Search NASA⌕ Search

SEARCH · Search NASA

Results for “Constructions”

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.

Quote a phrase for an exact phrase match. Source license links do not imply unrestricted reuse.

At least 145 records · Page 8

Orbital construction support equipment

Approximately 200 separate construction steps were defined for the three solar power satellite (SPS) concepts. Detailed construction scenarios were developed which describe the specific tasks to be accomplished, and identify general equipment requirements. The scenarios were used to perform a functional analysis, which resulted in the definition of 100 distinct SPS elements. These elements are the components, parts, subsystems, or assemblies upon which construction activities take place. The major SPS elements for each configuration are shown. For those elements, 300 functional requirements were identified in seven generic processes. Cumulatively, these processes encompass all functions required during SPS construction/assembly. Individually each process is defined such that it includes a specific type of activity. Each SPS element may involve activities relating to any or all of the generic processes. The processes are listed, and examples of the requirements defined for a typical element are given.

Source record↗

Investigation of the effects of construction and stage filling of reservoirs on the environment and ecology: Preproject baseline

The author has identified the following significant results: (1) LANDSAT imagery can be used effectively as a baseline for detection of environmental change, resulting from construction of a major inland reservoir. (2) Forest cover can be observed adequately on two-band composite enlargements at a scale of 1:130,000. (3) Forest cover delineated on LANDSAT enlargements compares accurately with ground truth at a scale of 1:250,000. (4) A dual image mapping technique superimposing winter, summer, and spring scenes using the zoom transfer scope facilitates the determination. (5) The same technique can be used to detect changes in the project area, resulting from construction activities. (6) High altitude aircraft imagery can also be used to interpret changes in land use and forest type. (7) Construction operations can be more clearly detailed on the air photos than on LANDSAT imagery.

Riggins, R. E.↗

An algorithm for constructing minimal order inverses

In this paper an algorithm is presented for constructing minimal order inverses of linear, time invariant, controllable and observable, multivariable systems. By means of simple matrix operations, a 'state-overdescribed' system is first constructed which is an inverse of the given multivariable system. A simple Gauss-Jordan type reduction procedure is then used to remove the redundancy in the state vector of the inverse system to obtain a minimal order inverse. When the given multivariable system is not invertible, the algorithm enables a minimal order inverse of an invertible subsystem to be constructed. Numerical examples are given to illustrate the use of the algorithm.

Patel, R. V.↗

Space construction base operations in support of solar power satellite development

Development of the Solar Power Satellite (SPS) system for initial operation in the late 1990's requires substantial orbital development activities in the mid-1980's leading to a key system development decision in about 1987. A manned Space Construction Base (SCB) in low-earth orbit is needed to support the SPS orbital development program. The SPS system development issues are defined, along with a candidate development program for resolving these issues. The development hardware systems of interest for the mid-1980's include: (1) a tapered linear array microwave antenna (123 x 125.6 m 'cross') with a 57-kW/rf amplitron output, which is SCB constructed and operated in low-earth orbit initially, and, subsequently, unmanned in geosynchronous earth orbit; and (2) a SCB-constructed and -operated 9 x 14.4 m planar array antenna (358 kW/rf/) powered by a 455-kWe silicon photovoltaic solar collector.

Mckhann, G. G.↗

Solar power satellite. System definition study. Part 1, volume 3: Construction, transportation and cost analyses

Concepts developed for both LEO and GEO construction of photovoltaic and thermal engine satellites are analyzed. Topics discussed include: satellite construction; crew scheduling; crew jobs and organizations; operator productivity rating; constructability rating; transportation systems for cargo launch, refueling operations, personnel transport, and orbit transfer; collision analysis, cost analysis, and radiation evironment and effects.

Source record↗

Photovoltaic power-system options for the manned space construction base

The function of the proposed manned Space Construction Base (SCB) is to provide a permanent manned orbital facility for the construction and operation of a variety of space experiments, ranging from a space-processing development to on-orbit-constructed microwave radiometers and antennas. A typical SCB system might reach initial operational capability in low earth orbit in 1985, have a 10-year mission duration, and have an initial power requirement of 50 kWe. A summary of the requirements imposed by the SCB on the electrical power system (EPS) is presented in a table. Attention is given to EPS options, baseline power platform system operations, an energy storage system evaluation, advanced-technology NiCd batteries and lifetime, and orbital buildup operations.

Mckhann, G. G.↗

Orbital construction support equipment - Manned remote work station

The Manned Remote Work Station (MRWS) is a versatile piece of orbital construction support equipment which can support in-space construction in various modes of operation. Proposed near-term Space Shuttle mission support and future large orbiting systems support, along with the various construction modes of MRWS operation, are discussed. Preliminary flight subsystems requirements and configuration design are presented. Integration of the MRWS development test article with the JSC Mockup and Integration Facility, including ground-test objectives and techniques for zero-g simulations, is also presented.

Nassiff, S. H.↗

Planning for large construction projects in space

The paper discusses briefly some broad plans for developing the technology needed for large construction projects in space ranging from orbiting solar power stations to large communications antennas. Space construction classes include assembly of modules, deployment of compacted structures, assembly of passive preformed pieces, and fabrication of structures from sheet stock. Technological areas related to structural concepts include (1) analyses for prediction of structural behavior, structural/control interaction, electromagnetic and control performance, and integrated design development; (2) electronics for signal conditioning and data acquisition, power distribution, and signal channel interference and multipaction; (3) concepts for shape control, attitude/pointing control, and orbital transfer and station keeping; and (4) materials and techniques for 30-year dimensional stable composites, thermal control, thin-lightweight structural alloys, and material joining in space. The concept of a power module for the construction operations is discussed along with a concept for a habitability module.

Disher, J. H.↗

Construction of large space structures

The paper examines a construction capability to build large structures in space, its use in conjunction with the Shuttle Orbiter and a large Space Construction Base, and its relationship to system performance and cost. The geodetic beam design using a tetrahedral truss structure and reinforced plastics and its structural analysis, tests of demonstration cylinders, and preliminary machine design are discussed. The geodetic structure is shown to have high buckling stability, low thermal distortion, high stiffness, and its simple shape permits high-production-rate automatic fabrication. The geodetic beam fabrication machine which will automatically fabricate cylindrical beams in space from earth-prefabricated rods, and on-orbit beam and platform fabrication are described. Preliminary results of system performance and cost studies indicate that on-orbit fabrication using a small geodetic beam machine can be economically superior to the deployable and erectable modes of construction for many near term applications.

Garibotti, J. F.↗

Algorithm for constructing the programmed motion of a bounding vehicle for the flight phase

The construction of the programmed motion of a multileg bounding vehicle in the flight was studied. An algorithm is given for solving the boundary value problem for constructing this programmed motion. If the motion is shown to be symmetrical, a simplified use of the algorithm can be applied. A method is proposed for nonimpact of the legs during lift-off of the vehicle, and for softness at touchdown. Tables are utilized to construct this programmed motion over a broad set of standard motion conditions.

Lapshin, V. V.↗

Space construction system analysis. Part 2: Cost and programmatics

Cost and programmatic elements of the space construction systems analysis study are discussed. The programmatic aspects of the ETVP program define a comprehensive plan for the development of a space platform, the construction system, and the space shuttle operations/logistics requirements. The cost analysis identified significant items of cost on ETVP development, ground, and flight segments, and detailed the items of space construction equipment and operations.

Vonflue, F. W.↗

Space Construction Automated Fabrication Experiment Definition Study (SCAFEDS), part 3. Volume 3: Requirements

The performance, design and verification requirements for the space Construction Automated Fabrication Experiment (SCAFE) are defined. The SCAFE program defines, develops, and demonstrates the techniques, processes, and equipment required for the automatic fabrication of structural elements in space and for the assembly of such elements into a large, lightweight structure. The program defines a large structural platform to be constructed in orbit using the space shuttle as a launch vehicle and construction base.

Source record↗

Space Construction System Analysis. Part 2: Executive summary

A detailed, end-to-end analysis of the activities, techniques, equipment and Shuttle provisions required to construct a reference project system is described. Included are: platform definition; construction analysis; cost and programmatics; and space construction experiments concepts.

Source record↗

Space Construction Experiment Definition Study (SCEDS), part 1. Volume 1: Executive summary

Definition was completed on a basic flight experiment which will provide data on the construction of large space systems from the orbiter which could not be practicably obtained from ground tests. Dynamic behavior of a representative large structure was predicted. On-orbit construction operations were studied. Orbiter control during and after construction was investigated. Evolutionary or supplemental flight experiments for the development of augmentation of a basic flight experiment were identified and defined.

Source record↗

Space Construction Experiment Definition Study (SCEDS), part 1. Volume 2: Study results

A basic Space Shuttle flight experiment which will provide needed data on the construction of large space systems from the Orbiter was defined. The predicted dynamic behavior of a representative large structure, on-orbit construction operations, and Orbiter control during and after construction were studied. Evolutionary or supplemental flight experiments for the development or augmentation of a basic flight experiment were identified and defined. The study was divided into six major tasks with appropriate sub-tasks noted.

Source record↗

Construction of the SPS primary structure by another method

The construction of the solar power satellite (SPS) primary structure using aluminum foam is discussed. The aluminum is salvaged from expended external tanks. The advantages of this construction system are: (1) saving in launch costs; (2) faster construction rates; (3) possible lower cost structures; (4) promotes containerless processing in orbit; (5) uses almost any space debris; and (6) frees the shuttle cargo bay for other uses.

Taylor, T. C.↗

Capabilities in large space systems construction

Orbital construction, demonstration, space construction system analysis, solar power satellite, and space operations are reviewed. Satellite services, holding and positioning aids, and space construction experiments are discussed.

Crum, E. M.↗

Grob aircraft construction: The G 110 flies

Description, specifications and test flight performance of the G 110 are provided. The G 110 completely incorporates modern GfK construction techniques which heretofore have been developed and perfected for the construction of sailplanes. The G 110 is a prototype of a GfK constructed motorized aircraft and shows much promise for the future of German aviation.

Malzbender, B.↗