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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 667 records · Page 37
All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
NASA NTRS1998

Evaluation of 20 Ah Li Ion Cells

Lithium ion cells of 20 Ah capacity were fabricated by Bluestar Advanced Technology Corporation, Canada under a developmental contract from US Air Force. In this paper, we report our studies on the evaluation of these cells under various test conditions. These include generic test conditions such as discharges and charges at different temperatures to understand the rate-limiting processes in the discharge/charge processes as a function of temperature, and cycle life under standard cycling conditions (100% DOD) at ambient temperature. In addition, tests are being done to ascertain the performance of the cells in the Mars 2001 Lander application, which includes pulse testing of the cells at 60 A and 40 A loads for 100 mS and 1 min., respectively at different states of charge and temperatures, and cycling at low temperature at partial depths of discharge.

Smart, Marshall↗
DOE OSTI2020

Ion-gated carbon molecular sieve gas separation membranes

Membrane technology lies at the heart of many industrial gas separation processes and applications. Molecular sieving membranes that break the Robeson limit are desirable for energy-efficient gas separation. In this paper, we report a facile strategy of directly integrating ionic liquids (ILs) into porous membranes. Particularly, the ILs form an ultra-thin layer on the carbon molecular sieve (CMS) membranes rather than penetrating into the pores, acting as a smart gate for gas entry to boost the selectivity. The hybrid membrane exhibits CO 2 permeability >600 barrer and enhanced CO 2 /N 2 selectivity >50, which surpasses the Robeson limit and shows potential in CO 2 /N 2 separation process. Molecular dynamics simulations confirm the gating effect of the IL layer of molecular thickness. In conclusion, this work demonstrates a universal strategy to improve CMS membrane performance by creating an IL-membrane interface and tuning the ion-pore interaction.

37 INORGANIC, ORGANIC, PHYSICAL, AND ANALYTICAL CH↗
NASA NTRS1987

New space sensor and mesoscale data analysis

The developed Earth Science and Application Division (ESAD) system/software provides the research scientist with the following capabilities: an extensive data base management capibility to convert various experiment data types into a standard format; and interactive analysis and display package (AVE80); an interactive imaging/color graphics capability utilizing the Apple III and IBM PC workstations integrated into the ESAD computer system; and local and remote smart-terminal capability which provides color video, graphics, and Laserjet output. Recommendations for updating and enhancing the performance of the ESAD computer system are listed.

Hickey, John S.↗
NASA NTRS1988

Development of a multipurpose smart recorder for general aviation aircraft

An intelligent flight recorder, called the Smart Recorder, was fabricated and installed on a King Air aircraft used in standard commercial charter service. This recorder was used for collection of data toward two objectives: (1) the characterization of the typical environment encountered by the aircraft; and (2) research in the area of trend monitoring. Data processing routines and data presentation formats were defined that are applicable to commuter size aircraft. The feasibility of a cost-effective, multipurpose recorder for general aviation aircraft was successfully demonstrated. Implementation of on-board environmental data processing increased the number of flight hours that could be stored on a single data cartridge and simplified the data management problem by reducing the volume of data to be processed in the laboratory. Trend monitoring algorithms showed less variability in the trend plots when compared against plots of manual data.

White, J. H.↗
DOE OSTI2020

Optimal sensor network design for multi-scale, time-varying differential algebraic equation systems: Application to an entrained-flow gasifier refractory brick

An algorithm for optimal sensor network design for multi-scale, time-varying differential algebraic equation systems with non-separable dynamics is presented. As the process is time-varying, an integral normalized posterior error covariance of a multi-scale filter is minimized to obtain the optimal sensor locations. For reducing the computational cost, an adaptive sampling rate approach is considered for the slowly-varying variables. The algorithm is applied to a smart refractory brick with embedded sensors as part of an entrained-flow gasifier. Thermistors and interdigital capacitors are considered as candidate measurement technologies for estimating temperature and slag penetration profile along the gasifier wall. Finally, when the optimal set of sensors obtained from the algorithm is used for estimating temperature and slag penetration profiles in a multi-scale Kalman filter framework, satisfactory estimates are obtained despite high measurement noise and model mismatch.

42 ENGINEERING↗
DOE OSTI2024

Connected Thermostat Alternatives for Room Air Conditioners and Minisplit Heat Pumps

The availability of smart, connected thermostats has improved climate control, energy efficiency, and grid demand-response programs for central HVAC systems. However, a significant gap exists in addressing integrated control systems for point-source heating and cooling systems such as window air-conditioners (window ACs) and mini-split heat pumps (MSHPs). This report examines the emerging market of third-party connected thermostats tailored for these systems, focusing on their effectiveness, reliability, and potential barriers to adoption.This study evaluates several commercially available products designed for room ACs and MSHPs through a series of laboratory tests. While these infrared-based (IR-based) thermostats offer remote temperature control and scheduling via mobile apps, our findings reveal that none are seamless, with reliability of basic functions being a critical factor. Promising features include integration of indoor air quality metrics and time-of-use pricing, but the latter are not yet available in the U.S. Barriers to broad user acceptance include non-seamless setup processes, challenges in thermostat placement, and unclear product differentiation. There is a pressing need for research and development in enabling MSHPs and central thermostats to coordinate, enhancing energy savings and comfort in retrofit applications. This study underscores the importance of further innovation in connected thermostat technology to address the diverse needs of single-zone HVAC systems and promote efficient energy management in households.

32 ENERGY CONSERVATION, CONSUMPTION, AND UTILIZATI↗
NASA NTRS2011

Development Roadmap for an Adjustable X-Ray Optics Observatory

We are developing adjustable X-ray optics to use on a mission such as SMART-X (see posters 38.02, 38.03 and Presentation 30.03). To satisfy the science problems expected to be posed by the next decadal survey, we anticipate requiring effective area greater than 1 square meter and Chandra-like angular resolution: approximately equal to 0.5 inches. To achieve such precise resolution we are developing adjustable mirror technology for X-ray astronomy application. This uses a thin film of piezoelectric material deposited on the back surface of the mirror to correct for figure distortions, including manufacturing errors and deflections due to gravity and thermal effects. We present here a plan to raise this technology from its current Level 2, to Level 6, by 2018.

Schwartz, Dan↗
NASA NTRS2009

Performance Testing of Yardney Li-Ion Cells and Batteries in Support of Future NASA Missions

NASA requires lightweight rechargeable batteries for future missions to Mars and the outer planets that are capable of operating over a wide range of temperatures, with high specific energy and energy densities. Due to the attractive performance characteristics, Li-ion batteries have been identified as the battery chemistry of choice for a number of future applications. For example, JPL is planning to launch another unmanned rover mission to the planet Mars. This mission, referred to as the Mars Science Laboratory (MSL), will involve the use of a rover that is much larger than the previously developed Spirit and Opportunity Rovers for the 2003 Mars Exploration Rover (MER) mission, that are currently still in operation on the surface of the planet after more than five years. Part of the reason that the MER rovers have operated so successfully, far exceeding the required mission duration of 90 sols, is that they possess robust Li-ion batteries, manufactured by Yardney Technical Products, which have demonstrated excellent life characteristics. Given the excellent performance characteristics displayed, similar Li-ion batteries have been projected to successfully meet the mission requirements of the up-coming MSL mission. In addition to future missions to Mars, Li-ion technology is attractive for a number of other future NASA applications which require high specific energy, rechargeable batteries. To ascertain the viability of using Li-ion batteries for these applications, a number of performance validation tests have been performed on both Yardney cells and batteries of various sizes. These tests include mission simulation tests, charge and discharge rate characterization testing, cycle life testing under various conditions, and storage testing.

Smart, M. C.↗
DOE OSTI2024

Utilizing coal-derived solid carbon materials towards next-generation smart and multifunction pavements

This project focused on developing an eco-friendly, multifunctional pavement system, called Coal-Derived Carbon Enabled Smart Pavement (CDC-SP), using coal-derived materials. The system utilizes coal-derived pyrolyzed char as a key component to create electrically conductive asphalt concrete for smart pavements that offer self-heating, self-sensing, and self-healing capabilities. These functions are made possible by the conductive properties of coal-char, which enable Ohmic heating for snow and ice deicing, piezoresistivity for self-sensing, and induction heating for self-healing of cracks caused by stress or aging. The team successfully created CDC-SP samples with over 50% coal char composition, demonstrating desirable mechanical properties such as rutting resistance, moisture susceptibility, and cracking resistance. These samples also exhibited strong electrical and thermal conductivity, making them ideal for heating applications. Extensive tests confirmed the pavement’s effectiveness in melting ice and snow and maintaining durability under environmental conditions. The CDC-SP presents a promising approach to integrating U.S. domestic coal resources into infrastructure projects, providing environmental and economic benefits by enhancing pavement performance while utilizing low-cost coal-derived materials. Further research and compliance with industry standards are recommended before commercial scaling.

01 COAL, LIGNITE, AND PEAT↗
NASA NTRS2010

KEA-71 Smart Current Signature Sensor (SCSS)

This slide presentation reviews the development and uses of the Smart Current Signature Sensor (SCSS), also known as the Valve Health Monitor (VHM) system. SCSS provides a way to not only monitor real-time the valve's operation in a non invasive manner, but also to monitor its health (Fault Detection and Isolation) and identify potential faults and/or degradation in the near future (Prediction/Prognosis). This technology approach is not only applicable for solenoid valves, and it could be extrapolated to other electrical components with repeatable electrical current signatures such as motors.

Perotti, Jose M.↗
DOE OSTI2021

Visualizing Intrinsic 3D-Strain Distribution in Gold Coated ZnO Microstructures by Bragg Coherent X-Ray Diffraction Imaging and Transmission Electron Microscopy with Respect to Piezotronic Applications

Novel devices ranging from bio magnetic field sensors to energy harvesting nano machines utilize the piezotronic effect. For optimal function, understanding the interaction of electrical and strain phenomena within the semiconductor crystal is necessary. Here, studies of a model piezotronic system are presented, consisting of a ZnO microrod coated by a thin layer of gold, which forms a Schottky contact with the piezoelectric ZnO material. Coherent X-ray diffraction imaging (CXDI) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) are used to visualize the structure and strain distribution, showing that the ZnO microrod exhibits strains of multiple origins in the bulk and at the interface. Strain values of -6 × 10 -4 have been measured by CXDI at the ZnO/Au interface. The origin is shown to be a combination of an interface strain, possibly caused by the Schottky contact formation, and distinct, localized electrical fields inside the crystal which are assigned to electron depletion and screening in a bent ZnO/Au piezotronic rod. These findings will contribute to sensor development and to a better understanding of piezotronic applications.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗
NASA NTRS2001

Improved low temperature performance of lithium ion cells with low ethylene carbonate content electrolytes

Lithium-ion rechargeable batteries are being developed for various aerospace applications under a NASA-DoD interagency program. For the projected missions, lithium ion batteries need to be further improved, i.e., low temperature performance for Mars Landers, Rovers, and Penetrators and cycle life for the Orbiters and LEO and GEO satellites.

Li-ion battery low temperature electrolytes↗
NASA NTRS2007

Fluorinated Ester Co-Solvents for Low-Temperature Li-Ion Cells

This viewgraph presentation reviews the development of co-solvents for Li-ion cells. The future planned NASA Missions to explore Mars, the Moon, and the outer planets require rechargeable batteries that can operate at low temperatures. The applications for these batteries include landers, rovers and penetraters. This presentation reviews the work on optimizing the ester-based electrolyte formulations, with the intent of providing the best performance at temperatures ranging from -60 to +60 C.

low temperature batteries↗
DOE OSTI2021

OPERATING EXPERIENCE AND ITS RELATIONSHIP TO EMBEDDED DIGITAL DEVICES IN SAFETY SYSTEMS

Interest in embedded digital devices (EDDs) for monitoring and providing control of components is increasing and the added functionality digital brings such as diagnostics, displays, control functions is welcomed in both the nuclear and other industries. As a result, pure analog-based components continue to disappear from the industrial I&C marketplace. Equipment with EDDs, also known by related terms such as smart devices, intelligent devices, and digital devices of limited functionality, can include sensors, breakers, priority logic modules, time delay relays, pumps, valve actuators, motor control centers, and uninterruptible power supplies. Not only is equipment consisting of analog and older digital technology being replaced with commercial grade products containing EDDs, but EDDs can also be retrofitted to work with existing components. EDDs may be installed physically within a component, such as in a relay. There are also external devices that some would not consider an EDD, but that operate in almost all technical ways identically to one internal to a component such as in a valve controller. In fact, the digital portions may be located hundreds of feet from the actual component.Due to the potential of being used in an identical manner and without alteration from their application in other industries, operating experience (OpE) for EDDs may be much more applicable than in the case of other more system level devices. Clear separation and independence of functionality provided with EDDs may also allow greater applicability of existing OpE from industry for changes that can be shown not to affect its safety function. However, OpE also demonstrates issues with different conditions between other industries and nuclear power plants, such as issues with undeclared changes or undeclared digital devices and the new failure modes they may introduce, issues with the reporting of OpE in industry, and a lack of transparency into OpE for EDDs.Understanding and addressing these issues will be key in the future use of EDDs in nuclear power plants, but failure rate data is difficult to obtain for EDDs, and lessons learned from the use of EDDs are difficult to collect and identify.Key words: embedded digital device, smart device, operating experience, failure modes

Muhlheim, Michael↗
DOE OSTI2022

A Data-Driven Algorithm for Enabling Delay Tolerance in Resilient Microgrid Controls Using Dynamic Mode Decomposition

The increased implementation of smart grid technologies in the power distribution grid presents unique opportunities that enable resiliency, but also brings challenges motivating needs for novel solutions and mitigation techniques. The bi-directional power and data flow allow for the grid to operate with increased resiliency, which is the ability to avoid discontinuity of service to end-use loads during extreme events. However, in applications where control of the distribution grid or microgrid relies on communication networks, the degradation of communication systems in the form of loss or high latency can cause maloperation and result in loss of end-use loads. Here this paper presents a novel framework to enable delay tolerance of centralized microgrid control schemes to mitigate communication system latency impacts and guarantee successful control action. We demonstrate the delay tolerance on a control scheme that operates a battery energy storage system (BESS) to offset the sudden loss of generation and maintain system frequency. During periods of severely degraded communication system performance, the proposed delay-tolerant algorithm compensates for the latency by utilizing a data-driven model generated at the device level using dynamic mode decomposition (DMD) to determine the performance of the communications. The DMD technique predicts the system’s frequency using device-level terminal measurements and provides updated control signals. The HELICS cosimulation platform evaluates the cyber-physical interaction of the power system model in GridLAB-D, the centralized control agent in Python, and the discrete network model in NS-3. The framework is tested and validated on the IEEE-123 node system modified to represent a networked remote microgrid model, and the results show an improvement in the dynamic performance

24 POWER TRANSMISSION AND DISTRIBUTION↗
DOE OSTI2023

Bayesian GAN-Based False Data Injection Attack Detection in Active Distribution Grids With DERs

Advancements in information and communication technologies have revolutionized monitoring and control capabilities within smart grids. However, it also brings new vulnerabilities to data acquisition systems and state estimation functions, which attackers can subtly tamper with the measurement data through compromising the communication network. Moreover, the high penetration of renewable energy sources with the inherited characteristics of uncertainty and variability further complicates the design of effective intrusion detection systems. In this paper, a Bayesian deep learning-based approach is developed to detect cyber attacks and maintain the security of smart grids. Our method specifically addresses the prevalent issue of imbalanced data in real power systems, which arises from the predominance of normal system operations over compromised or attacked states. Employing a novel Bayesian GAN-based technique, our approach successfully discriminates between secure and compromised measurement data, even in scenarios with significant data imbalance. Furthermore, the proposed method accommodates various practical application factors, ensuring accurate intrusion detection despite the presence of measurement noise. The feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed detection mechanism are validated by testing on IEEE 13-node and 123-node test systems. Simulation results and comparisons with literature methods demonstrate the superiority of proposed cybersecurity solutions.

Bayesian GAN↗
NASA NTRS1988

The role of power integrated circuits in lightweight spacecraft

This paper will present definitions for smart power and power integrated circuits and show how, for a typical planetary spacecraft power system, a 37 percent reduction in mass, 89 percent reduction in parts and a 50 percent reduction in volume can be attained. Also discussed are the technology needs for isolation, monolithic current sensing, and high efficiency switching necessary to enable monolithic power structures, as well as various applications of power integrated circuits. A specific example will verify the projected reductions expected when power integrated circuits are implemented in future spacecraft designs. In conclusion, power-integrated circuits can impact the overall design of the spacecraft in all subsystems, not just the power sybsystem.

Klein, John W.↗
NASA NTRS1991

Techniques and implementation of the embedded rule-based expert system using Ada

Ada is becoming an increasingly popular programming language for large Government-funded software projects. Ada with its portability, transportability, and maintainability lends itself well to today's complex programming environment. In addition, expert systems have also assured a growing role in providing human-like reasoning capability and expertise for computer systems. The integration of expert system technology with Ada programming language, specifically a rule-based expert system using an ART-Ada (Automated Reasoning Tool for Ada) system shell is discussed. The NASA Lewis Research Center was chosen as a beta test site for ART-Ada. The test was conducted by implementing the existing Autonomous Power EXpert System (APEX), a Lisp-base power expert system, in ART-Ada. Three components, the rule-based expert system, a graphics user interface, and communications software make up SMART-Ada (Systems fault Management with ART-Ada). The main objective, to conduct a beta test on the ART-Ada rule-based expert system shell, was achieved. The system is operational. New Ada tools will assist in future successful projects. ART-Ada is one such tool and is a viable alternative to the straight Ada code when an application requires a rule-based or knowledge-based approach.

Liberman, Eugene M.↗