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At least 217 records · Page 12

Simulating Fleet Noise for Notional UAM Vehicles and Operations in New York

This paper presents the results of systems-level simulations using Metrosim that were conducted for notional Urban Air Mobility (UAM)-style vehicles analyzed for two different scenarios for New York (NY). UAM is an aviation industry term for passenger or cargo-carrying air transportation services, which are often automated, operating in an urban/city environment. UAM-style vehicles are expected to use vertical takeoff and landing with fixed wing cruise flight. Metrosim is a metroplex-wide route and airport planning tool that can also be used in standalone mode as a simulation tool. The scenarios described and reported in this paper were used to evaluate a fleet noise prediction capability for this tool. The work was a collaborative effort between the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), Intelligent Automation, Inc (IAI), and the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ). One scenario was designed to represent an expanded air-taxi operation from existing helipads around Manhattan to the major New York airports. The other case represented a farther term vision case with commuters using personal air vehicles to hub locations just outside New York, with an air-taxi service running frequent connector trips to a few key locations inside Manhattan. For both scenarios, the trajectories created for the entire fleet were passed to the Aircraft Environmental Design Tool (AEDT) to generate Day-Night Level (DNL) noise contours for inspection. Without data for actual UAM vehicles available, surrogate AEDT empirical Noise-Power-Distance (NPD) tables used a similar sized current day helicopter as the Baseline, and a version of that same data linearly scaled as a first guess at possible UAM noise data. Details are provided for each of the two scenario configurations, and the output noise contours are presented for the Baseline and reduced noise DNL cases.

Glaab, Patricia↗

Gas Motion in a Local Supersonic Region and Conditions of Potential-Flow Breakdown

For a certain Mach number of the oncoming flow, the local velocity first reaches the value of the local velocity of sound (M = 1) at some point on the surface of the body located within the flow. This Mach number is designated the critical Mach number M(sub cr). By increasing the flow velocity, a supersonic local region is formed bounded by the body contour and the line of transition from subsonic to supersonic velocity. As is shown by observations with the Toepler apparatus, at a certain flow Mach number M > M(sub cr) a shock wave is formed near the body that closes the local supersonic region from behind. The formation of the shock wave is associated with the appearance of an additional resistance defined as the wave drag. In this paper, certain features are described of the flow in the local supersonic region, which is bounded by the contour of the body and the transition line, and conditions are sought for which the potential flow with the local supersonic region becomes impossible and a shock wave occurs. In the first part of the paper, the general properties of the potential flow in the local supersonic region, bounded by the contour of the profile and the transition line, are established. It is found that at the transition line, if it is not a line of discontinuity, the law of monotonic variation of the angle of inclination of the velocity vector holds (monotonic law). An approximation is given for the change in velocity at the contour of the body. The flow about a contour having a straight part is studied. In the second part of the paper, an approximation is given of the magnitudes of the accelerations at the interior points of the supersonic region. With the aid of these approximations, it is shown that for profiles convex to the flow the breakdown of the potential flow,associated with an increase of the Mach number of the oncoming flow, cannot be due to the formation of an envelope of the characteristics within the supersonic region. On the basis of the monotonic law, the transitional Mach number M is found, beyond which the potential flow with local supersonic region becomes impossible.

Nikolskii, A. A.↗

Cold Spray Additive Manufacturing For New Pipeline Fabrication In Live, Natural Gas Distribution Mains

ULC Technologies (ULC) and the Penn State University Applied Research Lab (PSU ARL) developed a process and approach for rehabilitating live, natural gas distribution pipelines using Cold Spray Additive Manufacturing (CSAM). Robotic inline fabrication of a new pipe will be performed inside a natural gas main without disrupting customers. The material studied was blended with stainless steel which offers corrosion resistance, high strength and compatibility with hydrogen to enable a robust pipeline system that is future proofed. Stainless steel coatings sprayed and tested in the lab showed excellent strength, ductility, and porosity values. ULC initially sought to use methane as the process gas for compatibility with the host pipe, but after evaluating the field and lab challenges, nitrogen was deemed to be more suitable. Early robotic concepts have been developed that indicate technical feasibility. While the technology development originally targeted natural gas distribution mains, market research showed a broader need. Spot repairs performed in natural gas transmission mains may be a more economical approach for reinforcing distribution and transmission mains compared with full pipe-in-pipe rehabilitation. Additive manufacturing offers custom programming, as well as high accuracy and precision. This means custom contours can be manufactured in situ, offering flexibility in the repair solution, such as fabricating internal full circumferential sleeves. The value of the repair can be high at difficult-to-reach locations and in pipes that need reinforcement before the injection of methane-hydrogen blends.

03 NATURAL GAS↗

Pressures measured in flight on the aft fuselage and external nozzle of a twin-jet fighter

Fuselage, boundary layer, and nozzle pressures were measured in flight for a twin jet fighter over a Mach number range from 0.60 to 2.00 at test altitudes of 6100, 10,700, and 13,700 meters for angles of attack ranging from 0 deg to 7 deg. Test data were analyzed to find the effects of the propulsion system geometry. The flight variables, and flow interference. The aft fuselage flow field was complex and showed the influence of the vertical tail, nacelle contour, and the wing. Changes in the boattail angle of either engine affected upper fuselage and lower fuselage pressure coefficients upstream of the nozzle. Boundary layer profiles at the forward and aft locations on the upper nacelles were relatively insensitive to Mach number and altitude. Boundary layer thickness decreased at both stations as angle of attack increased above 4 deg. Nozzle pressure coefficient was influenced by the vertical tail, horizontal tail boom, and nozzle interfairing; the last two tended to separate flow over the top of the nozzle from flow over the bottom of the nozzle. The left nozzle axial force coefficient was most affected by Mach number and left nozzle boattail angle. At Mach 0.90, the nozzle axial force coefficient was 0.0013.

Nugent, J.↗

Inlet flow field investigation. Part 1: Transonic flow field survey

A wind tunnel investigation was conducted to determine the local inlet flow field characteristics of an advanced tactical supersonic cruise airplane. A data base for the development and validation of analytical codes directed at the analysis of inlet flow fields for advanced supersonic airplanes was established. Testing was conducted at the NASA-Langley 16-foot Transonic Tunnel at freestream Mach numbers of 0.6 to 1.20 and angles of attack from 0.0 to 10.0 degrees. Inlet flow field surveys were made at locations representative of wing (upper and lower surface) and forebody mounted inlet concepts. Results are presented in the form of local inlet flow field angle of attack, sideflow angle, and Mach number contours. Wing surface pressure distributions supplement the flow field data.

Yetter, J. A.↗

Numerical analysis of tangential slot blowing on a generic chined forebody

A numerical study is performed to investigate the effects of tangential slot blowing on a generic chined forebody. The Reynolds-averaged, thin-layer, Navier-Stokes equations are solved to obtain the high-angle-of-attack viscous flow field about a generic chined forebody. Tangential slot blowing is investigated as a means of forebody flow control to generate side force and yawing moment on the forebody. The effects of jet mass flow ratios, angle of attack, and blowing slot location in the axial and circumferential directions are studied. The computed results are compared with available wind tunnel experimental data. The solutions with and without blowing are also analyzed using helicity density contours, surface flow patterns, and off-surface instantaneous streamlines. The results of this analysis provide details of the flow field about the generic chined forebody, as well as show that tangential slot blowing can be used as a means of forebody flow control to generate side force and yawing moment.

Agosta, Roxana M.↗

Computation of Three-Dimensional Compressible Flow From a Rectangular Nozzle with Delta Tabs

A three-dimensional viscous flow analysis is performed using a time-marching Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes code for a 3:1 rectangular nozzle with two delta tabs located at the nozz1e exit plane to enhance mixing. Two flow configurations, a subsonic jet case and a supersonic jet case using the same rate configuration, which were previously studied experimentally, are computed and compared with the experimental data. The experimental data include streamwise velocity and vorticity distributions for the subsonic case, and Mach number distributions for the supersonic case, at various axial locations downstream of the nozzle exit. The computational results show very good agreement with the experimental data. In addition, the effect of compressibility on vorticity dynamics is examined by comparing the vorticity contours of the subsonic jet case with those of the supersonic jet case which were not measured in the experiment.

Reddy, D. R.↗

Blunt-Body Paradox and Improved Application of Transient-Growth Framework

The “Reshotko-Tumin transition criterion" based on optimal transient growth successfully correlates laboratory measurements of roughness induced transition over blunt body configurations. Even though transient growth has not been conclusively linked to the measured onset of transition, the above correlation denotes the only available physics-based model for subcritical transition in blunt body flows, since the latter do not support any modal instabilities at typical experimental conditions. Unlike other established models based on empirical curve fits that are valid for a specific subclass of datasets, the optimal-growth-based transition criterion appears to provide a reasonable correlation with measurements in various wind tunnel and ballistic range facilities and for a broad range of surface temperature ratios. This paper is focused on optimal growth calculations that improve upon significant shortcomings of the computations underlying the Reshotko-Tumin correlation. The improved framework is applied to leeward transition over a spherical section forebody that was tested in the Mach 6 Adjustable Contour Expansion wind tunnel at Texas A&M University. The computed results highlight the significance of nonparallel basic state evolution, curvature terms, and an optimization procedure that varies both inflow and outflow locations of the transient growth interval. More important, the results indicate that the modified correlation is very close to its original form, and hence, that the accuracy of the transient-growth-based transition criterion is not compromised by using a more thorough theoretical framework. Yet the results also show that the optimal energy gain up to the predicted transition onset location can be rather small, highlighting the need to further investigate the optimal growth criterion for additional experimental configurations and to also uncover the in-depth physics underlying blunt body transition.

Freestream conditions↗

Optimized design of a hypersonic nozzle

Conventional procedures for designing nozzles involve the design of an inviscid contour (using the method of characteristics) that is corrected with a displacement thickness calculated from boundary-layer theory. However, nozzles designed using this classical procedure have been shown to exhibit poor flow quality at Mach numbers characteristic of hypersonic applications. The nozzle to be designed will be a part of the NASA HYPULSE facility which is being used for hypervelocity flight research. Thus, the flow quality of the nozzle is a critical question that needs to be addressed. Design of nozzles for hypersonic applications requires a proper assessment of the effects of the thick boundary layer on the inviscid flowfield. Since the flow field is largely supersonic, the parabolized form of the Navier-Stokes (PNS) equations can be used. The requirement of a uniform flow at the exit plane of the nozzle can be used to define an objective function as part of an optimization procedure. The design procedure used in this study involves the coupling of a nonlinear (least-squares) optimization algorithm with an efficient, explicit PNS solver. The thick boundary layers growing on the walls of the nozzle limit the extent of the usable core region (region with uniform flow) for testing models (especially rectangular). In order to maximize the region of uniform flow, it was decided to have the exit plane of this nozzle to be (nearly) rectangular. Thus, an additional constraint on the nozzle shape resulted, namely the nozzle will have a shape transitioning from a circular one at the inlet to that of a rectangle at the exit. In order to provide for a smooth shape transition, the cross sectional contour of the nozzle is defined by a superellipse. The nozzle is taken to be a meter in length. The axial variations of the major and minor radii of the superellipse are governed by cubic splines. The design parameters are the coefficients of the splines associated with the local nozzle wall slopes. Extensive calculations have been made (with a three-dimensional Euler code) to understand the effects of various parameters such as location of the knot points of the spline function, different ways of characterizing the uniformity of the flow in the exit plane, as well as the effect of constraining the area of the nozzle to be invariant. Turbulent flow (measurements indicate that the flow at the nozzle inlet is turbulent) calculations are now being performed (with the inviscidly designed nozzle contours) to assess the flow quality.

Krishnamurthy, Ramesh↗

Database of Inlet and Exhaust Noise Shielding for Wedge-Shaped Airframe

An experiment to measure the noise shielding of the blended wing body design concept was developed using a simplified wedge-shaped airframe. The experimental study was conducted in the Langley Anechoic Noise Research Facility. A wideband, omnidirective sound source in a simulated engine nacelle was held at locations representative of a range of engine locations above the wing. The sound field around the model was measured with the airframe and source in place and with source alone, using an-array of microphones on a rotating hoop that is also translated along an axis parallel to the airframe axis. The insertion loss was determined from the difference between the two resulting contours. Although no attempt was made to simulate the noise characteristics of a particular engine, the broadband noise source radiated sound over a range of scaled frequencies encompassing 1 and 2 times the blade passage frequency representative of a large, high-bypass-ratio turbofan engine. The measured data show that significant shielding of the inlet-radiated noise is obtained in the area beneath and upstream of the model. The data show the sensitivity of insertion loss to engine location.

Gerhold, Carl H.↗

Preliminary mapping of the lunar magnetic field

Magnetic field measurements made with the Apollo 15 subsatellite established the existence of remanent magnetization over much of the Moon's surface. The major features of the structure of the measured remanent field are apparently associated with large craters, the most apparent detected to date being that in the vicinity of the Van de Graaff crater. A preliminary contour map of relative magnetic intensity was produced for a limited region of the Moon. A high resolution plot of the Van de Graaff region was constructed from vector data in an attempt to locate the source of the largest feature observed.

Coleman, P. J., Jr.↗

Vorticity associated with multiple jets in a crossflow

Vortex patterns from multiple subsonic jets exiting perpendicularly through a flat plate into a subsonic crossflow were investigated. Tandem and transverse jet configurations were examined using a paddle wheel sensor to indicate the presence and relative magnitude of streamwise vorticity in the flow. Results are presented in the form of contour plots of rotational speed of the paddle wheel as measured in planes downstream from the jets and perpendicular to the crossflow. Well developed diffuse contrarotating vortices were observed for the configurations studied. The location and strength of these vortices depended on the multiple jet configuration and the distance downstream from the jets.

Braden, S.↗

Development of a ROT22 - DATAMAP interface

This report (Contract NAS2-10331- Mod 10), outlines the development and validation of an interface between the three-dimensional transonic analysis program ROT22 and the Data from Aeromechanics Test and Analytics-Management and Analysis Package (DATAMAP). After development of the interface, the validation is carried out as follows. First, the DATAMAP program is used to analyze a portion of the Tip Aerodynamics and Acoustics Test (TAAT) data. Specifically, records 2872 and 2873 are analyzed at an azimuth of 90 deg, and record 2806 is analyzed at 60 deg. Trim conditions for these flight conditions are then calculated using the Bell performance prediction program ARAM45. Equivalent shaft, pitch, and twist angles are calculated from ARAM45 results and used as input to the ROT22 program. The interface uses the ROT22 results and creates DATAMAP information files from which the surface pressure contours and sectional pressure coefficients are plotted. Twist angles input to ROT22 program are then iteratively modified in the tip region until the computed pressure coefficients closely match the measurements. In all cases studied, the location of the shock is well predicted. However, the negative pressure coefficients were underpredicted. This could be accounted for by blade vortex interaction effects.

Shenoy, K. R.↗

Geographic variation in the relationships of temperature, salinity or sigma sub t versus plant nutrient concentrations in the world ocean

A NODC data set representing all regions of the world ocean was analyzed for temperature and sigma-t relationships with nitrate, phosphate or silicic acid. Six cubic regressions were for each ten degree square of latitude and longitude containing adequate data. World maps display the locations that allow the prediction of plant nutrient concentrations from temperature or sigma-t. Geographic coverage improves along the sequence: nitrate, phosphate, and silicic acid and is better for sigma-t than for temperature. Contour maps of the approximate temperature of sigma-t at which these nitrients are no longer measurable in a parcel of water are generated, based on a percentile analysis of the temperature or sigma-t at which less than a selected amount of plant nutrient occurs. Results are stored on magnetic tape in tabular form. The global potential to predict plant nutrient concentrations from remotely sensed temperature of sigma-t and to emphasize the latitudinally and longitudinally changing phytoplankton growth environment in present and past oceans is demonstrated.

Kamykowski, D.↗

Fixture For Drilling And Tapping A Curved Workpiece

Simple fixture guides drilling and tapping of holes in prescribed locations and orientations on workpiece having curved surface. Tool conceived for use in reworking complexly curved helicopter blades made of composite materials. Fixture is block of rigid foam with epoxy filler, custom-fitted to surface contour, containing bushings and sleeves at drilling and tapping sites. Bushings changed, so taps and drills of various sizes accommodated. In use, fixture secured to surface by hold-down bolts extending through sleeves and into threads in substrate.

Espinosa, P. S.↗

Aerodynamic and acoustic performance of ejectors for engine-under-the-wing concepts

Subsonic thrust augmentation, exhaust plume velocity contours and acoustic characteristics of a small-scale, 6-tube mixer nozzle with ejector were obtained with and without a wing. Thrust augmentation up to 30 percent was achieved. Aerodynamic results showed that at a given location, greater downstream velocities are obtained with an ejector than with the baseline nozzle. Ejectors reduce high frequency noise; however, low frequency noise amplification also occurs. Acoustic reflections off the wing increase the noise level to a ground observer. With an ejector, the acoustic benefits of forward velocity may be significantly reduced compared with the baseline nozzle.

Vonglahn, U.↗

Aerodynamic and acoustic performance of ejectors for engine-under-the-wing concepts

Subsonic thrust augmentation, exhaust plume velocity contours and acoustic characteristics of a small-scale, 6-tube mixer nozzle with ejector were obtained with and without a wing. Thrust augmentation up to 30 percent was achieved. Aerodynamic results showed that at a given location, greater downstream velocities are obtained with an ejector than with the baseline nozzle. Ejectors reduce high frequency noise; however, low-frequency noise amplification also occurs. Acoustic reflections off the wing increase the noise level to a ground observer. With an ejector, the acoustic benefits of forward velocity may be significantly reduced compared with the baseline nozzle.

Von Glahn, U.↗

Mach 6 flowfield survey at the engine inlet of a research airplane

A flowfield survey was conducted to better define the nature of vehicle forebody flowfield at the inlet location of an airframe-integrated scramjet engine mounted on the lower surface of a high-speed research airplane to be air launched from a B-52 and rocket boosted to Mach 6. The tests were conducted on a 1/30-scale brass model in a Mach-6 20-in. wind tunnel at Reynolds number of 11,200,000 based on distance to engine inlet. Boundary layer profiles at five spanwise locations indicate that the boundary layer in the area of the forebody centerline is more than twice as thick as the boundary layer at three outboard stations. It is shown that the cold streak found in heating contours on the centerline of the forebody is caused by a thickening of the boundary layer on the centerline, and that this thickening decreases with angle of attack.

Johnson, C. B.↗