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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 973 records · Page 54
All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
NASA NTRS2005

Supporting Development for the Stirling Radioisotope Generator and Advanced Stirling Technology Development at NASA Glenn Research Center

A high-efficiency, 110-We (watts electric) Stirling Radioisotope Generator (SRG110) for possible use on future NASA Space Science missions is being developed by the Department of Energy, Lockheed Martin, Stirling Technology Company (STC), and NASA Glenn Research Center (GRC). Potential mission use includes providing spacecraft onboard electric power for deep space missions and power for unmanned Mars rovers. GRC is conducting an in-house supporting technology project to assist in SRG110 development. One-, three-, and six-month heater head structural benchmark tests have been completed in support of a heater head life assessment. Testing is underway to evaluate the key epoxy bond of the permanent magnets to the linear alternator stator lamination stack. GRC has completed over 10,000 hours of extended duration testing of the Stirling convertors for the SRG110, and a three-year test of two Stirling convertors in a thermal vacuum environment will be starting shortly. GRC is also developing advanced technology for Stirling convertors, aimed at substantially improving the specific power and efficiency of the convertor and the overall generator. Sunpower, Inc. has begun the development of a lightweight Stirling convertor, under a NASA Research Announcement (NRA) award, that has the potential to double the system specific power to about 8 We/kg. GRC has performed random vibration testing of a lower-power version of this convertor to evaluate robustness for surviving launch vibrations. STC has also completed the initial design of a lightweight convertor. Status of the development of a multi-dimensional computational fluid dynamics code and high-temperature materials work on advanced superalloys, refractory metal alloys, and ceramics are also discussed.

Thieme, Lanny G.↗
NASA NTRS1980

NASA programs in technology transfer and their relation to remote sensing education

Technology transfer to users is a central feature of NASA programs. In each major area of responsibility, a variety of mechanisms was established to provide for this transfer of operational capability to the proper end user, be it a Federal agency, industry, or other public sector users. In addition, the Technology Utilization program was established to cut across all program areas and to make available a wealth of 'spinoff' technology (i.e., secondary applications of space technology to ground-based use). The transfer of remote sensing technology, particularly to state and local users, presents some real challenges in application and education for NASA and the university community. The agency's approach to the transfer of remote sensing technology and the current and potential role of universities in the process are considered.

Weinstein, R. H.↗
NASA NTRS2007

Advanced Stirling Technology Development at NASA Glenn Research Center

The NASA Glenn Research Center has been developing advanced energy-conversion technologies for use with both radioisotope power systems and fission surface power systems for many decades. Under NASA's Science Mission Directorate, Planetary Science Theme, Technology Program, Glenn is developing the next generation of advanced Stirling convertors (ASCs) for use in the Department of Energy/Lockheed Martin Advanced Stirling Radioisotope Generator (ASRG). The next-generation power-conversion technologies require high efficiency and high specific power (watts electric per kilogram) to meet future mission requirements to use less of the Department of Energy's plutonium-fueled general-purpose heat source modules and reduce system mass. Important goals include long-life (greater than 14-yr) reliability and scalability so that these systems can be considered for a variety of future applications and missions including outer-planet missions and continual operation on the surface of Mars. This paper provides an update of the history and status of the ASC being developed for Glenn by Sunpower Inc. of Athens, Ohio.

Shaltens, Richard K.↗
NASA NTRS1968

Biomedical Applications of NASA Science and Technology

During the period 15 September 1968 to 14 December 1968, the NASA supported Biomedical Application Team at the Research Triangle Institute has identified 6 new problems, performed significant activities on 15 of the active problems identified previously, performed 5 computer searches of the NASA aerospace literature, and maintained one current awareness search. As a partial result of these activities, one technology transfer was accomplished. As a part of continuing problem review, 13 problems were classified inactive. Activities during the quarter involved all phases of team activity with respect to biomedical problems. As has been observed in preceding years, it has been exceedingly difficult to arrange meetings with medical investigators during the fourth quarter of the calendar year. This is a result of a combination of factors. Teaching requirements, submission of grant applications and holidays are the most significant factors involved. As a result, the numbers of new problems identified and of transfers and potential transfers are relatively low during this quarter. Most of our activities have thus been directed toward obtaining information related to problems already identified. Consequently, during the next quarter we will follow up on these activities with the expectation that transfers will be accomplished on a number of them. In addition, the normal availability of researchers to the team is expected to be restored during this quarter, permitting an increase in new problem identification activities as well as follow-up with other researchers on old problems. Another activity scheduled for the next quarter is consultation with several interested biomedical equipment manufacturers to explore means of effective interaction between the Biomedical Application Team and these companies.

Brown, James N., Jr.↗
NASA NTRS1991

Technology transfer at NASA - A librarian's view

The NASA programs, publications, and services promoting the transfer and utilization of aerospace technology developed by and for NASA are briefly surveyed. Topics addressed include the corporate sources of NASA technical information and its interest for corporate users of information services; the IAA and STAR abstract journals; NASA/RECON, NTIS, and the AIAA Aerospace Database; the RECON Space Commercialization file; the Computer Software Management and Information Center file; company information in the RECON database; and services to small businesses. Also discussed are the NASA publications Tech Briefs and Spinoff, the Industrial Applications Centers, NASA continuing bibliographies on management and patent abstracts (indexed using the NASA Thesaurus), the Index to NASA News Releases and Speeches, and the Aerospace Research Information Network (ARIN).

Buchan, Ronald L.↗
NASA NTRS1991

Strategic avionics technology planning

NASA experience in development and insertion of technology into programs had led to a recognition that a Strategic Plan for Avionics is needed for space. In the fall of 1989 an Avionics Technology Symposium was held in Williamsburg, Virginia. In early 1990, as a followon, a NASA wide Strategic Avionics Technology Working Group was chartered by NASA Headquarters. This paper will describe the objectives of this working group, technology bridging, and approaches to incentivize both the federal and commercial sectors to move toward rapidly developed, simple, and reliable systems with low life cycle cost.

Cox, Kenneth J.↗
NASA NTRSDate not supplied

Infusion of AI/ML Technology into Operational NASA Data Systems

NASA has been developing a variety of Artificial Intelligence / Machine Learning technologies related to Earth Observations. In most cases, the full value of such a technology is realized when it is infused into an operational system. NASA’s Earth Science Data Systems program has been formulating repeatable methods to execute technology infusion. These efforts include the Advancing Collaborative Connections for Earth System Science (ACCESS) program, a Technology Infusion Playbook, and an assemblage of working groups investigating methods for infusion collaboration, community development, and capacity building. ESDS has also been executing a pathfinder activity to infuse a machine-learning-driven recommender of science keywords for Earth Observation datasets, which is intended to be used for metadata curation in the Earth Observation System Data and Information System.

C Lynnes↗
NASA NTRS1981

High lift technology

The NASA Langley high lift technology program is reviewed and elements of the program which are considered Reynolds number sensitive are discussed. The Energy Efficient Transport (EET) and Supersonic Cruise Research (SCR) models proposed for high lift studies in the National Transonic Facility (NTF) are described. Recommendations regarding the NTF facility and test techniques are presented.

Coe, P. L., Jr.↗
NASA NTRS1980

A case for Large Space Systems Technology

The NASA Large Space Systems Technology (LSST) program, devoted to the development of Space Shuttle-deployable orbiting structures, is reviewed. The LSST program elements are: antennas, space platforms, assembly equipment and devices, surface sensors and control, control and stabilization, and analysis and design systems. Among the specific prospective applications for this technology base may be counted: multipurpose platforms, materials experimentation facilities, energy satellites, large optical and radio arrays, and communications platforms.

Huckins, E. K., III↗
NASA NTRS1989

Rebuilding the space technology base

NASA's Civil Space Technology Initiative (CSTI) will not only develop novel technologies for space exploration and exploitation, but also take mature technologies into their demonstration phase in earth orbit. In the course of five years, CSTI will pay off in ground- and space-tested hardware, software, processes, methods for low-orbit transport and operation, and fundamental scientific research on the orbital environment. Attention is given to LOX/hydrogen and LOX/hydrocarbon reusable engines, liquid/solid fuel hybrid boosters, and aeroassist flight experiments for the validation of aerobraking with atmospheric friction. Also discussed are advanced scientific sensors, systems autonomy and telerobotics, control of flexible structures, precise segmented reflectors, high-rate high-capacity data handling, and advanced nuclear power systems.

Povinelli, Frederick P.↗
NASA NTRS1991

Research and technology, 1991

NASA Lewis' research and technology accomplishments are summarized for the fiscal year 1991. Approximately 150 articles are presented which were submitted by the technical directorates. There are six major sections: Aeronautics; Aerospace technology; Space flight systems; Space Station Freedom; Engineering and Computational support; and Lewis Research Academy. A table of contents by subject was developed to assist the reader in finding articles of special interest. For each article, a Lewis contact person is identified, and where possible, a reference document is listed so that additional information can be easily obtained. The diversity of topics attests to the breadth of research and technology being pursued and to the skill mix of the staff that makes it possible.

Source record↗
NASA NTRS2005

Risk Management for Human Support Technology Development

NASA requires continuous risk management for all programs and projects. The risk management process identifies risks, analyzes their impact, prioritizes them, develops and carries out plans to mitigate or accept them, tracks risks and mitigation plans, and communicates and documents risk information. Project risk management is driven by the project goal and is performed by the entire team. Risk management begins early in the formulation phase with initial risk identification and development of a risk management plan and continues throughout the project life cycle. This paper describes the risk management approach that is suggested for use in NASA's Human Support Technology Development. The first step in risk management is to identify the detailed technical and programmatic risks specific to a project. Each individual risk should be described in detail. The identified risks are summarized in a complete risk list. Risk analysis provides estimates of the likelihood and the qualitative impact of a risk. The likelihood and impact of the risk are used to define its priority location in the risk matrix. The approaches for responding to risk are either to mitigate it by eliminating or reducing the effect or likelihood of a risk, to accept it with a documented rationale and contingency plan, or to research or monitor the risk, The Human Support Technology Development program includes many projects with independently achievable goals. Each project must do independent risk management, considering all its risks together and trading them against performance, budget, and schedule. Since the program can succeed even if some projects fail, the program risk has a complex dependence on the individual project risks.

jones, Harry↗
NASA NTRS1998

Case Studies in NASA High-Technology Risk Assessment and Management

This study discusses the approach of NASA managers in the assessment of risk in three critical decisions: the Apollo 8 decision to orbit the Moon in 1968, the servicing of the Hubble Space Telescope in 1993, and the privitization of the Space Shuttle in the latter 1990s.

Lambright, W. Henry↗
NASA NTRS2020

Particulate Sensor Technology Development at NASA Glenn Research Center

GRC has developed multiple innovative particulate sensor technologies for spacecraft cabin environmental monitoring, spacecraft fire safety, and lunar dust characterization. This has been driven by lack of commercial (COTS) devices to meet the volume, mass, power, reliability, and measurement requirements of any given application.

Fischer, David G.↗
NASA NTRS2005

Promising Results from Three NASA SBIR Solar Array Technology Development Programs

Results from three NASA SBIR solar array technology programs are presented. The programs discussed are: 1) Thin Film Photovoltaic UltraFlex Solar Array; 2) Low Cost/Mass Electrostatically Clean Solar Array (ESCA); and 3) Stretched Lens Array SquareRigger (SLASR). The purpose of the Thin Film UltraFlex (TFUF) Program is to mature and validate the use of advanced flexible thin film photovoltaics blankets as the electrical subsystem element within an UltraFlex solar array structural system. In this program operational prototype flexible array segments, using United Solar amorphous silicon cells, are being manufactured and tested for the flight qualified UltraFlex structure. In addition, large size (e.g. 10 kW GEO) TFUF wing systems are being designed and analyzed. Thermal cycle and electrical test and analysis results from the TFUF program are presented. The purpose of the second program entitled, Low Cost/Mass Electrostatically Clean Solar Array (ESCA) System, is to develop an Electrostatically Clean Solar Array meeting NASA s design requirements and ready this technology for commercialization and use on the NASA MMS and GED missions. The ESCA designs developed use flight proven materials and processes to create a ESCA system that yields low cost, low mass, high reliability, high power density, and is adaptable to any cell type and coverglass thickness. All program objectives, which included developing specifications, creating ESCA concepts, concept analysis and trade studies, producing detailed designs of the most promising ESCA treatments, manufacturing ESCA demonstration panels, and LEO (2,000 cycles) and GEO (1,350 cycles) thermal cycling testing of the down-selected designs were successfully achieved. The purpose of the third program entitled, "High Power Platform for the Stretched Lens Array," is to develop an extremely lightweight, high efficiency, high power, high voltage, and low stowed volume solar array suitable for very high power (multi-kW to MW) applications. These objectives are achieved by combining two cutting edge technologies, the SquareRigger solar array structure and the Stretched Lens Array (SLA). The SLA SquareRigger solar array is termed SLASR. All program objectives, which included developing specifications, creating preliminary designs for a near-term SLASR, detailed structural, mass, power, and sizing analyses, fabrication and power testing of a functional flight-like SLASR solar blanket, were successfully achieved.

Eskenazi, Mike↗
NASA NTRS1986

NASA electrothermal auxiliary propulsion technology

Electrothermal auxiliary propulsion systems provide high performance options which can have major mission benefits. There are several electrothermal concepts which offer a range of characteristics and benefits. Resistojets are the highest thrust to power option and are currently operational at mission average values of specific impulse, I sub sp approximately 295 sec. Long life, multipropellant resistojets are being developed for the space station, and resistojet technology advancements are being pursued to improve the I sub sp by more than 20 percent for resistojets used in satellite applications. Direct current arcjets have the potential of I sub sp over 400 sec with storable propellants and should provide over 1000 sec with hydrogen. Advanced concepts are being investigated to provide high power density options and possible growth to primary propulsion applications. Broad based experimental and analytical research and technology programs of NASA are summarized and recent significant advances are reviewed.

Stone, J. R.↗
NASA NTRS1986

NASA electrothermal auxiliary propulsion technology

Electrothermal auxiliary propulsion systems provide high performance options which can have major mission benefits. There are several electrothermal concepts which offer a range of characteristics and benefits. Resistojets are the highest thrust to power option and are currently operational at mission average values of specific impulse, I sub sp approximately 295 sec. Long life, multipropellant resistojets are being developed for the Space Station, and resistojet technology advancements are being pursued to improve the I sub sp by more than 20 percent for resistojets used in satellite applications. Direct current arcjets have the potential of I sub sp over 400 sec with storable propellants and should provide over 1000 sec with hydrogen. Advanced concepts are being investigated to provide high power density options and possible growth to primary propulsion applications. Broad based experimental and analytical research and technology programs of NASA are summarized and recent significant advances are reviewed.

Stone, J. R.↗