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At least 397 records · Page 22

Shock Associated Periodicities

The magnetosphere is often thought of as a cavity resonator, with eigenfrequencies dependent on the size of the magnetospheric cavity and the Alfven speed profile. A commonly invoked mechanism to "ring the bell" is a solar wind shock or dynamic pressure discontinuity. The sudden impulse feeds broadband compressional power into the magnetosphere, feeding energy into the cavity eigenmodes. Although the cavity mode model has strong theoretical and simulation support, there are few observations validating the scenario. We present several case studies indicating that damped oscillations observed in the magnetosphere following a shock are clearly directly driven by oscillations already present in the solar wind. We discuss these new observations in the context of the turbulent solar wind model, and discuss recent observations relating these periodicities to the solar surface. We further report on similar oscillations observed in magnetotail flow bursts, and relate them to the solar wind phenomena. We close with a discussion of the role of modulated magnetic reconnection, a potentially universal physical process.

Kepko, Larry↗

Visualizing Flutter Mechanism as Traveling Wave Through Animation of Simulation Results for the Semi-Span Super-Sonic Transport Wind-Tunnel Model

It has long been recognized that frequency and phasing of structural modes in the presence of airflow play a fundamental role in the occurrence of flutter. Animation of simulation results for the long, slender Semi-Span Super-Sonic Transport (S4T) wind-tunnel model demonstrates that, for the case of mass-ballasted nacelles, the flutter mode can be described as a traveling wave propagating downstream. Such a characterization provides certain insights, such as (1) describing the means by which energy is transferred from the airflow to the structure, (2) identifying airspeed as an upper limit for speed of wave propagation, (3) providing an interpretation for a companion mode that coalesces in frequency with the flutter mode but becomes very well damped, (4) providing an explanation for bursts of response to uniform turbulence, and (5) providing an explanation for loss of low frequency (lead) phase margin with increases in dynamic pressure (at constant Mach number) for feedback systems that use sensors located upstream from active control surfaces. Results from simulation animation, simplified modeling, and wind-tunnel testing are presented for comparison. The simulation animation was generated using double time-integration in Simulink of vertical accelerometer signals distributed over wing and fuselage, along with time histories for actuated control surfaces. Crossing points for a zero-elevation reference plane were tracked along a network of lines connecting the accelerometer locations. Accelerometer signals were used in preference to modal displacement state variables in anticipation that the technique could be used to animate motion of the actual wind-tunnel model using data acquired during testing. Double integration of wind-tunnel accelerometer signals introduced severe drift even with removal of both position and rate biases such that the technique does not currently work. Using wind-tunnel data to drive a Kalman filter based upon fitting coefficients to analytical mode shapes might provide a better means to animate the wind tunnel data.

Christhilf, David M.↗

Commercial-Off-The-Shelf Microelectromechanical Systems (MEMS) Flow-Measurement Probes Fabricated And Assembled

As an alternative to conventional tubing instrumentation for measuring airflow, designers and technicians at the NASA Glenn Research Center have been fabricating packaging components and assembling a set of unique probes using commercial-off-the-shelf microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) integrated circuits (computer chips). Using MEMS as an alternative has some compelling advantages over standard measurement devices. Sensor technologies have matured through high-production usage in industries such as automotive and aircraft manufacturers. Currently, MEMS are the choice in applications such as tire pressure monitors, altimeters, pneumatic controls, cable leak detectors, and consumer appliances. Conventional instrumentation uses tubing buried in the model aerodynamic surfaces or wind tunnel walls. The measurements are made when pressure is introduced at the tube opening. The pressure then must travel the tubing for lengths ranging from 20 to hundreds of feet before reaching an electronic signal conditioner. This condition causes a considerable amount of damping and requires measurements to be made only after the test rig has reached steady-state operation. The electronic MEMS pressure sensor is able to take readings continuously under dynamic states in nearly real time. The use of stainless steel tubing for pressure measurements requires many tubes to be cleaned, cut to length, carefully installed, and delicately deburred and spliced for use. A cluster of a few hundred 1/16-in.- (0.0625-in.-) diameter tubes (not uncommon in research testing facilities) can be several inches in diameter and may weigh enough to require two men to handle. Replacing hard tubing with electronic chips can eliminate much of the bulk. Each sensor would fit on the tip of the 1/16-in. tubing with room to spare. The P592 piezoresistive silicon pressure sensor (Lucas NovaSensor, Fremont, CA) was chosen for this project because of its cost, availability, and tolerance to extreme ambient conditions. The chip is 1 mm square by 0.6 mm thick (0.039 by 0.023 in.) with 0.12-mm (0.005-in.) wire connection tabs. Three MEMS chips were used to build the first type of flow-angularity probe. This MEMS probe will be demonstrated as an alternative to a standard tube type "Cobra Probe" now used routinely in wind tunnel and aeronautical hardware applications. The response time and accuracy would allow the probe to be translated on an actuator across a flow field, yielding precision dynamic measurements not possible with conventional instrumentation. The low profile, the minimal power requirement, the rugged construction, and the moderate cost all contribute to making MEMS sensors the enticing choice instrument in future research measurement needs. The MEMS probe efforts are a continuation of work initiated by Brian Willis, without whose foresight and efforts this project would never have been realized. This task was funded through cooperation with the NASA Electronic Parts and Packaging (NEPP) program at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory.

Redding, Chip↗

Measurements of the acoustical parameters of rock powders and the Gold-Soter lunar model.

We are measuring the low frequency velocities and damping factors of acoustic waves in rock powders in vacuo with a view to understanding the lunar seismic signals. Our results combined with those of others, when extrapolated to lunar conditions, lend support to the Gold-Soter model of the outer moon in which the lunar surface is covered with a fine rock powder to a depth of at least 4 km.

Jones, B. W.↗

Increased atmospheric carbon dioxide and climate feedback mechanisms

As a consequence of fossil fuel burning, the atmospheric concentration of carbon dioxide has increased from 314 ppm in 1958, when detailed measurements of this quantity began, to a present value of 335 ppm; and it is estimated that during the next century, the CO2 concentration will double relative to its assumed preindustrial value of 290 ppm. Since CO2 is an infrared-active gas, increases in its atmospheric concentration would lead to a larger infrared opacity for the atmospheric which, by normal logic, would result in a warmer Earth. A number of modeling endeavors suggest a 2 to 4 C increase in global mean surface temperature with doubling of the CO2 concentration. But such estimates of CO2-induced warming are highly uncertain because of a lack of knowledge of climate feedback mechanisms. Interactive influences upon the solar and infrared opacities of the Earth-atmosphere system can either amplify or damp a climate-forcing mechanism such as increasing CO2. Climate feedback mechanisms discussed include climate sensitivity, cloudiness-radiation feedback, climate change predictions, and interactive atmospheric chemistry.

Cess, R. D.↗

Local grid refinement for transonic flow problems

The present use of locally refined Cartesian grids to solve transonic flow problems about three-dimensional aircraft configurations obviates surface-conforming grid generation through an embedding of surface-geometry paneling in the grid. Accurate resolution of flow close to the boundary, and in regions with strong velocity gradients, is achieved via hierarchical local refinement which subdivides a given grid cell into eight cells. Fast and reliable convergence is obtained by combining several preconditioners and damping strategies. Methods are suggested for preclusion of global convergence problems.

Melvin, Robin G.↗

Analytical flutter investigation of a composite propfan model

A theoretical model and an associated computer program for predicting subsonic bending-torsion flutter in propfans are presented. The model is based on two-dimensional unsteady cascade strip theory and three-dimensional steady and unsteady lifting surface aerodynamic theory in conjunction with a finite element structural model for the blade. The analytical results compare well with published experimental data. Additional parametric studies are also presented illustrating the effects on flutter speed of steady aeroelastic deformations, blade setting angle, rotational speed, number of blades, structural damping, and number of modes.

Kaza, K. R. V.↗

Analytical flutter investigation of a composite propfan model

A theoretical model and an associated computer program for predicting subsonic bending-torsion flutter in propfans are presented. The model is based on two-dimensional unsteady cascade strip theory and three-dimensional steady and unsteady lifting surface aerodynamic theory in conjunction with a finite element structural model for the blade. The analytical results compare well with published experimental data. Additional parametric studies are also presented illustrating the effects on flutter speed of steady aeroelastic deformations, blade setting angle, rotational speed, number of blades, structural damping, and number of modes.

Kaza, K. R. V.↗

Large-Amplitude, High-Rate Roll Oscillations of a 65 deg Delta Wing at High Incidence

The IAR/WL 65 deg delta wing experimental results provide both detail pressure measurements and a wide range of flow conditions covering from simple attached flow, through fully developed vortex and vortex burst flow, up to fully-stalled flow at very high incidence. Thus, the Computational Unsteady Aerodynamics researchers can use it at different level of validating the corresponding code. In this section a range of CFD results are provided for the 65 deg delta wing at selected flow conditions. The time-dependent, three-dimensional, Reynolds-averaged, Navier-Stokes (RANS) equations are used to numerically simulate the unsteady vertical flow. Two sting angles and two large- amplitude, high-rate, forced-roll motions and a damped free-to-roll motion are presented. The free-to-roll motion is computed by coupling the time-dependent RANS equations to the flight dynamic equation of motion. The computed results are compared with experimental pressures, forces, moments and roll angle time history. In addition, surface and off-surface flow particle streaks are also presented.

Chaderjian, Neal M.↗

Acoustic radiation from plates excited by flow noise.

Theoretical formulation of noise radiation from thin, rectangular, flexible plates excited by turbulent wall pressure fluctuations. An extensive parametric study including surface roughness and both plate and flow parameters is presented. From the results, presented graphically, it is possible to predict the spectrum of the total radiated power provided that the power spectral density of the wall-pressure fluctuations, the flow velocity, the plate dimensions and the plate modal damping parameters are known. Along with the parametric study, an estimate of the dependence of the noise radiation on plate boundary conditions based on a consideration of the wavenumber-frequency selectivity of the plate is presented. The parametric study is based on the assumption that the wave number/frequency spectrum of the wall-pressure fluctuations can be described by a Fourier transform of a Corcos model of the cross spectral density. The results indicate that at frequencies above the hydrodynamic-coincidence frequency the radiated power is dependent on the low-wave-number spectrum of the excitation. The dependence on the high-wave-number spectrum, however, is limited to a narrow band of frequencies below the hydrodynamic-coincidence frequency.

Aupperle, F. A.↗

A new class of g-modes in neutron stars

Because a neutron star is born hot, its internal composition is close to chemical equilibrium. In the fluid core, this implies that the ratio of the number densities of charged particles (protons and electrons) to neutrons is an increasing function of the mass density. This composition gradient stably stratifies the matter giving rise to a Brunt-Vaisala frequency N of about 500/s. Consequently, a neutron star core provides a cavity that supports gravity modes (g-modes). These g-modes are distinct from those previously identified with the thermal stratification of the surface layers and the chemical stratification of the crust. We compute the lowest-order, quadrupolar, g-modes for cold, Newtonian, neutron star models with M/solar M = 0.581 and M/solar M = 1.405, and show that the crustal and core g-modes have similar periods. We also discuss damping mechanisms and estimate damping rates for the core g-modes. Particular attention is paid to damping due to the emission of gravitational radiation.

Reisenegger, Andreas↗

Excitation of fishbone-like mode in tokamaks due to bounce resonances of trapped thermal ions

When the drift kinetic effect of thermal ions is taken into account, a high-frequency fishbone-like mode (FLM) is found to be driven unstable by trapped thermal ions (TTIs) in tokamak plasmas, according to self-consistent magneto-hydrodynamic (MHD)-kinetic hybrid modeling utilizing the MARS-K code [Liu et al., Phys. Plasmas 15, 112503 (2008)] as well as an analytic theory. It is found that, similar to energetic particles, TTIs can also stabilize the internal kink mode, whereas the FLM is excited when the effective beta of TTIs exceeds a threshold value. The real frequency of the FLM is comparable to the bounce frequency of TTIs. The mode structure of the FLM can be significantly different from the conventional step-like function for the associated plasma radial displacement. This drift kinetic induced modification of the mode structure near the q = 1 surface is captured by non-perturbative MHD-kinetic hybrid computations with MARS-K. Furthermore, the FLM can only be triggered by TTIs at sufficiently high thermal temperatures. Both the FLM and the internal kink can be stabilized by sufficiently fast plasma toroidal rotation and parallel sound wave damping. These two conditions of high thermal temperature and (fast) flow stabilization, though making it challenging to observe the TTI-driven FLM in present day experiments, are favorable for the mode excitation in future reactor scale devices.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗

Combined ambient vibration and surface displacement measurements for improved progressive failure monitoring at a toppling rock slab in Utah, USA

Seismic resonance and surface displacement measurements can be implemented in tandem to improve landslide characterization and progressive failure monitoring. Crack aperture data are frequently used in rock slope stability monitoring and often exhibit recognizable trends prior to failure, such as accelerated crack opening. Alternatively, ambient resonance data offer multiple parameters including modal frequencies, damping, and polarization that can be monitored alongside crack aperture and may respond differently to environmental forcings and complex failure evolution. We analyzed data from continuous ambient vibration monitoring and concomitant crack aperture measurements at the Courthouse Mesa instability, a large toppling sandstone slab in Utah, USA. Three years of data revealed crack aperture increases of 2–4 mm/year with no clearly detectable irreversible changes in modal parameters, including frequency. Annually, frequency and displacement varied by 29% and 19% of the mean, respectively, with average and maximum daily frequency fluctuations of 6.5% and 16%, respectively. These reversible cyclic changes were primarily temperature-driven, but annually, frequency was in-phase with temperature whereas crack aperture lagged temperature changes by ~37 days. Polarization and damping also varied seasonally but were less strongly correlated with temperature. Conceptual 3D finite element modeling demonstrated consistent frequency decreases associated with crack propagation but variable changes in crack aperture measured at a single point; i.e., crack propagation did not always result in increased crack opening but always generated a resonance frequency decrease. Taken together, our data suggest a possible thermal wedging-ratcheting mechanism at the Courthouse Mesa instability, where annual thermoelastic crack closure is impeded by debris infill but the absence of downward crack propagation during the monitoring period is evidenced by no permanent resonance frequency changes. Our study demonstrates that combined seismic resonance and crack aperture data provide an improved description of rock slope instability behavior, supporting refined characterization and monitoring of changes accompanying progressive failure.

58 GEOSCIENCES↗

Forced Oscillations of Supported Drops

Oscillations of supported liquid drops are the subject of wide scientific interest, with applications in areas as diverse as liquid-liquid extraction, synthesis of ceramic powders, growing of pure crystals in low gravity, and measurement of dynamic surface tension. In this research, axisymmetric forced oscillations of arbitrary amplitude of viscous liquid drops of fixed volume which are pendant from or sessile on a rod with a fixed or moving contact line and surrounded by an inviscid ambient gas are induced by moving the rod in the vertical direction sinusiodally in time. In this paper, a preliminary report is made on the computational analysis of the oscillations of supported drops that have 'clean' interfaces and whose contact lines remain fixed throughout their motions. The relative importance of forcing to damping can be increased by either increasing the amplitude of rod motion A or Reynolds number Re. It is shown that as the ratio of forcing to damping rises, for drops starting from an initial rest state a sharp increase in deformation can occur when they are forced to oscillate in the vicinity of their resonance frequencies, indicating the incipience of hysteresis. However, it is also shown that the existence of a second stable limit cycle and the occurrence of hysteresis can be observed if the drop is subjected to a so-called frequency sweep, where the forcing frequency is first increased and then decreased over a suitable range. Because the change in drop deformation response is abrupt in the vicinity of the forcing frequencies where hysteresis occurs, it should be possible to exploit the phenomenon to accurately measure the viscosity and surface tension of the drop liquid.

Wilkes, Edward D.↗

Adhesively Bonded Copper and Polyimide for Flexible Printed Circuit Boards: A Data-Driven Degradation Study Under Accelerated Aging

The long-term durability of polyimide laminated adhesive based flexible printed circuit boards (PCBs) is critical to the microelectronics industry. The interface of the adhesive layer binding the polyimide and copper layers is particularly vulnerable since decreased bonding strength can lead to deadhesion, performance loss, and premature device failure. Here, in this study, adhesive-bonded polyimide and copper samples are subjected to 1000 h of damp heat exposure (85 °C/85%RH) to evaluate the impact of moisture and copper inclusion on the adhesive bonding performance. Significant copper diffusion through the adhesive layer is observed, which, combined with moisture uptake, is found to substantially weaken interfacial adhesion in copper-containing samples, thereby reducing device lifetime. Observed surface and bulk material changes are correlated to adhesion strength using the network structural equation modeling (netSEM) approach, resulting in a robust predictive model of performance degradation based on measurable materials properties.

Chemistry↗

ENSO Dynamics in the E3SM-1-0, CESM2, and GFDL-CM4 Climate Models

We report that this study examines historical simulations of ENSO in the E3SM-1-0, CESM2, and GFDL-CM4 climate models, provided by three leading U.S. modeling centers as part of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project phase 6 (CMIP6). These new models have made substantial progress in simulating ENSO’s key features, including: amplitude; timescale; spatial patterns; phase-locking; spring persistence barrier; and recharge oscillator dynamics. However, some important features of ENSO are still a challenge to simulate. In the central and eastern equatorial Pacific, the models’ weaker-than-observed subsurface zonal current anomalies and zonal temperature gradient anomalies serve to weaken the nonlinear zonal advection of subsurface temperatures, leading to insufficient warm/cold asymmetry of ENSO’s sea surface temperature anomalies (SSTA). In the western equatorial Pacific, the models’ excessive simulated zonal SST gradients amplify their zonal temperature advection, causing their SSTA to extend farther west than observed. The models underestimate both ENSO’s positive dynamic feedbacks (due to insufficient zonal wind stress responses to SSTA) and its thermodynamic damping (due to insufficient convective cloud shading of eastern Pacific SSTA during warm events); compensation between these biases leads to realistic linear growth rates for ENSO, but for somewhat unrealistic reasons. The models also exhibit stronger-than-observed feedbacks onto eastern equatorial Pacific SSTAs from thermocline depth anomalies, which accelerates the transitions between events and shortens the simulated ENSO period relative to observations. Implications for diagnosing and simulating ENSO in climate models are discussed.

54 ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES↗

Characterize the Rings in Protoplanetary Disks Formed by an Eccentric Instability [Slides]

Typical long-term time evolution of gas surface density in a disk undergoing eccentric mode instability (EMI). In a disk with no initial substructures or external perturbers, EMI generates a growing one arm spiral (top right). After EMI saturates, the disk continues to evolve with a long-lived coherent eccentric pattern. If the disk has strong wave damping, the disk is then left with circular rings. Synthesized dust continuum images of some EMI simulations from this IC project show some characteristics similar to the actual PPD images.

79 ASTRONOMY AND ASTROPHYSICS↗

Nonradial oscillations of neutron stars

Linear, adiabatic, Newtonian, nonradial pulsation analyses have been performed for finite-temperature neutron star models with a fluid core, solid crust, and thin surface fluid 'ocean', including the effects of the neutron star crust. The pulsation equations are considered, including the spheroidal and toroidal modes. A local analysis is performed to provide information about the pulsation modes in the short-wavelength limit. Numerical calculations are made on the mode spectrum and systematic properties. Damping mechanisms are investigated, including gravitational radiation damping, neutrino emission damping, electromagnetic radiation from an oscillating stellar magnetic field, nonadiabatic effects, and internal friction and viscosity.

Mcdermott, P. N.↗