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NASA NTRS1988

Integration of rocket turbine design and analysis through computer graphics

An interactive approach with engineering computer graphics is used to integrate the design and analysis processes of a rocket engine turbine into a progressive and iterative design procedure. The processes are interconnected through pre- and postprocessors. The graphics are used to generate the blade profiles, their stacking, finite element generation, and analysis presentation through color graphics. Steps of the design process discussed include pitch-line design, axisymmetric hub-to-tip meridional design, and quasi-three-dimensional analysis. The viscous two- and three-dimensional analysis codes are executed after acceptable designs are achieved and estimates of initial losses are confirmed.

Hsu, Wayne↗

NASA NTRS1989

Simulating The Gamma-Ray Observatory Spacecraft

Gamma-Ray Observatory (GRO) spacecraft constitutes major advance in gamma-ray astronomy by offering first opportunity for comprehensive observations in range of 0.1 to 30,000 MeV. GRO Attitude Dynamics Simulator (GROSS) computer program designed to simulate mission. Consists of three separate programs: stand-alone profile program; simulator program, containing simulation control input/output (SCIO) subsystem, truth model (TM) subsystem, and on-board computer (OBC) subsystem; and postprocessor program. Written in FORTRAN 77.

Garrick, J.↗

NASA NTRS1988

Development and validation of an advanced low-order panel method

A low-order potential-flow panel code, PMARC, for modeling complex three-dimensional geometries, is currently being developed at NASA Ames Research Center. The PMARC code was derived from a code named VSAERO that was developed for Ames Research Center by Analytical Methods, Inc. In addition to modeling potential flow over three-dimensional geometries, the present version of PMARC includes several advanced features such as an internal flow model, a simple jet wake model, and a time-stepping wake model. Data management within the code was optimized by the use of adjustable size arrays for rapidly changing the size capability of the code, reorganization of the output file and adopting a new plot file format. Preliminary versions of a geometry preprocessor and a geometry/aerodynamic data postprocessor are also available for use with PMARC. Several test cases are discussed to highlight the capabilities of the internal flow model, the jet wake model, and the time-stepping wake model.

Ashby, Dale L.↗

NASA NTRS1989

Reanalysis, compatibility and correlation in analysis of modified antenna structures

A simple computational procedure is synthesized to process changes in the microwave-antenna pathlength-error measure when there are changes in the antenna structure model. The procedure employs structural modification reanalysis methods combined with new extensions of correlation analysis to provide the revised rms pathlength error. Mainframe finite-element-method processing of the structure model is required only for the initial unmodified structure, and elementary postprocessor computations develop and deal with the effects of the changes. Several illustrative computational examples are included. The procedure adapts readily to processing spectra of changes for parameter studies or sensitivity analyses.

Levy, R.↗

NASA NTRS1989

Processes responsible for the compositional structure of the thermosphere

The relative importances of the various physical and chemical mechanisms that force changes in neutral thermospheric composition for a given geophysical situation were quantified using a diagnostic postprocessor analysis package in conjunction with runs of the NCAR thermospheric general circulation model (TGCM) that was extended to include the terms of the neutral composition equation. New information was obtained on the causal mechanisms responsible for changes in the concentrations of the three neutral species, O2, O, and N2, whose time-dependent mass mixing ratios were calculated within the TGCM. Principal results calculated for F-region altitudes are described, and thermospheric compositions calculated using the NCAR-TGCM model are compared with the predictions of the empirical thermospheric model of Hedin (1987).

Burns, A. G.↗

NASA NTRS1989

Performance effects of tie-truss modifications for a 70-meter centerline beam waveguide antenna

The elevation-axis tie truss of the 70-m antennas would have to be modified to accommodate a centerline beam waveguide. To accomplish this, the center section of the tie truss has to be altered, causing a change in the tie-truss compliance and affecting structural performance. Even with the center section completely removed, the worst-case rms pathlength error due to gravity load is increased from 0.025 to only 0.030 inches. Using a simple postprocessor technique, the effects of modifying the compliance can be predicted without resorting to multiple and costly re-analyses of large finite-element models on a mainframe computer.

Cucchissi, J. J.↗

NASA NTRS1990

COMGEN: A computer program for generating finite element models of composite materials at the micro level

COMGEN (Composite Model Generator) is an interactive FORTRAN program which can be used to create a wide variety of finite element models of continuous fiber composite materials at the micro level. It quickly generates batch or session files to be submitted to the finite element pre- and postprocessor PATRAN based on a few simple user inputs such as fiber diameter and percent fiber volume fraction of the composite to be analyzed. In addition, various mesh densities, boundary conditions, and loads can be assigned easily to the models within COMGEN. PATRAN uses a session file to generate finite element models and their associated loads which can then be translated to virtually any finite element analysis code such as NASTRAN or MARC.

Melis, Matthew E.↗

NASA NTRS1990

Gamma Ray Observatory (GRO) dynamics simulator requirements and mathematical specifications, revision 1

The requirements and mathematical specifications for the Gamma Ray Observatory (GRO) Dynamics Simulator are presented. The complete simulator system, which consists of the profie subsystem, simulation control and input/output subsystem, truth model subsystem, onboard computer model subsystem, and postprocessor, is described. The simulator will be used to evaluate and test the attitude determination and control models to be used on board GRO under conditions that simulate the expected in-flight environment.

Harman, R.↗

NASA NTRS1988

Elevated temperature crack growth

A study was performed to examine the applicability of path-independent (P-I) integrals to crack growth problems in hot section components of gas turbine aircraft engines. Alloy 718 was used and the experimental parameters included combined temperature and strain cycling, thermal gradients, elastic-plastic strain levels, and mean strains. A literature review was conducted of proposed P-I integrals, and those capable of analyzing hot section component problems were selected and programmed into the postprocessor of a finite element code. Detailed elastic-plastic finite element analyses were conducted to simulate crack growth and crack closure of the test specimen, and to evaluate the P-I integrals. It was shown that the selected P-I integrals are very effective for predicting crack growth for isothermal conditions.

Kim, K. S.↗

NASA NTRS1991

Program Analyzes Errors In STAGS

EAC computer program designed for analysis of errors in results of STAGS computer program (COSMIC Program HQN-10967). Requires input data for geometry of plate, properties of material, and set of boundary conditions. These input data come from STAGS code. (The specific link between input and output data from STAGS and input data for EAC is POSTP, postprocessor program in STAGS processors.) EAC computes continuous solution from discrete results of STAGS in order to estimate error of results of STAGS. Written in FORTRAN 77.

Thurston, Gaylen A.↗

NASA NTRS1990

Finite element analysis of thermal distortion effects on optical performance of solar dynamic concentrator for Space Station Freedom

An analysis was performed to predict the thermal distortion of the solar dynamic concentrator for Space Station Freedom in low earth orbit and to evaluate the effects of that thermal distortion on concentrator on-orbit performance. The analysis required substructural finite element modeling of critical concentrator structural subsystems, structural finite element modeling of the concentrator, mapping of thermal loading onto the structural finite element model, and the creation of specialized postprocessors to assist in interpreting results. Concentrator temperature distributions and thermally induced displacements and slope errors and the resulting receiver flux distribution profiles are discussed. Results determined for a typical orbit indicate that concentrator facet rotations are less than 0.2 mrad and that the change in facet radius due to thermal flattening is less than 5 percent. The predicted power loss due to thermal distortion effects is less than 0.3 percent. As a consequence the thermal distortions of the solar dynamic concentrator in low earth orbit will have a negligible effect on the flux distribution profiles within the receiver.

Doherty, Michael P.↗

NASA NTRS1990

Validation of the space shuttle main engine steady state performance model

The primary objective was to present methods for validating predictions of Rocketdyne's most current version of the Space Shuttle Main Engine (SSME) Power Balance Model (PBM) with respect to physical relations governing flow systems. This required the development and implementation of postprocessors to check results of PBM computations for satisfaction of conservation relations. A cursory uncertainty analysis of PBM predictions with respect to mass and energy balances was performed. In addition, an effort to identify the empirical relations and physical assumptions within PBM which impact the ability of the model to attain rigorous balance was begun.

Santi, L. Michael↗

NASA NTRS1989

Overview of the fatigue/fracture/life working group program at the Lewis Research Center

Constitutive and life prediction models are developed and verified for materials typically used in hot gas path components of reusable space propulsion systems over the range of relevant operating environments. The efforts were centered on the development of crack initiation life prediction methods, while the efforts of a counterpart group were centered on the development of cyclic crack propagation life prediction methods. The complexion of the active tasks are presented. A significant new task started this year will incorporate the various material constitutive and life prediction models developed in this program into a comprehensive creep-fatigue damage analysis and life assessment computer code. The program will function as a postprocessor to general structural analysis programs (such as finite element or boundary element codes) using the output of such analyses (stress, strain, and temperature fields as functions of time) as the input to the damage analysis and life assessment code. The code will be designed to execute on engineering/scientific workstations and will feature a windowing, mouse-driven user interface. Current plans call for the code to be finished and made available for use in mid 1991.

Mcgaw, Michael A.↗

NASA NTRS1989

Optimum mirror shapes and supports for light weight mirrors subjected to self-weight

A parametric design study of light weight mirror shapes with various support conditions was performed utilizing the finite element program NASTRAN. Improvements in the mirror performance were made based on the following design criteria: (1) minimization of the optical surface wavefront variations, (2) minimization of the self-weight directly related to cost of manufacturing, and (3) optimal location of support points. A preprocessor to automatically generate a finite element model for each mirror geometry was developed in order to obtain the structural deformations systematically. Additionally, a postprocessor, which prepares an input data file for FRINGE (an optical computer code) was developed for generating the optical deflections that lead to the surface wavefront variations. Procedures and modeling techniques to achieve the optimum (the lightest and stiffest mirror shape due to self-weight) are addressed.

Cho, Myung K.↗

NASA NTRS1992

Computing Large-Angle Transients In Structures

LATDYN is computer code for calculating large-angle transient dynamics of flexible articulating structures and mechanisms including joints about which members rotate through large angles. Extends and brings together some of aspects of finite-element analysis of structures, dynamics of multiple bodies, and analysis of control systems. Combines significant portions of their distinct capabilities into one analysis software tool. Software consists of three FORTRAN computer programs: LATDYN program, Preprocessor, and Postprocessor. Written in FORTRAN 77.

Housner, Jerrold M.↗

NASA NTRS1992

Composite-Blade Structural Analyzer

COBSTRAN (COmposite Blade STRuctural ANalyzer) computer program is preprocessor and postprocessor facilitating design and analysis of composite turbofan and turboprop blades, and of composite wind-turbine blades. Combines theories of mechanics of composites and of laminates with data base of fiber and matrix properties. Designed to carry out linear analyses required for efficient mathematical modeling and analysis of bladelike structural components made of multilayered angle-plied fiber composites. Components made from isotropic or anisotropic homogeneous materials also modeled. Written in FORTRAN 77.

Aiello, R. A.↗

NASA NTRS1991

Hybrid automated reliability predictor integrated work station (HiREL)

The Hybrid Automated Reliability Predictor (HARP) integrated reliability (HiREL) workstation tool system marks another step toward the goal of producing a totally integrated computer aided design (CAD) workstation design capability. Since a reliability engineer must generally graphically represent a reliability model before he can solve it, the use of a graphical input description language increases productivity and decreases the incidence of error. The captured image displayed on a cathode ray tube (CRT) screen serves as a documented copy of the model and provides the data for automatic input to the HARP reliability model solver. The introduction of dependency gates to a fault tree notation allows the modeling of very large fault tolerant system models using a concise and visually recognizable and familiar graphical language. In addition to aiding in the validation of the reliability model, the concise graphical representation presents company management, regulatory agencies, and company customers a means of expressing a complex model that is readily understandable. The graphical postprocessor computer program HARPO (HARP Output) makes it possible for reliability engineers to quickly analyze huge amounts of reliability/availability data to observe trends due to exploratory design changes.

Bavuso, Salvatore J.↗

NASA NTRS1992

HiRel - Reliability/availability integrated workstation tool

The HiRel software tool is described and demonstrated by application to the mission avionics subsystem of the Advanced System Integration Demonstrations (ASID) system that utilizes the PAVE PILLAR approach. HiRel marks another accomplishment toward the goal of producing a totally integrated computer-aided design (CAD) workstation design capability. Since a reliability engineer generally represents a reliability model graphically before it can be solved, the use of a graphical input description language increases productivity and decreases the incidence of error. The graphical postprocessor module HARPO makes it possible for reliability engineers to quickly analyze huge amounts of reliability/availability data to observe trends due to exploratory design changes. The addition of several powerful HARP modeling engines provides the user with a reliability/availability modeling capability for a wide range of system applications all integrated under a common interactive graphical input-output capability.

Bavuso, Salvatore J.↗