SEARCH · Engineering Papers
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.
The NASA approach to data systems standardization is described. The major thrust of this activity is to assure effective use of NASA resources. The process by which standards are written, who writes them, and what subjects are covered, is briefly examined.
A design using a medium sized computer, a fiber optic communication link, and a desk top computer to reduce data collected at a remote site for analysis of frequency standard tests is described. Data generated at the Interim Frequency Standards Test Facility is collected on magnetic tape, which is then transported to a Sigma 5 computer. An Allan variance (two sample variance) is then calculated. The Allan variance (sigma vs tau) is then written to a data file in the Sigma 5. A fiber optic communication link between the Sigma 5 and a desk top computer was designed to transmit data in the Sigma 5 file to the desk top computer. A program was written for the desk top computer that will automatically access the data file in the Sigma 5, process the data and provide a data plot.
The NASA/MSFC high speed CMOS/SOS standard cell family, designed to be compatible with the PR2D (Place, Route in 2-Dimensions) automatic layout program, is described. Standard cell data sheets show the logic diagram, the schematic, the truth table, and propagation delays for each logic cell.
A set of programs used to plot Loran C lines of position on any common map or standard aviation sectional chart are given. The Loran C plotting program JRPLOT FORTRAN uses a standard Calcomp compatible plotting subroutine package for the Hewlett-Packard 7203A graphic plotter. The programs are designed to be run on an IBM System 370 computer. A simple add subtract method is used to calculate the lines of position. A description of how to use the program and some methods of operation are given.
Spacecraft navigation to the outer planets (Jupiter and beyond) places very stringent demands upon the performance of frequency and time (F&T) reference standards. The Deep Space Network (DSN) makes use of hydrogen masers as an aid in meeting the routine F&T operational requirements within the 64 m antenna network. Results as of October 1980 indicate the hydrogen masers are performing within the required specifications. Two problem areas are discussed: insufficient control over the environment in which the reference standards reside; and frequency drift.
At NASA Goddard Space Flight Center and through associated contractors, a broad spectrum of work is being carried out to develop improved hydrogen maser frequency standards for field use, improved experimental hydrogen maser frequency standards, and improved frequency and time distribution and measurement systems for hydrogen maser use. Recent progress in the following areas is reported: results on the Nr masers built by the Applied Physics Laboratory of Johns Hopkins University, the development of a low cost hydrogen maser at Goddard Space Flight Center, and work on a low noise phase comparison system and digitally phase locked crystal oscillator called the distribution and measurement system.
The NASA sponsored Spacelab Payload Standard Modular Electronics program has been designed with the basic objective of providing a space-qualified set of standardized modular electronics to support investigations identified for Spacelab payloads. These units are reusable, have functional, physical, and interface characteristics which allow them to be conveniently assembled in a multitude of configurations, and functionally interchangeable with their ground-based equivalents. The interfacing and control modules are described and typical hardware applications are presented.
The elctromagnetic compatability requirements for space systems, 15 October 1973, to be met by industry contractors for spacecraft launch vehicles and other special space systems, are considered. Deficiencies in the existing standard with respect to spacecraft charge and discharge phenomena, the technical ramifications for generating a new standard, and the upgrading of MIL-STD-1541 with requirements supplied as a result of the SCATHA program are discussed.
The use of an International Standards Organization (ISO) Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) Reference Model and its relevance to interconnecting an Applications Data Service (ADS) pilot program for data sharing is discussed. A top level mapping between the conjectured ADS requirements and identified layers within the OSI Reference Model was performed. It was concluded that the OSI model represents an orderly architecture for the ADS networking planning and that the protocols being developed by the National Bureau of Standards offer the best available implementation approach.
The preparation and contents guides designed to provide specifications and standards for NiCd batteries for space missions are discussed. Requirements were established to assure proper in orbit performance and compliance with handling procedures to minimize degradation. The guides were designed to benefit both industries and the military. The surveys include: reasons given for and against the use of flight batteries in systems tests; use of rechargeable batteries during space vehicle testing; and military standards and specifications.
Mercury 199 ions confined in an RF quadrupole trap and optically pumped by mercury 202 ion resonance light are investigated as the basis for a high performance frequency standard with commercial possibilities. Results achieved and estimates of the potential performance of such a standard are given.
Fundamental limitations of possible frequency standards based on stored ions are examined. Practical limitations are also addressed but without regard to size, power consumption, and cost. With these guidelines, one can anticipate that a stored ion frequency standard with accuracy and stability better than 10 to the -15th power is now possible.
The performance characteristics of a rubidium gas cell atomic frequency standard might be improved by replacing the standard rubidium discharge lamp with a single mode laser diode. Aspects of the laser pumped gas cell atomic clock studied include effects due to laser intensity, laser detuning, and the choice of the particular atomic absorption line. Results indicate that the performance of the gas cell clock may be improved by judicious choice of the operating parameters of the laser diode. The laser diode also proved to be a valuable tool in investigating the operation of the conventional gas cell clock. Results concerning linewidths, the light shift effect and the effect of isotopic spin exchange in the conventional gas cell clock are reported.
The standards apply to the identification and description of remote sensing technical crop estimation analysis procedures. Standard working terminology for technical project and programmatic communications among and between FCPF project technologists and managers as well as with other AgRISTARS projects and program management is established. Basic reference material for FCPF project technologists is provided. The material presented can be used as introductory training material for new technical personnel.
A set of programs designed to be run on the IBM System/370 computer is described. These programs are used to plot Loran-C lines of position (LOP) on any common map or standard aviation sectional chart. The Loran-C plotting program JRPLOT FORTRAN uses a standard Calcomp-compatible plotting subroutine package for the Hewlett-Packard 7203A graphic plotter. A general description of the features of the Loran-C plotting program. This program involves a simple add/substrate method to calculate the LOP. A description on how to use the program and some methods of operation are included.
Digital phase-shift standard used in combination with oscillator to calibrate other phase standards and phase-angle voltmeters. Phase-shifter circuit provides two square-wave outputs, A and B, with phase difference between them selectable in 30 degrees increments. Circuit is used with input signals as low as 1 volt rms, in almost any waveform.
Improved qualification standards and test procedures for epoxy adhesives used in assembly of high-reliability hybrid microcircuits listed in new report. Objective of standards to resolve problems in areas of outgassing, bond shear strength, corrosivity, volume resistivity, ionic impurities, electrical stability, and frequency of qualification testing. pp
The possibility of standard low temperature detector(s) for use in upcoming cryogenically cooled satellite and Space Shuttle payloads were investigated. These payloads operate from .3 kelvin to 300 kelvin. Standard detectors were selected and matching signal conditioning equipment compatible with the selected detector, typical spacecraft voltages, typical spacecraft telemetry systems, and the radiation encountered by a typical Earth orbiting spacecraft. Work statements to better define and advance detector performance were presented.