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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 145 records · Page 8
All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
NASA NTRS1994

Modelling of eddy currents related to large angle magnetic suspension test fixture

This report presents a preliminary analysis of the mathematical modelling of eddy current effects in a large-gap magnetic suspension system. It is shown that eddy currents can significantly affect the dynamic behavior and control of these systems, but are amenable to measurement and modelling. A theoretical framework is presented, together with a comparison of computed and experimental data related to the Large Angle Magnetic Suspension Test Fixture at NASA Langley Research Center.

Britcher, Colin P.↗
NASA NTRS1994

System identification of the Large-Angle Magnetic Suspension Test Fixture (LAMSTF)

The Large-Angle Magnetic Suspension Test Fixture (LAMSTF), a laboratory-scale research project to demonstrate the magnetic suspension of objects over wide ranges of attitudes, has been developed. This system represents a scaled model of a planned Large-Gap Magnetic Suspension System (LGMSS). The LAMSTF consists of a small cylindrical permanent magnet suspended element which is levitated above a planar array of five electromagnets mounted in a circular configuration. The cylinder is a rigid body and can be controlled to move in five independent degrees of freedom. Six position variables are sensed indirectly by using infrared light-emitting diodes and light-receiving phototransistors. The motion of the suspended cylinder is in general nonlinear and hence only the linear, time-invariant perturbed motion about an equilibrium state is considered. One of the main challenges in this project is the control of the suspended element over a wide range of orientations. An accurate dynamic model plays an essential role in controller design. The analytical model is first derived and open-loop characteristics discussed. The system is shown to be highly unstable and requires feedback control for system identification. Projection filters are first proposed to identify the state space model from closed-loop input/output test data in the time domain. This method is then extended to identify linear systems from the frequency test data. A canonical transformation matrix is also derived to transform the identified state space model into the physical coordinate. The LAMSTF system is stabilized by using a linear quadratic regulator (LQR) feedback controller for closed-loop identification. The rate information is obtained by calculating the back difference of the sensed position signals. Only the closed-loop random input/output data are recorded. Preliminary results from numerical simulations demonstrate that the identified system model is fairly accurate from either time domain or frequency-domain data. Experiments will be performed to validate the proposed closed-loop identification algorithms.

Huang, Jen-Kuang↗
NASA NTRS1995

Extension to the dynamic modeling of the large angle magnetic suspension test fixture

The Large Angle Magnetic Suspension Test Fixture (LAMSTF) is a laboratory scale proof-of-concept system. The configuration is unique in that the electromagnets are mounted in a circular planar array. A mathematical model of the system had previously been developed, but was shown to have inaccuracies. These inaccuracies showed up in the step responses. Eddy currents were found to be the major cause of the modeling errors. In the original system, eddy currents existed in the aluminum baseplate, iron cores, and the sensor support frame. An attempt to include the eddy current dynamics in the system model is presented. The dynamics of a dummy sensor ring were added to the system. Adding the eddy current dynamics to the simulation improves the way it compares to the actual experiment. Also presented is a new method of determining the yaw angle of the suspended element. From the coil currents the yaw angle can be determined and the controller can be updated to suspend at the new current. This method has been used to demonstrate a 360 degree yaw angle rotation.

Foster, Lucas E.↗
NASA NTRS1995

Fixture For Crush Testing Of Composite Plates

Test fixture holds composite-material (matrix/fiber) plate specimens for crush testing in universal compression-testing machine to determine energy absorption characteristics of composite material system and laminate. Accommodates specimens of two different sizes; 6 by 4 by 0.16 in. and 3 by 2 by 0.08 in., designated as full scale and half scale, respectively. Contributes to development of more crashworthy composite-material structural components of aircraft.

Jackson, Karen E.↗
NASA NTRS1995

Fixture For Sampling Volatile Materials In Containers

Fixture based on T-connector enables mass-spectrometric analysis of volatile contents of cylindrical containers without exposing contents to ambient conditions. Used to sample volatile contents of pressurized containers, contents of such enclosed processing systems as gas-phase reactors, gases in automotive emission systems, and gas in hostile environments.

Melton, Donald↗
NASA NTRS1996

Free-Roller Versus Fixed-Roller Fixtures in Flexure Testing of Advanced Ceramic Materials

The error associated with strength measurements made with fixed-roller and V-grooved roller figures was studied with a variety of roller and figure material combinations. Both the fixed-roller and the V-grooved fixtures yielded an error in stress of about 4 to 7%. They also exhibited an appreciable amount of load strain hysteresis. Dynamic fatigue testing of 96 wt.% alumina verified the error: the fatigue strength was overestimated by 7 to 9% for the fixed roller configuration. The source of error is exclusively attributed to friction between the rollers and the specimen surface, as verified by previous investigators.

Salem, Jonathan A.↗
NASA NTRS2002

Initial Flight Tests of the NASA F-15B Propulsion Flight Test Fixture

Flights of the F-15B/Propulsion Flight Test Fixture (PFTF) with a Cone Drag Experiment (CDE) attached have been accomplished at NASA Dryden Flight Research Center. Mounted underneath the fuselage of an F-15B airplane, the PFTF provides volume for experiment systems and attachment points for propulsion experiments. A unique feature of the PFTF is the incorporation of a six-degree-of-freedom force balance. The force balance mounts between the PFTF and experiment and measures three forces and moments. The CDE has been attached to the force balance for envelope expansion flights. This experiment spatially and inertially simulates a large propulsion test article. This report briefly describes the F-15B airplane, the PFTF, and the force balance. A detailed description of the CDE is provided. Force-balance ground testing and stiffness modifications are described. Flight profiles and selected flight data from the envelope expansion flights are provided and discussed, including force-balance data, the internal PFTF thermal and vibration environment, a handling qualities assessment, and performance capabilities of the F-15B airplane with the PFTF installed.

Palumbo, Nathan↗
NASA NTRS2001

The F-15B Propulsion Flight Test Fixture: A New Flight Facility For Propulsion Research

The design and development of the F-15B Propulsion Flight Test Fixture (PFTF), a new facility for propulsion flight research, is described. Mounted underneath an F-15B fuselage, the PFTF provides volume for experiment systems and attachment points for propulsion devices. A unique feature of the PFTF is the incorporation of a six-degree-of-freedom force balance. Three-axis forces and moments can be measured in flight for experiments mounted to the force balance. The NASA F-15B airplane is described, including its performance and capabilities as a research test bed aircraft. The detailed description of the PFTF includes the geometry, internal layout and volume, force-balance operation, available instrumentation, and allowable experiment size and weight. The aerodynamic, stability and control, and structural designs of the PFTF are discussed, including results from aerodynamic computational fluid dynamic calculations and structural analyses. Details of current and future propulsion flight experiments are discussed. Information about the integration of propulsion flight experiments is provided for the potential PFTF user.

Corda, Stephen↗
NASA NTRS2005

Local Flow Conditions for Propulsion Experiments on the NASA F-15B Propulsion Flight Test Fixture

Local flow conditions were measured underneath the National Aeronautics and Space Administration F-15B airplane to support development of future experiments on the Propulsion Flight Test Fixture (PFTF). The local Mach number and flow angles were measured using a conventional air data boom on a cone-cylinder mounted under the PFTF and compared with the airplane air data nose boom measurements. At subsonic flight speeds, the airplane and PFTF Mach numbers were approximately equal. Transonic Mach number values were up to 0.1 greater at the PFTF than the airplane, which is a counterintuitive result. The PFTF local supersonic Mach numbers were as much as 0.46 less than the airplane values. The maximum local Mach number at the PFTF was approximately 1.6 at an airplane Mach number near 2.0. The PFTF local angle of attack was negative at all Mach numbers, ranging from -3 to -8 degrees. When the airplane angle of sideslip was zero, the PFTF local value was zero between Mach 0.8 and Mach 1.1, -2 degrees between Mach 1.1 and Mach 1.5, and increased from zero to 1 degree from Mach 1.5 to Mach 2.0. Airplane inlet shock waves crossed the aerodynamic interface plane between Mach 1.85 and Mach 1.90.

Vachon, Michael J.↗
NASA NTRS2006

Configuration and Sizing of a Test Fixture for Panels Under Combined Loads

Future air and space structures are expected to utilize composite panels that are subjected to combined mechanical loads, such as bi-axial compression/tension, shear and pressure. Therefore, the ability to accurately predict the buckling and strength failures of such panels is important. While computational analysis can provide tremendous insight into panel response, experimental results are necessary to verify predicted performances of these panels to judge the accuracy of computational methods. However, application of combined loads is an extremely difficult task due to the complex test fixtures and set-up required. Presented herein is a comparison of several test set-ups capable of testing panels under combined loads. Configurations compared include a D-box, a segmented cylinder and a single panel set-up. The study primarily focuses on the preliminary sizing of a single panel test configuration capable of testing flat panels under combined in-plane mechanical loads. This single panel set-up appears to be best suited to the testing of both strength critical and buckling critical panels. Required actuator loads and strokes are provided for various square, flat panels.

Lovejoy, Andrew E.↗
NASA NTRS2008

Design and Calibration of Custom Flowfield/Rake for the F-15B Propulsion Flight Test Fixture

The Propulsion Flight Test Fixture (PFTF) system at NASA Dryden Flight Research Center (DFRC) provides an innovative and cost effective method of flight testing advanced propulsion concepts and components in a relevant environment using DFRC's F-15B #836. The PFTF attaches to the centerline pylon of the aircraft and Has an integrated 6 axis force balance for flight testing of propulsion experiments The PTFF has undergone two previous flight validation test phases: (1)The Local Mach Investigation (LMT) flights, in which an air data boom was attached to a cylinder with a conical nose cap . This flight test phase quantified the local Mach number and the local flow angle at a single point under the F-155B/PFTF. (2) The Cone Drag Experiment (CDE), in which the cylinder / nosecap assembly was tested in order to validate the PFTF's integral 6-component force balance. The next test phase with the PFTF is the flight test of the channeled centerbody axisymmetric inlet. However, for the flight data from this test to be valid, more information must be gathered concerning the quality of the flow through the aerodynamic interface plane of the inlet. The flow angularity and Mach number must be known at multiple locations on the interface plane. Flight data will be gathered using a custom-design flowfield rake to probe the flow underneath the F-15B at the design flight conditions.

Flynn, Darin C.↗
NASA NTRS2003

Docking Fixture and Mechanism for a Protective Suit

A suitlock assembly that comprises a docking fixture and mechanism has been invented to facilitate and accelerate donning and doffing of a sealed protective suit and/or to enable ingress and egress between the protective suit and a sealed vessel. The sealed protective suit could be a space suit, in which case the sealed vessel could be a spacecraft. Alternatively, the sealed suit could be an environmental protective suit of a type worn on Earth during cleanup of a hazardous-material site, in which case the sealed vessel could be a vehicle equipped to maintain a safe interior environment for workers in transit to and from the site. Figure 1 depicts a typical situation in which several crewmembers are working inside such a vehicle, one is working outside in a protective suit, and one is donning or doffing a protective suit while holding onto an overhead bar for support.

Culbertson, Philip, Jr.↗
NASA NTRS2017

Modular Fixturing System

The modular fixturing system of the present invention is modular, reusable and capable of significant customization, both in terms of system radius and system height, allowing it to be arranged and rearranged in numerous unique configurations. The system includes multiple modular stanchions having stanchion shafts and stanchion feet that removably attach to apertures in a table. Angle brackets attached to the modular stanchions support shelves. These shelves in turn provide support to work pieces during fabrication processes such as welding.

Littell, Justin Anderson↗
NASA NTRS1971

Fixture for multiple-FCC chemical stripping and plating

For chemical stripping, lead tape applied near ends to be stripped protects insulation. Taped ends are submerged half way in stripping solution. For electroplating, both ends of FCC are stripped - top ends for electric contact, others for submersion in electroplating solution.

Angele, W.↗
NASA NTRS1972

Quick release acoustic sensor holding fixture

Quick-release spring holder secures acoustic sensor to test material surface eliminating adhesive bonding to test material and achieving acoustic emission evaluation from tensile tests. Reusability of sensors reduces test cost.

Mcmahon, W.↗