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At least 829 records · Page 46

Control Design for an Advanced Geared Turbofan Engine

This paper describes the design process for the control system of an advanced geared turbofan engine. This process is applied to a simulation that is representative of a 30,000 pound-force thrust class concept engine with two main spools, ultra-high bypass ratio, and a variable area fan nozzle. Control system requirements constrain the non-linear engine model as it operates throughout its flight envelope of sea level to 40,000 feet and from 0 to 0.8 Mach. The purpose of this paper is to review the engine control design process for an advanced turbofan engine configuration. The control architecture selected for this project was developed from literature and reflects a configuration that utilizes a proportional integral controller with sets of limiters that enable the engine to operate safely throughout its flight envelope. Simulation results show the overall system meets performance requirements without exceeding operational limits.

system modeling↗

Engine dynamic analysis with general nonlinear finite-element codes. I Overall approach and development of bearing damper element

NASA-sponsored research on engine dynamic simulation using general finite element nonlinear time transient computer codes available on the open market is reviewed. The approach taken was to develop software packages to model engine components which are not typically found on dynamical structures and are therefore not already computer codes. The software package developed for squeeze-film bearing dampers is outlined, and the results of a parametric study of damper pressure for a variety of specified circular orbits are presented for both long-bearing and short-bearing solutions. The data from a four-degree-of-freedom rotor-damper-stator model under conditions of small rotor unbalance through large rotor unbalance are also given.

Adams, M. L.↗

Development of Large-Eddy Interaction Model for inhomogeneous turbulent flows

The objective of this paper is to demonstrate the applicability of a currently proposed model, with minimum empiricism, for calculation of the Reynolds stresses and other turbulence structural quantities in a channel. The current Large-Eddy Interaction Model not only yields Reynolds stresses but also presents an opportunity to illuminate typical characteristic motions of large-scale turbulence and the phenomenological aspects of engineering models for two Reynolds numbers.

Hong, S. K.↗

Benefits and Challenges of Model-based Software Engineering: Lessons Learned based on Qualitative and Quantitative Findings

Even though Model-based Software Engineering (MBSwE) techniques and Autogenerated Code (AGC) have been increasingly used to produce complex software systems, there is only anecdotal knowledge about the state-of-thepractice. Furthermore, there is a lack of empirical studies that explore the potential quality improvements due to the use of these techniques. This paper presents in-depth qualitative findings about development and Software Assurance (SWA) practices and detailed quantitative analysis of software bug reports of a NASA mission that used MBSwE and AGC. The mission’s flight software is a combination of handwritten code and AGC developed by two different approaches: one based on state chart models (AGC-M) and another on specification dictionaries (AGC-D). The empirical analysis of fault proneness is based on 380 closed bug reports created by software developers. Our main findings include: (1) MBSwE and AGC provide some benefits, but also impose challenges. (2) SWA done only at a model level is not sufficient. AGC code should also be tested and the models and AGC should always be kept in-sync. AGC must not be changed manually. (3) Fixes made to address an individual bug report were spread both across multiple modules and across multiple files. On average, for each bug report 1.4 modules, that is, 3.4 files were fixed. (4) Most bug reports led to changes in more than one type of file. The majority of changes to auto-generated source code files were made in conjunction to changes in either file with state chart models or XML files derived from dictionaries. (5) For newly developed files, AGC-M and handwritten code were of similar quality, while AGC-D files were the least fault prone.

Goseva-Popstojanova, Katerina↗

Multilayer Insulation Ascent Venting Model

The thermal and venting transient experienced by tank-applied multilayer insulation (MLI) in the Earth-to-orbit environment is very dynamic and not well characterized. This new predictive code is a first principles-based engineering model which tracks the time history of the mass and temperature (internal energy) of the gas in each MLI layer. A continuum-based model is used for early portions of the trajectory while a kinetic theory-based model is used for the later portions of the trajectory, and the models are blended based on a reference mean free path. This new capability should improve understanding of the Earth-to-orbit transient and enable better insulation system designs for in-space cryogenic propellant systems.

Tramel, R. W.↗

Electrophoretic separator for purifying biologicals

Mathematical expressions were developed to describe the interrelationships between operating requirements (capabilities), cell parameters, and system constraints in terms of design criteria definition. The mathematical model was programmed for computer solution. The model was exercised to identify performance-limiting characteristics, and analyses were conducted to predict operation in space of an experiment involving separation of four components. An engineering model of a flowing electrophoretic separator was constructed. The design is directed toward verifying improvements in resolution and throughput of a thicker cell than can be used on earth.

Source record↗

CF6-6D engine performance deterioration

Cruise cockpit recordings and test cell performance data in conjunction with hardware inspection data from airline overhaul shops were analyzed to define the extent and magnitude of performance deterioration of the General Electric CF6-6D model engine. These studies successfully isolated short-term deterioration from the longer term, and defined areas where a significant reduction in aircraft energy requirements for the 1980's can be realized. Unrestored losses which remain after engine refurbishment represent over 70% of the loss at engine shop visit. Sixty-three percent of the unrestored losses are cost-effective to restore which could reduce fuel consumed by CF6-6D engines in 1980 by 10.9 million gallons.

Wulf, R. H.↗

CrossLink: Meshing a 3D part from a STEP file [Slides]

This example shows how to use CrossLink to create a mesh for a 3D geometry part read in from a STEP file. A STEP file (Standard for the Exchange of Product data) is a common file format used for 3D modelling that can be written out from a CAD program (e.g., Creo Parametric). Being able to read and mesh STEP file geometries is essential for meshing parts from engineering models. Creating the mesh typically involves: (1) Importing the geometry; (2) Creating geometry groups; (3) Assigning curves and surfaces to the geometry groups; (4) Building a topology; (5) Applying geometric and mesh constraints; and (6) Generating the final mesh. Current issues with this process in CrossLink include: (1) The GUI does not display trimmed surfaces; (2) The user must manually create and assign geometry groups; and (3) The user must be aware of duplicate curves and surfaces from the CAD model.

97 MATHEMATICS AND COMPUTING↗

Preliminary model for high-power-waveguide arcing and arc protection

The arc protection subsystems that are implemented in the DSN high power transmitters are discussed. The status of present knowledge about waveguide arcs is reviewed in terms of a simple engineering model. A fairly general arc detection scheme is also discussed. Areas where further studies are needed are pointed out along with proposed approaches to the solutions of these problems.

Yen, H. C.↗

Multidimensional modeling of non-equilibrium plasma generated by a radio-frequency corona discharge

Low-temperature plasma (LTP) ignition concepts rely on the production of radical and charged species to speed up the onset of combustion in spark-ignition engines. These features are responsible for the superior performance of LTP igniters under extremely dilute combustion operation that is not achievable by conventional spark igniters. Additionally, LTP discharges extend the lifetime of the igniters, due to the avoidance of spark processes. For these reasons, the engine research community and the automotive industry have shown growing interest in this technology in the recent years. As of today, computational fluid-dynamics (CFD) codes typically used by the multi-dimensional engine modeling community do not have reliable models to describe LTP ignition processes. One key missing piece of information is the physical and chemical properties of the plasma and their effect on combustion ignition. Most non-equilibrium plasma simulations reported in literature are based on simplified, canonical geometries, with simple discharge excitation schemes. Here we conduct multi-dimensional modeling of the non-equilibrium plasma generated by an application-relevant radio-frequency (RF) corona discharge in air. Three test cases are simulated, characterized by different environmental pressure levels and peak electrode voltage values at room temperature. Streamer penetration, electron number density, atomic oxygen production, and bulk gas temperature distribution in the first 10 sinusoidal pulses are presented and discussed. This model can be used as a key tool for an in-depth understanding of RF-corona discharge for automotive applications and provides the basis for future implementations of dedicated LTP ignition models in CFD codes.

70 PLASMA PHYSICS AND FUSION TECHNOLOGY↗

Incorporating bubble growth volume feedback to improve simulation of the response of a structure containing liquid and gas to sudden energy input

The SNS target module is a stainless-steel structure that contains and directs mercury. The mercury is struck with short, intense proton pulses to create neutrons. The pulses deposit energy and cause loads on the target structure and mercury cavitation. Helium bubbles are introduced into the mercury to reduce loads and cavitation. This gas complicates the prediction of the target module’s physical response. The current method used to simulate the structural response to the proton pulse incorporates a simple but effective approach to approximate mercury cavitation effects. This method cannot account for the changes from injected non-condensable gas. The ability to model the target vessel response is a prerequisite for estimating its life. Known approaches for simulating a bubbly fluid mixture’s response are computationally expensive and impractical for detailed engineering models. A constitutive model is proposed for target mercury with injected gas bubbles, with the intent of providing more accurate mercury–vessel response behavior without the computing costs required to track individual bubbles. The model’s assumptions and a computational model embodiment are described. The bubbly mercury computational model is subjected to test problems to assess its potential utility. Here, the model was able to better predict the effect of gas on wave propagation.

46 INSTRUMENTATION RELATED TO NUCLEAR SCIENCE AND ↗

Automated procedure for developing hybrid computer simulations of turbofan engines. Part 1: General description

A systematic, computer-aided, self-documenting methodology for developing hybrid computer simulations of turbofan engines is presented. The methodology that is pesented makes use of a host program that can run on a large digital computer and a machine-dependent target (hybrid) program. The host program performs all the calculations and data manipulations that are needed to transform user-supplied engine design information to a form suitable for the hybrid computer. The host program also trims the self-contained engine model to match specified design-point information. Part I contains a general discussion of the methodology, describes a test case, and presents comparisons between hybrid simulation and specified engine performance data. Part II, a companion document, contains documentation, in the form of computer printouts, for the test case.

Szuch, J. R.↗

Ion Beam Characterization of a NEXT Multi-Thruster Array Plume

Three operational, engineering model, 7-kW ion thrusters and one instrumented, dormant thruster were installed in a cluster array in a large vacuum facility at NASA Glenn Research Center. A series of engineering demonstration tests were performed to evaluate the system performance impacts of operating various multiple-thruster configurations in an array. A suite of diagnostics was installed to investigate multiple-thruster operation impact on thruster performance and life, thermal interactions, and alternative system modes and architectures. The ion beam characterization included measuring ion current density profiles and ion energy distribution with Faraday probes and retarding potential analyzers, respectively. This report focuses on the ion beam characterization during single thruster operation, multiple thruster operation, various neutralizer configurations, and thruster gimbal articulation. Comparison of beam profiles collected during single and multiple thruster operation demonstrated the utility of superimposing single engine beam profiles to predict multi-thruster beam profiles. High energy ions were detected in the region 45 off the thruster axis, independent of thruster power, number of operating thrusters, and facility background pressure, which indicated that the most probable ion energy was not effected by multiple-thruster operation. There were no significant changes to the beam profiles collected during alternate thruster-neutralizer configurations, therefore supporting the viability of alternative system configuration options. Articulation of one thruster shifted its beam profile, whereas the beam profile of a stationary thruster nearby did not change, indicating there were no beam interactions which was consistent with the behavior of a collisionless beam expansion.

Pencil, Eric J.↗

Hybrid Kalman Filter: A New Approach for Aircraft Engine In-Flight Diagnostics

In this paper, a uniquely structured Kalman filter is developed for its application to in-flight diagnostics of aircraft gas turbine engines. The Kalman filter is a hybrid of a nonlinear on-board engine model (OBEM) and piecewise linear models. The utilization of the nonlinear OBEM allows the reference health baseline of the in-flight diagnostic system to be updated to the degraded health condition of the engines through a relatively simple process. Through this health baseline update, the effectiveness of the in-flight diagnostic algorithm can be maintained as the health of the engine degrades over time. Another significant aspect of the hybrid Kalman filter methodology is its capability to take advantage of conventional linear and nonlinear Kalman filter approaches. Based on the hybrid Kalman filter, an in-flight fault detection system is developed, and its diagnostic capability is evaluated in a simulation environment. Through the evaluation, the suitability of the hybrid Kalman filter technique for aircraft engine in-flight diagnostics is demonstrated.

Kobayashi, Takahisa↗

A Technology Pathway for Airbreathing, Combined-Cycle, Horizontal Space Launch Through SR-71 Based Trajectory Modeling

Access to space is in the early stages of commercialization. Private enterprises, mainly under direct or indirect subsidy by the government, have been making headway into the LEO launch systems infrastructure, of small-weight-class payloads of approximately 1000 lbs. These moderate gains have emboldened the launch industry and they are poised to move into the middle-weight class (roughly 5000 lbs). These commercially successful systems are based on relatively straightforward LOX-RP, two-stage, bi-propellant rocket technology developed by the government 40 years ago, accompanied by many technology improvements. In this paper we examine a known generic LOX-RP system with the focus on the booster stage (1st stage). The booster stage is then compared to modeled Rocket-Based and Turbine-Based Combined Cycle booster stages. The air-breathing propulsion stages are based on/or extrapolated from known performance parameters of ground tested RBCC (the Marquardt Ejector Ramjet) and TBCC (the SR-71/J-58 engine) data. Validated engine models using GECAT and SCCREAM are coupled with trajectory optimization and analysis in POST-II to explore viable launch scenarios using hypothetical aerospaceplane platform obeying the aerodynamic model of the SR-71. Finally, and assessment is made of the requisite research technology advances necessary for successful commercial and government adoption of combined-cycle engine systems for space access.

Kloesel, Kurt J.↗

Subsonic wind tunnel investigation of a twin-engine attack airplane model having nonmetric powered nacelles

A 1/10-scale powered model of a twin-engine attack airplane was investigated in the Langley high-speed 7- by 10-foot tunnel. The study was made at several Mach numbers between 0.225 and 0.75 which correspond to Reynolds numbers, based on the mean aerodynamic chord, of 1.35 million and 3.34 million. Unheated compressed air was used for jet simulation in the nonmetric engine nacelles which were located ahead of and above the horizontal stabilizer.

Lockwood, V. E.↗

Minimum-time acceleration of aircraft turbofan engines

Minimum-time accelerations of the F100 turbofan engine are presented. A piecewise-linear engine model, having three state variables and four control variables, is used to obtain the minimum-time solutions. The linear model which applies at a given time in the trajectory is determined by calculating a normalized distance from the current state to the equilibrium state associated with each linear model. The linear model associated with the closest equilibrium point is then used. The control histories for the minimum-time solutions are used as input to a nonlinear simulation of the F100 engine to verify the accuracy of the piecewise linear solutions.

Teren, F.↗