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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 127 records · Page 7
All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
NASA NTRS1988

Magnetic attachment mechanism

A magnetic attachment mechanism adapted for interfacing with the manipulator arm of a remote manipulator system and comprising a pair of permanent magnets of rare earth material are arranged in a stator-rotor relationship. The rotor magnet is journalled for rotation about its longitudinal axis between pole plates of the stator magnet, each of which includes an adhering surface. In a first rotary position corresponding to the ON condition, each of the poles of the rotor magnet is closely adjacent to a stator magnet pole plate of like polarity whereby the respective magnet fields are additive for producing a strong magnetic field emanating from the adhering surfaces for attracting a ferrous magnetic plate, or the like, affixed to the payload. When the rotor magnet is rotated to a second position corresponding to the OFF condition, each of the poles of the rotor magnet is disposed closely adjacent to a pole plate of unlike polarity whereby the magnetic fields of the magnets are in cancelling relationship at the adhering surfaces, which permits the release of a payload. An actuator for selectively rotating the rotor magnet between the ON and OFF positions is provided for interfacing and connecting the magnetic attachment mechanism with a manipulator arm. For affecting an optimal rigidized attachment the payload is provided with guide means cooperable with guide means on the housing of the mechanism for directing adhering surfaces of the polar plates to the ferrous plate.

Wu, Mitchell B.↗
DOE OSTI2025

Surface orientation ambiguity for single molecules at dielectric interfaces

Fluorescent molecules emit light in a dipole radiation pattern that can be used to infer their orientation through defocused fluorescence microscopy. Proper measurement of the orientation requires mathematical modeling of the radiation pattern expected for a dipole in the geometry of interest and subsequent comparison against experimental data. We point out an ambiguity in common calculations of these patterns that appears to compromise orientation measurements for molecules that are especially near dielectric surfaces. This results in a rotation of the measured emission dipole toward the surface for near-interface molecules, which can be mistaken for a preferentially horizontal orientation among the emitters. The proper treatment for on-surface emitters requires consideration of finite-sized current elements between two dielectric media, and we show that the theoretical ambiguity can be lifted via finite-element modeling. A prescription is provided for correcting measured orientations at arbitrary interfaces.

Dey, E. [University of Texas, Arlington, TX (Unite↗
NASA NTRS2009

Integrity of the Plasma Magnetic Nozzle

This report examines the physics governing certain aspects of plasma propellant flow through a magnetic nozzle, specifically the integrity of the interface between the plasma and the nozzle s magnetic field. The injection of 100s of eV plasma into a magnetic flux nozzle that converts thermal energy into directed thrust is fundamental to enabling 10 000s of seconds specific impulse and 10s of kW/kg specific power piloted interplanetary propulsion. An expression for the initial thickness of the interface is derived and found to be approx.10(exp -2) m. An algorithm is reviewed and applied to compare classical resistivity to gradient-driven microturbulent (anomalous) resistivity, in terms of the spatial rate and time integral of resistive interface broadening, which can then be related to the geometry of the nozzle. An algorithm characterizing plasma temperature, density, and velocity dependencies is derived and found to be comparable to classical resistivity at local plasma temperatures of approx. 200 eV. Macroscopic flute-mode instabilities in regions of "adverse magnetic curvature" are discussed; a growth rate formula is derived and found to be one to two e-foldings of the most unstable Rayleigh-Taylor (RT) mode. After establishing the necessity of incorporating the Hall effect into Ohm s law (allowing full Hall current to flow and concomitant plasma rotation), a critical nozzle length expression is derived in which the interface thickness is limited to about 1 ion gyroradius.

Gerwin, Richard A.↗
NASA NTRS2000

The SeaWinds Scatterometer Antenna Subsystem on the QuikScat Spacecraft

In today's environment of "Better, Faster, Cheaper", the ability to produce reliable, flight-proven mechanisms for mission critical applications is more important than ever. Such a mechanism was produced for the QuikScat satellite. The Scatterometer Antenna Subsystem (SAS) is a spin mechanism that continuously rotates a scatterometer antenna, and includes the necessary features (rotary interfaces, drives, launch locks, etc) to allow collection of the scatterometry data that will insure mission success. This paper will discuss the evolution of the SAS from its design heritage on the GGS Polar mission to qualification on the ADEOS II satellite to being a key enabler for the rapid development of the QuikScat Satellite.

Workman, Brian J.↗
NASA NTRS2019

Computational Micromechanics Model for the Analysis of Fiber Kinking in Unidirectional FRP

A computational micromechanics (CMM) model is developed to analyze fiber kinking, which is a failure mechanism that takes place in fiber-reinforced composites when they are loaded under longitudinal compression. The CMM model consists of a single AS4 carbon fiber with an initial misalignment embedded in an 8552 polymer matrix. The deformation of the model is governed by periodic boundary conditions (PBC). The relatively simple CMM model enables the evaluation of the role played by initial misalignment of the fiber, shear yielding of the matrix and fiber-matrix debonding. A novel microscale experimental technique devoted to the characterization of the longitudinal compressive strength of the fibers, X(sup f)(sub c) , was developed. By exercising the model and comparing it with several existing models in the literature, the nonlinear shear response of the composite lamina was shown to play a fundamental role not only in the prediction of the compressive strength X(sub c), but also during the post-peak regime in terms of residual stress σ(sub r) and fiber rotation φ. Finally, the influence of the fiber-matrix interface damage (not considered in most other fiber kinking models) on the fiber kinking phenomenon was assessed through a parametric study.

Polymer-matrix composites (PMC)↗
NASA NTRS1991

Development and application of virtual reality for man/systems integration

While the graphical presentation of computer models signified a quantum leap over presentations limited to text and numbers, it still has the problem of presenting an interface barrier between the human user and the computer model. The user must learn a command language in order to orient themselves in the model. For example, to move left from the current viewpoint of the model, they might be required to type 'LEFT' at a keyboard. This command is fairly intuitive, but if the viewpoint moves far enough that there are no visual cues overlapping with the first view, the user does not know if the viewpoint has moved inches, feet, or miles to the left, or perhaps remained in the same position, but rotated to the left. Until the user becomes quite familiar with the interface language of the computer model presentation, they will be proned to lossing their bearings frequently. Even a highly skilled user will occasionally get lost in the model. A new approach to presenting type type of information is to directly interpret the user's body motions as the input language for determining what view to present. When the user's head turns 45 degrees to the left, the viewpoint should be rotated 45 degrees to the left. Since the head moves through several intermediate angles between the original view and the final one, several intermediate views should be presented, providing the user with a sense of continuity between the original view and the final one. Since the primary way a human physically interacts with their environment should monitor the movements of the user's hands and alter objects in the virtual model in a way consistent with the way an actual object would move when manipulated using the same hand movements. Since this approach to the man-computer interface closely models the same type of interface that humans have with the physical world, this type of interface is often called virtual reality, and the model is referred to as a virtual world. The task of this summer fellowship was to set up a virtual reality system at MSFC and begin applying it to some of the questions which concern scientists and engineers involved in space flight. A brief discussion of this work is presented.

Brown, Marcus↗
DOE OSTI2025

A molecular conveyor belt-associated protein controls the rotational direction of the bacterial type 9 secretion system

ABSTRACT Many bacteria utilize the type 9 secretion system (T9SS) for gliding motility, surface colonization, and pathogenesis. This dual-function motor supports both gliding motility and protein secretion, where rotation of the T9SS plays a central role. Fueled by the energy of the stored proton motive force and transmitted through the torque of membrane-anchored stator units, the rotary T9SS propels an adhesin-coated conveyor belt along the bacterial outer membrane like a molecular snowmobile, thereby enabling gliding motion. However, the mechanisms controlling the rotational direction and gliding motility of T9SS remain elusive. Shedding light on this mechanism, we find that in the gliding bacteriumFlavobacterium johnsoniae, deletion of the C-terminus of the conveyor belt-associated protein GldJ controls and, in fact, reverses the rotational direction of T9SS from counterclockwise (CCW) to clockwise (CW). This suggests that the interface between the conveyor belt-associated protein GldJ and the T9SS ring protein GldK plays an important role in controlling the directionality of T9SS, potentially by modulating its interaction with the stator complex GldLM, which drives motor rotation. Combined with MD simulation of the T9SS stator units GldLM, we suggest a “tri-component gearset” model where GldJ controls the rotational direction of its driver, the T9SS, thus providing adaptive sensory feedback to influence the motility of the gliding bacterium. IMPORTANCE The type 9 secretion system (T9SS) is fundamental to bacterial gliding motility, pathogenesis, and surface colonization. Our findings reveal that the C-terminal region of the conveyor belt-associated protein GldJ functions as a molecular switch which is capable of reversing the rotational direction of T9SS. Through the coordinated actions of the T9SS stator units (akin to a driving motor), the GldK ring (the gear that converts rotational energy into linear movement), and GldJ, this machinery forms a smart conveyor belt system reminiscent of flexible or cognitive mechanical conveyors. Such advanced conveyors can alter their direction to adapt to shifting demands. Here, we show that the bacterial T9SS similarly adjusts its rotational bias based on feedback from the conveyor belt-associated protein GldJ. This dual-role feedback mechanism underscores an evolved, controllable biological snowmobile, offering new avenues for studying how bacteria fine-tune motility in dynamic environments.

Microbiology↗
NASA NTRS1990

Magnetic attachment mechanism

A magnetic attachment mechanism adapted for interfacing with the manipulator arm (11) of a remote manipulator system and comprising a pair of permanent magnets (31,32) of rare earth material which are arranged in a stator-rotor relationship. The rotor magnet (32), is journalled for rotation about its longitudinal axis between pole plates (35,36) of the stator magnet (31), each of which includes an adhering surface (35a,36a). In a first rotary position corresponding to the ON condition, each of the poles of the rotor magnet (32) is closely adjacent a stator magnet pole plate of like polarity whereby the respective magnet fields are additive for producing a strong magnetic field emanating from the adhering surfaces (35a,36a) for attracting a ferrous magnetic plate 20, or the like, affixed to the payload (20 or 50). When the rotor magnet (32) is rotated to a second position corresponding to the OFF condition, each of the poles of the rotor magnet (31) is disposed closely adjacent a pole plate of unlike polarity whereby the magnetic fields of the magnets are in cancelling relationship at the adhering surfaces (35a,36a) which permits the release of a payload. An actuator (51 or 70) for selectively rotating the rotor magnet (32) between the ON and OFF positions is provided for interfacing and connecting the magnetic attachment mechanism with a manipulator arm. For effecting an optimal rigidized attachment the payload is provided with guides (91,92) cooperable with guides (96,16,17) on the housing of the mechanism for directing adhering surfaces (35a,36a) of the polar plates to the ferrous plate (20).

Harwell, William D.↗
NASA NTRS1998

A Numerical Investigation of the Effect of Thermoelectromagnetic Convection (TEMC) on the Bridgman Growth of Ge(1-x)Si(x)

Thermoelectric currents at the growth interface of GeSi during Bridgman growth are shown to promote convection when a low intensity axial magnetic field is applied. TEMC, typically, is characterized by a meridional flow driven by the rotation of the fluid; meridional convection alters composition of the melt, and shape of the growth interface substantially. TEMC effect is more important in micro-gravity environment than the terrestrial one, and can be used to control convection during the growth of GeSi. In this work, coupled thermo-solutal flow equations (energy, scalar transport, momentum and mass) are solved in tandem with Maxwell's equations to compute the thermo-solutat flow field, electric currents, and the growth-interface shape.

Yesilyurt, Serhat↗
NASA NTRS1994

Two-layer viscous instability in a rotating couette device

A novel experiment to study the interfacial shear instability between two liquids is described. Density-matched immiscible liquids are confined between concentric cylinders such that the interface is parallel to the cylinder walls. Interfacial waves that develop because of viscosity differences between the shearing fluids are studied as a function of rotation rate and depth ratio using optical techniques. Conditions neutral stability and the most unstable wavenumber agree reasonably well with predictions from linear stability analysis of the Navier-Stokes equations. Illumination using laser sheets allows precise measurement of the interface shape. Future experiments will verify the correctness of weakly nonlinear theories that describe energy transfer and saturation of wave growth by nonlinear effects. Measurements of solitary wave shapes, that occur far above neutral stability, will be compared to similar measurements for systems that have gravity as an important force to determine how gravity effects large disturbances. These results will be used to interpret slug and annular flow data that have been obtained in other mu g studies.

Gallagher, Christopher↗
NASA NTRS1966

Exploratory measurements in spiral turbulence.

Interface propagation in mixed laminar-turbulent flow between counter-rotating concentric cylinders, noting spiral turbulence as dominant feature of Couette flow transition

ROTATING CYLINDER↗
NASA NTRS1975

Analysis of Skylab fluid mechanics science demonstrations

The results of the data reduction and analysis of the Skylab fluid mechanics demonstrations are presented. All the fluid mechanics data available from the Skylab missions were identified and surveyed. The significant fluid mechanics phenomena were identified and reduced to measurable quantities wherever possible. Data correlations were performed using existing theories. Among the phenomena analyzed were: static low-g interface shapes, oscillation frequency and damping of a liquid drop, coalescence, rotating drop, liquid films and low-g ice melting. A survey of the possible applications of the results was made and future experiments are recommended.

Tegart, J. R.↗
NASA NTRS1992

Experimental observation of the influence of furnace temperature profile on convection and segregation in the vertical Bridgman crystal growth technique

Azulene-doped naphthalene was directionally solidified during the vertical Bridgman-Stockbarger technique. Doping homogeneity and convection were determined as a function of the temperature profile in the furnace and the freezing rate. Convection velocities were two orders of magnitude lower when the temperature increased with height. Rarely was the convection pattern axisymmetric, even though the temperature varied less than 0.1 K around the circumference of the growth ampoule. Correspondingly the cross sectional variation in azulene concentration tended to be asymmetric, especially when the temperature increased with height. This cross sectional variation changed dramatically along the ingot, reflecting changes in convection presumably due to the decreasing height of the melt. Although there was large scatter and irreproducibility in the cross sectional variation in doping, this variation tended to be least when the growth rate was low and the convection was vigorous. It is expected that compositional variations would also be small at high growth rates with weak convection and flat interfaces, although this was not investigated in the present experiments. Neither rotation of the ampoule nor deliberate introduction of thermal asymmetries during solidification had a significant influence on cross sectional variations in doping. It is predicted that slow directional solidification under microgravity conditions could produce greater inhomogeneities than on Earth. Combined use of microgravity and magnetic fields would be required to achieve homogeneity when it is necessary to freeze slowly in order to avoid constitutional supercooling.

Neugebauer, G. T.↗
NASA NTRS1989

OMV mission simulator

The Orbital Maneuvering Vehicle (OMV) will be remotely piloted during rendezvous, docking, or proximity operations with target spacecraft from a ground control console (GCC). The real-time mission simulator and graphics being used to design a console pilot-machine interface are discussed. A real-time orbital dynamics simulator drives the visual displays. The dynamics simulator includes a J2 oblate earth gravity model and a generalized 1962 rotating atmospheric and drag model. The simulator also provides a variable-length communication delay to represent use of the Tracking and Data Relay Satellite System (TDRSS) and NASA Communications (NASCOM). Input parameter files determine the graphics display. This feature allows rapid prototyping since displays can be easily modified from pilot recommendations. A series of pilot reviews are being held to determine an effective pilot-machine interface. Pilots fly missions with nominal to 3-sigma dispersions in translational or rotational axes. Console dimensions, switch type and layout, hand controllers, and graphic interfaces are evaluated by the pilots and the GCC simulator is modified for subsequent runs. Initial results indicate a pilot preference for analog versus digital displays and for two 3-degree-of-freedom hand controllers.

Cok, Keith E.↗
NASA NTRS1975

Tug and payload-to-Orbiter interface requirements

This paper presents results of a study to identify, evaluate, and develop Tug plus payload-to-Orbiter accommodation requirements. Interface areas include structural, mechanical, fluids, environmental, avionics, and safety. Each interface area was investigated to determine the best physical and operational method of accomplishing the required functions with an overriding goal of establishing sample and flexible interface requirements suitable for Tug, Tug payloads, and other cargo. The recommended system for supporting the Tug and its payload from the Orbiter employs a cylindrical load-carrying structure called a deployment adapter that has a rotational capability for Tug deployment. The design and operation of the deployment adapter and other peripheral interface equipment such as crew compartment monitor and control panels and cargo bay fluid and electrical interface panels are discussed.

Bock, E. H.↗
NASA NTRS1986

Thermocapillary and centrifugal-buoyancy-driven motion in a rapidly rotating liquid cylinder

The thermocapillary flow field in a uniformly rotating liquid cylinder heated from above is calculated using linear boundary-layer theory appropriate for small values of the Ekman number. The results show that the thermocapillary flow is confined to a thin layer at the liquid-gas interface if the temperature difference across the cylinder is sufficiently small. The interior flow is a uniform rotation with the endplates. The flow due to centrifugal buoyancy is also analyzed using the same theory. The magnitude of this flow compared with the thermocapillary motion is small in typical circumstances. However, it does influence the temperature field in the interior of the cylinder, where the thermocapillary motion does not. Full details of these flows and the first-order corrections to the interface shape are presented.

Smith, M. K.↗
NASA NTRS1995

Combined Gravity Gradient and Jitter Accelerations Acting on Liquid-Vapor Interface Oscillations in Reduced Gravity

The dynamical behavior of fluids affected by the asymmetric combined gravity gradient and jitter accelerations, in particular the effect of surface tension on partially-filled rotating fluids applicable to a full-scale Gravity Probe-B Spacecraft dewar tank, have been investigated. Three different cases of accelerations, one gravity gradient-dominated, one equally weighted between gravity gradient and jitter, and the others gravity jitter-dominated are studied. Results of slosh wave excitation along the liquid-vapor interface induced by gravity gradient-dominated acceleration indicate that the gravity gradient-dominated acceleration is equivalent to the combined effect of a twisting force and torsional moment acting on the spacecraft. Results of the slosh wave excitation along the liquid vapor interface induced by gravity jitter-dominated acceleration indicate that the gravity jitter-dominated acceleration is equivalent to time-dependent oscillatory forces which push the bubble in the combined directions of down-and-up and sideward -and-middleward as the bubble is rotating with respect to rotating dewar axis. This study discloses the slosh wave excitation along the liquid-vapor interface driven by the combined effects of gravity gradient and jitter accelerations which are two major driving forces affecting the stability of the fluid system in microgravity.

Hung, R. J.↗