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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 217 records · Page 12

A Model for Optimally Allocating Curbside Space Among Competing Uses

The emergence of various new forms of urban mobility services in recent years is leading to new pressures on curbside space. Municipalities, the entities typically responsible for managing the curbside, are in many instances handling these growing pressures by reallocating portions of the curbside away from traditional uses (such as metered and residential parking) in favor of uses such as ridehailing, scooter and bike-share corrals. As yet, however, such actions are being undertaken on an ad-hoc basis, due to the rapidly growing complexity of the curbside and the lack of standard analytical approaches. This lack of analytical capability is due to the traditional focus of transportation network modeling being focused predominantly on the interaction of supply and demand on links and nodes, with limited focus on link edges (the curbside). In this paper we address this research need by proposing a framework for modeling inter-modal competition for curbside space, inspired by the classical Bid-Rent Model of urban land use, intended to support curb managers to move towards maximizing the aspects of economic welfare that relate to curb access. In the bi-level model, choices made by the curbside manager impact travelers’ mode choices, and vice versa. We then present a simple numerical case study to demonstrate the properties of the proposed model, showing its tractability, flexibility, and intuitive sensitivity to systematic variation in inputs. The framework demonstrates the type of adaptive and evolving approach needed to maximize benefits from increasingly dynamic curb management strategies. The paper concludes with a brief discussion of future research needs to advance this line of inquiry.

33 ADVANCED PROPULSION SYSTEMS↗

A Control Concept for Large Flexible Spacecraft Using Order Reduction Techniques

Results found during the investigation of control problems of large flexible spacecraft are given. A triple plate configuration of such a spacecraft is defined and studied. The model is defined by modal data derived from infinite element modeling. The order reduction method applied is briefly described. An attitude control concept with low and high authority control has been developed to design an attitude controller for the reduced model. The stability and response of the original system together with the reduced controller is analyzed.

Thieme, G.↗

An iterative algorithm combining model reduction and control design

A design strategy which integrates model reduction by modal cost analysis and a multiobjective controller design is proposed. The necessary modeling and control algorithms are easily programmed in Matlab standard software. Hence, this method is very practical for controller design for large space structures. The design algorithm also solves the very important problem of tuning multiple loop controllers (multi-input, multi-output, or MIMO). Instead of the single gain change that is used in standard root locus and gain and phase margin theories, this method tunes multiple loop controllers from low to high gain in a systematic way in the design procedure. This design strategy is applied to NASA's Mini-Mast system.

Hsieh, C.↗

Analysis and test of a 16-foot radial rib reflector developmental model

Analytical and experimental modal tests were performed to determine the vibrational characteristics of a 16-foot diameter radial rib reflector model. Single rib analyses and experimental tests provided preliminary information relating to the reflector. A finite element model predicted mode shapes and frequencies of the reflector. The analyses correlated well with the experimental tests, verifying the modeling method used. The results indicate that five related, characteristic mode shapes form a group. The frequencies of the modes are determined by the relative phase of the radial ribs.

Birchenough, Shawn A.↗

Revealing the evolution of order in materials microstructures using multi-modal computer vision

The development of high-performance materials for microelectronics, energy storage, and extreme environments depends on our ability to describe and direct property-defining microstructural order. Our present understanding is typically derived from laborious manual analysis of imaging and spectroscopy data, which is difficult to scale, challenging to reproduce, and lacks the ability to reveal latent associations needed for mechanistic models. Here, we demonstrate a multi-modal machine learning (ML) approach to describe order from electron microscopy analysis of the complex oxide La 1−x Sr x FeO 3 . We construct a hybrid pipeline based on fully and semi-supervised classification, allowing us to evaluate both the characteristics of each data modality and the value each modality adds to the ensemble. We observe distinct differences in the performance of uni- and multi-modal models, from which we draw general lessons in describing crystal order using computer vision.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗

Modal Test of the NASA Mobile Launcher at Kennedy Space Center

The NASA Mobile Launcher (ML), located at Kennedy Space Center (KSC), has recently been modified to support the launch of the new NASA Space Launch System (SLS). The ML is a massive structure—consisting of a 345-foot tall tower attached to a two-story base, weighing approximately 10.5 million pounds—that will secure the SLS vehicle as it rolls to the launch pad on a Crawler Transporter, as well as provide a launch platform at the pad. The ML will also provide the boundary condition for an upcoming SLS Integrated Modal Test (IMT). To help correlate the ML math models prior to this modal test, and allow focus to remain on updating SLS vehicle models during the IMT, a ML-only experimental modal test was performed in June 2019. Excitation of the tower and platform was provided by five uniquely-designed test fixtures, each enclosing a hydraulic shaker, capable of exerting thousands of pounds of force into the structure. For modes not that were not sufficiently excited by the test fixture shakers, a specially-designed mobile drop tower provided impact excitation at additional locations of interest. The response of the ML was measured with a total of 361 accelerometers. Following the random vibration, sine sweep vibration, and modal impact testing, frequency response functions were calculated and modes were extracted for three different configurations of the ML in 0 Hz to 12 Hz frequency range. This paper will provide a case study in performing modal tests on large structures by discussing the Mobile Launcher, the test strategy, an overview of the test results, and recommendations for meeting a tight test schedule for a large-scale modal test.

Hydraulic shakers↗

Model of an axially strained weakly guiding optical fiber modal pattern

Axial strain can be determined by monitoring the modal pattern variation of an optical fiber. The results of a numerical model developed to calculate the modal pattern variation at the end of a weakly guiding optical fiber under axial strain is presented. Whenever an optical fiber is under stress, the optical path length, the index of refraction, and the propagation constants of each fiber mode change. In consequence, the modal phase term for the fields and the fiber output pattern are also modified. For multimode fibers, very complicated patterns result. The predicted patterns are presented, and an expression for the phase variation with strain is derived.

Egalon, Claudio O.↗

Dynamic Characterization of NASA Armstrong Test Facility Mechanical Vibration Facility

In preparation for Sierra Nevada Corporation’s (SNC) Dream Chaser spacecraft vibration test campaign at NASA Armstrong Test Facility (ATF) in Sandusky, Ohio, a dynamic characterization of the Mechanical Vibration Facility (MVF) is currently ongoing. The Mechanical Vibration Facility is comprised of an 18 ft diameter annulus table that is driven with sixteen hydraulic vertical actuator assemblies and four hydraulic horizontal actuator assemblies. During a test campaign this allows for single axis vibration testing in the vertical axis and in each of the two orthogonal horizontal axes without the need for reconfiguring the test article. The dynamic characterization of the facility was defined to follow a building-block approach requiring three vibration test configurations: (1) MVF bare table (2) MVF table and head expander (3) MVF table, head expander, and a dummy test article. Following the completion of the facility dynamic characterization, a facility finite element model (FEM) will be test-verified allowing for more accurate pretest analysis used for determining response limits and abort levels. To date two of the three test configurations have been completed. Test results have been used to verify the facility FEM that includes both the 18 ft diameter annulus table and the aluminum head expander that fills in the center opening of the annulus to provide a continuous flat mounting surface. Both the MVF table and the head expander models were previously correlated using test results from free-free boundary condition modal tests so model updates to the facility FEM focused on the uncorrelated vertical actuator assemblies and horizontal actuator assemblies. The accuracy of the test-verified facility FEM will be further determined based on comparison of analytical and test results from the vibration test of the dummy test article. Efforts will also be made to determine fixed base modes of the test article attached to the flexible vibration table using fixed base correction techniques. This paper will discuss test and analytical results from the MVF dynamic characterization test sequence and corresponding model updating effort.

Emma L Pierson↗

Estimation of distributed parameter systems

The estimation and control of large flexible space structures pose significant new control technology problems. One major problem area is the closed-loop stability of a structure that has been modeled with truncated modal dynamics. Stability problems arise due to the control design process beginning with a deficient model. This work provides the necessary conditions for the optimal estimation of infinite dimensional (partial-differential equation) systems. This approach can be particularly useful for initial control studies and for gaining considerable insight into what the optimal estimator for a truly infinite dimensional system should be. A detailed example of the estimation of the continuous shape of a string in tension is presented.

Schaechter, D. B.↗

Simulation of Space Station loads with active control systems

A methodology for calculating dynamic loads for the Space Station Freedom is presented. The methodology minimizes the repeated calculation of duplicate structural elements, while analyzing a large number of different Space Station configurations with different alpha and beta joint angles. Particular attention is paid to the issue of model reduction using a combination of component mode synthesis (superelements) and component mode selection to generate accurate system level models with a minimum of modal degrees of freedom. The modeling of the control systems during simulation of the structural response is discussed.

Blelloch, P. A.↗

Modern Modal Testing: A Cautionary Tale

Over the past 50 years, great advances have been achieved in both analytical modal analysis (i.e. finite element models and analysis) and experimental modal analysis (i.e. modal testing) in aerospace and other fields. With the advent of more powerful computers, higher performance instrumentation and data acquisition systems, and powerful linear modal extraction tools, analysts and test engineers have a breadth and depth of technical resources only dreamed of by our predecessors. However, some observed recent trends indicate that hard lessons learned are being forgotten or ignored, and possibly fundamental concepts are not being understood. These trends have the potential of leading to the degradation of the quality of and confidence in both analytical and test results. These trends are a making of our own doing, and directly related to having ever more powerful computers, programmatic budgetary pressures to limit analysis and testing, and technical capital loss due to the retirement of the senior component of a bimodal workforce. This paper endeavors to highlight some of the most important lessons learned, common pitfalls to hopefully avoid, and potential steps that may be taken to help reverse this trend.

bimodal workforce↗

Modern Modal Testing: A Cautionary Tale IMAC XXVII

Over the past 50 years, great advances have been achieved in both analytical modal analysis (i.e. finite element models and analysis) and experimental modal analysis (i.e. modal testing) in aerospace and other fields. With the advent of more powerful computers, higher performance instrumentation and data acquisition systems, and powerful linear modal extraction tools, analysts and test engineers have a breadth and depth of technical resources only dreamed of by our predecessors. However, some observed recent trends indicate that hard lessons learned are being forgotten or ignored, and possibly fundamental concepts are not being understood. These trends have the potential of leading to the degradation of the quality of and confidence in both analytical and test results. These trends are a making of our own doing, and directly related to having ever more powerful computers, programmatic budgetary pressures to limit analysis and testing, and technical capital loss due to the retirement of the senior component of a bimodal workforce. This paper endeavors to highlight some of the most important lessons learned, common pitfalls to hopefully avoid, and potential steps that may be taken to help reverse this trend.

bimodal workforce↗

Generation and Calibration of Linear Models of Aircraft with Highly Coupled Aeroelastic and Flight Dynamics

The lightweight structures and unconventional configurations being considered for the next generation of aircraft mean that any effort to predict or control the flight dynamics is impacted by the structural dynamics. One of the most severe forms of coupling between aeroelasticity and flight dynamics is an instability called body freedom flutter. The existing tools often assume a relatively weak effect of structural dynamics on the flight dynamics, and are therefore incapable of modeling strong interactions like body freedom flutter. A method of combining different sources of data traditionally used for aeroelasticity and flight dynamics is described by reconciling many of the differences between these models. By building upon past modeling efforts, a level of familiarity in the approach is achieved. Generally the differences from the traditional approaches are subtle but significant. The traditional frequency domain flutter model in a modal coordinate system is converted to a form consistent with a time domain flight dynamics model. The time domain rational function approximation about a non-inertial coordinate system and the unique constraints for the conversion between the inertial and non-inertial coordinate systems are discussed. A consistent transformation of the states of aeroelastic models to flight dynamics models is derived, which enables the integration of data from higher fidelity computational fluid dynamics models or wind-tunnel testing. The present method of integrating multidisciplinary data was used to create models that compare well with X-56A flight-test data, including conditions past the flutter speed.

Ouellette, Jeffrey↗

Global dynamic modeling of a transmission system

The work performed on global dynamic simulation and noise correlation of gear transmission systems at the University of Akron is outlined. The objective is to develop a comprehensive procedure to simulate the dynamics of the gear transmission system coupled with the effects of gear box vibrations. The developed numerical model is benchmarked with results from experimental tests at NASA Lewis Research Center. The modal synthesis approach is used to develop the global transient vibration analysis procedure used in the model. Modal dynamic characteristics of the rotor-gear-bearing system are calculated by the matrix transfer method while those of the gear box are evaluated by the finite element method (NASTRAN). A three-dimensional, axial-lateral coupled bearing model is used to couple the rotor vibrations with the gear box motion. The vibrations between the individual rotor systems are coupled through the nonlinear gear mesh interactions. The global equations of motion are solved in modal coordinates and the transient vibration of the system is evaluated by a variable time-stepping integration scheme. The relationship between housing vibration and resulting noise of the gear transmission system is generated by linear transfer functions using experimental data. A nonlinear relationship of the noise components to the fundamental mesh frequency is developed using the hypercoherence function. The numerically simulated vibrations and predicted noise of the gear transmission system are compared with the experimental results from the gear noise test rig at NASA Lewis Research Center. Results of the comparison indicate that the global dynamic model developed can accurately simulate the dynamics of a gear transmission system.

Choy, F. K.↗

Aeroservoelastic Control Law Development for the Integrated Adaptive Wing Technology Maturation Wind-Tunnel Test

In this paper, a linear quadratic Gaussian (LQG) regulator was applied to a computational aeroservoelastic (ASE) model of the Integrated Adaptive Wing Technology Maturation (IAWTM) wind-tunnel model to demonstrate its effectiveness for active flutter suppression. The aerodynamics within this computational ASE model were solved using unsteady Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes (RANS) equations; the structural dynamics of the model were solved using modal analysis. This RANS-based ASE model was used as the plant for the LQG regulator. The Kalman filter and controller used within the LQG regulator were derived from a reduced-order model (ROM) of the RANS-based ASE model. This ROM-based ASE model was generated using system identification techniques. It was shown that the Kalman filter adequately predicted important states of the plant, and that LQG regulator successfully stabilized an aeroelastically unstable plant without exceeding reasonable control surface limitations. All of this was demonstrated using simulation data, and the methods presented here appear feasible for use in the upcoming IAWTM wind-tunnel tests.

Josiah M. Waite↗

Cabin Noise Control for Twin Engine General Aviation Aircraft

An analytical model based on modal analysis was developed to predict the noise transmission into a twin-engine light aircraft. The model was applied to optimize the interior noise to an A-weighted level of 85 dBA. To achieve the required noise attenuation, add-on treatments in the form of honeycomb panels, damping tapes, acoustic blankets, septum barriers and limp trim panels were added to the existing structure. The added weight of the noise control treatment is about 1.1 percent of the total gross take-off weight of the aircraft.

Vaicaitis, R.↗