Engineering Papers⌕ Search

SEARCH · Engineering Papers

Results for “system frequency response”

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.

Quote a phrase for an exact phrase match. Source license links do not imply unrestricted reuse.

At least 433 records · Page 24

An experimental modal testing/identification technique for personal computers

A PC-based system for mode shape identification is evaluated. A time-domain modal identification procedure is utilized to identify the mode shapes of a beam apparatus from discrete time-domain measurements. The apparatus includes a cantilevered aluminum beam, four accelerometers, four low-pass filters, and the computer. The method's algorithm is comprised of an identification algorithm: the Eigensystem Realization Algorithm (ERA) and an estimation algorithm called Minimum Model Error (MME). The identification ability of this algorithm is compared with ERA alone, a frequency-response-function technique, and an Euler-Bernoulli beam model. Detection of modal parameters and mode shapes by the PC-based time-domain system is shown to be accurate in an application with an aluminum beam, while mode shapes identified by the frequency-domain technique are not as accurate as predicted. The new method is shown to be significantly less sensitive to noise and poorly excited modes than other leading methods. The results support the use of time-domain identification systems for mode shape prediction.

Roemer, Michael J.↗

Error analysis in the measurement of average power with application to switching controllers

Power measurement errors due to the bandwidth of a power meter and the sampling of the input voltage and current of a power meter were investigated assuming sinusoidal excitation and periodic signals generated by a model of a simple chopper system. Errors incurred in measuring power using a microcomputer with limited data storage were also considered. The behavior of the power measurement error due to the frequency responses of first order transfer functions between the input sinusoidal voltage, input sinusoidal current, and the signal multiplier was studied. Results indicate that this power measurement error can be minimized if the frequency responses of the first order transfer functions are identical. The power error analysis was extended to include the power measurement error for a model of a simple chopper system with a power source and an ideal shunt motor acting as an electrical load for the chopper. The behavior of the power measurement error was determined as a function of the chopper's duty cycle and back EMF of the shunt motor. Results indicate that the error is large when the duty cycle or back EMF is small. Theoretical and experimental results indicate that the power measurement error due to sampling of sinusoidal voltages and currents becomes excessively large when the number of observation periods approaches one-half the size of the microcomputer data memory allocated to the storage of either the input sinusoidal voltage or current.

Maisel, J. E.↗

A High-Order, Time Invariant, Linearized Model for Application to HHCIAFCS Interaction Studies

This paper describes a methodology for the extraction of a linear time invariant model from a nonlinear helicopter model, and followed by an examination of the interactions of the Higher Harmonic Control (HHC) and the Automatic Flight Control System (AFCS). This new method includes an embedded harmonic analyzer inside a linear time invariant model, which allows the periodicity of the helicopter response to be captured. The: coupled high-order model provides the needed level of dynamic fidelity to permit an analysis and optimization of the AFCS and HHC loops. Results of this study indicate that the closed-loop HHC system has little influence on the AFCS or on the vehicle handling qualities, which indicates that the AFCS does not need modification to work with the HHC system. The results also show that the vibration response to maneuvers must be considered during the HHC design process, which leads to much higher required HHC loop crossover frequencies. This research also demonstrates that the transient vibration response during maneuvers can be reduced by optimizing the closed-loop higher harmonic control laws using conventional control system analyses.

Cheng, Rendy P.↗

Advancements in frequency-domain methods for rotorcraft system identification

A new method for frequency-domain identification of rotorcraft dynamics is presented. Nonparametric frequency-response identification and parametric tranfer-function modeling methods are extended to allow the extraction of state-space (stability and control derivative) representations. An interactive computer program DERIVID is described for the iterative solution of the multi-input/multi-output frequency-response matching approach used in the identification. Theoretical accuracy methods are used to determine the appropriate model structure and degree-of-confidence in the identified parameters. The method is applied to XV-15 tilt-rotor aircraft data in hover. Bare-airframe stability and control derivatives for the lateral/directional dynamics are shown to compare favorably with models previously obtained using time-domain identification methods and the XV-15 simulation program.

Tischler, Mark B.↗

Advancements in frequency-domain methods for rotorcraft system identification

A new method for frequency-domain identification of rotorcraft dynamics is presented. Nonparametric frequency-response identification and parametric transfer-function modeling methods are extended to allow the extraction of state-space (stability and control derivative) representations. An interactive computer program DERIVID is described for the iterative solution of the multi-input/multi-output frequency-response matching approach used in the identification. Theoretical accuracy methods are used to determine the appropriate model structure and degree-of-confidence in the identified parameters. The method is applied to XV-15 tilt-rotor aircraft data in hover. Bare-airframe stability and control derivatives for the lateral/directional dynamics are shown to compare favorably with models previously obtained using time-domain identification methods and the XV-15 simulation program.

Tischler, Mark B.↗

Dynamic control modification techniques in teleoperation of a flexible manipulator

The objective of this research is to reduce the end-point vibration of a large, teleoperated manipulator while preserving the usefulness of the system motion. A master arm is designed to measure desired joint angles as the user specifies a desired tip motion. The desired joint angles from the master arm are the inputs to an adaptive PD control algorithm that positions the end-point of the manipulator. As the user moves the tip of the master, the robot will vibrate at its natural frequencies which makes it difficult to position the end-point. To eliminate the tip vibration during teleoperated motions, an input shaping method is presented. The input shaping method transforms each sample of the desired input into a new set of impulses that do not excite the system resonances. The method is explained using the equation of motion for a simple, second-order system. The impulse response of such a system is derived and the constraint equations for vibrationless motion are presented. To evaluate the robustness of the method, a different residual vibration equation from Singer's is derived that more accurately represents the input shaping technique. The input shaping method is shown to actually increase the residual vibration in certain situations when the system parameters are not accurately specified. Finally, the implementation of the input shaping method to a system with varying parameters is shown to induce a vibration into the system. To eliminate this vibration, a modified command shaping technique is developed. The ability of the modified command shaping method to reduce vibration at the system resonances is tested by varying input perturbations to trajectories in a range of possible user inputs. By comparing the frequency responses of the transverse acceleration at the end-point of the manipulator, the modified method is compared to the original PD routine. The control scheme that produces the smaller magnitude of resonant vibration at the first natural frequency is considered the more effective control method.

Magee, David Patrick↗

Multibody model reduction by component mode synthesis and component cost analysis

The classical assumed-modes method is widely used in modeling the dynamics of flexible multibody systems. According to the method, the elastic deformation of each component in the system is expanded in a series of spatial and temporal functions known as modes and modal coordinates, respectively. This paper focuses on the selection of component modes used in the assumed-modes expansion. A two-stage component modal reduction method is proposed combining Component Mode Synthesis (CMS) with Component Cost Analysis (CCA). First, each component model is truncated such that the contribution of the high frequency subsystem to the static response is preserved. Second, a new CMS procedure is employed to assemble the system model and CCA is used to further truncate component modes in accordance with their contribution to a quadratic cost function of the system output. The proposed method is demonstrated with a simple example of a flexible two-body system.

Spanos, J. T.↗

A High-Order, Linear Time-Invariant Model for Application to Higher Harmonic Control and Flight Control System Interaction

This research describes a new methodology for the extraction of a high-order, linear time invariant model, which allows the periodicity of the helicopter response to be accurately captured. This model provides the needed level of dynamic fidelity to permit an analysis and optimization of the AFCS and HHC algorithms. The key results of this study indicate that the closed-loop HHC system has little influence on the AFCS or on the vehicle handling qualities, which indicates that the AFCS does not need modification to work with the HHC system. However, the results show that the vibration response to maneuvers must be considered during the HHC design process, and this leads to much higher required HHC loop crossover frequencies. This research also demonstrates that the transient vibration responses during maneuvers can be reduced by optimizing the closed-loop higher harmonic control algorithm using conventional control system analyses.

Cheng, Rendy P.↗

Human Response to Simulated Low-Intensity Sonic Booms

NASA's High Speed Research (HSR ) program in the 1990s was intended to develop a technology base for a future High-Speed Civil Transport (HSCT). As part of this program, the NASA Langley Research Center sonic boom simulator (SBS) was built and used for a series of tests on subjective response to sonic booms. At the end of the HSR program, an HSCT was deemed impractical, but since then interest in supersonic flight has reawakened, this time focusing on a smaller aircraft suitable for a business jet. To respond to this interest, the Langley sonic boom simulator has been refurbished. The upgraded computer-controlled playback system is based on an SGI O2 computer, in place of the previous DEC MicroVAX. As the frequency response of the booth is not flat, an equalization filter is required. Because of the changes made during the renovation (new loudspeakers), the previous equalization filter no longer performed as well as before, so a new equalization filter has been designed. Booms to be presented in the booth are preprocessed using the filter. When the preprocessed signals are presented into the booth and measured with a microphone, the results are very similar to the intended shapes. Signals with short rise times and sharp "corners" are observed to have a small amount of "ringing" in the response. During the HSR program a considerable number of subjective tests were completed in the SBS. A summary of that research is given in Leatherwood et al. (Individual reports are available at http://techreports.larc.nasa.gov/ltrs/ltrs.html.) Topics of study included shaped sonic booms, asymmetrical booms, realistic (recorded) boom waveforms, indoor and outdoor booms shapes, among other factors. One conclusion of that research was that a loudness metric, like the Stevens Perceived Level (PL), predicted human reaction much more accurately than overpressure or unweighted sound pressure level. Structural vibration and rattle were not included in these studies.

Sullivan, Brenda M.↗

Effects of structural coupling on mistuned cascade flutter and response

The effects of structural coupling on mistuned cascade flutter and response are analytically investigated using an extended typical section model. This model includes both structural and aerodynamic coupling between the blades. The model assumes that the structurally coupled system natural modes were determined and are represented in the form of N bending and N torsional uncoupled modes for each blade, where N is the number of blades and, hence, is only valid for blade dominated motion. The aerodynamic loads are calculated by using two dimensional unsteady cascade theories in the subsonic and supersonic flow regimes. The results show that the addition of structural coupling can affect both the aeroelastic stability and frequency. The stability is significantly affected only when the system is mistuned. The resonant frequencies can be significantly changed by structural coupling in both tuned and mistuned systems, however, the peak response is significantly affected only in the latter.

Kielb, R. E.↗

Effects of structural coupling on mistuned cascade flutter and response

The effects of structural coupling on mistuned cascade flutter and response are analytically investigated using an extended typical section model. This model includes both structural and aerodynamic coupling between the blades. The model assumes that the structurally coupled system natural modes were determined and are represented in the form of N bending and N torsional uncoupled modes for each blade, where N is the number of blades and, hence, is only valid for blade dominated motion. The aerodynamic loads are calculated by using two dimensional unsteady cascade theories in the subsonic and supersonic flow regimes. The results show that the addition of structural coupling can affect both the aeroelastic stability and frequency. The stability is significantly affected only when the system is mistuned. The resonant frequencies can be significantly changed by structural coupling in both tuned and mistuned systems, however, the peak response is significantly affected only in the latter. Previously announced in STAR as N83-15672

Kielb, R. E.↗

Effects of Mistuning on the Forced Response of Turbomachinery Rotors

The basic purpose of this research has been to develop a fundamental understanding of the effects of blade-to-blade dissimilarities, or mistuning, on the dynamics of nearly cyclic bladed-disk assemblies. This topic is of importance as mistuning has been shown to increase the forced response amplitudes of some blades significantly, and even to lead to blade failure. Furthermore, the current trend toward high performance propulsion turbomachinery designed for finite service life demands an accurate prediction of system performance and dynamics at the design stage. This objective has been achieved by carrying out the following tasks. First, the investigation of the free and forced responses of representative, yet sufficiently simple blade assembly models that capture all the important characteristics of typical turbomachinery rotors. Second, the development of computational methods that predict the effects of mistuning in a systematic and reliable way, along with the development, of a systematic reduced-order modeling procedure for mistuned bladed disks. Third, the application of these findings and the tools developed to an industrial rotor, namely the first stage of turbine blades of the oxidizer turbopump in the space shuttle main rocket engine (SSME). The research supported by NASA has led to the development of a coherent theory for mistuned blade assemblies. The further implementation of these computational tools into the forced response prediction system currently under development in the Structural Dynamics Branch Forced Response Prediction System (FREPS) would enable the designer and the analyst (1) to identify types of blade assemblies highly sensitive to mistuning in various frequency and other parameter ranges and (2), to characterize mistuning effects on their forced response by predicting true response amplitudes and fatigue life estimates.

Stefko, George L.↗

Recent System Identification Research at NASA Langley Research Center

This talk summarizes some of the recent advances in system identification at NASA Langley Research Center. Efforts discussed were applied to aeroelastic models, aircraft with redundant inputs and feedback control active, and aircraft flying in turbulence. Topics mentioned include experiment design with orthogonal multisine inputs, frequency response estimation, maximum likelihood parameter estimation, and parameter estimation considering process noise.

NASA LaRC↗

Engineering studies related to Skylab program

The relationship between the S-193 Automatic Gain Control data and the magnitude of received signal power was studied in order to characterize performance parameters for Skylab equipment. The r-factor was used for the assessment and is defined to be less than unity, and a function of off-nadir angle, ocean surface roughness, and receiver signal to noise ratio. A digital computer simulation was also used to assess to additive receiver, or white noise. The system model for the digital simulation is described, along with intermediate frequency and video impulse response functions used, details of the input waveforms, and results to date. Specific discussion of the digital computer programs used is also provided.

Hayne, G. S.↗

Investigation of longitudinal control system for a small hydrofoil boat

An analysis of a hydromechanical system for longitudinal control of a small hydrofoil boat is presented. The system incorporates height and acceleration sensors operating flaps on the foils through a mechanical linkage. Effects of some of the system parameters on the stability and response to waves are shown. The results indicate that the system is capable of providing adequate stability, but the response to stern waves at low frequencies is larger than desired.

Phillips, W. H.↗

Development of an unsteady aerodynamics model to improve correlation of computed blade stresses with test data

A reliable rotor aeroelastic analysis operational that correctly predicts the vibration levels for a helicopter is utilized to test various unsteady aerodynamics models with the objective of improving the correlation between test and theory. This analysis called Rotor Aeroelastic Vibration (RAVIB) computer program is based on a frequency domain forced response analysis which utilizes the transfer matrix techniques to model helicopter/rotor dynamic systems of varying degrees of complexity. The results for the AH-1G helicopter rotor were compared with the flight test data during high speed operation and they indicated a reasonably good correlation for the beamwise and chordwise blade bending moments, but for torsional moments the correlation was poor. As a result, a new aerodynamics model based on unstalled synthesized data derived from the large amplitude oscillating airfoil experiments was developed and tested.

Gangwani, S. T.↗

Pole/zero cancellations in flexible space structures

A practical objective in the control of flexible space structures is to minimize the effects of vibrational dynamics at certain specified points on a structure. State feedback can be used to address this question by creating closed-loop modes which are unobservable at these points, and so do not contribute to the measured response. In the frequency domain, such modes correspond to pole/zero cancellations in the closed loop system. This paper analyzes the problem of pole/zero cancellation in flexible structures, making full use of the second-order form of such systems. An explicit expression is derived for the unique state feedback gain with minimum norm which cancels all open-loop zeros. Furthermore, the properties of the residual poles that remain observable in the closed-loop system are studied, and their stability proven for the case of colocated sensors and actuators.

Williams, Trevor↗

Electromechanical propellant control system actuator

New control mechanism technologies are currently being sought to provide alternatives to hydraulic actuation systems. The Propulsion Laboratory at Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) is involved in the development of electromechanical actuators (EMA's) for this purpose. Through this effort, an in-house designed electromechanical propellant valve actuator has been assembled and is presently being evaluated. This evaluation will allow performance comparisons between EMA and hydraulics systems. The in-house design consists of the following hardware: a three-phase brushless motor, a harmonic drive, and an output spline which will mate with current Space Shuttle Main Engine (SSME) propellant control valves. A resolver and associated electronics supply position feedback for the EMA. System control is provided by a solid-state electronic controller and power supply. Frequency response testing has been performed with further testing planned as hardware and test facilities become available.

Myers, W. Neill↗