Engineering topics

Britcher, Colin P.

Publications and source records attributed to Britcher, Colin P..

47 records · Page 3

NASA NTRS1991

Aerospace Applications of Magnetic Suspension Technology, part 2

In order to examine the state of technology of all areas of magnetic suspension with potential aerospace applications, and to review related recent developments in sensors and control approaches, superconducting technology, and design/implementation practices, a workshop was held at NASA-Langley. Areas of concern are pointing and isolation systems, microgravity and vibration isolation, bearing applications, wind tunnel model suspension systems, large gap magnetic suspension systems, controls, rotating machinery, science and applications of superconductivity, and sensors. Papers presented are included.

Groom, Nelson J.↗

NASA NTRS1990

Subsonic sting interference on the aerodynamic characteristics of a family of slanted-base ogive-cylinders

Support interference free drag, lift, and pitching moment measurements on a range of slanted base ogive cylinders were made using the NASA Langley 13 inch magnetic suspension and balance system. Typical test Mach numbers were in the range 0.04 to 0.2. Drag results are shown to be in broad agreement with previous tests with this configuration. Measurements were repeated with a dummy sting support installed in the wind tunnel. Significant support interferences were found at all test conditions and are quantified. Further comparison is made between interference free base pressures, obtained using remote telemetry, and sting cavity pressures.

Britcher, Colin P.↗

NASA NTRS1989

Recent aerodynamic measurements with Magnetic Suspension Systems

This paper reviews recent aerodynamic tests of a family of slanted-base ogive-cylinders using the NASA Langley 13-inch Magnetic Suspension and Balance System. Results include drag, lift, pitching moment, support interference and base pressure measurements. Mach numbers were in the range 0.04 to 0.2. Drag results are shown to be in satisfactory agreement with previous measurements. Significant support interferences were found at all test conditions. Comparison is made between interference free base pressures, obtained using remote telemetry, and sting cavity pressures. Test results and procedures are briefly discussed in the context of the proposed helium flow facility.

Britcher, Colin P.↗

NASA NTRS1989

Test techniques: A survey paper on cryogenic tunnels, adaptive wall test sections, and magnetic suspension and balance systems

The ability to get good experimental data in wind tunnels is often compromised by things seemingly beyond our control. Inadequate Reynolds number, wall interference, and support interference are three of the major problems in wind tunnel testing. Techniques for solving these problems are available. Cryogenic wind tunnels solve the problem of low Reynolds number. Adaptive wall test sections can go a long way toward eliminating wall interference. A magnetic suspension and balance system (MSBS) completely eliminates support interference. Cryogenic tunnels, adaptive wall test sections, and MSBS are surveyed. A brief historical overview is given and the present state of development and application in each area is described.

Kilgore, Robert A.↗

NASA NTRS1989

Subsonic sting interference on the drag of a family of slanted-base ogive-cylinders

Support interference free drag measurements on a range of slanted-base ogive-cylinders are made using the NASA Langley 13 inch Magnetic Suspension and Balance System. Comparison is made to measurements with a dummy sting support. Significant support interferences are found at most test conditions. Further comparison is made between interference free base pressures, obtained using remote telemetry, and sting cavity pressures.

Britcher, Colin P.↗

NASA NTRS1988

Super magnets for large tunnels

The development and use of a large Magnetic Suspension and Balance System (MSBS) in wind tunnels is examined, discussing NASA-sponsored research to develop a large MSBS, and the 2 MSBS already in use. The MSBS holds the model in an arbitrary position in the wind tunnel test section and measures the forces and moments acting on the model. Technologies for building a large MSBS have been developed, and research is being done to reduce building costs. Magnetic suspension is advantageous because it completely eliminates interference from mechanical support systems such as stings or struts and it allows for easy rotation and translation of the model. Advances allowing operation at higher temperatures, probably using liquid nitrogen instead of liquid helium may reduce the cost of MSBS operation. A large MSBS would require power controllers with capacity up to 10 MW, efficiency approaching 98 percent and the ability to reverse the sign of both voltage and current. Technologies include the electro-magnetic position sensor, model positioning sensing, digital controller, and a precalibrated resistance strain-gage balance.

Boyden, Richmond P.↗

NASA NTRS1988

Progress towards extreme attitude testing with Magnetic Suspension and Balance Systems

Progress is reported in a research effort aimed towards demonstration of the feasibility of suspension and aerodynamic testing of models at high angles of attack in wind tunnel Magnetic Suspension and Balance Systems. Extensive modifications, described in this paper, have been made to the Southampton University suspension system in order to facilitate this work. They include revision of electromagnet configuration, installation of all-new position sensors and expansion of control system programs. An angle of attack range of 0 to 90 deg is expected for axisymmetric models. To date, suspension up to 80 deg angle of attack has been achieved.

Britcher, Colin P.↗

NASA NTRS1987

Magnetic suspension and balance systems (MSBSs)

The problems of wind tunnel testing are outlined, with attention given to the problems caused by mechanical support systems, such as support interference, dynamic-testing restrictions, and low productivity. The basic principles of magnetic suspension are highlighted, along with the history of magnetic suspension and balance systems. Roll control, size limitations, high angle of attack, reliability, position sensing, and calibration are discussed among the problems and limitations of the existing magnetic suspension and balance systems. Examples of the existing systems are presented, and design studies for future systems are outlined. Problems specific to large-scale magnetic suspension and balance systems, such as high model loads, requirements for high-power electromagnets, high-capacity power supplies, highly sophisticated control systems and position sensors, and high costs are assessed.

Britcher, Colin P.↗

NASA NTRS1987

Technical background for a demonstration magnetic levitation system

A preliminary technical assessment of the feasibility of a demonstration Magnetic Levitation system, required to support aerodynamic models with a specified clear air volume around them, is presented. Preliminary calculations of required sizes of electromagnets and power supplies are made, indicating that the system is practical. Other aspects, including model position sensing and controller design, are briefly addressed.

Britcher, Colin P.↗

NASA NTRS1987

User guide for the digital control system of the NASA/Langley Research Center's 13-inch Magnetic Suspension and Balance System

The technical background to the development of the digital control system of the NASA/Langley Research Center's 13 inch Magnetic Supension and Balance Systen (MSBS) is reviewed. The implementation of traditional MSBS control algorithms in digital form is examined. Extensive details of the 13-inch MSBS digital controller and related hardware are given, together with the introductory instructions for systems operators. Full listings of software are included in the Appendices.

Britcher, Colin P.↗

NASA NTRS1987

Digital control of wind tunnel magnetic suspension and balance systems

Digital controllers are being developed for wind tunnel magnetic suspension and balance systems, which in turn permit wind tunnel testing of aircraft models free from support interference. Hardware and software features of two existing digital control systems are reviewed. Some aspects of model position sensing and system calibration are also discussed.

Britcher, Colin P.↗