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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 1,099 records · Page 61

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NASA NTRS1990

Update transport - A new technique for update synchronization in replicated database systems

A fully distributed approach to update synchronization is presented where each site completely executes every update. This approach has several features-higher resiliency to different kinds of failures, higher parallelism, improved response to user requests, and low communication overhead. A fully distributed algorithm for concurrency control obtained by rehashing a previously published semidistributed algorithm into the fully distributed model of update execution is presented. A performance model of replicated database systems is presented and used to study the performance of the proposed algorithm and its semidistributed version. The results of the performance study reveal that the proposed approach can substantially improve the performance at the cost of moderate input/output overhead.

Singhal, Mukesh↗

NASA NTRS1990

Performance of a 300 Mbps 1:16 serial/parallel optoelectronic receiver module

Optical interconnects are being considered for the high speed distribution of multiplexed control signals in GaAs MMIC-based phased array antennas. This paper describes the performance of a hybrid GaAs optoelectronic integrated circuit (OEIC), along with a description of its design and fabrication. The OEIC converts a 16-bit serial optical input to a 16 parallel line electrical output using an on-board 1:16 demultiplexer and operates at data rates as high as 305 Mbps. The performance characteristics as well as potential applications of the device are presented.

Richard, M. A.↗

NASA NTRS1992

Using Derivatives Of Higher Order In Sensitivity Analysis

"What if" questions answered exactly, without using "increment-and-reevaluate" approach, and without finite differencing of system analysis, by use of sensitivity analysis to calculate first derivatives of behaviors of coupled systems with respect to design variables. If problem strongly nonlinear, efficiency improved by making derivatives of higher orders available to search algorithms. Extension effected by recursive application of same implicit function theorem that underlies previous method. Useful in design calculations for almost any system, including structures, machines, and distribution networks. Feedback control of processes improved by inclusion of derivative terms of higher order.

Sobieski, Jaroslaw↗

NASA NTRS1992

Electro-Optical High-Voltage Sensors

Electro-optical sensors for measuring high voltages developed for use in automatically controlled power-distribution systems. Sensors connected to optoelectronic interrogating equipment by optical fibers. Because sensitive material and optical fibers are all dielectric, no problem in electrically isolating interrogating circuitry from high voltage, and no need for voltage dividers. Sensor signals transmitted along fibers immune to electromagnetic noise at radio and lower frequencies.

Gottsche, Allan↗

NASA NTRS1991

A reexamination of early numerical simulations of planetary accretion

The intermediate stage of protoplanetary accretion, where sub-km sized bodies accrete in 500-1000 km diameter bodies, is critical in determining the character of subsequent evolution. Greenberg et al. discovered that, at least through the formation of 500 km planetary embryos, the small particle dominate the population and control the velocity distribution, keeping velocities much smaller and setting up the possibility of runaway accretion, where the largest body is able to accumulate quickly a much greater mass and separate itself from the continuum of the size distribution. However, some controversy remains as to the exact methods used by Greenberg et al. I reviewed that planet formation model in detail to address these criticisms and better explain the algorithm used in the study. In particular, the algorithms for mutual velocity stirring among planetesimals and mass shifting between adjacent diameter bins are rederived in detail. I also examined the likelihood of artificial acceleration of the runaway growth phase of the intermediate stage of planetesimal formation.

Kolvoord, R. A.↗

NASA NTRS1991

Performance evaluation of a six-axis generalized force-reflecting teleoperator

Work in real-time distributed computation and control has culminated in a prototype force-reflecting telemanipulation system having a dissimilar master (cable-driven force-reflecting hand controller) and a slave (PUMA 560 robot with custom controller), an extremely high sampling rate (1000 Hz), and a low loop computation delay (5 msec). In a series of experiments with this system and five trained test operators covering more than 100 hours of teleoperation, performance was measured in a series of generic and application-driven tasks with and without force feedback, and with control shared between teleoperation and local sensor referenced control. All performance measures improved as capability was added along a spectrum of capabilities ranging from pure position control through force-reflecting teleoperation and shared control. Performance was optimal for the bare-handed operator.

Hannaford, Blake↗

NASA NTRS1992

Crystallization, sublimation, and gas release in the interior of a porous comet nucleus

A numerical code is developed for evolutionary calculations of the thermal structure and composition of a porous comet nucleus made of water ice, in amorphous or crystalline form, other volatiles, dust, and gases trapped in amorphous ice. Bulk evaporation, crystallization, gas release, and free (Knudsen) flow of gases through the pores are taken into account. The numerical scheme yields exact conservation laws for mass and energy. The code is used to study the effect of bulk evaporation of ice in the interior of a comet nucleus during crystallization. It is found that evaporation controls the temperature distribution; the vapor prevents cooling of the crystallized layer of ice, by recondensation and release of latent heat. Thus high temperatures are maintained below the surface of the nucleus and down to depths of tens or hundreds of meters, even at large heliocentric distances, as long as crystallization goes on. Gas trapped in the ice and released during the phase transition flows both toward the interior and toward the surface and out of the nucleus. The progress of crystallization is largely determined by the contribution of gas fluxes to heat transfer.

Prialnik, Dina↗

NASA NTRS1991

Application of laminar flow control to high-bypass-ratio turbofan engine nacelles

Recently, the concept of the application of hybrid laminar flow to modern commercial transport aircraft was successfully flight tested on a Boeing 757 aircraft. In this limited demonstration, in which only part of the upper surface of the swept wing was designed for the attainment of laminar flow, significant local drag reduction was measured. This paper addresses the potential application of this technology to laminarize the external surface of large, modern turbofan engine nacelles which may comprise as much as 5-10 percent of the total wetted area of future commercial transports. A hybrid-laminar-flow-control (HLFC) pressure distribution is specified and the corresponding nacelle geometry is computed utilizing a predictor/corrector design method. Linear stability calculations are conducted to provide predictions of the extent of the laminar boundary layer. Performance studies are presented to determine potential benefits in terms of reduced fuel consumption.

Wie, Y. S.↗

NASA NTRS1991

Electrical system options for space exploration

The need for a space power utility concept is discussed and the impact of this concept on the engineering of space power systems is examined. Experiences gained from Space Station Freedom and SEI systems studies are used to discuss the factors that may affect the choice of frequency standards on which to build such a space power utility. Emphasis is given to electrical power control, conditioning, and distribution subsystems.

Bercaw, Robert W.↗

NASA NTRS1992

Fidelity of a xenon on-axis solar simulator

Xenon on-axis solar simulators are currently used in the thermal vacuum test chambers at NASA Johnson Space Center. These simulators provide a controllable system to closely match the radiation conditions in space. Through a series of alignment procedures, the uniformity, controllability, and spectral distribution of the simulators are certified in order to provide good correlation with theoretical analysis. This certification demonstrates the high fidelity output of the xenon solar simulator.

Laws, Burt A.↗

NASA NTRS1992

World Ocean Circulation Experiment

The oceans are an equal partner with the atmosphere in the global climate system. The World Ocean Circulation Experiment is presently being implemented to improve ocean models that are useful for climate prediction both by encouraging more model development but more importantly by providing quality data sets that can be used to force or to validate such models. WOCE is the first oceanographic experiment that plans to generate and to use multiparameter global ocean data sets. In order for WOCE to succeed, oceanographers must establish and learn to use more effective methods of assembling, quality controlling, manipulating and distributing oceanographic data.

Clarke, R. Allyn↗

NASA NTRS1994

Estimating Lives Of Space Shuttle Parts

SSPOC (Space Shuttle Probabilistic Optimization Code) computer program, implements probabilistic mathematical model, accepts defined distributions of parameters controlling life of Space Shuttle main engine. Used to perform tradeoff studies to optimize between service life and acceptable level of risk, with greater accuracy. Also includes probability of removal and failure of parts, along with number of surviving parts for each interval of inspections. Written in FORTRAN 77, and user interface written in PASCAL(R).

Watkins, Tommie, Jr.↗

NASA NTRS1993

Optimal feedback control of turbulent channel flow

Feedback control equations were developed and tested for computing wall normal control velocities to control turbulent flow in a channel with the objective of reducing drag. The technique used is the minimization of a 'cost functional' which is constructed to represent some balance of the drag integrated over the wall and the net control effort. A distribution of wall velocities is found which minimizes this cost functional some time shortly in the future based on current observations of the flow near the wall. Preliminary direct numerical simulations of the scheme applied to turbulent channel flow indicates it provides approximately 17 percent drag reduction. The mechanism apparent when the scheme is applied to a simplified flow situation is also discussed.

Bewley, Thomas↗

NASA NTRS1994

Comparison of the compressive strengths for stitched and toughened composite systems

The compression strength of a stitched and a toughened matrix graphite/epoxy composite was determined and compared to a baseline unstitched untoughened composite. Two different layups with a variety of test lengths were tested under both ambient and hot/wet conditions. No significant difference in strength was seen for the different materials when the gage lengths of the specimens were long enough to lead to a buckling failure. For shorter specimens, a 30 percent reduction in strength from the baseline was seen due to stitching for both a 48-ply quasi-isotropic and a (0/45/0/-45/90/-45/0/45/0)s laminate. Analysis of the results suggested that the decrease in strength was due to increased fiber misalignment due to the stitches. An observed increasing strength with decreasing gage length, which was seen for all materials, was explained with a size effect model. The model assumed a random distribution of flaws (misaligned fibers). The toughened materials showed a small increase in strength over the baseline material for both laminates presumably due to the compensating effects of a more compliant matrix and straighter fibers in the toughened material. The hot/wet strength of the stitched and baseline material fell 30 percent below their ambient strengths for shorter, nonbuckling specimen, while the strength of the toughened matrix material only fell 20 percent. Video images of the failing specimen were recorded and showed local failures prior to global collapse of the specimen. These images support the theory of a random distribution of flaws controlling composite failure. Failed specimen appearance, however, seems to be a misleading indication of the cause of failure.

Reeder, James R.↗

NASA NTRS1993

Wrinkle ridges of Arcadia Planitia, Mars

Wrinkle ridges of Arcadia Planitia were examined to determine their morphology, spatial distribution, and the amount of crustal shortening and strain they accommodate. Ridges trend generally northward, but their orientation and distribution are strongly controlled by the relief of the underlying hobby material. Ridges begin or end at inselbergs of older terrain and are associated with buried craters. Arcadia Planitia ridges have an average width of 3425 m and accommodate an average folding shortening of 3 m and a faulting shortening of 55 m; mean total shortening is 57 m. Three east-west transects were constructed at 20 deg 25 deg and 28 deg N to estimate regional shortening and strain. Average total shortening across the transects is about 900 m, corresponding to a regional compressive strain of 0.06 percent. The total shortening and compression across Arcadia Planitia are less than in Lungae Planum. Faults associated with the Arcadia ridges are inferred to have a westward dip compared with an eastward dip for Lungae Planum ridges. The general levels of compression and symmetric orientation of the ridges suggest a regionally organized stress system.

Plescia, J. B.↗

NASA NTRS1994

Advanced technologies in the ASI MLRO towards a new generation laser ranging system

Matera Laser Ranging Observatory (MLRO) is a high performance, highly automated optical and astronomical observatory currently under design and development by AlliedSignal for the Italian Space Agency (ASI). It is projected to become operational at the Centro Geodesia Spaziale in Matera, Italy, in 1997. MLRO, based on a 1.5-meter astronomical quality telescope, will perform ranging to spacecraft in earthbound orbits, lunar reflectors, and specially equipped deep space missions. The primary emphasis during design is to incorporate state-of-the-art technologies to produce an intelligent, automated, high accuracy ranging system that will mimic the characteristic features of a fifth generation laser ranging system. The telescope has multiple ports and foci to support future experiments in the areas of laser communications, lidar, astrometry, etc. The key features providing state-of-the-art ranging performance include: a diode-pumped picosecond (50 ps) laser, high speed (3-5 GHz) optoelectronic detection and signal processing, and a high accuracy (6 ps) high resolution (less than 2 ps) time measurement capability. The above combination of technologies is expected to yield millimeter laser ranging precision and accuracy on targets up to 300,000 km, surpassing the best operational instrument performance to date by a factor of five or more. Distributed processing and control using a state-of-the-art computing environment provides the framework for efficient operation, system optimization, and diagnostics. A computationally intelligent environment permits optimal planning, scheduling, tracking, and data processing. It also supports remote access, monitor, and control for joint experiments with other observatories.

Varghese, Thomas↗

NASA NTRS1995

A Probabilistic Design Method Applied to Smart Composite Structures

A probabilistic design method is described and demonstrated using a smart composite wing. Probabilistic structural design incorporates naturally occurring uncertainties including those in constituent (fiber/matrix) material properties, fabrication variables, structure geometry and control-related parameters. Probabilistic sensitivity factors are computed to identify those parameters that have a great influence on a specific structural reliability. Two performance criteria are used to demonstrate this design methodology. The first criterion requires that the actuated angle at the wing tip be bounded by upper and lower limits at a specified reliability. The second criterion requires that the probability of ply damage due to random impact load be smaller than an assigned value. When the relationship between reliability improvement and the sensitivity factors is assessed, the results show that a reduction in the scatter of the random variable with the largest sensitivity factor (absolute value) provides the lowest failure probability. An increase in the mean of the random variable with a negative sensitivity factor will reduce the failure probability. Therefore, the design can be improved by controlling or selecting distribution parameters associated with random variables. This can be implemented during the manufacturing process to obtain maximum benefit with minimum alterations.

Shiao, Michael C.↗

NASA NTRS1995

Theoretical overview and modeling of the sodium and potassium atmospheres of the moon

A general theoretical overview for the sources, sinks, gas-surface interactions, and transport dynamics of sodium and potassium in the exospheric atmosphere of the Moon is given. These four factors, which control the spatial distribution of these two alkali-group gases about the Moon, are incorporated in numerical models. The spatial nature and relative importance of the initial source atoms atmosphere (which must be nonthermal to explain observational data) and the ambient (ballistic hopping) atom atmosphere are examined. The transport dynamics, atmospheric structure, and lunar escape of the nonthermal source atoms are time variable with season of the year and lunar phase because of their dependence on the radiation acceleration experienced by sodium and potassium atoms as they resonantly scatter solar photons. The dynamic transport time of fully thermally accomodated ambient atoms along the surface because of solar radiation acceleration (only several percent of surface gravity) is larger than the photoionization lifetimes and hence unimportant in determining the local density, although for potassium the situation is borderline. The sodium model was applied to analyze sodium observations of the sunward brightness profiles acquired near last quarter by Potter & Morgan (1988b) extending from the surface to an altitude of 1200 km, and near first quarter by Mendillo, Baumgardner, & Flynn (1991), extending in altitude from approximately 1430 to approximately 7000 km. The observations at larger altitudes could be fitted only for source atoms having a velocity distribution with a tail that is mildly nonthermal (like an approximately 1000 K Maxwell-Boltzmann distribution). Solar wind sputtering appears to a be a viable source atom mechanism for the sodium observations with photon-simulated desorption also possible but highly uncertain, although micrometeoroid impact vaporization appears to have a source that is too small and too hot, with likely an incorrect angular distribution about the Moon.

Smyth, William H.↗