry Systems Modeling↗

The Feasibility of Motion Tracking Camera System for Magnetic Suspension Wind Tunnel Tests

The Entry Systems Modeling (ESM) Program at NASA has actively participated in the re-development of the Magnetic Suspension Balance System (MSBS) at the six-inch subsonic wind tunnel at NASA Langley Research Center. This initiative aims to enhance the MSBS system's capabilities, enabling the testing of stingless entry vehicle models at supersonic speeds. To achieve this, control algorithms are required to ensure magnetic levitation control and stability for models during free-oscillation dynamic responses. Currently, the system relies on electromagnetic position sensors to provide real-time 3 degrees of freedom in a rigid body. While this approach has proven successful for subsonic speeds, expanding testing under higher pressure conditions may necessitate the incorporation of real-time roll and pitch measurements to quantify the dynamic stability characteristics of the models in free-oscillation. In collaboration with Old Dominion University, the team at NASA Langley Research Center proposes the implementation of a motion-tracking camera system. This system will provide real-time five degrees of freedom output, which will be utilized within a closed feedback control system and a two-step system identification model to isolate aerodynamic forces from their corresponding magnetic forces. The motion-tracking cameras will offer precise and accurate control over the levitation system, facilitating precise and repeatable experiments within the wind tunnel. The real-time feedback provided by the cameras enables prompt adjustments to ensure the maintenance of stable levitation throughout the testing process.

Entry Systems Modeling↗

Pyroelectric hot spots.

Electromagnetic irradiation of pyroelectric hot spots and regional variation of response

PYROELECTRICITY↗

A Bayesian Approach to Estimating Coupling Between Neural Components: Evaluation of the Multiple Component, Event-Related Potential (mcERP) Algorithm

Accurate measurement of single-trial responses is key to a definitive use of complex electromagnetic and hemodynamic measurements in the investigation of brain dynamics. We developed the multiple component, Event-Related Potential (mcERP) approach to single-trial response estimation. To improve our resolution of dynamic interactions between neuronal ensembles located in different layers within a cortical region and/or in different cortical regions. The mcERP model assets that multiple components defined as stereotypic waveforms comprise the stimulus-evoked response and that these components may vary in amplitude and latency from trial to trial. Maximum a posteriori (MAP) solutions for the model are obtained by iterating a set of equations derived from the posterior probability. Our first goal was to use the ANTWERP algorithm to analyze interactions (specifically latency and amplitude correlation) between responses in different layers within a cortical region. Thus, we evaluated the model by applying the algorithm to synthetic data containing two correlated local components and one independent far-field component. Three cases were considered: the local components were correlated by an interaction in their single-trial amplitudes, by an interaction in their single-trial latencies, or by an interaction in both amplitude and latency. We then analyzed the accuracy with which the algorithm estimated the component waveshapes and the single-trial parameters as a function of the linearity of each of these relationships. Extensions of these analyses to real data are discussed as well as ongoing work to incorporate more detailed prior information.

Shah, Ankoor S.↗

Electromagnetic plasma wave propagation along a magnetic field

The linearized response of a Vlasov plasma to the steady-state excitation of transverse plasma waves along an external magnetic field is examined. Assuming a delta-function excitation mechanism, and performing a detailed Vlasov-Maxwell equation analysis using Fourier-Laplace transforms, the plasma response is found to consist of three terms: a branch-cut term, a free-streaming term, and a dielectric-pole term. Also considered is the phenomenon of plasma wave echoes. The case of longitudinal electrostatic waves is extended to the case of transverse plasma waves that propagate along an external magnetic field. It is shown that a transverse echo results in lowest order only when one excitation is transverse and the other is longitudinal.

Olson, C. L.↗