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At least 775 records · Page 43

Static and unsteady pressure measurements on a 50 degree clipped delta wing at M = 0.9

Static and unsteady pressures were measured on a 50.45 degree clipped delta wing in the Langley Transonic Dynamics Tunnel with Freon as the test medium. Data taken at M = 0.9 is presented for static and oscillatory deflections of the trailing edge control surface and for the wing in pitch. Comparisons of the static measured data are made with results computed using the Bailey-Ballhaus small disturbance code.

Hess, R. W.↗

An aerodynamic analysis computer program and design notes for low speed wing flap systems

The expanded capabilities for analysis and design of low speed flap systems afforded by recent modifications of an existing computer program is described. The program provides for the simultaneous analysis of up to 25 pairs of leading-edge and trailing-edge flap deflection schedules. Among other new features of the program are a revised attainable thrust estimation method to provide more accurate predictions for low Mach numbers, and a choice of three options for estimation of leading-edge separation vortex flow effects. Comparison of program results with low speed experimental data for an arrow wing supersonic cruise configuration with leading-edge and trailing-edge flaps showed good agreement over most of the range of flap deflections. Other force data comparisons and an independent study of airfoil and wing pressure distributions indicated that wind-tunnel measurements of the aerodynamic performance of twisted and cambered wings and wings with leading-edge flaps can be very sensitive to Reynolds number effects.

Carlson, H. W.↗

On a criterion for vortex breakdown

A criterion for the onset of vortex breakdown is proposed. Based upon previous experimental, computational, and theoretical studies, an appropriately defined local Rossby number is used to delineate the region where breakdown occurs. In addition, new numerical results are presented which further validate this criterion. A number of previous theoretical studies concentrating on inviscid standing-wave analyses for trailing wing-tip vortices are reviewed and reinterpreted in terms of the Rossby number criterion. Consistent with previous studies, the physical basis for the onset of breakdown is identified as the ability of the flow to sustain such waves. Previous computational results are reviewed and re-evaluated in terms of the proposed breakdown criterion. As a result, the cause of breakdown occurring near the inflow computational boundary, common to several numerical studies, is identified. Finally, previous experimental studies of vortex breakdown for both leading edge and trailing wing-tip vortices are reviewed and quantified in terms of the Rossby number criterion.

Spall, R. E.↗

A criterion for vortex breakdown

A criterion for the onset of vortex breakdown is proposed. Based upon previous experimental, computational, and theoretical studies, an appropriately defined local Rossby number is used to delineate the region where breakdown occurs. In addition, new numerical results are presented which further validate this criterion. A number of previous theoretical studies concentrating on inviscid standing-wave analyses for trailing wing-tip vortices are reviewed and reinterpreted in terms of the Rossby number criterion. Consistent with previous studies, the physical basis for the onset of breakdown is identified as the ability of the flow to sustain such waves. Previous computational results are reviewed and re-evaluated in terms of the proposed breakdown criterion. As a result, the cause of breakdown occurring near the inflow computational boundary, common to several numerical studies, is identified. Finally, previous experimental studies of vortex breakdown for both leading edge and trailing wing-tip vortices are reviewed and quantified in terms of the Rossby number criterion.

Spall, R. E.↗

Modeling of transient heat pipe operation

Mathematical models and an associated computer program for heat pipe startup from the frozen state have been developed. Finite element formulations of the governing equations are written for each heat pipe region for each operating condition during startup from the frozen state. The various models were checked against analytical and experimental data available in the literature for three specific types of operation. Computations using the methods developed were made for a space shuttle reentry mission where a heat pipe cooled leading edge was used on the wing.

Colwell, Gene T.↗

28 percent efficient GaAs concentrator solar cells

AlGaAs/GaAs heteroface solar concentrator cells which exhibit efficiencies in excess of 27 percent at high solar concentrations (over 400 suns, AM1.5D, 100 mW/sq cm) have been fabricated with both n/p and p/n configurations. The best n/p cell achieved an efficiency of 28.1 percent around 400 suns, and the best p/n cell achieved an efficiency of 27.5 percent around 1000 suns. The high performance of these GaAs concentrator cells compared to earlier high-efficiency cells was due to improved control of the metal-organic chemical vapor deposition growth conditions and improved cell fabrication procedures (gridline definition and edge passivation). The design parameters of the solar cell structures and optimized grid pattern were determined with a realistic computer modeling program. An evaluation of the device characteristics and a discussion of future GaAs concentrator cell development are presented.

Macmillan, H. F.↗

Navier-Stokes simulation of a close-coupled canard-wing-body configuration

The thin-layer Navier-Stokes equations are solved for the flow about a coplanar close-coupled canard-wing-body configuration at a transonic Mach number of 0.90 and at angles of attack ranging from 0 to 12 degrees. The influence of the canard on the wing flowfield, including canard-wing vortex interaction and wing vortex breakdown, is investigated. A study of canard downwash and canard leading-edge vortex effects, which are the primary mechanisms of the canard-wing interaction, is emphasized. Comparisons between the computations and experimental measurements of surface pressure coefficients, lift, drag and pitching moment data are favorable. A grid refinement study for configurations with and without canard shows that accurate results are obtained using a refined grid for angles of attack where vortex burst is present. At an angle of attack of approximately 12 deg, favorable canard-wing interaction which delays wing vortex breakdown is indicated by the computations and is in good agreement with experimental findings.

Tu, Eugene L.↗

Cross-ply laminates with holes in compression - Straight free-edge stresses determined by two- to three-dimensional global/local finite element analysis

A practical example of applying two- to three-dimensional (2- to 3-D) global/local finite element analysis to laminated composites is presented. Cross-ply graphite/epoxy laminates of 0.1-in. (0.254-cm) thickness with central circular holes ranging from 1 to 6 in. (2.54 to 15.2 cm) in diameter, subjected to in-plane compression were analyzed. Guidelines for full three-dimensional finite element analysis and two- to three-dimensional global/local analysis of interlaminar stresses at straight free edges of laminated composites are included. The larger holes were found to reduce substantially the interlaminar stresses at the straight free-edge in proximity to the hole. Three-dimensional stress results were obtained for thin laminates which require prohibitive computer resources for full three-dimensional analyses of comparative accuracy.

Thompson, Danniella Muheim↗

Compression strength of composite primary structural components

A status report of work performed during the period May 1, 1992 to October 31, 1992 is presented. Research was conducted in three areas: delamination initiation in postbuckled dropped-ply laminates; stiffener crippling initiated by delamination; and pressure pillowing of an orthogonally stiffened cylindrical shell. The geometrically nonlinear response and delamination initiation of compression-loaded dropped-ply laminates is analyzed. A computational model of the stiffener specimens that includes the capability to predict the interlaminar response at the flange free edge in postbuckling is developed. The distribution of the interacting loads between the stiffeners and the shell wall, particularly at the load transfer at the stiffener crossing point, is determined.

Johnson, Eric R.↗

Techno-economic requirements for automotive composites

New technology generally serves two main goals of the automotive industry: one is to enable vehicles to comply with various governmental regulations and the other is to provide a competitive edge in the market. The latter goal can either be served through improved manufacturing and design capabilities, such as computer aided design and computer aided manufacturing, or through improved product performance, such as anti-lock braking (ABS). Although safety features are sometimes customer driven, such as the increasing use of airbags and ABS, most are determined by regulations as outlined by the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS). Other standards, set by the Environmental Protection Agency, determine acceptable levels of emissions and fuel consumption. State governments, such as in California, are also setting precedent standards, such as requiring manufacturers to offer zero-emission vehicles as a certain fraction of their sales in the state. The drive to apply new materials in the automobile stems from the need to reduce weight and improve fuel efficiency. Topics discussed include: new lightweight materials; types of automotive materials; automotive composite applications; the role for composite materials in automotive applications; advantages and disadvantages of composite materials; material substitution economics; economic perspective; production economics; and composite materials production economics.

Arnold, Scot↗

High Pressure Water Stripping Using Multi-Orifice Nozzles

The use of multi-orifice rotary nozzles greatly increases the speed and stripping effectiveness of high pressure water blasting systems, but also greatly increases the complexity of selecting and optimizing the operating parameters. The rotational speed of the nozzle must be coupled with its transverse velocity as it passes across the surface of the substrate being stripped. The radial and angular positions of each orifice must be included in the analysis of the nozzle configuration. Orifices at the outer edge of the nozzle head move at a faster rate than the orifices located near the center. The energy transmitted to the surface from the impact force of the water stream from an outer orifice is therefore spread over a larger area than energy from an inner orifice. Utilizing a larger diameter orifice in the outer radial positions increases the total energy transmitted from the outer orifice to compensate for the wider distribution of energy. The total flow rate from the combination of all orifices must be monitored and should be kept below the pump capacity while choosing orifice to insert in each position. The energy distribution from the orifice pattern is further complicated since the rotary path of all the orifices in the nozzle head pass through the center section. All orifices contribute to the stripping in the center of the path while only the outer most orifice contributes to the stripping at the edge of the nozzle. Additional orifices contribute to the stripping from the outer edge toward the center section. With all these parameters to configure and each parameter change affecting the others, a computer model was developed to track and coordinate these parameters. The computer simulation graphically indicates the cumulative affect from each parameter selected. The result from the proper choices in parameters is a well designed, highly efficient stripping system. A poorly chosen set of parameters will cause the nozzle to strip aggressively in some areas while leaving the coating untouched in adjacent sections. The high pressure water stripping system can be set to extremely aggressive conditions allowing stripping of hard to remove adhesives, paint systems, and even cladding and chromate conversion coatings. The energy force can also be reduced to strip coatings from thin aluminum substrates without causing any damage or deterioration to the substrate's surface. High pressure water stripping of aerospace components has thus proven to be an efficient and cost effective method for cleaning and removing coatings.

Hoppe, David↗

A Comparative Study of Simulated and Measured Gear-Flap Flow Interaction

The ability of two CFD solvers to accurately characterize the transient, complex, interacting flowfield asso-ciated with a realistic gear-flap configuration is assessed via comparison of simulated flow with experimental measurements. The simulated results, obtained with NASA's FUN3D and Exa's PowerFLOW® for a high-fidelity, 18% scale semi-span model of a Gulfstream aircraft in landing configuration (39 deg flap deflection, main landing gear on and off) are compared to two-dimensional and stereo particle image velocimetry measurements taken within the gear-flap flow interaction region during wind tunnel tests of the model. As part of the bench-marking process, direct comparisons of the mean and fluctuating velocity fields are presented in the form of planar contour plots and extracted line profiles at measurement planes in various orientations stationed in the main gear wake. The measurement planes in the vicinity of the flap side edge and downstream of the flap trailing edge are used to highlight the effects of gear presence on tip vortex development and the ability of the computational tools to accurately capture such effects. The present study indicates that both computed datasets contain enough detail to construct a relatively accurate depiction of gear-flap flow interaction. Such a finding increases confidence in using the simulated volumetric flow solutions to examine the behavior of pertinent aer-odynamic mechanisms within the gear-flap interaction zone.

Khorrami, Mehdi R.↗

Adaptive mesh refinement and turbulence modeling

Adaptive mesh refinement is shown to be essential in turbulence modeling. Adaptive Mesh Refinement (AMR) is a more computationally efficient means to obtain a discrete approximation to a continuous boundary value problem of a specified accuracy than classic isotropic grid refinement. Previous application of this methodology in the assessment of turbulence models suggested that the field variable solution on the interior of the domain was more sensitive to grid refinement than would be suggested by the sensitivity to grid refinement of surface quantities. Revisiting challenging high speed flow field revealed that issues believed to be fundamental turbulence model issues appear to be related to an under-resolved boundary layer edge – a flow detail previously considered unimportant.

Hypersonics↗

Computational Icing Analysis on NASA’s SIDRM Geometry to Investigate Collection Efficiency

Computational icing analysis results were compared to experimental icing tunnel data including aerothermal (e.g. dry air) and supercooled water droplet rime-ice conditions from tests conducted in early 2022 at the NASA Icing Research Tunnel (IRT). The Simulated Intercompressor Duct Research Model (SIDRM) test article was used in this study, and its geometry represents the inter-compressor duct region of a turbofan engine. The test article’s purpose is to study the physics of supercooled water icing and ice crystal icing. This study compared three different icing codes: FENSAP-ICE (Eulerian approach), LEWICE3D (Lagrangian approach), and GlennICE (Lagrangian approach). All three icing codes were conducted on SIDRM’s complex body flow-field and compared to different experimental supercooled water rime runs. The test article instrumentation (pressure taps, thermocouples, etc.) and 3D laser scans of final ice shapes were used to compare against the different icing code simulations. The overall objectives are to understand how the icing codes handle capturing collection efficiency on the complex test article’s unheated surfaces. In the aerothermal cases, pressure tap readings matched the CFD results, but dry air CFD underpredicted thermocouple readings. Collection efficiency results from all three icing codes matched well together on the main body leading edge, main body slope, and the strut leading edges. All three icing codes underpredicted the final ice shape using a single-shot constant ice density approach, with more difficulty coming from the strut leading edge ice shape due to the swept wing like flow field. NASA’s overall goal for this effort is to develop computational icing tools to assist in the design and certification of engines for flight in icing conditions.

Supercooled icing, SIDRM, aerodynamics, computatio↗

Accuracy of approximations to the Navier-Stokes equations

The systems of truncated differential equations that have been proposed to reduce the complexity and large computational costs of solutions to the full Navier-Stokes equations are considered. These systems are computationally efficient and capture all the physically relevant behavior. The systems follow a certain hierarchy: (1) the classical boundary-layer equations with specified edge properties (usually the streamwise pressure distribution); (2) the coupled boundary-layer/inviscid equations; (3) the so-called thin-layer equations that discard streamwise diffusion; and (4) the Navier-Stokes equations. Consideration is given to each of these approximations applied to an incompressible, laminar-separating flow at low and moderate Reynolds numbers. It is pointed out that for any flow or region of flow for which viscous-inviscid interaction effects are small, classical boundary-layer equations will provide a satisfactory description of the viscous flow at a fraction of the computational cost of any higher approximations.

Murphy, J. D.↗

Users manual for coordinate generation code CRDSRA

Generation of a viable coordinate system represents an important component of an isolated airfoil Navier-Stokes calculation. The manual describes a computer code for generation of such a coordinate system. The coordinate system is a general nonorthogonal one in which high resolution normal to the airfoil is obtained in the vicinity of the airfoil surface, and high resolution along the airfoil surface is obtained in the vicinity of the airfoil leading edge. The method of generation is a constructive technique which leads to a C type coordinate grid. The method of construction as well as input and output definitions are contained herein. The computer code itself as well as a sample output is being submitted to COSMIC.

Shamroth, S. J.↗

Navier-Stokes, flight, and wind tunnel flow analysis for the F/A-18 aircraft

Computational analysis of flow over the F/A-18 aircraft is presented along with complementary data from both flight and wind tunnel experiments. The computational results are based on the three-dimensional thin-layer Navier-Stokes formulation and are obtained from an accurate surface representation of the fuselage, leading-edge extension (LEX), and the wing geometry. However, the constraints imposed by either the flow solver and/or the complexity associated with the flow-field grid generation required certain geometrical approximations to be implemented in the present numerical model. In particular, such constraints inspired the removal of the empennage and the blocking (fairing) of the inlet face. The results are computed for three different free-stream flow conditions and compared with flight test data of surface pressure coefficients, surface tuft flow, and off-surface vortical flow characteristics that included breakdown phenomena. Excellent surface pressure coefficient correlations, both in terms of magnitude and overall trend, are obtained on the forebody throughout the range of flow conditions. Reasonable pressure agreement was obtained over the LEX; the general correlation tends to improve at higher angles of attack. The surface tuft flow and the off-surface vortex flow structures compared qualitatively well with the flight test results. To evaluate the computational results, a wind tunnel investigation was conducted to determine the effects of existing configurational differences between the flight vehicle and the numerical model on aerodynamic characteristics. In most cases, the geometrical approximations made to the numerical model had very little effect on overall aerodynamic characteristics.

Ghaffari, Farhad↗

A Discussion of the Failure of a Quad Diode Module and Efforts to Assure the Flight Spares

In 2019 the International Space Station (ISS) experienced an on on-orbit failure that affected 1 of 28 Battery Charge Discharge Units (BCDUs). Telemetry pointed to a short circuit failure of a Power Rectifier Quad Diode Module. Astronauts removed the failed unit from service which was then returned to Earth for failure analysis. The failure analysis confirmed that the quad diode module had failed short circuit. The investigation identified silver dendrites had grown on the insulated, sloped edge of the mesa semiconductor die of the failed diode and also a 2nd diode in the same quad diode module. Voids between the diode’s protective encapsulating ring and the die provided space within which dendrites were able to form and cause catastrophic failure. The NASA Engineering & Safety Center (NESC) convened a EEE Parts Sub-Team to investigate root cause and to assist with risk assessment for all of the flight diode modules (4 distinct production lots) and the flight spares (from a 5th lot). Analysis of the original diode manufacturer’s read and record screening test data identified some lots which contained diodes with parametric instabilities that could signal conditions suited for silver dendrite formation. Computed Tomography (CT) X-ray screening inspection was performed on flight spare modules to identify diodes that do not exhibit voids between the edge of die and encapsulating ring as a mitigation against dendrite formation.

Jay Brusse↗