Engineering topics

Arndt, D.

Publications and source records attributed to Arndt, D..

7 records

NASA NTRS2006

Performance Evaluation of a UWB-RFID System for Potential Space Applications

This talk presents a brief overview of the ultra-wideband (UWB) RFID system with emphasis on the performance evaluation of a commercially available UWB-RFID system. There are many RFID systems available today, but many provide just basic identification for auditing and inventory tracking. For applications that require high precision real time tracking, UWB technology has been shown to be a viable solution. The use of extremely short bursts of RF pulses offers high immunity to interference from other RF systems, precise tracking due to sub-nanosecond time resolution, and robust performance in multipath environments. The UWB-RFID system Sapphire DART (Digital Active RFID & Tracking) will be introduced in this talk. Laboratory testing using Sapphire DART is performed to evaluate its capability such as coverage area, accuracy, ease of operation, and robustness. Performance evaluation of this system in an operational environment (a receiving warehouse) for inventory tracking is also conducted. Concepts of using the UWB-RFID technology to track astronauts and assets are being proposed for space exploration.

Phan, Chan T.↗

NASA NTRS2006

UWB Tracking Algorithms: AOA and TDOA

Ultra-Wideband (UWB) tracking prototype systems are currently under development at NASA Johnson Space Center for various applications on space exploration. For long range applications, a two-cluster Angle of Arrival (AOA) tracking method is employed for implementation of the tracking system; for close-in applications, a Time Difference of Arrival (TDOA) positioning methodology is exploited. Both AOA and TDOA are chosen to utilize the achievable fine time resolution of UWB signals. This talk presents a brief introduction to AOA and TDOA methodologies. The theoretical analysis of these two algorithms reveal the affecting parameters impact on the tracking resolution. For the AOA algorithm, simulations show that a tracking resolution less than 0.5% of the range can be achieved with the current achievable time resolution of UWB signals. For the TDOA algorithm used in close-in applications, simulations show that the (sub-inch) high tracking resolution is achieved with a chosen tracking baseline configuration. The analytical and simulated results provide insightful guidance for the UWB tracking system design.

Ni, Jianjun David↗

NASA NTRS2006

UWB Two-Cluster AOA Tracking Prototype System Design

This presentation discusses a design effort for a prototype ultra-wideband (UWB) tracking system that is currently under development at NASA Johnson Space Center (JSC). The system is being studied for use in tracking of lunar/Mars rovers during early exploration missions when satellite navigation systems are not available. The UWB technology is exploited to implement the tracking system due to its properties such as fine time resolution, low power spectral density and multipath immunity. A two cluster prototype design using commercially available UWB radios is employed to implement the Angle of Arrival (AOA) tracking methodology in this design effort. In order to increase the tracking range, low noise amplifiers (LNA) and high gain horns are used at the receiving sides. Field tests were conducted jointly with the Science and Crew Operation Utility Testbed (SCOUT) vehicle near the Meteor Crater in Arizona to test the tracking capability for a moving target in an operational environment. These tests demonstrate that the UWB tracking system can co-exist with other on-board radio frequency (RF) communication systems (such as Global Positioning System (GPS), video, voice and telemetry systems), and that a tracking resolution less than 1% of the range can be achieved.

Ngo, Phong H.↗

NASA NTRS1992

A high temperature superconductivity communications flight experiment

The proposed high temperature superconductivity (HTSC) millimeter-wave communications flight experiment from the payload bay of the Space Shuttle Orbiter to the Advanced Communications Technology Satellite (ACTS) in geosynchronous orbit is described. The experiment will use a Ka-band HTSC phased array antenna and front-end electronics to receive a downlink communications signal from the ACTS. The discussion covers the system configuration, a description of the ground equipment, the spacecraft receiver, link performance, thermal loading, and the superconducting antenna array.

Ngo, P.↗

NASA NTRS1989

Ku-band interferences for the Space Station multiple access link

The multiple access (MA) system, an essential part of the United States Space Station, will be used to provide simultaneous communication services, voice and command, telemetry and video, between the Space Station and all the different coorbiting user vehicles. The system is designed to operate in the Ku-band frequencies between 14 GHz and 14.89 GHz. Within this band, there are other users that could pose serious interference potential. The extent of the interference and its impact on the system operations are analyzed using a Monte Carlo simulation. Worst-case analysis indicated that certain links are very susceptible to interference. Mitigation techniques involving both hardware changes and operation constraints are presented. With the modification of some of the design and implementation of some of the mitigation techniques, the interference levels were found to be only a few percent and to occur in a burst manner.

Loh, Y. C.↗

NASA NTRS1988

Orbital Maneuvering Vehicle space station communications design

The authors present an Orbital Maneuvering Vehicle space station communications systems design approach which is intended to satisfy the stringent link requirements. The operational scenario, system configuration, signal design, antenna system management, and link performance analysis are discussed in detail. It is shown that the return link can transmit up to 21.6 Mb/s and maintain at least a 3-dB link margin through proper power and antenna management control at a maximum distance of 37 km. It is suggested that the proposed system, which is compatible with the space station multiple-access system, can be a model for other space station interoperating elements or users to save the development cost and reduce the technical and schedule risks.

Arndt, D.↗

NASA NTRS1971

Parameter region for proper operation of a multifilter phase-lock loop.

Parameter regions for proper operation of multifilter phase-lock loops used for demodulation are determined utilizing digital and analog computers. Experimental models are used to study these regions of proper operation. Generalized state models are developed for the multifilter phase-lock loop.

Carden, F.↗