Engineering topics

Sugg, F. E.

Publications and source records attributed to Sugg, F. E..

12 records

NASA NTRS1985

Frequency-Discriminating Acoustic-Event Counter

Broadband events rejected. Acoustic-event counter discriminates against signals that simultaneously exceed preset amplitude thresholds in both low and high-frequency bands of its spectrum. Counter acts as spectral analyzer for mechanical vibrations. In combination with broadband acoustic transducer discriminates between signals and noise in acoustical destructive or nondestructive testing, vibration monitoring for machinery, burglar alarms, and other monitoring/warning systems.

Sugg, F. E.↗

NASA NTRS1985

Hand-Held Electronic Gap-Measuring Tools

Repetitive measurements simplified by tool based on LVDT operation. With fingers in open position, Gap-measuring tool rests on digital readout instrument. With fingers inserted in gap, separation alters inductance of linear variable-differential transformer in plastic handle. Originally developed for measuring gaps between surface tiles of Space Shuttle orbiter, tool reduces measurement time from 20 minutes per tile to 2 minutes. Also reduces possibility of damage to tiles during measurement. Tool has potential applications in mass production; helps ensure proper gap dimensions in assembly of refrigerator and car doors and also used to measure dimensions of components and to verify positional accuracy of components during progressive assembly operations.

Sugg, F. E.↗

NASA NTRS1985

Detecting Cracks in Rough Metal Surfaces

Test based on eddy-current probe technique identifies cracks in swaged metals. Hinged collar with spring-loaded latch holds probe in place on part tested. For repeated measurements on same or similar parts, collar loosened and moved to various measuring positions. Method suitable for many kinds of metal parts, including swaged fittings, tubing, and pipes. Used for rapid crack/no-crack determinations in suspect parts already installed.

Zuver, N. T.↗

NASA NTRS1985

Acoustic emission monitoring of Space Shuttle tiles

Late in the development of the Space Shuttle thermal protection system (TPS), a major problem was encountered with the attachment of the tiles to the spacecraft's exterior skin. To insure an adequate margin, each tile had to be proof tested. The risk of damaging a tile during proof test was quite high. For this reason, an acoustic emission system was developed and used in conjunction with the proof test to insure no significant damage occurred.

Castner, W. L.↗

NASA NTRS1983

Determining the Orientation of Anisotropic Materials

Ultrasonics probe direction of tile fibers. Hand-held acoustic transducer determines fiber orientation of heat resistant tiles. Transducers head placed on outer surface of painted tile. Signals from receiving transducers displayed on two-channel oscilloscope. Application suggests extending technique to inspection of other anisotropic materials. Plywood and fiber/epoxy composites examined to determine fiber direction; ultrasonics used to find direction of roll in sheet metal and other rolled products.

Sugg, F. E.↗

NASA NTRS1978

Corrosion detection and evaluation

Report details comprehensive study of nondestructive methods for detecting and/or evaluating up to six different types of corrosion: general, galvanic filiform, pitting, intergranular, and stress. Studied methods include: visual/optical inspection, radiography, penetrant inspection, analysis by polarized light, electrical conductivity measurements, pH analysis, and ultrasonic inspection.

Kammerer, C. C.↗

NASA NTRS1978

Portable fluorescent-dye inspection device

Hand-held device blocks ambient light from inspection area and can be used to examine sections of large objects without requiring objects to be moved or placed in darkroom. Bellows-type flexible shield has foam ends that seal surface to be inspected. Ultraviolet lamp and magnifier mounted in bellows permit localization of light. Rigid eyeshield hood allows in situ inspection.

Sugg, F. E.↗

NASA NTRS1977

Radiographic detection of cracks

Procedure utilizing x-ray radiography techniques can detect material cracks as small as 20% of material thickness, with 90% probability and 95% confidence if proper imaging procedures and criteria for selecting qualified inspectors are followed.

Sugg, F. E.↗

NASA NTRS1975

Ultrasonic detection of flaws in large structural areas

System's transducer consists of three piezoelectric elements that produce relatively-wide ultrasonic beam which covers significantly larger area and can monitor from a fixed point.

Sugg, F. E.↗

NASA NTRS1973

Real time statistical analysis of acoustic emission signals for flaw monitoring systems

Small structures are checked by monitoring samples for acoustical signal count. Flaws are located by observing relatively high acoustical activity within given area. Acoustical monitoring has been extended to large structures by dividing large samples into small areas and then monitoring each area separately.

Sugg, F. E.↗

NASA NTRS1971

Scale factor gage for fiber optics inspection device

Flexible wire device, fastened along outside of fiber bundle from viewing portion to tip, positions calibrated adjustable gage in field of view. Scale factor is determined from known magnification characteristics of fiber optics system or from graduations on gage tip.

Mcmahon, W.↗

NASA NTRS1970

Saturn S-2 quality assurance techniques: Nondestructive testing processes. Volume 1: Requirements and procedures

The methods and procedures used to perform nondestructive testing inspections of the Saturn S-2 liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen tank weldments during fabrication and after proof testing are described to document special skills developed during the program. All post-test inspection requirements are outlined including radiographic inspections procedures.

Eller, H. H.↗