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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 181 records · Page 10
All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
DOE OSTI2023

Continuous multimodal technologies in industrial microbiology: potential for achieving high process performance and agility

The field of industrial microbiology has great potential to tackle the most pressing challenges facing society, but today, this entails much more than classical fermentation technology followed by product upgrading. Methods are needed to confer unit-operation-level functionality and whole-system-level robustness, as well as flexibility. As examples of this concept, we focus here on methodologies often deployed at industrial scale as discrete processes—such as biological, chemical, and electrochemical unit operations—that are also capable of substantial complementarity when combined sequentially and operated continuously. A key and relatively new type of conversion step is made possible by catalyst immobilization methods at both the enzymatic and cellular level. Cases drawn from electro-fermentation for acetoin production and syngas-mediated microbial electrosynthesis of ethanol exemplify the synergy of combined operational approaches. Because modular processes can be treated as a series of reactor elements, considerable flexibility is possible. As discussed, however, not all processes are amenable to this intensification.

09 BIOMASS FUELS↗
NASA NTRS1992

Designer's unified cost model

A conceptual and preliminary designers' cost prediction model has been initiated. The model will provide a technically sound method for evaluating the relative cost of different composite structural designs, fabrication processes, and assembly methods that can be compared to equivalent metallic parts or assemblies. The feasibility of developing cost prediction software in a modular form for interfacing with state of the art preliminary design tools and computer aided design programs is being evaluated. The goal of this task is to establish theoretical cost functions that relate geometric design features to summed material cost and labor content in terms of process mechanics and physics. The output of the designers' present analytical tools will be input for the designers' cost prediction model to provide the designer with a data base and deterministic cost methodology that allows one to trade and synthesize designs with both cost and weight as objective functions for optimization. The approach, goals, plans, and progress is presented for development of COSTADE (Cost Optimization Software for Transport Aircraft Design Evaluation).

Freeman, William T.↗
NASA NTRS1992

Designers' unified cost model

The Structures Technology Program Office (STPO) at NASA LaRC has initiated development of a conceptual and preliminary designers' cost prediction model. The model will provide a technically sound method for evaluating the relative cost of different composite structural designs, fabrication processes, and assembly methods that can be compared to equivalent metallic parts or assemblies. The feasibility of developing cost prediction software in a modular form for interfacing with state-of-the-art preliminary design tools and computer aided design programs is being evaluated. The goal of this task is to establish theoretical cost functions that relate geometric design features to summed material cost and labor content in terms of process mechanics and physics. The output of the designers' present analytical tools will be input for the designers' cost prediction model to provide the designer with a database and deterministic cost methodology that allows one to trade and synthesize designs with both cost and weight as objective functions for optimization. This paper presents the team members, approach, goals, plans, and progress to date for development of COSTADE (Cost Optimization Software for Transport Aircraft Design Evaluation).

Freeman, W.↗
NASA NTRS1998

Design of Three-Dimensional Hypersonic Inlets with Rectangular to Elliptical Shape Transition

A methodology has been devised for the design of three-dimensional hypersonic inlets which include a rectangular to elliptical shape transition. This methodology makes extensive use of inviscid streamtracing techniques to generate a smooth shape transition from a rectangular-like capture to an elliptical throat. Highly swept leading edges and a significantly notched cowl enable use of these inlets in fixed geometry configurations. The design procedure includes a three dimensional displacement thickness calculation and uses established correlations to check for boundary layer separation due to shock wave interactions. Complete details of the design procedure are presented and the characteristics of a modular inlet with rectangular to elliptical shape transition and a design point of Mach 7.1 are examined. Comparison with a classical two-dimensional inlet optimized for maximum total pressure recovery indicates that this three-dimensional inlet demonstrates good performance even well below its design point.

Smart, M. K.↗
NASA NTRS1983

Automation concepts for large space power systems

A study was undertaken to develop a methodology for analyzing, selecting, and implementing automation functions for multi-hundred-kW photovoltaic power systems intended for manned space station. The study involved identification of generic power system elements and their potential faults, definition of automation functions and their resulting benefits, and partitioning of automation functions between power subsystem, central spacecraft computer, and ground. Automation to a varying degree was concluded to be mandatory to meet the design and operational requirements of the space station. The key drivers are indefinite lifetime, modular growth, high performance flexibility, a need to accommodate different electrical user load equipment, on-orbit assembly/maintenance/servicing, and potentially large number of power subsystem components. Functions that are good candidates for automation via expert system approach includes battery management and electrical consumables management.

Imamura, M. S.↗
NASA NTRS1996

An Open Computing Infrastructure that Facilitates Integrated Product and Process Development from a Decision-Based Perspective

Computer applications for design have evolved rapidly over the past several decades, and significant payoffs are being achieved by organizations through reductions in design cycle times. These applications are overwhelmed by the requirements imposed during complex, open engineering systems design. Organizations are faced with a number of different methodologies, numerous legacy disciplinary tools, and a very large amount of data. Yet they are also faced with few interdisciplinary tools for design collaboration or methods for achieving the revolutionary product designs required to maintain a competitive advantage in the future. These organizations are looking for a software infrastructure that integrates current corporate design practices with newer simulation and solution techniques. Such an infrastructure must be robust to changes in both corporate needs and enabling technologies. In addition, this infrastructure must be user-friendly, modular and scalable. This need is the motivation for the research described in this dissertation. The research is focused on the development of an open computing infrastructure that facilitates product and process design. In addition, this research explicitly deals with human interactions during design through a model that focuses on the role of a designer as that of decision-maker. The research perspective here is taken from that of design as a discipline with a focus on Decision-Based Design, Theory of Languages, Information Science, and Integration Technology. Given this background, a Model of IPPD is developed and implemented along the lines of a traditional experimental procedure: with the steps of establishing context, formalizing a theory, building an apparatus, conducting an experiment, reviewing results, and providing recommendations. Based on this Model, Design Processes and Specification can be explored in a structured and implementable architecture. An architecture for exploring design called DREAMS (Developing Robust Engineering Analysis Models and Specifications) has been developed which supports the activities of both meta-design and actual design execution. This is accomplished through a systematic process which is comprised of the stages of Formulation, Translation, and Evaluation. During this process, elements from a Design Specification are integrated into Design Processes. In addition, a software infrastructure was developed and is called IMAGE (Intelligent Multidisciplinary Aircraft Generation Environment). This represents a virtual apparatus in the Design Experiment conducted in this research. IMAGE is an innovative architecture because it explicitly supports design-related activities. This is accomplished through a GUI driven and Agent-based implementation of DREAMS. A HSCT design has been adopted from the Framework for Interdisciplinary Design Optimization (FIDO) and is implemented in IMAGE. This problem shows how Design Processes and Specification interact in a design system. In addition, the problem utilizes two different solution models concurrently: optimal and satisfying. The satisfying model allows for more design flexibility and allows a designer to maintain design freedom. As a result of following this experimental procedure, this infrastructure is an open system that it is robust to changes in both corporate needs and computer technologies. The development of this infrastructure leads to a number of significant intellectual contributions: 1) A new approach to implementing IPPD with the aid of a computer; 2) A formal Design Experiment; 3) A combined Process and Specification architecture that is language-based; 4) An infrastructure for exploring design; 5) An integration strategy for implementing computer resources; and 6) A seamless modeling language. The need for these contributions is emphasized by the demand by industry and government agencies for the development of these technologies.

Hale, Mark A.↗
NASA NTRS1993

Nuclear Engine System Simulation (NESS). Volume 1: Program user's guide

A Nuclear Thermal Propulsion (NTP) engine system design analysis tool is required to support current and future Space Exploration Initiative (SEI) propulsion and vehicle design studies. Currently available NTP engine design models are those developed during the NERVA program in the 1960's and early 1970's and are highly unique to that design or are modifications of current liquid propulsion system design models. To date, NTP engine-based liquid design models lack integrated design of key NTP engine design features in the areas of reactor, shielding, multi-propellant capability, and multi-redundant pump feed fuel systems. Additionally, since the SEI effort is in the initial development stage, a robust, verified NTP analysis design tool could be of great use to the community. This effort developed an NTP engine system design analysis program (tool), known as the Nuclear Engine System Simulation (NESS) program, to support ongoing and future engine system and stage design study efforts. In this effort, Science Applications International Corporation's (SAIC) NTP version of the Expanded Liquid Engine Simulation (ELES) program was modified extensively to include Westinghouse Electric Corporation's near-term solid-core reactor design model. The ELES program has extensive capability to conduct preliminary system design analysis of liquid rocket systems and vehicles. The program is modular in nature and is versatile in terms of modeling state-of-the-art component and system options as discussed. The Westinghouse reactor design model, which was integrated in the NESS program, is based on the near-term solid-core ENABLER NTP reactor design concept. This program is now capable of accurately modeling (characterizing) a complete near-term solid-core NTP engine system in great detail, for a number of design options, in an efficient manner. The following discussion summarizes the overall analysis methodology, key assumptions, and capabilities associated with the NESS presents an example problem, and compares the results to related NTP engine system designs. Initial installation instructions and program disks are in Volume 2 of the NESS Program User's Guide.

Pelaccio, Dennis G.↗
DOE OSTI2020

Modernization of Technical Requirements for Licensing of Advanced Non-Light Water Reactors: Risk-Informed and Performance-Based Evaluation of Defense-in-Depth Adequacy

This document supports the work contained in Nuclear Energy Institute (NEI) 18-04 “Risk-Informed Performance-Based Technology Inclusive Guidance for Advanced Reactor Licensing Basis Development” Revision 0. NEI 18-04 presents a modern, technology-inclusive, risk-informed, and performance-based (TI-RIPB) process for selection of Licensing Basis Events (LBEs); safety classification of structures, systems, and components (SSCs) and associated risk-informed special treatments; and determination of defense-in-depth (DID) adequacy for non-LWRs. The NEI guidance document provides one acceptable means for addressing the aforementioned topics as part of demonstrating a specific design provides reasonable assurance of adequate radiological protection. This report provides the framework and associated methodology guidelines and discussion for establishing, then evaluating, confirming, and documenting the adequacy of defense-in-depth (DID) for advanced non-light-water reactor technologies. It was developed as part of the Licensing Modernization Project led by Southern Company and cost-shared by the United States Department of Energy and has benefited from considerable NRC formal reviews and public workshops. The methodology converts the DID philosophy into a structured process that is implementable, embraces existing United States and international definitions and philosophies of DID that set the foundation for the process. It builds on the DID framework developed in the Department of Energy Next Generation Nuclear Plant Project and earlier works on this subject. The approach to establishing DID adequacy involves the incorporation of DID attributes into the plant capabilities and programmatic elements of DID. The integrated evaluation of DID adequacy includes both quantitative elements to incorporate risk-informed and performance-based (RIPB) considerations and qualitative elements that address uncertainties and limitations in the quantitative models and supporting data. Demonstration of DID adequacy ensures that there are multiple layers of defense for risk-significant challenges to the design and that the plant capabilities and programs that support each layer are provided in a manner that minimizes dependencies among these layers. The focus of this report is assurance of DID adequacy with respect to protection of the public from radiological exposures resulting from accidental releases of radioactive material. While other hazards are not specifically addressed, this methodology is expected to be beneficial for determining DID adequacy for them as well. Risk-informed evaluation of DID considers the integrated performance of all plant SSCs and associated programs to manage daily operational activities, transients, and accidents, including the evaluation of strategies for accident prevention and mitigation. The RIPB LBE scenario methodology used in this evaluation defines the challenges to the plant safety features included in the plant design basis and beyond, and the scope of all deterministic and probabilistic safety evaluations. By examining event sequences across the whole spectrum of LBEs, a systematic assessment of DID can be accomplished.

42 ENGINEERING↗
DOE OSTI2020

Data-driven recovery of hidden physics in reduced order modeling of fluid flows

In this article, we introduce a modular hybrid analysis and modeling (HAM) approach to account for hidden physics in reduced order modeling (ROM) of parameterized systems relevant to fluid dynamics. The hybrid ROM framework is based on using first principles to model the known physics in conjunction with utilizing the data-driven machine learning tools to model the remaining residual that is hidden in data. This framework employs proper orthogonal decomposition as a compression tool to construct orthonormal bases and Galerkin projection (GP) as a model to build the dynamical core of the system. Our proposed methodology hence compensates structural or epistemic uncertainties in models and utilizes the observed data snapshots to compute true modal coefficients spanned by these bases. The GP model is then corrected at every time step with a data-driven rectification using a long short-term memory (LSTM) neural network architecture to incorporate hidden physics. A Grassmannian manifold approach is also adopted for interpolating basis functions to unseen parametric conditions. The control parameter governing the system's behavior is thus implicitly considered through true modal coefficients as input features to the LSTM network. The effectiveness of the HAM approach is then discussed through illustrative examples that are generated synthetically to take hidden physics into account. Furthermore, our approach thus provides insights addressing a fundamental limitation of the physics-based models when the governing equations are incomplete to represent underlying physical processes.

42 ENGINEERING↗
DOE OSTI2024

Online Monitoring of Catalytic Processes by Fiber-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy

An innovative solution for real-time monitoring of reactions within confined spaces, optimized for Raman spectroscopy applications, is presented. This approach involves the utilization of a hollow-core waveguide configured as a compact flow cell, serving both as a conduit for Raman excitation and scattering and seamlessly integrating into the effluent stream of a cracking catalytic reactor. The analytical technique, encompassing device and optical design, ensures robustness, compactness, and cost-effectiveness for implementation into process facilities. Notably, the modularity of the approach empowers customization for diverse gas monitoring needs, as it readily adapts to the specific requirements of various sensing scenarios. As a proof of concept, the efficacy of a spectroscopic approach is shown by monitoring two catalytic processes: CO 2 methanation (CO 2 + 4H 2 → CH 4 + 2H 2 O) and ammonia cracking (2NH 3 → N 2 + 3H 2 ). Leveraging chemometric data processing techniques, spectral signatures of the individual components involved in these reactions are effectively disentangled and the results are compared to mass spectrometry data. This robust methodology underscores the versatility and reliability of this monitoring system in complex chemical environments.

37 INORGANIC, ORGANIC, PHYSICAL, AND ANALYTICAL CH↗
NASA NTRS2013

Reference Controls Methodologies for Large Structural Models at Kennedy Space Center

This presentation will discuss the methodology behind Model Class Definition--the use of separate model assemblies of the same product, at different fidelities, driven by the same skeleton files. These fidelities can be used to convey only the detail that the end user needs, by allowing the end user to pick and choose between model classes for assembly creation. The usefulness of MPA for the Windchill Release Process will be demonstrated, along with its usefulness in minimizing CPU resources during design. The presentation will include an overview the ML product, how to structure complex products in a flexible modular architecture, and how to maximize system resources.

Jones, Corey↗
DOE OSTI2026

Biconjugate Impedance Matching Control of the HERO WEC: Preprint

Effective control strategies are essential for maximizing the power output of wave energy converters (WECs). In this study, we explore the methodology of port-based modelling which can be used for bi-conjugate impedance matching, a type of reactive control that involves maximizing power transfer by setting the load (PTO) impedance to be the complex conjugate of the source impedance (WEC). Despite its foundational role in electrical engineering, this method has seen limited application in wave energy and has not yet been demonstrated in wave-powered desalination systems. We represent our complex multidisciplinary system as an equivalent circuit to explore frequency-based relations. The HERO WEC, a small-scale, modular point absorber (PA) designed for reverse osmosis desalination is used as a case study to demonstrate port-based modelling for control applications. Improving the performance of wave-powered water desalination systems could play a critical role in addressing freshwater scarcity for coastal communities, especially those in remote or disaster-prone regions.

16 TIDAL AND WAVE POWER↗
DOE OSTI2020

Modernization of Technical Requirements for Licensing of Advanced Non-Light Water Reactors: Selection and Evaluation of Licensing Basis Events

This report, “Modernization of Technical Requirements for Licensing of Advanced Non-Light Water Reactors: Selection and Evaluation of Licensing Basis Events,” represents a key element in the development of a methodology for the efficient licensing of advanced non-light water reactors (non-LWRs). It is the result of a Licensing Modernization Project (LMP) led by Southern Company and cost-shared by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). The LMP will result in detailed proposals for establishing licensing technical requirements to facilitate risk-informed and performance-based design and licensing of advanced non-LWRs. Such a methodology acknowledges enhancements in safety achievable with advanced designs and reflects more recent states of knowledge regarding safety and design innovation, creating an opportunity for reduced regulatory complexity with increased levels of safety. The project builds on best practices as well as previous activities through DOE and industry-sponsored advanced reactor licensing initiatives.

42 ENGINEERING↗
DOE OSTI2020

Modernization of Technical Requirements for Licensing of Advanced Non-Light Water Reactors: Probabilistic Risk Assessment Approach

This report, “Modernization of Technical Requirements for Licensing of Advanced Non-Light Water Reactors: Probabilistic Risk Assessment Approach,” represents a key element in the development of a methodology for the efficient licensing of advanced non-light water reactors (non-LWRs). It is the result of a Licensing Modernization Project (LMP) led by Southern Company and cost-shared by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). The LMP has developed detailed proposals for establishing licensing technical requirements to facilitate risk-informed and performance-based design and licensing of advanced non-LWRs. Such a methodology acknowledges enhancements in safety achievable with advanced designs and reflects more recent states of knowledge regarding safety and design innovation, creating an opportunity for reduced regulatory complexity with increased levels of safety. The project builds on best practices, as well as previous activities through DOE and industry-sponsored advanced reactor licensing initiatives.

42 ENGINEERING↗
NASA NTRS1993

MERCATOR: Methods and Realization for Control of the Attitude and the Orbit of spacecraft

Since 1974, CNES has been involved in geostationary positioning. Among different entities participating in operations and their preparation, the Flight Dynamics Center (FDC) is in charge of performing the following tasks: orbit determination; attitude determination; computation, monitoring, and calibration of orbit maneuvers; computation, monitoring, and calibration of attitude maneuvers; and operational predictions. In order to fulfill this mission, the FDC receives telemetry from the satellite and localization measurements from ground stations (e.g., CNES, NASA, INTELSAT). These data are processed by space dynamics programs integrated in the MERCATOR system which is run on SUN workstations (UNIX O.S.). The main features of MERCATOR are redundancy, modularity, and flexibility: efficient, flexible, and user friendly man-machine interface; and four identical SUN stations redundantly linked in an Ethernet network. Each workstation can perform all the tasks from data acquisition to computation results dissemination through a video network. A team of four engineers can handle the space mechanics aspects of a complete geostationary positioning from the injection into a transfer orbit to the final maneuvers in the station-keeping window. MERCATOR has been or is to be used for operations related to more than ten geostationary positionings. Initially developed for geostationary satellites, MERCATOR's methodology was also used for satellite control centers and can be applied to a wide range of satellites and to future manned missions.

Tavernier, Gilles↗
DOE OSTI2023

Unique safety features and licensing requirements of the NuScale small modular reactor

Small modular reactors (SMR) offer a novel approach to the construction and operation of nuclear power plants. The NuScale VOYGR™ plant uses a simplified SMR design that is based on proven light-water reactor technology with substantial improvements in nuclear safety. It consists of a 250 MWt reactor core housed with other primary system components in an integral reactor pressure vessel surrounded by a steel containment vessel, all of which is immersed in a large pool of water that also serves as the ultimate heat sink. At the core of the NuScale safety case are three primary safety systems: the decay heat removal system, the emergency core cooling system, and the containment. The ability of the NuScale Power Module (NPM) passive safety systems to remove core decay heat for an unlimited duration is demonstrated through analysis of a beyond-design-basis extended loss of AC power with no replenishment of water to the ultimate heat sink or operator actions. The NuScale methodology to evaluate an indefinite loss of AC power uses the proprietary NRELAP5 systems analysis computer code. Analysis results show that the reactor coolant system liquid level above the core is maintained and that containment pressure remains below the vessel design pressure. Once full passive air cooling is established, containment pressure and temperature will decrease over time with decreasing core decay heat. NuScale received standard design approval in September 2020 and design certification in January 2023 for its 50 MWe NPM configured as a 12 module plant. NuScale is currently seeking standard design approval to increase its core power to 250 MWt, nominally 77 MWe per module, in a 6-module plant (VOYGR™-6) configuration. The high-level safety of NuScale’s SMR technology is foundational to a new standard of nuclear power plant resilience.

22 GENERAL STUDIES OF NUCLEAR REACTORS↗
NASA NTRS2023

Python Based Plume Dynamics Estimation Tool (PyPDET) Rapid Plume Strike Analysis for RPOD Maneuvers in Deep Space Operations

I worked as a NASA Intern during the Summer 2023 term in the DS-00 division under the supervision of my mentor, Dr. Jonathan Pitt. Our goal was to build on our previous work from 2022 to develop a plume strike estimation tool using a prescribed physics methodology and model plume impingement effects while considering the dynamics of a rendezvous, operations, proximity, and docking (RPOD) maneuver. This tool supports previously configured CFD-DSMC calculations by allowing for rapid analysis of initial designs using a low-fidelity source flow model. Engineers can then use the high-fidelity CFD-DSMC tool to consolidate results as they work towards finalizing a design. This year’s project was focused on developing a software application that other engineers would be using in their analysis. Thus, the user’s experience was considered in the development of this application. Proper documentation, testability, and modularity of the codebase was our priority. For example, the project included auto documentation procedures to start building towards a User Manual, while also including dedicated demonstration cases for more explicit communication of functionality. Also, this project included a framework for testing the source code for future developments. Additionally, care was taken to develop the code using an Object-Oriented Programming approach. Thus, allowing for a modular extensibility of functionality in anticipation of future developments. The core work of this project was developing an algorithm that would transform the visiting vehicle and associated thruster data according to the kinematics described in the jet firing history. It would then calculate the estimated plume strikes on two of the target vehicles and write data accordingly into a VTK file. Summer work is to conclude by developing and presenting a PowerPoint slide deck at the intern exit briefing on August 11 th , 2023. Once the model for simple plume strike calculations is developed and tested there are several avenues to explore to continue development of this tool. These are also discussed in this report.

Plume Impingement↗
DOE OSTI2022

Computer-aided process intensification of natural gas to methanol process

The recent revolution in shale gas has presented opportunities for distributed manufacturing of key commodity chemicals, such as methanol, from methane. However, the conventional methane-to-methanol process is energy intensive which negatively affects the profitability and sustainability. Here an intensified process configuration that is both economically attractive and environmentally sustainable. This flowsheet is systematically discovered using the building block-based representation and optimization methodology. The new process configuration utilizes membrane-assisted reactive separations and can have as much as 190% higher total annual profit compared to a conventional configuration. Additionally, it has 57% less CO 2 -equivalent greenhouse gas emission. Such drastic improvement highlights the advantages of building block-based computer-aided process intensification method.

42 ENGINEERING↗