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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 NTRS1980

Integration of design information

The overall concepts of the integrated programs for aerospace-vehicle design (IPAD) from the user's viewpoint are discussed. Also a top-level view of what the user requires from such a system is provided, and the interactions between the system and user are described. The four major components discussed are design process; data storage, management and manipulation; user interface; and project management. Although an outgrowth of aerospace production experience, the basic concepts discussed, and especially their emphasis on integration, are considered applicable to all problem solving. Thus, these concepts may offer a broad base for exploitation by industry in general. This is the first in a set of three papers, the other two being Future Integrated Design Process, by D. D. Mayer, and Requirements for Company-Wide Management of Engineering Information, by J. W. Southall. In addition to tying the three together, how project management can be handled in a computing environment and also the user interface needs are discussed in detail.

Anderton, G. L.↗
NASA NTRS2000

Evaluation of Fieldbus and OPC for Advanced Life Support

FOUNDATION(Tm) Fieldbus and OP(TM) (OLE(TM)for Process Control) technologies were integrated into an existing control system for a crop growth chamber at NASA Ames Research Center. FOUNDATION(TM) Fieldbus is a digital, bi-directional, multi-drop, serial communications network which functions essentially as a LAN for sensors. FOUNDATION(TM) Fieldbus is heterarchical, with publishers and subscribers of data performing complex control functions at low levels without centralized control and its associated overhead. OPC(TM) is a set of interfaces which replace proprietary drivers with a transparent means of exchanging data between the fieldbus and applications. The objectives were: (1) to integrate FOUNDATION(TM) Fieldbus into existing ALS hardware and determine its overall effectiveness and reliability and, (2) to quantify any savings produced by using fieldbus and OPC technologies. We encountered several problems with the FOUNDATION(TM) Fieldbus hardware chosen. Our hardware exposed 100 data for each channel of the fieldbus. The fieldbus configurator software used to program the fieldbus was simply not adequate. The fieldbus was also not inherently reliable. It lost its settings twice during our tests for unknown reasons. OPC also had issues. It did not function at all as supplied, requiring substitution of some of its components with those from other vendors. It would stop working after a fixed period of time. Certain database calls eventually lock the machine. Overall, we would not recommend FOUNDATION(TM) Fieldbus: it was too difficult to implement with little overall added value. It also seems unlikely that FOUNDATION(TM) Fieldbus will gain sufficient penetration into the laboratory instrument market to ever be cost effective for the ALS community. OPC had good reliability and performance once a stable installation was achieved. It allowed a rapid change to an alternative software strategy when our first strategy failed. It is a cost effective solution to distributed control systems development.

Boulanger, Richard P.↗
NASA NTRS1992

LinkWinds: An Approach to Visual Data Analysis

The Linked Windows Interactive Data System (LinkWinds) is a prototype visual data exploration and analysis system resulting from a NASA/JPL program of research into graphical methods for rapidly accessing, displaying and analyzing large multivariate multidisciplinary datasets. It is an integrated multi-application execution environment allowing the dynamic interconnection of multiple windows containing visual displays and/or controls through a data-linking paradigm. This paradigm, which results in a system much like a graphical spreadsheet, is not only a powerful method for organizing large amounts of data for analysis, but provides a highly intuitive, easy to learn user interface on top of the traditional graphical user interface.

Jacobson, Allan S.↗
NASA NTRS1979

The cost benefits of the Spacelab system to scientific investigations and space applications

Cost advantages of the Spacelab system to scientific experiments in space and space operations are presented. The payload integration concepts developed for Spacelab are examined, and it is shown that Spacelab and Shuttle integration, communications and data processing, launch support requirements and flight operations will provide a considerable savings in the costs of space research relative to previous space systems. Spacelab modular design, incorporating features such as standard payload interfaces, optional mission dependent equipment and standard services, such as the Experiment Computer Operating System, is shown to offer the user a wider range of services than previous programs, also at significantly lower costs. It is concluded that the Spacelab system will greatly reduce the costs and broaden the opportunities for scientific investigation in space.

Jean, O. C.↗
NASA NTRS2017

Hardware Interface Description for the Integrated Power, Avionics, and Software (iPAS) Space Telecommunications Radio Ssystem (STRS) Radio

The Space Telecommunications Radio System (STRS) provides a common, consistent framework for software defined radios (SDRs) to abstract the application software from the radio platform hardware. The STRS standard aims to reduce the cost and risk of using complex, configurable and reprogrammable radio systems across NASA missions. To promote the use of the STRS architecture for future NASA advanced exploration missions, NASA Glenn Research Center (GRC) developed an STRS-compliant SDR on a radio platform used by the Advance Exploration System program at the Johnson Space Center (JSC) in their Integrated Power, Avionics, and Software (iPAS) laboratory. The iPAS STRS Radio was implemented on the Reconfigurable, Intelligently-Adaptive Communication System (RIACS) platform, currently being used for radio development at JSC. The platform consists of a Xilinx ML605 Virtex-6 FPGA board, an Analog Devices FMCOMMS1-EBZ RF transceiver board, and an Embedded PC (Axiomtek eBox 620-110-FL) running the Ubuntu 12.4 operating system. Figure 1 shows the RIACS platform hardware. The result of this development is a very low cost STRS compliant platform that can be used for waveform developments for multiple applications.The purpose of this document is to describe how to develop a new waveform using the RIACS platform and the Very High Speed Integrated Circuits (VHSIC) Hardware Description Language (VHDL) FPGA wrapper code and the STRS implementation on the Axiomtek processor.

Flight Computer↗
DOE OSTI2022

Coolant Channel Design for Additively Manufactured Reactor Cores

Additive manufacturing (AM) methods are currently being explored for applications in nuclear reactors to make advanced reactors more efficient, safe, and reliable. The Transformational Challenge Reactor (TCR) program has explored AM for nuclear by designing a high-temperature gas reactor (HTGR) using an AM silicon carbide fuel form with uranium nitride–tristructural isotropic fuel. In this study, we detail the design process for the TCR fuel form’s coolant channels using computational fluid dynamics models with conjugate heat transfer. Additionally, this work discusses how these models were interfaced with other design teams, project milestones, and the agile design method used to mature the reactor design. The methodology deployed was able to create a channel design with lower maximum fuel temperatures and thermal stresses in the fuel form over traditional channel designs that can be manufactured subtractively. These results were achieved with only small manufacturing penalties. Results are discussed and presented on lessons learned for designing AM components for nuclear reactors. Finally, areas of opportunity are discussed for advanced design tools to further automate design activities and optimize reactors with fewer built-in assumptions.

21 SPECIFIC NUCLEAR REACTORS AND ASSOCIATED PLANTS↗
NASA NTRS1970

Experiment module concepts study. Volume 2: Experiments and mission operations

The baseline experiment program is concerned with future space experiments and cover the scientific disciplines of astronomy, space physics, space biology, biomedicine and biotechnology, earth applications, materials science, and advanced technology. The experiments within each discipline are grouped into functional program elements according to experiments that support a particular area of research or investigation and experiments that impose similar or related demand on space station support systems. The experiment requirements on module subsystems, experiment operating modes and time profiles, and the role of the astronaut are discussed. Launch and rendezvous with the space station, disposal, and on-orbit operations are delineated. The operational interfaces between module and other system elements are presented and include space station and logistic system interfaces. Preliminary launch and on-orbit environmental criteria and requirements are discussed, and experiment equipment weights by functional program elements are tabulated.

Macdonald, J. M.↗
NASA NTRS1972

Investigations of high power problems in space shuttle antenna designs

A study program is discussed which includes a survey of industry and government laboratories and was undertaken to determine the state of the art in dealing with problems of high power levels in reentry antenna design. A laboratory program to develop techniques for testing dielectric materials for effects on RF transmission is also considered, with emphasis on high power applications in space and reentry flights. The study program resulted in a set of guidelines for avoiding breakdown in antenna design. A discussion of temperature effects on dielectric breakdown is also given. From the laboratory program, a description is presented of techniques for (1) heating with a carbon arc image furnace, (2) temperature measurement (using thermocouples and an infrared pyrometer), (3) mass spectrometric monitoring of outgassing, (4) testing for RF breakdown in both heated dielectrics and the dielectric/air and dielectric/plasma interfaces. Data and observations are reported from technique development using candidate shuttle materials falling into three categories: (1) lightweight refractory foams, (2) dense RF window materials, and (3) ablative materials.

Taylor, W. C.↗
NASA NTRS1983

NASA research in teleoperation and robotics

Increased automation is necessary in future NASA missions. Drivers for automation include constrained funding and physical resources as well as mission capabilities not achievable through conventional means. The application of emerging technology in manipulators and machine intelligence will enable the development of robotic devices remotely commanded by human operators to increase man's productivity in space. The Office of Aeronautics and Space Technology (OAST) has established a program for research in teleoperation and robotics. The program's near-term focus is a Remote Orbital Servicing System (ROSS). The longer range goals include: (1) basic research in autonomous operations, (2) human factors research on the man-machine interface to remote systems, and (3) system integration and analysis of advanced concepts. This paper reviews the current NASA research and technology and considers future work needed to meet the OAST goals.

Meintel, A. J., Jr.↗
NASA NTRS1994

Adaptation of a Control Center Development Environment for Industrial Process Control

In the control center, raw telemetry data is received for storage, display, and analysis. This raw data must be combined and manipulated in various ways by mathematical computations to facilitate analysis, provide diversified fault detection mechanisms, and enhance display readability. A development tool called the Graphical Computation Builder (GCB) has been implemented which provides flight controllers with the capability to implement computations for use in the control center. The GCB provides a language that contains both general programming constructs and language elements specifically tailored for the control center environment. The GCB concept allows staff who are not skilled in computer programming to author and maintain computer programs. The GCB user is isolated from the details of external subsystem interfaces and has access to high-level functions such as matrix operators, trigonometric functions, and unit conversion macros. The GCB provides a high level of feedback during computation development that improves upon the often cryptic errors produced by computer language compilers. An equivalent need can be identified in the industrial data acquisition and process control domain: that of an integrated graphical development tool tailored to the application to hide the operating system, computer language, and data acquisition interface details. The GCB features a modular design which makes it suitable for technology transfer without significant rework. Control center-specific language elements can be replaced by elements specific to industrial process control.

Killough, Ronnie L.↗
NASA NTRSDate not supplied

Thermal Analysis of an In-Space Heat Shield Exposed to a Rocket Plume During Stage Separation

Thermal analyses were conducted to evaluate the thermal response of various individual materials and multi-layer configurations for an in-space heat shield exposed to a rocket plume during stage separation. Frequently used, readily available thermal protection materials consisting of cork, carbon cloth phenolic (CCP), and silica cloth phenolic (SCP) were selected for an initial screening analysis. SCP was chosen as the primary material for further evaluation using an updated thermal environment calculated using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) results. A multi-layer configuration consisting of SCP providing erosion resistance and a Nomex honeycomb providing thermal protection was then evaluated as a solution for more mass-efficient performance. Pyrolysis depth, bondline temperature, back-side temperature, and a thermal factor of safety were used to define the necessary material thickness profile. Adhesives were included in the analyses with considerations for maximum temperature and application method. One dimensional thermal analyses at several stations along the heat shield surface were performed for the initial screening and follow-on analyses. The methodology used standard processes and computer programs applicable to solid rocket motor internal insulation and nozzle thermal analysis such as Chemical Equilibrium and Applications (CEA), Aerotherm Chemical Equilibrium (ACE), Momentum/Energy Integral Technique (MEIT), and Insulation Thermal Response and Ablation Code (ITRAC). The baseline SCP/Nomex honeycomb multi-layer configuration thermal performance predictions satisfied the objectives with an acceptable mass estimate for the design maturity. The EA9673 film adhesive and SCP resin were the best performing bonding agents considered for the SCP/Nomex honeycomb and Nomex honeycomb/structural substrate interfaces. The baseline mass estimate was lowest when the resin was the bonding agent due to the higher maximum service temperature. These thermal analyses evaluated typical internal and external nozzle materials using a calculated thermal environment and heat loads that were lower than a typical rocket motor internal environment but greater than standard external aeroheating.

Andrew T Hiatt↗
NASA NTRS2006

Space-based Networking Technology Developments in the Interplanetary Network Directorate Information Technology Program

Described recent development of communications protocols, services, and associated tools targeted to reduce risk, reduce cost and increase efficiency of IND infrastructure and supported mission operations. Space-based networking technologies developed were: a) Provide differentiated quality of service (QoS) that will give precedence to traffic that users have selected as having the greatest importance and/or time-criticality; b) Improve the total value of information to users through the use of QoS prioritization techniques; c) Increase operational flexibility and improve command-response turnaround; d) Enable new class of networked and collaborative science missions; e) Simplify applications interfaces to communications services; and f) Reduce risk and cost from a common object model and automated scheduling and communications protocols. Technologies are described in three general areas: communications scheduling, middleware, and protocols. Additionally developed simulation environment, which provides comprehensive, quantitative understanding of the technologies performance within overall, evolving architecture, as well as ability to refine & optimize specific components.

scheduling↗
DOE OSTI2020

Process Image Analysis using Big Data, Machine Learning, and Computer Vision

The development of algorithms for machine learning and data analysis for the 3013 MIS corrosion surveillance program is a collaborative effort by SRNL, USC and GT. For corrosion detection, LCM image data is extracted from large binary files, with software written to convert the data to physical attributes (i.e. height, color and grayscale values; all as functions of a location in a plane projection). The user interface for the software permits selective downloading of binary data and interrogation of attributes. User input thresholds are used to flag attributes of interest. Machine learning algorithms, developed for this application, are used to determine whether the features are the result of corrosion. To address the fundamental mechanisms of corrosion, machine learning algorithms are being developed to derive interatomic potential force-fields from ab-initio DFT calculations. The goal is to apply molecular modeling on a large enough scale to guide the design of resistant materials.

12 MANAGEMENT OF RADIOACTIVE AND NON-RADIOACTIVE W↗
NASA NTRS1976

Payload/orbiter contamination control requirement study: Spacelab configuration contamination study

The assessment of the Spacelab carrier induced contaminant environment was continued, and the ability of Spacelab to meet established contamination control criteria for the space transportation system program was determined. The primary areas considered included: (1) updating, refining, and improving the Spacelab contamination computer model and contamination analysis methodology, (2) establishing the resulting adjusted induced environment predictions for comparison with the applicable criteria, (3) determining the Spacelab design and operational requirements necessary to meet the criteria, (4) conducting mission feasibility analyses of the combined Spacelab/Orbiter contaminant environment for specific proposed mission and payload mixes, and (5) establishing a preliminary Spacelab mission support plan as well as model interface requirements; A summary of those activities conducted to date with respect to the modelling, analysis, and predictions of the induced environment, including any modifications in approach or methodology utilized in the contamination assessment of the Spacelab carrier, was presented.

Bareiss, L. E.↗
NASA NTRS1983

Manipulator interactive design with interconnected flexible elements

This paper describes the development of an analysis tool for the interactive design of control systems for manipulators and similar electro-mechanical systems amenable to representation as structures in a topological chain. The chain consists of a series of elastic bodies subject to small deformations and arbitrary displacements. The bodies are connected by hinges which permit kinematic constraints, control, or relative motion with six degrees of freedom. The equations of motion for the chain configuration are derived via Kane's method, extended for application to interconnected flexible bodies with time-varying boundary conditions. A corresponding set of modal coordinates has been selected. The motion equations are imbedded within a simulation that transforms the vector-dyadic equations into scalar form for numerical integration. The simulation also includes a linear, time-invariant controler specified in transfer function format and a set of sensors and actuators that interface between the structure and controller. The simulation is driven by an interactive set-up program resulting in an easy-to-use analysis tool.

Singh, R. P.↗
NASA NTRS2005

A Program Certification Assistant Based on Fully Automated Theorem Provers

We describe a certification assistant to support formal safety proofs for programs. It is based on a graphical user interface that hides the low-level details of first-order automated theorem provers while supporting limited interactivity: it allows users to customize and control the proof process on a high level, manages the auxiliary artifacts produced during this process, and provides traceability between the proof obligations and the relevant parts of the program. The certification assistant is part of a larger program synthesis system and is intended to support the deployment of automatically generated code in safety-critical applications.

Denney, Ewen↗
NASA NTRS2006

Power User Interface

Power User Interface 5.0 (PUI) is a system of middleware, written for expert users in the Earth-science community, PUI enables expedited ordering of data granules on the basis of specific granule-identifying information that the users already know or can assemble. PUI also enables expert users to perform quick searches for orderablegranule information for use in preparing orders. PUI 5.0 is available in two versions (note: PUI 6.0 has command-line mode only): a Web-based application program and a UNIX command-line- mode client program. Both versions include modules that perform data-granule-ordering functions in conjunction with external systems. The Web-based version works with Earth Observing System Clearing House (ECHO) metadata catalog and order-entry services and with an open-source order-service broker server component, called the Mercury Shopping Cart, that is provided separately by Oak Ridge National Laboratory through the Department of Energy. The command-line version works with the ECHO metadata and order-entry process service. Both versions of PUI ultimately use ECHO to process an order to be sent to a data provider. Ordered data are provided through means outside the PUI software system.

Pfister, Robin↗
NASA NTRS1976

LUMIS Interactive graphics operating instructions and system specifications

The LUMIS program has designed an integrated geographic information system to assist program managers and planning groups in metropolitan regions. Described is the system designed to interactively interrogate a data base, display graphically a portion of the region enclosed in the data base, and perform cross tabulations of variables within each city block, block group, or census tract. The system is designed to interface with U. S. Census DIME file technology, but can accept alternative districting conventions. The system is described on three levels: (1) introduction to the systems's concept and potential applications; (2) the method of operating the system on an interactive terminal; and (3) a detailed system specification for computer facility personnel.

Bryant, N. A.↗