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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
All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
NASA NTRS1983

Impact of LANDSAT MSS sensor differences on change detection analysis

Differences in overall sensor response, due to both factors within the sensor system, and external factors such as atmospheric effects, must be dealt with before change detection techniques using image differencing can be successfully implemented. The approach used to be coregister data to a base, followed by between image scatterogram generation and evaluation, and image differencing. Data from LANDSAT 2 and 3 were registered to LANDSAT 4 data. The area was limited to a small protion of the scene near the City of Santa Cruz because this was the only area cloud and haze free on all the images. Visual examination of each image, as well as the between image scatterograms, provide information on radiometric characteristics of each sensor. The image differencing, after normalizing for radiometric differences, provides a visual depiction of geometric distortions.

Likens, W.↗
NASA NTRS2013

Nitric Oxide PLIF Measurements in the Hypersonic Materials Environmental Test System (HYMETS)

Planar laser-induced fluorescence (PLIF) of naturally occurring nitric oxide (NO) has been used to obtain instantaneous flow visualization images, and to make both radial and axial velocity measurements in the HYMETS (Hypersonic Materials Environmental Test System) 400 kW arc-heated wind tunnel at NASA Langley Research Center. This represents the first application of NO PLIF flow visualization in HYMETS. Results are presented at selected facility run conditions, including some in a simulated Earth atmosphere (75% nitrogen, 20% oxygen, 5% argon) and others in a simulated Martian atmosphere (71% carbon dioxide, 24% nitrogen, 5% argon), for specific bulk enthalpies ranging from 6.5 MJ/kg to 18.4 MJ/kg. Flow visualization images reveal the presence of large scale unsteady flow structures, and indicate nitric oxide fluorescence signal over more than 70% of the core flow for specific bulk enthalpies below about 11 MJ/kg, but over less than 10% of the core flow for specific bulk enthalpies above about 16 MJ/kg. Axial velocimetry was performed using molecular tagging velocimetry (MTV). Axial velocities of about 3 km/s were measured along the centerline. Radial velocimetry was performed by scanning the wavelength of the narrowband laser and analyzing the resulting Doppler shift. Radial velocities of +/- 0.5 km/s were measured.

Inman, Jennifer A.↗
NASA NTRS2006

Visualization of a Capsule Entry Vehicle Reaction-Control System (RCS) Thruster

Planar laser-induced fluorescence (PLIF) was used to visualize the reaction control system (RCS) jet flow emanating from the aft-body of an Apollo-geometry capsule test article in the NASA Langley Research Center 31-Inch Mach 10 Air wind tunnel. The RCS jet was oriented normal to the aft surface of the model and had a nominal Mach number of 2.94. The composition of the jet gas by mass was 95% nitrogen (N2) and 5% nitric oxide (NO). The RCS jet flowrate varied between zero and 0.5 standard liters per minute and the angle of attack and tunnel stagnation pressure were also varied. PLIF was used to excite the NO molecules for flow visualization. These flow visualization images were processed to determine the trajectory and to quantify the flapping of the RCS jet. The spatial resolution of the jet trajectory measurement was about 1 mm and the single-shot precision of the measurement was estimated to be 0.02 mm in the far field of the jet plume. The jet flapping, measured by the standard deviation of the jet centerline position was as large as 0.9 mm, while the jet was 1.5-4 mm in diameter (full width at half maximum). Schlieren flow visualization images were obtained for comparison with the PLIF. Surface pressures were also measured and presented. Virtual Diagnostics Interface (VIDI) technology developed at NASA Langley was used to superimpose and visualize the data sets. The measurements demonstrate some of the capabilities of the PLIF method while providing a test case for computational fluid dynamics (CFD) validation.

Danehy, P. M.↗
NASA NTRS2011

Nitric Oxide PLIF Measurements in the Hypersonic Materials Environmental Test System (HYMETS)

A nonintrusive laser-based measurement system has been applied for the first time in the HYMETS (Hypersonic Materials Environmental Test System) 400 kW arc-heated wind tunnel at NASA Langley Research Center. Planar laser-induced fluorescence of naturally occurring nitric oxide (NO) has been used to obtain instantaneous flow visualization images, and to make both radial and axial velocity measurements. Results are presented at selected facility run conditions, including some in simulated Earth atmosphere (75% nitrogen, 20% oxygen, 5% argon) and others in simulated Martian atmosphere (71% carbon dioxide, 24% nitrogen, 5% argon), for bulk enthalpies ranging from 6.5 MJ/kg to 18.4 MJ/kg. Flow visualization images reveal the presence of large scale unsteady flow structures, and indicate nitric oxide fluorescence signal over more than 70% of the core flow for bulk enthalpies below about 11 MJ/kg, but over less than 10% of the core flow for bulk enthalpies above about 16 MJ/kg. Axial velocimetry was performed using molecular tagging velocimetry (MTV). Axial velocities of about 3 km/s were measured along the centerline. Radial velocimetry was performed by scanning the wavelength of the narrowband laser and analyzing the resulting Doppler shift. Radial velocities of 0.5km/s were measured.

Inman, Jennifer A.↗
NASA NTRSDate not supplied

A Method for Obtaining Surface Flow Vectors and Its Implementation in Interferometric Skin Friction Measurement

A new method was developed to extract surface flow vectors from an oilflow visualization image that has oil streaklines. The method is analogous to the PIV processing where the image is divided into interrogation windows. A representative flow direction is obtained for each interrogation window using image processing with a line-detection algorithm. Repeating the process for the entire image, one can find the surface vector field. The Hough transformation, Radon transformation and Machine Learning were used as line-detection algorithms. The obtained vector field is then postprocessed to filter spurious vectors and to apply smoothing. The method was tested on 2D and 3D models with different flow complexities. The method was able to predict surface flow vectors for all cases tested. The predicted surface flow vectors were used in obtaining the surface skin friction. The successful implementation of the surface flow vectors enables interferometric skin friction measurements on surfaces beneath 3D complex flows. In addition, the surface flow vectors can be superimposed on the oilflow visualization images to better explain the surface flow topology.

Surface flow vectors↗
NASA NTRSDate not supplied

A Method for Obtaining Surface Flow Vectors and Its Implementation in Interferometric Skin Friction Measurement

A new method was developed to extract surface flow vectors from an oilflow visualization image that has oil streaklines. The method is analogous to the PIV processing where the image is divided into interrogation windows. A representative flow direction is obtained for each interrogation window using image processing with a line-detection algorithm. Repeating the process for the entire image, one can find the surface vector field. The Hough transformation, Radon transformation and Machine Learning were used as line-detection algorithms. The obtained vector field is then postprocessed to filter spurious vectors and to apply smoothing. The method was tested on 2D and 3D models with different flow complexities. The method was able to predict surface flow vectors for all cases tested. The predicted surface flow vectors were used in obtaining the surface skin friction. The successful implementation of the surface flow vectors enables interferometric skin friction measurements on surfaces beneath 3D complex flows. In addition, the surface flow vectors can be superimposed on the oilflow visualization images to better explain the surface flow topology.

Surface flow vectors↗
NASA NTRS1995

Electronic Photography at the NASA Langley Research Center

An electronic photography facility has been established in the Imaging & Photographic Technology Section, Visual Imaging Branch, at the NASA Langley Research Center (LaRC). The purpose of this facility is to provide the LaRC community with access to digital imaging technology. In particular, capabilities have been established for image scanning, direct image capture, optimized image processing for storage, image enhancement, and optimized device dependent image processing for output. Unique approaches include: evaluation and extraction of the entire film information content through scanning; standardization of image file tone reproduction characteristics for optimal bit utilization and viewing; education of digital imaging personnel on the effects of sampling and quantization to minimize image processing related information loss; investigation of the use of small kernel optimal filters for image restoration; characterization of a large array of output devices and development of image processing protocols for standardized output. Currently, the laboratory has a large collection of digital image files which contain essentially all the information present on the original films. These files are stored at 8-bits per color, but the initial image processing was done at higher bit depths and/or resolutions so that the full 8-bits are used in the stored files. The tone reproduction of these files has also been optimized so the available levels are distributed according to visual perceptibility. Look up tables are available which modify these files for standardized output on various devices, although color reproduction has been allowed to float to some extent to allow for full utilization of output device gamut.

Holm, Jack↗
NASA NTRS1971

Simple spectroscope used with solid state image amplifier over wide spectral range

Prism plus image amplifier panel provides visual image of many infrared spectral lines from carbon arc impregnated with metal compound. Different metal compounds generate various desired spectra. Panel also aligns and focuses simple spectroscopes for detecting spectral lines inside and outside visible region.

Brown, R. L., Sr.↗
NASA NTRS1991

A phenomenological approach to multisource data integration: Analysing infrared and visible data

A new method is described for combining multisensory data for remote sensing applications. The approach uses phenomenological models which allow the specification of discriminatory features that are based on intrinsic physical properties of imaged surfaces. Thermal and visual images of scenes are analyzed to estimate surface heat fluxes. Such analysis makes available a discriminatory feature that is closely related to the thermal capacitance of the imaged objects. This feature provides a method for labelling image regions based on physical properties of imaged objects. This approach is different from existing approaches which use the signal intensities in each channel (or an arbitrary linear or nonlinear combination of signal intensities) as features - which are then classified by a statistical or evident approach.

Nandhakumar, N.↗
NASA NTRS1973

Optical Signal Processing: Poisson Image Restoration and Shearing Interferometry

Optical signal processing can be performed in either digital or analog systems. Digital computers and coherent optical systems are discussed as they are used in optical signal processing. Topics include: image restoration; phase-object visualization; image contrast reversal; optical computation; image multiplexing; and fabrication of spatial filters. Digital optical data processing deals with restoration of images degraded by signal-dependent noise. When the input data of an image restoration system are the numbers of photoelectrons received from various areas of a photosensitive surface, the data are Poisson distributed with mean values proportional to the illuminance of the incoherently radiating object and background light. Optical signal processing using coherent optical systems is also discussed. Following a brief review of the pertinent details of Ronchi's diffraction grating interferometer, moire effect, carrier-frequency photography, and achromatic holography, two new shearing interferometers based on them are presented. Both interferometers can produce variable shear.

Hong, Yie-Ming↗
NASA NTRS2007

Intelligent Entity Behavior Within Synthetic Environments

This paper describes some elements in the development of realistic performance and behavior in the synthetic entities (players) which support Modeling and Simulation (M&S) applications, particularly military training. Modern human-in-the-loop (virtual) training systems incorporate sophisticated synthetic environments, which provide: 1. The operational environment, including, for example, terrain databases; 2. Physical entity parameters which define performance in engineered systems, such as aircraft aerodynamics; 3. Platform/system characteristics such as acoustic, IR and radar signatures; 4. Behavioral entity parameters which define interactive performance, including knowledge/reasoning about terrain, tactics; and, 5. Doctrine, which combines knowledge and tactics into behavior rule sets. The resolution and fidelity of these model/database elements can vary substantially, but as synthetic environments are designed to be compose able, attributes may easily be added (e.g., adding a new radar to an aircraft) or enhanced (e.g. Amending or replacing missile seeker head/ Electronic Counter Measures (ECM) models to improve the realism of their interaction). To a human in the loop with synthetic entities, their observed veridicality is assessed via engagement responses (e.g. effect of countermeasures upon a closing missile), as seen on systems displays, and visual (image) behavior. The realism of visual models in a simulation (level of detail as well as motion fidelity) remains a challenge in realistic articulation of elements such as vehicle antennae and turrets, or, with human figures; posture, joint articulation, response to uneven ground. Currently the adequacy of visual representation is more dependant upon the quality and resolution of the physical models driving those entities than graphics processing power per Se. Synthetic entities in M&S applications traditionally have represented engineered systems (e.g. aircraft) with human-in-the-loop performance characteristics (e.g. visual acuity) included in the system behavioral specification. As well, performance affecting human parameters such as experience level, fatigue and stress are coming into wider use (via AI approaches) to incorporate more uncertainty as to response type as well as performance (e.g. Where an opposing entity might go and what it might do, as well as how well it might perform).

Kruk, R. V.↗
NASA NTRS1991

In-flight off-surface flow visualization using infrared imaging

A light test investigation was conducted to evaluate an infrared (IR) imaging technique to visualize off-surface flow phenomena. A single-engine, general-aviation airplane was equipped with an IR imaging system that viewed the region around the left wingtip. Vortical flow at the wingtip was seeded with surfur hexafluoride, a gas with strong infrared absorbing and emitting characteristics. Different terrain and sky backgrounds were evaluated for their effect on IR images of vortical flow. The best IR images were obtained with a clear background. The results of the investigation indicate that IR flow visualization compliments existing smoke generator methods for off-surface flow visualization.

Manuel, Gregory S.↗
NASA NTRS1994

Electronic photography at NASA Langley Research Center

The field of photography began a metamorphosis several years ago which promises to fundamentally change how images are captured, transmitted, and output. At this time the metamorphosis is still in the early stages, but already new processes, hardware, and software are allowing many individuals and organizations to explore the entry of imaging into the information revolution. Exploration at this time is prerequisite to leading expertise in the future, and a number of branches at LaRC have ventured into electronic and digital imaging. Their progress until recently has been limited by two factors: the lack of an integrated approach and the lack of an electronic photographic capability. The purpose of the research conducted was to address these two items. In some respects, the lack of electronic photographs has prevented application of an integrated imaging approach. Since everything could not be electronic, the tendency was to work with hard copy. Over the summer, the Photographics Section has set up an Electronic Photography Laboratory. This laboratory now has the capability to scan film images, process the images, and output the images in a variety of forms. Future plans also include electronic capture capability. The current forms of image processing available include sharpening, noise reduction, dust removal, tone correction, color balancing, image editing, cropping, electronic separations, and halftoning. Output choices include customer specified electronic file formats which can be output on magnetic or optical disks or over the network, 4400 line photographic quality prints and transparencies to 8.5 by 11 inches, and 8000 line film negatives and transparencies to 4 by 5 inches. The problem of integrated imaging involves a number of branches at LaRC including Visual Imaging, Research Printing and Publishing, Data Visualization and Animation, Advanced Computing, and various research groups. These units must work together to develop common approaches to image processing and archiving. The ultimate goal is to be able to search for images using an on-line database and image catalog. These images could then be retrieved over the network as needed, along with information on the acquisition and processing prior to storage. For this goal to be realized, a number of standard processing protocols must be developed to allow the classification of images into categories. Standard series of processing algorithms can then be applied to each category (although many of these may be adaptive between images). Since the archived image files would be standardized, it should also be possible to develop standard output processing protocols for a number of output devices. If LaRC continues the research effort begun this summer, it may be one of the first organizations to develop an integrated approach to imaging. As such, it could serve as a model for other organizations in government and the private sector.

Holm, Jack M.↗
NASA NTRS1993

The Spectral Image Processing System (SIPS) - Interactive visualization and analysis of imaging spectrometer data

The Center for the Study of Earth from Space (CSES) at the University of Colorado, Boulder, has developed a prototype interactive software system called the Spectral Image Processing System (SIPS) using IDL (the Interactive Data Language) on UNIX-based workstations. SIPS is designed to take advantage of the combination of high spectral resolution and spatial data presentation unique to imaging spectrometers. It streamlines analysis of these data by allowing scientists to rapidly interact with entire datasets. SIPS provides visualization tools for rapid exploratory analysis and numerical tools for quantitative modeling. The user interface is X-Windows-based, user friendly, and provides 'point and click' operation. SIPS is being used for multidisciplinary research concentrating on use of physically based analysis methods to enhance scientific results from imaging spectrometer data. The objective of this continuing effort is to develop operational techniques for quantitative analysis of imaging spectrometer data and to make them available to the scientific community prior to the launch of imaging spectrometer satellite systems such as the Earth Observing System (EOS) High Resolution Imaging Spectrometer (HIRIS).

Kruse, F. A.↗
NASA NTRS2004

Finding a Cold Needle in a Warm Haystack: Infrared Imaging Applied to Locating Cryocooled Crystals in Loops

We demonstrate the use of inbred imaging to locate crystals mounted in cryoloops and cryopreserved in a nitrogen gas stream at 100K. In the home laboratory crystals are clearly seen in the infrared images with light transmitting through the sample while irradiating the crystal from behind, and with illumination from a direction perpendicular to the direction of view. The crystals transmit and reflect infrared radiation differently from the surrounding mother liquor and loop. Because of differences in contrast between crystals and their surrounding mother liquor, it is possible to clearly identify the crystal position. In use at the synchrotron, with robotically mounted crystals the small depth of field of the lens required the recording of multiple images at different focal points. Image processing techniques were then used to produce a clear image of the crystal. The resulting infrared images and intensity profiles show that infrared imaging can be a powerful complement to visual imaging in locating crystals in cryocooled loops.

Snell, E. H.↗
NASA NTRS1977

Numerical image manipulation and display in solar astronomy

The paper describes the system configuration and data manipulation capabilities of a solar image display system which allows interactive analysis of visual images and on-line manipulation of digital data. Image processing features include smoothing or filtering of images stored in the display, contrast enhancement, and blinking or flickering images. A computer with a core memory of 28,672 words provides the capacity to perform complex calculations based on stored images, including computing histograms, selecting subsets of images for further analysis, combining portions of images to produce images with physical meaning, and constructing mathematical models of features in an image. Some of the processing modes are illustrated by some image sequences from solar observations.

Levine, R. H.↗
NASA NTRS1974

A new ultrasonic imaging system using time delay spectrometry

A new method of forming a visual image by ultrasound is described. A shadowgraphic transmission image similar to an X-ray radiograph is produced by the application of a technique known as Time Delay Spectrometry. The system uses a repetitive frequency sweep with a linear relationship between frequency and time and the transmitting and receiving crystal are scanned in raster fashion about the subject. By electronic processing, an image may be built up which represents the energy transmitted through the specimen with a given time delay. An intensity modulated picture encompassing the full shades-of-gray capability of the recording system can be produced. A second type of image showing transmission time through the specimen may also be formed. Brightness changes in the displayed image in this case correspond to changes in the ultrasonic transmission time through the specimen.

Heyser, R. C.↗