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At least 1,765 records · Page 98

Adaptation and Re-Use of Spacecraft Power System Models for the Constellation Program

NASA's Constellation Program is embarking on a new era of space exploration, returning to the Moon and beyond. The Constellation architecture will consist of a number of new spacecraft elements, including the Orion crew exploration vehicle, the Altair lunar lander, and the Ares family of launch vehicles. Each of these new spacecraft elements will need an electric power system, and those power systems will need to be designed to fulfill unique mission objectives and to survive the unique environments encountered on a lunar exploration mission. As with any new spacecraft power system development, preliminary design work will rely heavily on analysis to select the proper power technologies, size the power system components, and predict the system performance throughout the required mission profile. Constellation projects have the advantage of leveraging power system modeling developments from other recent programs such as the International Space Station (ISS) and the Mars Exploration Program. These programs have developed mature power system modeling tools, which can be quickly modified to meet the unique needs of Constellation, and thus provide a rapid capability for detailed power system modeling that otherwise would not exist.

Hojnicki, Jeffrey S.↗

Transient Finite Element Computations on a Variable Transputer System

A parallel program to analyze transient finite element problems was written and implemented on a system of transputer processors. The program uses the explicit time integration algorithm which eliminates the need for equation solving, making it more suitable for parallel computations. An interprocessor communication scheme was developed for arbitrary two dimensional grid processor configurations. Several 3-D problems were analyzed on a system with a small number of processors.

Smolinski, Patrick J.↗

Users manual for flight control design programs

Computer programs for the design of analog and digital flight control systems are documented. The program DIGADAPT uses linear-quadratic-gaussian synthesis algorithms in the design of command response controllers and state estimators, and it applies covariance propagation analysis to the selection of sampling intervals for digital systems. Program SCHED executes correlation and regression analyses for the development of gain and trim schedules to be used in open-loop explicit-adaptive control laws. A linear-time-varying simulation of aircraft motions is provided by the program TVHIS, which includes guidance and control logic, as well as models for control actuator dynamics. The programs are coded in FORTRAN and are compiled and executed on both IBM and CDC computers.

Nalbandian, J. Y.↗

High Fidelity System Simulation of Multiple Components in Support of the UEET Program

The High Fidelity System Simulation effort has addressed various important objectives to enable additional capability within the NPSS framework. The scope emphasized High Pressure Turbine and High Pressure Compressor components. Initial effort was directed at developing and validating intermediate fidelity NPSS model using PD geometry and extended to high-fidelity NPSS model by overlaying detailed geometry to validate CFD against rig data. Both "feedforward" and feedback" approaches of analysis zooming was employed to enable system simulation capability in NPSS. These approaches have certain benefits and applicability in terms of specific applications "feedback" zooming allows the flow-up of information from high-fidelity analysis to be used to update the NPSS model results by forcing the NPSS solver to converge to high-fidelity analysis predictions. This apporach is effective in improving the accuracy of the NPSS model; however, it can only be used in circumstances where there is a clear physics-based strategy to flow up the high-fidelity analysis results to update the NPSS system model. "Feed-forward" zooming approach is more broadly useful in terms of enabling detailed analysis at early stages of design for a specified set of critical operating points and using these analysis results to drive design decisions early in the development process.

Plybon, Ronald C.↗

NASA Phase2 Unlimited Rights Final Report Research and Technology for Aerospace Propulsion Systems (RTAPS) Task Order: ERA Advanced Core Compressor Technology Program

As part of the NASA Integrated Systems Research Program (ISRP), Environmentally Responsible Aviation (ERA) Project, NASA GRC and GE Aviation have partnered to investigate the technology barriers associated with improved fuel economy of large gas turbine engines. Crucial to improving fuel economy is the increase in pressure ratio (PR) of the core high pressure compressor (HPC). A key enabler to increasing HPC pressure ratios are new technology front stage airfoil designs that have higher efficiency, higher pressure ratios and improvements in front stage part-power operability. The purpose of this work is to design and test two high pressure ratio, high efficiency front block designs. The baseline design, hereafter referred to as Build 1, is similar to what would be found in a high efficiency 30:1 PR class HPC. A redesigned front block with improved blading will also be tested and hereafter be referred to as Build 2. The goal of Build 2 is to increase stage aero loading (increase stage pressure ratio) beyond Build 1 while maintaining equivalent efficiency and stall margin. The detailed inter-stage and traverse data from the two builds will be used to improve understanding of the complex flow physics at high-speed and part-speed conditions that impact performance and operability. By addressing, understanding and solving the challenges associated with aerodynamic losses and stage matching better design strategies can be incorporated in future core compressors with higher efficiency, thereby enabling improvement in mission fuel burn while still meeting operability requirements.

Axial Compressors↗

The Many Dimensions of Program Management

For the purposes of this paper, program refers to a collection of activities or projects which must be performed according to a plan or schedule. The Space Exploration Initiative within the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is an example. Dimensionality refers to both the various perspectives of a program and to the components within that perspective. It is, thus, appropriate to think of dimensions of dimensionality. For example, one dimension or perspective of a program is the projects which perform the program. Within the project dimension, the individual projects are the components of that dimensionality. The number of projects defines the spatial dimensionality of the project dimension. Thus, each perspective or dimension has a dimensionality of its own. The structure and associated values of all the various perspectives of a program define the program. A project refers to the collection of activities required to conceive, sell, design, develop, evaluate, produce, operate, support, evolve, and retire a given system. A project thus effects the life cycle of given system. A project is, thus, the system to conceive, sell, design, develop, evaluate, produce, operate, support, evolve, and retire a system. A program, thus, effects the life cycle of the collection of projects required to effect the collection of systems required to implement the program.

Dean, Edwin B.↗

LUMIS Interactive graphics operating instructions and system specifications

The LUMIS program has designed an integrated geographic information system to assist program managers and planning groups in metropolitan regions. Described is the system designed to interactively interrogate a data base, display graphically a portion of the region enclosed in the data base, and perform cross tabulations of variables within each city block, block group, or census tract. The system is designed to interface with U. S. Census DIME file technology, but can accept alternative districting conventions. The system is described on three levels: (1) introduction to the systems's concept and potential applications; (2) the method of operating the system on an interactive terminal; and (3) a detailed system specification for computer facility personnel.

Bryant, N. A.↗

NASA Safety Manual. Volume 3: System Safety

This Volume 3 of the NASA Safety Manual sets forth the basic elements and techniques for managing a system safety program and the technical methods recommended for use in developing a risk evaluation program that is oriented to the identification of hazards in aerospace hardware systems and the development of residual risk management information for the program manager that is based on the hazards identified. The methods and techniques described in this volume are in consonance with the requirements set forth in NHB 1700.1 (VI), Chapter 3. This volume and future volumes of the NASA Safety Manual shall not be rewritten, reprinted, or reproduced in any manner. Installation implementing procedures, if necessary, shall be inserted as page supplements in accordance with the provisions of Appendix A. No portion of this volume or future volumes of the NASA Safety Manual shall be invoked in contracts.

Source record↗

Expert System For Heat Exchanger

Diagnosis simplified for non-engineers. Developmental expert-system computer program assists operator in controlling, monitoring operation, diagnosing malfunctions, and ordering repairs of heat-exchanger system dissipating heat generated by 20-kW radio transmitter. System includes not only heat exchanger but also pumps, fans, sensors, valves, reservoir, and associated plumbing. Program conceived to assist operator while avoiding cost of keeping engineer in full-time attendance. Similar programs developed for heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning systems.

Bagby, D. Gordon↗

Program Aids Visualization Of Data

Living Color Frame System (LCFS) computer program developed to solve some problems that arise in connection with generation of real-time graphical displays of numerical data and of statuses of systems. Need for program like LCFS arises because computer graphics often applied for better understanding and interpretation of data under observation and these graphics become more complicated when animation required during run time. Eliminates need for custom graphical-display software for application programs. Written in Turbo C++.

Truong, L. V.↗

EDIN0613P weight estimating program

The weight estimating relationships and program developed for space power system simulation are described. The program was developed to size a two-stage launch vehicle for the space power system. The program is actually part of an overall simulation technique called EDIN (Engineering Design and Integration) system. The program sizes the overall vehicle, generates major component weights and derives a large amount of overall vehicle geometry. The program is written in FORTRAN V and is designed for use on the Univac Exec 8 (1110). By utilizing the flexibility of this program while remaining cognizant of the limits imposed upon output depth and accuracy by utilization of generalized input, this program concept can be a useful tool for estimating purposes at the conceptual design stage of a launch vehicle.

Hirsch, G. N.↗

Real-Time Sensor Validation System Developed for Reusable Launch Vehicle Testbed

A real-time system for validating sensor health has been developed for the reusable launch vehicle (RLV) program. This system, which is part of the propulsion checkout and control system (PCCS), was designed for use in an integrated propulsion technology demonstrator testbed built by Rockwell International and located at the NASA Marshall Space Flight Center. Work on the sensor health validation system, a result of an industry-NASA partnership, was completed at the NASA Lewis Research Center, then delivered to Marshall for integration and testing. The sensor validation software performs three basic functions: it identifies failed sensors, it provides reconstructed signals for failed sensors, and it identifies off-nominal system transient behavior that cannot be attributed to a failed sensor. The code is initiated by host software before the start of a propulsion system test, and it is called by the host program every control cycle. The output is posted to global memory for use by other PCCS modules. Output includes a list indicating the status of each sensor (i.e., failed, healthy, or reconstructed) and a list of features that are not due to a sensor failure. If a sensor failure is found, the system modifies that sensor's data array by substituting a reconstructed signal, when possible, for use by other PCCS modules.

Jankovsky, Amy L.↗

Autonomous power expert fault diagnostic system for Space Station Freedom electrical power system testbed

The goal of the Autonomous Power System (APS) program is to develop and apply intelligent problem solving and control to the Space Station Freedom Electrical Power System (SSF/EPS) testbed being developed and demonstrated at NASA Lewis Research Center. The objectives of the program are to establish artificial intelligence technology paths, to craft knowledge-based tools with advanced human-operator interfaces for power systems, and to interface and integrate knowledge-based systems with conventional controllers. The Autonomous Power EXpert (APEX) portion of the APS program will integrate a knowledge-based fault diagnostic system and a power resource planner-scheduler. Then APEX will interface on-line with the SSF/EPS testbed and its Power Management Controller (PMC). The key tasks include establishing knowledge bases for system diagnostics, fault detection and isolation analysis, on-line information accessing through PMC, enhanced data management, and multiple-level, object-oriented operator displays. The first prototype of the diagnostic expert system for fault detection and isolation has been developed. The knowledge bases and the rule-based model that were developed for the Power Distribution Control Unit subsystem of the SSF/EPS testbed are described. A corresponding troubleshooting technique is also described.

Truong, Long V.↗

Current Concepts of the CELSS Program

The intent of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration in supporting the Controlled Environment Life Support System (CELSS) program is to establish the technological basis for the development of life support systems that are relatively independent of resupply. Such systems, it is anticipated, will be needed in the future to support manned space flight involving long duration missions and large numbers of people. The establishment of a resupply-independent life support system requires that all or most of the material in such a system be retained and recycled. In fact, leakage of gases into space, or into atmospheres of significantly lower pressure than that found inside of the system, is inevitable. Technical advances in sealing capabilities may reduce losses in the future, but no seals will ever be perfectly impervious to common atmospheric gases. Thus, a CELSS is envisioned to be a recycling system that will need to be resupplied with gases from time to time.

Macelroy, R. D.↗

America's Next Great Ship: Space Launch System Core Stage Transitioning from Design to Manufacturing

The Space Launch System (SLS) Program is essential to achieving the Nation's and NASA's goal of human exploration and scientific investigation of the solar system. As a multi-element program with emphasis on safety, affordability, and sustainability, SLS is becoming America's next great ship of exploration. The SLS Core Stage includes avionics, main propulsion system, pressure vessels, thrust vector control, and structures. Boeing manufactures and assembles the SLS core stage at the Michoud Assembly Facility (MAF) in New Orleans, LA, a historical production center for Saturn V and Space Shuttle programs. As the transition from design to manufacturing progresses, the importance of a well-executed manufacturing, assembly, and operation (MA&O) plan is crucial to meeting performance objectives. Boeing employs classic techniques such as critical path analysis and facility requirements definition as well as innovative approaches such as Constraint Based Scheduling (CBS) and Cirtical Chain Project Management (CCPM) theory to provide a comprehensive suite of project management tools to manage the health of the baseline plan on both a macro (overall project) and micro level (factory areas). These tools coordinate data from multiple business systems and provide a robust network to support Material & Capacity Requirements Planning (MRP/CRP) and priorities. Coupled with these tools and a highly skilled workforce, Boeing is orchestrating the parallel buildup of five major sub assemblies throughout the factory. Boeing and NASA are transforming MAF to host state of the art processes, equipment and tooling, the most prominent of which is the Vertical Assembly Center (VAC), the largest weld tool in the world. In concert, a global supply chain is delivering a range of structural elements and component parts necessary to enable an on-time delivery of the integrated Core Stage. SLS is on plan to launch humanity into the next phase of space exploration.

Birkenstock, Benjamin↗

Exploration Systems Development Mission Directorate (ESDMD) Moon-to-Mars Architecture Definition Document

There are many opportunities in executing the ambitious Moon-to-Mars efforts through an integrated architecture. NASA addresses this in its Moon-to-Mars Strategy and Objectives Development2 document (hereafter referred to as the M2M Strategy). Many of these opportunities involve establishing a system engineering framework that can support the breadth of necessary program and system contributions. By applying these needs to nearer-term lunar development, NASA will be instituting the process, procedures, and techniques needed to enable longer-term Mars goals and more. Some of the challenges being addressed in the M2M Strategy are associated with the architecture definition and include broad/changing goals, funding, and external pressures/influences. This document and the methodology outlined for architecture definition have been crafted to contend with these using an iterative and adaptable framework. The primary purpose of the Architecture Definition Document (ADD) is to capture the methodology, organization, and decomposition necessary to translate the broad objectives outlined in the M2M Strategy into functions and use cases that can be allocated to implementable programs and projects. Inherent in this process will be the need to communicate the long-term vision, maintain traceability to responsible parties, and iterate on the architectural implementation as innovations and solutions develop. This document will be updated and improved in conjunction with the Architecture Concept Review (ACR) which will be held annually to help unify the Agency and to get buy-in and input from across the Agency on the human exploration architecture. The annual nature of the process provides the opportunity to continually incorporate new developments in technologies and new partnerships, whether they be with industry, the U.S. Government, international entities, or academia.

Moon-to-Mars Strategy↗

A preliminary design and implementation of the low-thrust simulation and trajectory search program (LOWTRAJ)

The results are presented of one phase of research conducted for the JPL Solar Electric Propulsion (SEP) Navigation Software System development program. It deals only with the problem of designing the flight quality trajectory program, which is a major subset of the entire navigation software system. In this phase of research (breadboard development phase), attempts were made to assess the SEP trajectory software functional requirements, to investigate the program design method satisfying these requirements, to identify the primary anticipated problem areas, and to provide solutions to these problem areas. These efforts culminated in the development of a compact breadboard program. A functional description and the mathematical formulation of the program are presented.

Yen, C. L.↗

Developing a safe on-orbit cryogenic depot

New U.S. space initiatives will require technology to realize planned programs such as piloted lunar and Mars missions. Key to the optimal execution of such missions are high performance orbit transfer vehicles and propellant storage facilities. Large amounts of liquid hydrogen and oxygen demand a uniquely designed on-orbit cryogenic propellant depot. Because of the inherent dangers in propellant storage and handling, a comprehensive system safety program must be established. This paper shows how the myriad and complex hazards demonstrate the need for an integrated safety effort to be applied from program conception through operational use. Even though the cryogenic depot is still in the conceptual stage, many of the hazards have been identified, including fatigue due to heavy thermal loading from environmental and operating temperature extremes, micrometeoroid and/or depot ancillary equipment impact (this is an important problem due to the large surface area needed to house the large quantities of propellant), docking and maintenance hazards, and hazards associated with extended extravehicular activity. Various safety analysis techniques were presented for each program phase. Specific system safety implementation steps were also listed. Enhanced risk assessment was demonstrated through the incorporation of these methods.

Bahr, Nicholas J.↗