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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 163 records · Page 9

Enhancing Operational Safety via Agentic Dialogue Hazard Identification Analysis

Operational safety in high-stakes domains such as industrial process control, autonomous, and safety-critical systems demand reliable hazard identification. While large language models (LLMs) have shown promise in automating safety analysis tasks, single-turn, monolithic inference is brittle: it lacks the self-correction, deliberation, and contextual refinement that safety engineers apply iteratively. In this paper, we introduce HAZDIAL, a framework that investigates whether structured agentic dialogue (multi-agent, multi-turn interactions) improves the quality of NLP-based hazard identification over single-pass baselines. We systematically compare two dialogue modalities: adversarial debate and constructive discussion, and propose an genetic algorithm-based agentic interaction optimization. We evaluate all configurations against a curated golden dataset using standard classification metrics (accuracy, precision, recall, F1) and a novel dialogue metrics. This work advances the intersection of dialogue systems, multi-agent reasoning, and AI safety, providing empirical evidence for dialogue-driven hazard analysis.

Das, Sanjay [ORNL] (ORCID:0009000542591915)↗

Integration of a new Cryogenic Liquefier into the IB-1 Cryogenic Test Facility

The increase over the last years of the testing activities related to quantum systems, SRF cavities for the PIP-II and the LCLS-II projects, as well as superconducting magnets for the HL-LHC project and Fusion research activities, has required the addition of a new Helium cryogenic plant into the existing IB-1 Industrial Cryogenic Test Facility. The new cryogenic plant is composed of a cryogenic liquefier (Cold Box) able to provide up to 340 L/h, a 4 kL Dewar and two Mycom ® compressors providing up to 120 g/s. AL-AT (Air Liquide Advanced Technologies) has taken part of this project by designing and manufacturing the cryogenic liquefier. This new cryogenic plant is connected through a cryogenic distribution system to a 10 kL Dewar, which is part of the existing cryogenic test facility, itself composed of another Cold Box and a Sullair ® compressor. The new cryogenic plant has two main operating modes: one allows to transfer liquid helium at 1.7 bar between the two Dewars, the other allows to transfer supercritical Helium at 2 bar or more between the new Cold Box and the 10 kL Dewar. The entire industrial cryogenic facility is handled by a common Inventory Control System, composed of three control valves, and 9 tanks giving a total buffer volume of more than 1000 m3. This paper presents the technical features of the new Helium cryogenic plant, as well as the main results of the liquefier commissioning phase and details of the helium transfer between the two Dewars, making the connection between the cryogenic plants at the IB-1 Industrial Cryogenic Test Facility.

43 PARTICLE ACCELERATORS↗

A Web-Based System for Monitoring and Controlling Multidisciplinary Design Projects

In today's competitive environment, both industry and government agencies are under enormous pressure to reduce the time and cost of multidisciplinary design projects. A number of frameworks have been introduced to assist in this process by facilitating the integration of and communication among diverse disciplinary codes. An examination of current frameworks reveals weaknesses in various areas such as sequencing, displaying, monitoring, and controlling the design process. The objective of this research is to explore how Web technology, in conjunction with an existing framework, can improve these areas of weakness. This paper describes a system that executes a sequence of programs, monitors and controls the design process through a Web-based interface, and visualizes intermediate and final results through the use of Java(Tm) applets. A small sample problem, which includes nine processes with two analysis programs that are coupled to an optimizer, is used to demonstrate the feasibility of this approach.

Salas, Andrea O.↗

Real-Time Stability and Control Derivative Extraction From F-15 Flight Data

A real-time, frequency-domain, equation-error parameter identification (PID) technique was used to estimate stability and control derivatives from flight data. This technique is being studied to support adaptive control system concepts currently being developed by NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration), academia, and industry. This report describes the basic real-time algorithm used for this study and implementation issues for onboard usage as part of an indirect-adaptive control system. A confidence measures system for automated evaluation of PID results is discussed. Results calculated using flight data from a modified F-15 aircraft are presented. Test maneuvers included pilot input doublets and automated inputs at several flight conditions. Estimated derivatives are compared to aerodynamic model predictions. Data indicate that the real-time PID used for this study performs well enough to be used for onboard parameter estimation. For suitable test inputs, the parameter estimates converged rapidly to sufficient levels of accuracy. The devised confidence measures used were moderately successful.

Smith, Mark S.↗

NASA F-16XL supersonic laminar flow control program overview

The viewgraphs and discussion of the NASA supersonic laminar flow control program are provided. Successful application of laminar flow control to a High Speed Civil Transport (HSCT) offers significant benefits in reductions of take-off gross weight, mission fuel burn, cruise drag, structural temperatures, engine size, emissions, and sonic boom. The ultimate economic success of the proposed HSCT may depend on the successful adaption of laminar flow control, which offers the single most significant potential improvements in lift drag ratio (L/D) of all the aerodynamic technologies under consideration. The F-16XL Supersonic Laminar Flow Control (SLFC) Experiment was conceived based on the encouraging results of in-house and NASA supported industry studies to determine if laminar flow control is feasible for the HSCT. The primary objective is to achieve extensive laminar flow (50-60 percent chord) on a highly swept supersonic wing. Data obtained from the flight test will be used to validate existing Euler and Navier Stokes aerodynamic codes and transition prediction boundary layer stability codes. These validated codes and developed design methodology will be delivered to industry for their use in designing supersonic laminar flow control wings. Results from this experiment will establish preliminary suction system design criteria enabling industry to better size the suction system and develop improved estimates of system weight, fuel volume loss due to wing ducting, turbocompressor power requirements, etc. so that benefits and penalties can be more accurately assessed.

Fischer, Michael C.↗

Manned Mission Planning Considerations when Using a Non-Regenerable CO2 Removal System

As the commercial spacecraft industry increases in size, there will be a corresponding increase in the number of manned spacecraft built and operationally flown each year. Industry teams for these new spacecraft will have multiple design and operational choices to make for each of these spacecraft s subsystems. The carbon dioxide (CO2) removal subsystem of the environmental control and life support system is one that presents such challenges. This paper seeks to aid industry in making design and operations choices by providing a document containing lessons learned by the Space Shuttle Program s Operations team, with specific focus given to the non-regenerable CO2 removal system currently used by the Space Shuttle. Carbon dioxide, one of the key byproducts of respiration, can lead to injury and death if allowed to build up in a spacecraft s habitable environment. Therefore, any spacecraft s environmental control and life support system must contain a method for removing this hazard. These removal systems can either be non-regenerable or regenerable. While this paper defines the difference between these types and presents a generic comparison of their capabilities, the focus is specifically on the Space Shuttle s CO2 removal systems. This will include a short discussion of the Space Shuttle s regenerable amine solid absorption system that was part of the Extended Duration Orbiter (EDO) modification, however, emphasis is given to the non-regenerable Lithium Hydroxide canister system used as the prime removal method employed by the Space Shuttle, including a discussion on why this method was chosen over a regenerable system. A full exposition is given on all of the considerations required for mission planning when using a non-regenerable CO2 removal system. Key discussion items include: airflow lessons learned, recent physiological issues related to short term and long term exposure and how lower levels may be more harmful than previously thought, lithium hydroxide dust issues, mass vs. stowage comparisons, cost, complexity considerations, operational margin considerations, timing considerations with respect to the crew s schedule, and logistical management. The conclusion of the paper finalizes the discussion and contains a listing of considerations in regards to CO2 management using a non-regenerable removal system in the near future.

DeSimpelaere, Edward↗

Copper-Water and Hybrid Aluminum-Ammonia Heat Pipes for Spacecraft Thermal Control Applications

Copper-water heat pipes are commonly used for thermal management of electronics systems on earth and aircraft, but have not been used in spacecraft thermal control applications to date, due to the satellite industry's requirement that any device or system be successfully tested in a microgravity environment prior to adoption. Recently, Advanced Cooling Technologies Inc., (ACT), NASA Marshall Space Flight Center, and the International Space Station office at NASA's Johnson Space Center demonstrated flight heritage in Low-Earth Orbit. The testing was conducted aboard the International Space Station (ISS) under the Advanced Passive Thermal eXperiment (APTx) project. The heat pipes were embedded in a high conductivity (HiK"TM") aluminum base plate and subject to a variety of thermal tests over a temperature range of -10 to 38 ºC for a ten-day period. Results showed excellent agreement with both predictions and ground tests. In addition, novel hybrid wick aluminum-ammonia heat pipes are developed to handle heat flux requirements for spacecraft thermal control applications. The 5-10 W/cm2 heat density limitation of aluminum-ammonia grooved heat pipes has been a fundamental limitation in the current design for space applications. The recently demonstrated 50 W/cm2 capability of the hybrid high heat flux heat pipes provides a realistic means of managing the high heat density anticipated for the next generation space designs.

Ababneh, Mohammed T.↗

Copper-Water and Hybrid Aluminum-Ammonia Heat Pipes for Spacecraft Thermal Control Applications

Copper-water heat pipes are commonly used for thermal management of electronics systems on earth and aircraft, but have not been used in spacecraft thermal control applications to date, due to the satellite industry's requirement that any device or system be successfully tested in a microgravity environment prior to adoption. Recently, Advanced Cooling Technologies Inc., (ACT), NASA Marshall Space Flight Center, and the International Space Station office at NASA's Johnson Space Center demonstrated flight heritage in Low-Earth Orbit. The testing was conducted aboard the International Space Station (ISS) under the Advanced Passive Thermal eXperiment (APTx) project. The heat pipes were embedded in a high conductivity (HiK "TM") aluminum base plate and subject to a variety of thermal tests over a temperature range of -10 to 38 C for a ten-day period. Results showed excellent agreement with both predictions and ground tests. In addition, novel hybrid wick aluminum-ammonia heat pipes are developed to handle heat flux requirements for spacecraft thermal control applications. The 5-10 W/cm2 heat density limitation of aluminum-ammonia grooved heat pipes has been a fundamental limitation in the current design for space applications. The recently demonstrated 50W/cm2 capability of the hybrid high heat flux heat pipes provides a realistic means of managing the high heat density anticipated for the next generation space designs.

Ababneh, Mohammed T.↗

Security Assessment of an LBP16-Protocol-Based Computer Numerical Control Machine

Subtractive manufacturing systems, specifically, computer numerical control machines, have revolutionized the manufacturing industry. Computer numerical control machining is the preferred method for producing finished parts due to its efficiency, speed and suitability for high-volume production. Securing computer numerical control machines is a priority. Compromises or disruptions of these machines can result in significant downtime, loss of productivity and financial loss. This study examines the vulnerabilities and risks associated with computer numerical control machines, in particular, systems utilizing the LBP16 protocol for controller-machine communications. The study reveals that an adversary can execute cyber-physical attacks such as sabotage and denial of service. The potential security threats emphasize the importance of implementing robust security measures to mitigate the cyber risks to computer numerical control machines.

Forihat, Yahya [Virginia Commonwealth University, ↗

POWER ELECTRONICS GRID TIED SYSTEM FINAL REPORT

Across the country, electric utilities are grappling with the persistent hurdles of integrating Distributed Energy Resources (DERs). Managing these assets safely and effectively is a complex endeavor, complicated by varying ownership structures, management philosophies, and the diversity of the technologies themselves. Consequently, the industry has seen a proliferation of bespoke system designs, control strategies, and communication frameworks—forcing utilities to spend significant time and resources developing one-off integration solutions. This project addressed these integration hurdles through a scalable demonstration of intelligent devices designed to coordinate and control diverse resources in low-voltage applications. This concept minimized the need for complex integration by transforming the separate DERs into a dispatchable virtual power plant (VPP) with integrated resiliency functions (called a Node). By collaborating with a utility partner, the project focused on developing rapidly implementable use cases that bridged the gap between theoretical control and real-world deployment

99 GENERAL AND MISCELLANEOUS↗

Winter Simulation Conference, Miami Beach, Fla., December 4-6, 1978, Proceedings. Volumes 1 & 2

The papers report on the various aspects of simulation such as random variate generation, simulation optimization, ranking and selection of alternatives, model management, documentation, data bases, and instructional methods. Simulation studies in a wide variety of fields are described, including system design and scheduling, government and social systems, agriculture, computer systems, the military, transportation, corporate planning, ecosystems, health care, manufacturing and industrial systems, computer networks, education, energy, production planning and control, financial models, behavioral models, information systems, and inventory control.

Highland, H. J.↗

Sensor Applications and Data Validation

The mechanical configuration of automobiles have changed marginally while improvements in sensors and control have dramatically improved engine efficiency, reliability and useful life. The aviation industry has also taken advantage of sensors and control systems to reduce operational costs. Sensors and high fidelity control systems fly planes at levels of performance beyond human capability. Sophisticated environmental controls allow a greater level of comfort and efficiency in our homes. Sensors have given the medical field a better understanding of the human body and the environment in which we live.

Wiley, John↗

Intelligent Propulsion System Foundation Technology: Summary of Research

The purpose of this cooperative agreement was to develop a foundation of intelligent propulsion technologies for NASA and industry that will have an impact on safety, noise, emissions, and cost. These intelligent engine technologies included sensors, electronics, communications, control logic, actuators, smart materials and structures, and system studies. Furthermore, this cooperative agreement helped prepare future graduates to develop the revolutionary intelligent propulsion technologies that will be needed to ensure pre-eminence of the U.S. aerospace industry. This Propulsion 21 - Phase 11 program consisted of four primary research areas and associated work elements at Ohio universities: 1.0 Turbine Engine Prognostics, 2.0 Active Controls for Emissions and Noise Reduction, 3.0 Active Structural Controls and Performance, and 4.0 System Studies and Integration. Phase l, which was conducted during the period August 1, 2003, through September 30, 2004, has been reported separately.

Source record↗

Evaluation of a Reduced-Order Model for IBR Fault Response Representation via OEM Blackbox Models: Preprint

Driven by the need to capture the electromagnetic transients of transmission lines, inverter switching behavior, and detailed control systems, electromagnetic transient (EMT) studies have become increasingly important in industry, such as IBR interconnection study and fault study. However, original equipment manufacturer (OEM) inverter models typically include extensive parameters and proprietary settings that are unavailable to protection engineers. This paper introduces a data-driven, reduced-order model (ROM) developed as a PSCAD library component for use in EMT-based fault studies. The ROM replicates key OEM model behaviors without requiring detailed knowledge of control design or parameterization. The accompanying Python automation scripts streamline data generation, parameter fitting, and validation. The ROM's performance is demonstrated through comparison with both IEEE 2800-compliant and non-compliant OEM models in a real-world power system. Relay responses show nearly identical results, while simulation runtime is reduced by an average of 32.8\%, highlighting the ROM's practicality for protection engineers.

14 SOLAR ENERGY↗

Comparison of Relative Navigation Solutions Applied Between Two Aircraft

Use of global positioning systems (GPS) for guidance and control functions is of increasing interest to the aviation industry. Many levels of solutions exist, from the relatively simple to highly complex integrated systems. This presentation examines three different GPS approaches to determining the relative separation between two aircraft. It presents flight test data showing the errors in each of the three approaches, tradeoffs in selecting from these three approaches, and the simplifying assumptions made for implementing applications that may reduce the requirements and therefore the cost of using them.

Global positioning system↗

An order (n) algorithm for the dynamics simulation of robotic systems

The formulation of an Order (n) algorithm for DISCOS (Dynamics Interaction Simulation of Controls and Structures), which is an industry-standard software package for simulation and analysis of flexible multibody systems is presented. For systems involving many bodies, the new Order (n) version of DISCOS is much faster than the current version. Results of the experimental validation of the dynamics software are also presented. The experiment is carried out on a seven-joint robot arm at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center. The algorithm used in the current version of DISCOS requires the inverse of a matrix whose dimension is equal to the number of constraints in the system. Generally, the number of constraints in a system is roughly proportional to the number of bodies in the system, and matrix inversion requires O(p exp 3) operations, where p is the dimension of the matrix. The current version of DISCOS is therefore considered an Order (n exp 3) algorithm. In contrast, the Order (n) algorithm requires inversion of matrices which are small, and the number of matrices to be inverted increases only linearly with the number of bodies. The newly-developed Order (n) DISCOS is currently capable of handling chain and tree topologies as well as multiple closed loops. Continuing development will extend the capability of the software to deal with typical robotics applications such as put-and-place, multi-arm hand-off and surface sliding.

Chun, H. M.↗

Lighting Automation - Flying an Earthlike Habitat

Currently, spacecraft lighting systems are not demonstrating innovations in automation due to perceived costs in designing circuitry for the communication and automation of lights. The majority of spacecraft lighting systems employ lamps or zone specific manual switches and dimmers. This type of 'hardwired' solution does not easily convert to automation. With advances in solid state lighting, the potential to enhance a spacecraft habitat is lost if the communication and automation problem is not tackled. If we are to build long duration environments, which provide earth-like habitats, minimize crew time, and optimize spacecraft power reserves, innovation in lighting automation is a must. This project researched the use of the DMX512 communication protocol originally developed for high channel count lighting systems. DMX512 is an internationally governed, industry-accepted, lighting communication protocol with wide industry support. The lighting industry markets a wealth of hardware and software that utilizes DMX512, and there may be incentive to space certify the system. Our goal in this research is to enable the development of automated spacecraft habitats for long duration missions. To transform how spacecraft lighting environments are automated, our project conducted a variety of tests to determine a potential scope of capability. We investigated utilization and application of an industry accepted lighting control protocol, DMX512 by showcasing how the lighting system could help conserve power, assist with lighting countermeasures, and utilize spatial body tracking. We hope evaluation and the demonstrations we built will inspire other NASA engineers, architects and researchers to consider employing DMX512 "smart lighting" capabilities into their system architecture. By using DMX512 we will prove the 'wheel' does not need to be reinvented in terms of smart lighting and future spacecraft can use a standard lighting protocol to produce an effective, optimized and potentially earthlike habitat.

Clark, Tori A.↗

Lighting Automation Flying an Earthlike Habitat

Currently, spacecraft lighting systems are not demonstrating innovations in automation due to perceived costs in designing circuitry for the communication and automation of lights. The majority of spacecraft lighting systems employ lamps or zone specific manual switches and dimmers. This type of 'hardwired' solution does not easily convert to automation. With advances in solid state lighting, the potential to enhance a spacecraft habitat is lost if the communication and automation problem is not tackled. If we are to build long duration environments, which provide earth-like habitats, minimize crew time, and optimize spacecraft power reserves, innovation in lighting automation is a must. This project researched the use of the DMX512 communication protocol originally developed for high channel count lighting systems. DMX512 is an internationally governed, industry-accepted, lighting communication protocol with wide industry support. The lighting industry markets a wealth of hardware and software that utilizes DMX512, and there may be incentive to space certify the system. Our goal in this research is to enable the development of automated spacecraft habitats for long duration missions. To transform how spacecraft lighting environments are automated, our project conducted a variety of tests to determine a potential scope of capability. We investigated utilization and application of an industry accepted lighting control protocol, DMX512 by showcasing how the lighting system could help conserve power, assist with lighting countermeasures, and utilize spatial body tracking. We hope evaluation and the demonstrations we built will inspire other NASA engineers, architects and researchers to consider employing DMX512 "smart lighting" capabilities into their system architecture. By using DMX512 we will prove the 'wheel' does not need to be reinvented in terms of smart lighting and future spacecraft can use a standard lighting protocol to produce an effective, optimized and potentially earthlike habitat.

Clark, Toni A.↗