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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 55 records · Page 3

Computational aspects of helicopter trim analysis and damping levels from Floquet theory

Helicopter trim settings of periodic initial state and control inputs are investigated for convergence of Newton iteration in computing the settings sequentially and in parallel. The trim analysis uses a shooting method and a weak version of two temporal finite element methods with displacement formulation and with mixed formulation of displacements and momenta. These three methods broadly represent two main approaches of trim analysis: adaptation of initial-value and finite element boundary-value codes to periodic boundary conditions, particularly for unstable and marginally stable systems. In each method, both the sequential and in-parallel schemes are used and the resulting nonlinear algebraic equations are solved by damped Newton iteration with an optimally selected damping parameter. The impact of damped Newton iteration, including earlier-observed divergence problems in trim analysis, is demonstrated by the maximum condition number of the Jacobian matrices of the iterative scheme and by virtual elimination of divergence. The advantages of the in-parallel scheme over the conventional sequential scheme are also demonstrated.

Gaonkar, Gopal H.↗

A computer model for one-dimensional mass and energy transport in and around chemically reacting particles, including complex gas-phase chemistry, multicomponent molecular diffusion, surface evaporation, and heterogeneous reaction

Various chemically reacting flow problems highlighting chemical and physical fundamentals rather than flow geometry are presently investigated by means of a comprehensive mathematical model that incorporates multicomponent molecular diffusion, complex chemistry, and heterogeneous processes, in the interest of obtaining sensitivity-related information. The sensitivity equations were decoupled from those of the model, and then integrated one time-step behind the integration of the model equations, and analytical Jacobian matrices were applied to improve the accuracy of sensitivity coefficients that are calculated together with model solutions.

Cho, S. Y.↗

Dynamic analysis of flexible gear trains/transmissions - An automated approach

In this paper an automated algorithmic method is presented for the dynamic analysis of geared trains/transmissions. These are treated as a system of interconnected flexible bodies. The procedure developed explains the switching of constraints with time as a result of the change in the contacting areas at the gear teeth. The elastic behavior of the system is studied through the employment of three-dimensional isoparametric elements having six degrees-of-freedom at each node. The contact between the bodies is assumed at the various nodes, which could be either a line or a plane. The kinematical expressions, together with the equations of motion using Kane's method, strain energy concepts, are presented in a matrix form suitable for computer implementation. The constraint Jacobian matrices are generated automatically based on the contact information between the bodies. The concepts of the relative velocity at the contacting points at the tooth pairs and the subsequent use of the transmission ratios in the analysis is presented.

Amirouche, F. M. L.↗

Time-variant analysis of rotorcraft systems dynamics - An exploitation of vector processors

In this paper a generalized algorithmic procedure is presented for handling constraints in mechanical transmissions. The latter are treated as multibody systems of interconnected rigid/flexible bodies. The constraint Jacobian matrices are generated automatically and suitably updated in time, depending on the geometrical and kinematical constraint conditions describing the interconnection between shafts or gears. The type of constraints are classified based on the interconnection of the bodies by assuming that one or more points of contact exist between them. The effects due to elastic deformation of the flexible bodies are included by allowing each body element to undergo small deformations. The procedure is based on recursively formulated Kane's dynamical equations of motion and the finite element method, including the concept of geometrical stiffening effects. The method is implemented on an IBM-3090-600j vector processor with pipe-lining capabilities. A significant increase in the speed of execution is achieved by vectorizing the developed code in computationally intensive areas. An example consisting of two meshing disks rotating at high angular velocity is presented. Applications are intended for the study of the dynamic behavior of helicopter transmissions.

Amirouche, F. M. L.↗

Helicopter trim analysis by shooting and finite element methods with optimally damped Newton iterations

Helicopter trim settings of periodic initial state and control inputs are investigated for convergence of Newton iteration in computing the settings sequentially and in parallel. The trim analysis uses a shooting method and a weak version of two temporal finite element methods with displacement formulation and with mixed formulation of displacements and momenta. These three methods broadly represent two main approaches of trim analysis: adaptation of initial-value and finite element boundary-value codes to periodic boundary conditions, particularly for unstable and marginally stable systems. In each method, both the sequential and in-parallel schemes are used, and the resulting nonlinear algebraic equations are solved by damped Newton iteration with an optimally selected damping parameter. The impact of damped Newton iteration, including earlier-observed divergence problems in trim analysis, is demonstrated by the maximum condition number of the Jacobian matrices of the iterative scheme and by virtual elimination of divergence. The advantages of the in-parallel scheme over the conventional sequential scheme are also demonstrated.

Achar, N. S.↗

A quadratic-tensor model algorithm for nonlinear least-squares problems with linear constraints

A new algorithm for solving nonlinear least-squares and nonlinear equation problems is proposed which is based on approximating the nonlinear functions using the quadratic-tensor model by Schnabel and Frank. The algorithm uses a trust region defined by a box containing the current values of the unknowns. The algorithm is found to be effective for problems with linear constraints and dense Jacobian matrices.

Hanson, R. J.↗

Nonlinear Transient Problems Using Structure Compatible Heat Transfer Code

The report documents the recent effort to enhance a transient linear heat transfer code so as to solve nonlinear problems. The linear heat transfer code was originally developed by Dr. Kim Bey of NASA Largely and called the Structure-Compatible Heat Transfer (SCHT) code. The report includes four parts. The first part outlines the formulation of the heat transfer problem of concern. The second and the third parts give detailed procedures to construct the nonlinear finite element equations and the required Jacobian matrices for the nonlinear iterative method, Newton-Raphson method. The final part summarizes the results of the numerical experiments on the newly enhanced SCHT code.

Hou, Gene↗

Implicit and Multigrid Method for Ideal Multigrid Convergence: Direct Numerical Simulation of Separated Flow Around NACA 0012 Airfoil

Numerical investigation of flow separation over a NACA 0012 airfoil at large angles of attack has been carried out. The numerical calculation is performed by solving the full Navier-Stokes equations in generalized curvilinear coordinates. The second-order LU-SGS implicit scheme is applied for time integration. This scheme requires no tridiagonal inversion and is capable of being completely vectorized, provided the corresponding Jacobian matrices are properly selected. A fourth-order centered compact scheme is used for spatial derivatives. In order to reduce numerical oscillation, a sixth-order implicit filter is employed. Non-reflecting boundary conditions are imposed at the far-field and outlet boundaries to avoid possible non-physical wave reflection. Complex flow separation and vortex shedding phenomenon have been observed and discussed.

Liu, Chao-Qun↗

Discontinuous Galerkin Methods for NonLinear Differential Systems

This talk considers simplified finite element discretization techniques for first-order systems of conservation laws equipped with a convex (entropy) extension. Using newly developed techniques in entropy symmetrization theory, simplified forms of the discontinuous Galerkin (DG) finite element method have been developed and analyzed. The use of symmetrization variables yields numerical schemes which inherit global entropy stability properties of the PDE (partial differential equation) system. Central to the development of the simplified DG methods is the Eigenvalue Scaling Theorem which characterizes right symmetrizers of an arbitrary first-order hyperbolic system in terms of scaled eigenvectors of the corresponding flux Jacobian matrices. A constructive proof is provided for the Eigenvalue Scaling Theorem with detailed consideration given to the Euler equations of gas dynamics and extended conservation law systems derivable as moments of the Boltzmann equation. Using results from kinetic Boltzmann moment closure theory, we then derive and prove energy stability for several approximate DG fluxes which have practical and theoretical merit.

Barth, Timothy↗

The Delta x B = 0 Constraint Versus Minimization of Numerical Errors in MHD Simulations

The MHD equations are a system of non-strictly hyperbolic conservation laws. The non-convexity of the inviscid flux vector resulted in corresponding Jacobian matrices with undesirable properties. It has previously been shown by Powell et al. (1995) that an 'almost' equivalent MHD system in non-conservative form can be derived. This non-conservative system has a better conditioned eigensystem. Aside from Powell et al., the MHD equations can be derived from basic principles in either conservative or non-conservative form. The Delta x B = 0 constraint of the MHD equations is only an initial condition constraint, it is very different from the incompressible Navier-Stokes equations in which the divergence condition is needed to close the system (i.e., to have the same number of equations and the same number of unknown). In the MHD formulations, if Delta x B = 0 initially, all one needs is to construct appropriate numerical schemes that preserve this constraint at later time evolutions. In other words, one does not need the Delta x B condition to close the MHD system. We formulate our new scheme together with the Cargo & Gallice (1997) form of the MHD approximate Riemann solver in curvilinear grids for both versions of the MHD equations. A novel feature of our new method is that the well-conditioned eigen-decomposition of the non-conservative MHD equations is used to solve the conservative equations. This new feature of the method provides well-conditioned eigenvectors for the conservative formulation, so that correct wave speeds for discontinuities are assured. The justification for using the non-conservative eigen-decomposition to solve the conservative equations is that our scheme has a better control of the numerical error associated with the divergence of the magnetic condition. Consequently, computing both forms of the equations with the same eigen-decomposition is almost equivalent. It will be shown that this approach, using the non-conservative eigensystem when solving the conservative equations, also works well in the context of standard shock-capturing schemes.

Yee, H. C.↗

The Delta(dot) B = O Constraint vs. Minimization of Numerical Errors in MHD Simulations

The MHD equations are a system of non-strictly hyperbolic conservation laws. The non-convexity of the inviscid flux vector resulted in corresponding Jacobian matrices with undesirable properties. On the other hand, the MHD equations can be derived from basic principles in either conservative or non-conservative form. The non-conservative system has a better conditioned eigensystem. The Delta(dot)B = 0 constraint of the A4HD equations is only an initial condition constraint. One does not need the Delta(dot)B condition to close the MHD system. We formulate our new low dissipative high order scheme together with the Cargo & Gallice (1997) form of the MHD approximate Riemann solver in curvilinear grids for both versions of the MHD equations. A novel feature of our new method is that the well-conditioned eigen-decomposition of the non-conservative MHD equations is used to solve the conservative equations. This new feature of the method provides well-conditioned eigenvectors for the conservative formulation, so that correct wave speeds for discontinuities are assured. The justification for using the non-conservative eigen-decomposition to solve the conservative equations is that our scheme has a better control of the numerical error associated with the Delta(dot)B condition. Consequently, computing both forms of the equations with the same eigen-decomposition is almost equivalent. It will be shown that this approach, using the non-conservative eigensystem when solving the conservative equations, also works well in the context of standard shock-capturing schemes.

Yee, H. C.↗

Comparing Consider-Covariance Analysis with Sigma-Point Consider Filter and Linear-Theory Consider Filter Formulations

Recent literature in applied estimation theory reflects growing interest in the sigma-point (also called unscented ) formulation for optimal sequential state estimation, often describing performance comparisons with extended Kalman filters as applied to specific dynamical problems [c.f. 1, 2, 3]. Favorable attributes of sigma-point filters are described as including a lower expected error for nonlinear even non-differentiable dynamical systems, and a straightforward formulation not requiring derivation or implementation of any partial derivative Jacobian matrices. These attributes are particularly attractive, e.g. in terms of enabling simplified code architecture and streamlined testing, in the formulation of estimators for nonlinear spaceflight mechanics systems, such as filter software onboard deep-space robotic spacecraft. As presented in [4], the Sigma-Point Consider Filter (SPCF) algorithm extends the sigma-point filter algorithm to the problem of consider covariance analysis. Considering parameters in a dynamical system, while estimating its state, provides an upper bound on the estimated state covariance, which is viewed as a conservative approach to designing estimators for problems of general guidance, navigation and control. This is because, whether a parameter in the system model is observable or not, error in the knowledge of the value of a non-estimated parameter will increase the actual uncertainty of the estimated state of the system beyond the level formally indicated by the covariance of an estimator that neglects errors or uncertainty in that parameter. The equations for SPCF covariance evolution are obtained in a fashion similar to the derivation approach taken with standard (i.e. linearized or extended) consider parameterized Kalman filters (c.f. [5]). While in [4] the SPCF and linear-theory consider filter (LTCF) were applied to an illustrative linear dynamics/linear measurement problem, in the present work examines the SPCF as applied to nonlinear sequential consider covariance analysis, i.e. in the presence of nonlinear dynamics and nonlinear measurements. A simple SPCF for orbit determination, exemplifying an algorithm hosted in the guidance, navigation and control (GN&C) computer processor of a hypothetical robotic spacecraft, was implemented, and compared with an identically-parameterized (standard) extended, consider-parameterized Kalman filter. The onboard filtering scenario examined is a hypothetical spacecraft orbit about a small natural body with imperfectly-known mass. The formulations, relative complexities, and performances of the filters are compared and discussed.

Lisano, Michael E.↗

Snow Microphysical Retrieval from the NASA D3R Radar During ICE-POP 2018

A method is developed to use both polarimetric and dual-frequency radar measurements to retrieve microphysical properties of falling snow. It is applied to the Ku- and Ka-band measurements of the NASA dual-polarization, dual-frequency Doppler radar (D3R) obtained during the International Collaborative Experiments for PyeongChang 2018 Olympic and Paralympic winter games (ICE-POP 2018) field campaign and incorporates the Atmospheric Radiative Transfer Simulator (ARTS) microwave singles cattering property database for oriented particles. The retrieval uses optimal estimation to solve for several parameters that describe the particle size distribution (PSD), relative contribution of pristine, aggregate, and rimed ice species, and the orientation distribution along an entire radial simultaneously. Examination of Jacobian matrices and averaging kernels shows that the dual-wavelength ratio (DWR) measurements provide information regarding the characteristic particle size, and to a lesser extent, the rime fraction and shape parameter of the size distribution, whereas the polarimetric measurements provide information regarding the mass fraction of pristine particles and their characteristic size and orientation distribution. Thus, by combining the dual-frequency and polarimetric measurements, some ambiguities can be resolved that should allow a better determination of the PSD and bulk microphysical properties (e.g., snowfall rate) than can be retrieved from single-frequency polarimetric measurements or dual-frequency, single-polarization measurements. The D3R ICE-POP retrievals were validated using Precipitation Imaging Package (PIP) and Pluvio weighing gauge measurements taken nearby at the May Hills ground site. The PIP measures the snow PSD directly, and its measurements can be used to derived the snowfall rate (volumetric and water equivalent), mean volume-weighted particle size, and effective density, as well as particle aspect ratio and orientation. Four retrieval experiments were performed to evaluate the utility of different measurement combinations: Kuonly, DWR-only, Ku-pol, and All-obs. In terms of correlation, the volumetric snowfall rate (r D 0:95) and snow water equivalent rate (r D 0:92) were best retrieved by the Ku-pol method, while the DWR-only method had the lowest magnitude bias for these parameters (-31% and -8 %, respectively). The methods that incorporated DWR also had the best correlation to particle size (r D 0:74 and r D 0:71 for DWR-only and All-obs, respectively), although none of the methods retrieved density particularly well (r D 0:43 for Allobs). The ability of the measurements to retrieve mean aspect ratio was also inconclusive, although the polarimetric methods (Ku-pol and All-obs) had reduced biases and mean absolute error (MAE) relative to the Ku-only and DWR-only methods. The significant biases in particle size and snowfall rate appeared to be related to biases in the measured DWR, emphasizing the need for accurate DWR measurements and frequent calibration in future D3R deployments.

S Joseph Munchak↗

A Nonlinear Schur Complement Solver for CFD-Based Multidisciplinary Models

CFD-based multidisciplinary models are the fundamental building blocks of multidis- ciplinary design optimization frameworks. Linear and nonlinear solutions of these coupled models are difficult, especially when the Jacobian matrices represent a saddle point problem, where a block-diagonal corresponding to a discipline is non-invertible. These scenarios necessitate the use of a coupled solver algorithm such as the Newton’s method instead of the popular block Gauss– Seidel-based methods because of this non-invertible block. To address this challenge, we introduce a nonlinear Schur complement solver suitable for CFD-based multidisciplinary models. The solver leverages the specialized linear and nonlinear solvers of the CFD code, and therefore, does not require the solution of a large coupled linear system as the coupled Newton’s method. Further- more, because the solver primarily uses the specialized linear and nonlinear solvers of the CFD code, it does not suffer from the same robustness limitations as the coupled Newton’s method. In this work, we will implement this solver in NASA’s OpenMDAO framework and demonstrate its effectiveness using a CFD-based aeropropulsive model. The solver will contribute to the develop- ment of aeropropulsive design optimization and CFD-based design optimization methods with the ultimate goal of accelerating the design and integration of advanced propulsion systems.

Nonlinear Solvers↗

Towards Robustness Guarantees for Feedback-Based Optimization

Feedback-based online optimization algorithms have gained traction in recent years because of their simple implementation, their ability to reject disturbances in real time, and their increased robustness to model mismatch. While the robustness properties have been observed both in simulation and experimental results, the theoretical analysis in the literature is mostly limited to nominal conditions. In this work, we propose a framework to systematically assess the robust stability of feedback-based online optimization algorithms. We leverage tools from monotone operator theory, variational inequalities and classical robust control to obtain tractable numerical tests that guarantee robust convergence properties of online algorithms in feedback with a physical system, even in the presence of disturbances and model uncertainty. The results are illustrated via an academic example and a case study of a power distribution system.

approximation algorithms↗

Generalized Quasi-Static Mooring System Modeling with Analytic Jacobians

This paper presents a generalized and efficient method for quasi-static analysis of mooring systems, including complex scenarios such as when shared mooring lines interconnect multiple floating wind or wave energy devices. While quasi-static mooring models are well established, most published formulations are focused on specific applications, and no publicly available implementations provide efficient handling of large mooring system networks. The present formulation addresses these gaps by: (1) formulating solutions for edge cases not typically supported by quasi-static models; (2) creating a fully generalized model structure such that any combination of mooring lines, point masses, and floating bodies can be assembled; and (3) deriving analytic expressions for the system Jacobians (stiffness matrices) so that systems with many degrees of freedom can be solved efficiently. These techniques form the theory basis of MoorPy, an open-source mooring analysis library. The model is demonstrated on nine scenarios of increasing complexity with features of interest for offshore renewable energy applications. When compared with steady-state results from a lumped-mass dynamic model, the results show that the quasi-static formulation accurately calculates profiles and tensions and that its analytic approach provides more efficient and reliable computation of system stiffness matrices than finite-differencing methods. These results verify the accuracy of the MoorPy model.

16 TIDAL AND WAVE POWER↗

On differential transformations between Cartesian and curvilinear (geodetic) coordinates

Differential transformations are developed between Cartesian and curvilinear orthogonal coordinates. Only matrix algebra is used for the presentation of the basic concepts. After defining the reference systems used the rotation (R), metric (H), and Jacobian (J) matrices of the transformations between cartesian and curvilinear coordinate systems are introduced. A value of R as a function of H and J is presented. Likewise an analytical expression for J(-1) as a function of H(-2) and R is obtained. Emphasis is placed on showing that differential equations are equivalent to conventional similarity transformations. Scaling methods are discussed along with ellipsoidal coordinates. Differential transformations between elipsoidal and geodetic coordinates are established.

Soler, T.↗

Use of symbolic computation in robotics education

An application of symbolic computation in robotics education is described. A software package is presented which combines generality, user interaction, and user-friendliness with the systematic usage of symbolic computation and artificial intelligence techniques. The software utilizes MACSYMA, a LISP-based symbolic algebra language, to automatically generate closed-form expressions representing forward and inverse kinematics solutions, the Jacobian transformation matrices, robot pose error-compensation models equations, and Lagrange dynamics formulation for N degree-of-freedom, open chain robotic manipulators. The goal of such a package is to aid faculty and students in the robotics course by removing burdensome tasks of mathematical manipulations. The software package has been successfully tested for its accuracy using commercially available robots.

Vira, Naren↗