Engineering Papers⌕ Search

SEARCH · Engineering Papers

Results for “data enhancement”

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.

Quote a phrase for an exact phrase match. Source license links do not imply unrestricted reuse.

At least 991 records · Page 55
All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
NASA NTRS1971

Digital automatic data reduction techniques used in a 1000-flight biomedical study

Techniques developed to automatically process a large quantity of physiological data obtained during a 1000-flight study are described. To reduce this data reliably, a study program was conducted using physiological data from X-15 flights as a data source for experimenting with signal enhancement and noise elimination techniques. The techniques include an automatic means for counting heart rates, averaging electrocardiogram waveforms, plotting histograms of heart rate versus frequency, and counting respiration rates. These techniques were used to reduce more than 2000 hours of physiological data recorded in flight.

Carpenter, R.↗
NASA NTRS1993

Application of a Two Camera Video Imaging System to Three-Dimensional Vortex Tracking in the 80- by 120-Foot Wind Tunnel

A description is presented of two enhancements for a two-camera, video imaging system that increase the accuracy and efficiency of the system when applied to the determination of three-dimensional locations of points along a continuous line. These enhancements increase the utility of the system when extracting quantitative data from surface and off-body flow visualizations. The first enhancement utilizes epipolar geometry to resolve the stereo "correspondence" problem. This is the problem of determining, unambiguously, corresponding points in the stereo images of objects that do not have visible reference points. The second enhancement, is a method to automatically identify and trace the core of a vortex in a digital image. This is accomplished by means of an adaptive template matching algorithm. The system was used to determine the trajectory of a vortex generated by the Leading-Edge eXtension (LEX) of a full-scale F/A-18 aircraft tested in the NASA Ames 80- by 120-Foot Wind Tunnel. The system accuracy for resolving the vortex trajectories is estimated to be +/-2 inches over distance of 60 feet. Stereo images of some of the vortex trajectories are presented. The system was also used to determine the point where the LEX vortex "bursts". The vortex burst point locations are compared with those measured in small-scale tests and in flight and found to be in good agreement.

Meyn, Larry A.↗
NASA NTRS2026

The Future of in-Situ Sequencing-Based Microbial Monitoring: Development of a Shelf-Stable Method for Artemis and Beyond

Microbial monitoring onboard the International Space Station (ISS) is essential for assessing the efficiency of the Environmental Control and Life Support Systems (ECLSS) and providing insight into potential risk to both crew and spacecraft. Historically, this monitoring required the need to culture organisms onboard, return these cultures to Earth, and then complete the identifications, a process that would take months. Over the past decade, and through numerous payloads, advances in molecular biology have enabled in-flight microbial identifications using nanopore sequencing. The swab-to-sequencer method resulting from these efforts was transitioned from research to operations for microbial monitoring under the Crew Health Care Systems (CHeCS) BioMole. Collectively, these accomplishments have propelled the swab-to-sequencer method to be selected as the Microbial Surface Monitor (MSM) for Gateway, as well as a payload on Artemis IV. However, the lack of cold stowage availability for Artemis requires modifications to the entire method due to the thermal instability of the reagents required for sample preparation. To achieve this, new development, optimization, and validations were undertaken. Key considerations included enzyme concentration, buffer compatibility, and equal or enhanced sensitivity and specificity. At each step, thorough side-by-side comparisons with the current ISS method were performed. The development of a robust shelf-stable method will ensure continued sequencing-based microbial monitoring for Artemis and beyond, providing data in near real-time, enhancing risk response time, and yielding clear insight into the microbiome of spacecraft.

Christian G Mena↗
NASA NTRS1972

A study of temporal estaurine flow dynamics

Multispectral photography,infrared imagery, image enhancement, and oceanographic, radiometric, and meteorological data were used in the study of temporal estuarine flow dynamics, nearshore circulation, and the resulting dispersal of suspended and dissolved substances introduced from the continent. Repetitive multispectral photography, IR imagery, total radiance and irradiance, water surface temperatures, salinity, total suspended solids, visibility, current velocity, winds, dye implants, and high contrast image enhancement were used to observe and describe water mass boundaries in the nearshore zone and to attempt to establish on what repetitive scale these coastal features should be observed to better understand their behavior. Water mass variability patterns, seen naturally and with the use of dyes, along the North Carolina coast and in the Chesapeake Bay are being studied as synoptic data on the basic dynamics of circulation, flushing, and mixing in coastal waters.

Mairs, R. L.↗
NASA NTRS1981

Integrated resource inventory for southcentral Alaska (INTRISCA)

The Integrated Resource Inventory for Southcentral Alaska (INTRISCA) Project comprised an integrated set of activities related to the land use planning and resource management requirements of the participating agencies within the southcentral region of Alaska. One subproject involved generating a region-wide land cover inventory of use to all participating agencies. Toward this end, participants first obtained a broad overview of the entire region and identified reasonable expectations of a LANDSAT-based land cover inventory through evaluation of an earlier classification generated during the Alaska Water Level B Study. Classification of more recent LANDSAT data was then undertaken by INTRISCA participants. The latter classification produced a land cover data set that was more specifically related to individual agency needs, concurrently providing a comprehensive training experience for Alaska agency personnel. Other subprojects employed multi-level analysis techniques ranging from refinement of the region-wide classification and photointerpretation, to digital edge enhancement and integration of land cover data into a geographic information system (GIS).

Burns, T.↗
NASA NTRS1992

An IDL-based analysis package for COBE and other skycube-formatted astronomical data

UIMAGE is a data analysis package written in IDL for the Cosmic Background Explorer (COBE) project. COBE has extraordinarily stringent accuracy requirements: 1 percent mid-infrared absolute photometry, 0.01 percent submillimeter absolute spectrometry, and 0.0001 percent submillimeter relative photometry. Thus, many of the transformations and image enhancements common to analysis of large data sets must be done with special care. UIMAGE is unusual in this sense in that it performs as many of its operations as possible on the data in its native format and projection, which in the case of COBE is the quadrilateralized sphereical cube ('skycube'). That is, after reprojecting the data, e.g., onto an Aitoff map, the user who performs an operation such as taking a crosscut or extracting data from a pixel is transparently acting upon the skycube data from which the projection was made, thereby preserving the accuracy of the result. Current plans call for formatting external data bases such as CO maps into the skycube format with a high-accuracy transformation, thereby allowing Guest Investigators to use UIMAGE for direct comparison of the COBE maps with those at other wavelengths from other instruments. It is completely menu-driven so that its use requires no knowledge of IDL. Its functionality includes I/O from the COBE archives, FITS files, and IDL save sets as well as standard analysis operations such as smoothing, reprojection, zooming, statistics of areas, spectral analysis, etc. One of UIMAGE's more advanced and attractive features is its terminal independence. Most of the operations (e.g., menu-item selection or pixel selection) that are driven by the mouse on an X-windows terminal are also available using arrow keys and keyboard entry (e.g., pixel coordinates) on VT200 and Tektronix-class terminals. Even limited grey scales of images are available this way. Obviously, image processing is very limited on this type of terminal, but it is nonetheless surprising how much analysis can be done on that medium. Such flexibility has the virtue of expanding the user community to those who must work remotely on non-image terminals, e.g., via modem.

Ewing, J. A.↗
NASA NTRS2013

Comparison Between Path Lengths Traveled by Solar Electrons and Ions in Ground-Level Enhancement Events

We have examined the Wind/3DP/SST electron and Wind/EPACT/LEMT ion data to investigate the path length difference between solar electrons and ions in the ground-level enhancement (GLE) events in solar cycle 23. Assuming that the onset time of metric type II or decameter-hectometric (DH) type III radio bursts is the solar release time of non-relativistic electrons, we have found that within an error range of plus or minus 10% the deduced path length of low-energy (approximately 27 keV) electrons from their release site near the Sun to the 1 AU observer is consistent with the ion path length deduced by Reames from the onset time analysis. In addition, the solar longitude distribution and IMF topology of the GLE events examined are in favor of the coronal mass ejection-driven shock acceleration origin of observed non-relativistic electrons.We have also found an increase of electron path lengths with increasing electron energies. The increasing rate of path lengths is correlated with the pitch angle distribution (PAD) of peak electron intensities locally measured, with a higher rate corresponding to a broader PAD. The correlation indicates that the path length enhancement is due to the interplanetary scattering experienced by first arriving electrons. The observed path length consistency implies that the maximum stable time of magnetic flux tubes, along which particles transport, could reach 4.8 hr.

electrons↗
NASA NTRS1971

Regional Land Use Mapping: the Phoenix Pilot Project

The Phoenix Pilot Program has been designed to make effective use of past experience in making land use maps and collecting land use information. Conclusions reached from the project are: (1) Land use maps and accompanying statistical information of reasonable accuracy and quality can be compiled at a scale of 1:250,000 from orbital imagery. (2) Orbital imagery used in conjunction with other sources of information when available can significantly enhance the collection and analysis of land use information. (3) Orbital imagery combined with modern computer technology will help resolve the problem of obtaining land use data quickly and on a regular basis, which will greatly enhance the usefulness of such data in regional planning, land management, and other applied programs. (4) Agreement on a framework or scheme of land use classification for use with orbital imagery will be necessary for effective use of land use data.

Anderson, J. R.↗
NASA NTRS2003

Composite-Based High Performance Electroactive Polymers For Remotely Controlled Mechanical Manipulations in NASA Applications

This program supported investigation of an all-polymer percolative composite which exhibits very high dielectric constant (less than 7,000). The experimental results show that the dielectric behavior of this new class of percolative composites follows the prediction of the percolation theory and the analysis of the conductive percolation phenomena. The very high dielectric constant of the all-polymer composites which are also very flexible and possess elastic modulus not very much different from that of the insulation polymer matrix makes it possible to induce a high electromechanical response under a much reduced electric field (a strain of 2.65% with an elastic energy density of 0.18 J/cu cm can be achieved under a field of 16 MV/m). Data analysis also suggests that in these composites, the non-uniform local field distribution as well as interface effects can significantly enhance the strain responses. Furthermore, the experimental data as well as the data analysis indicate that the conduction loss in these composites will not affect the strain hysteresis.

Zhang, Q. M.↗
NASA NTRS1987

Voids in Jovian magnetosphere revisited - Evidence of spacecraft charging

The Voyager 2 Plasma Science Instrument (PLS) measuring cold plasma number density observed about a dozen 'voids', lasting from a few minutes to 20 min, in the vicinity of the Ganymede-orbit crossing, when the low-energy ion and electron fluxes recorded fell to very low levels. Original interpretations associated these 'voids' with Ganymede wake effects. In the present study, the PLS data are reexamined, in conjunction with data from the magnetic field experiment and the low-energy charged particle (LECP) experiment. The LECP data showed that the PLS voids were accompanied by large enhancements of the flux of energetic electrons and ions, while the magnetic data exhibited no systematic signatures. It is suggested that increased energetic electron fluxes in the void regions intermittently charged the spacecraft negatively to values between a few kV and a few tens of kV, and that spacecraft charging could have produce dropouts in the measured cold ion and electron fluxes and enhancements in the measured fluxes of hot particles consistent with the observations.

Khurana, K. K.↗
NASA NTRS2021

Crop-CASMA - A Web GIS Tool for Cropland Soil Moisture Monitoring and Assessment Based on SMAP Data

Timely, frequent, and complete cropland soil moisture information acquired throughout the growing season is critical for agricultural policy, production, food security, and food prices. The NASA Soil Moisture Active and Passive (SMAP) mission provides a reliable data source for cropland soil moisture assessment. This paper presents Crop-CASMA- a web GIS application tool for cropland soil moisture monitoring and assessment based on SMAP data. This interactive Web service-based GIS application tool enables CONUS SMAP derived soil moisture data visualization, dissemination, and analytics. In this paper, we describe the Crop-CASMA application system architecture, the application implementation, and the data it serves. In addition, we also present a few snapshots of the Crop-CASMA data for cropland soil moisture monitoring. The release of Crop-CASMA greatly enhances the user experience and facilitates using soil moisture data products for crop condition monitoring and decision support.

Zhengwei Yang↗
NASA NTRS2021

Crop-CASMA - A Web GIS Tool for Cropland soil moisture Monitoring and Assessment Based on SMAP Data

Timely, frequent, and complete cropland soil moisture information acquired throughout the growing season is critical for agricultural policy, production, food security, and food prices. The NASA Soil Moisture Active and Passive (SMAP) mission provides a reliable data source for cropland soil moisture assessment. This paper presents Crop-CASMA - a web GIS application tool for cropland soil moisture monitoring and assessment based on SMAP data. This interactive Web service-based GIS application tool enables CONUS SMAP derived soil moisture data visualization, dissemination, and analytics. In this paper, we describe the Crop-CASMA application system architecture, the application implementation, and the data it serves. In addition, we also present a few snapshots of the Crop-CASMA data for cropland soil moisture monitoring. The release of Crop-CASMA greatly enhances the user experience and facilitates using soil moisture data products for crop condition monitoring and decision support.

Reichle, Rolf H.↗
NASA NTRS2017

The Future of Ground Magnetometer Arrays in Support of Space Weather Monitoring and Research

A community workshop was held in Greenbelt, Maryland, on 5-6 May 2016 to discussrecommendations for the future of ground magnetometer array research in space physics. The community reviewed findings contained in the 2016 Geospace Portfolio Review of the Geospace Section of the Division of Atmospheric and Geospace Science of the National Science Foundation and discussed the present state of ground magnetometer arrays and possible pathways for a more optimal, robust, and effective organization and scientific use of these ground arrays. This paper summarizes the report of that workshop to the National Science Foundation (Engebretson & Zesta, 2017) as well as conclusions from two follow-up meetings. It describes the current state of U.S.-funded ground magnetometer arrays and summarizes community recommendations for changes in both organizational and funding structures. It also outlines a variety of new and/or augmented regional and global data products and visualizations that can be facilitated by increased collaboration among arrays. Such products will enhance the value of ground-based magnetometer data to the community's effort for understanding of Earth's space environment and space weather effects.

earths space environment↗
NASA NTRS1982

Digital overlay of cartographic information on Landsat MSS data for soil surveys

Cartographic soils data were digitized, spatially registered, and merged with processed Landsat image data. The Landsat Multispectral Scanner Subsystem (MSS) image data were used to generate a thematic map representing different soil surface characteristics and an enhanced image. The thematic map was generated using supervised and unsupervised classification procedures. The enhanced image was generated by performing a linear contrast stretch on data altered by a principal components transformation. Although both procedures yielded images useful for soil unit delineation, image enhancement was determined to be more suitable because it was more expedient and inexpensive. Enhanced images cost $0.06 per hectare, spectral classifications cost $0.08 per hectare. The overlay of cartographic data on Landsat data facilitates comparisons between the various processing methods used for soil unit boundary determination, delineation, and verification. This technique also provides for accurate and expedient spatial referencing for field observations and cartographic correlation.

Imhoff, M. L.↗
NASA NTRS1993

The FAA satellite communications program

The Federal Aviation Administration is developing satellite communications capabilities to enhance air traffic services, first in oceanic and remote regions, and later for United States domestic services. The program includes four projects which develop technical standards, assure adequate system performance, support implementation, and provide for research and development for selected areas of U.S. domestic satellite communications. The continuing focus is the application of automated data communications, which is already permitting enhanced and regular position reporting. Voice developments, necessary for non-routine communications, are also included among the necessary activities to improve ATC communications.

Burcham, Karen L.↗
NASA NTRS1972

Evaluation of optical data for Mars approach navigation.

Investigation of several optical data types which can be obtained from science and engineering instruments normally aboard interplanetary spacecraft. TV cameras are assumed to view planets or satellites and stars for celestial references. Also, spacecraft attitude sensors are assumed to yield celestial references. The investigation of approach phases of typical Mars missions showed that the navigation accuracy was greatly enhanced with the addition of optical data to radio data. Viewing stars and the planet Mars was found most advantageous ten days before Mars encounter, and viewing Deimos or Phobos and stars was most advantageous within ten days of encounter.

Jerath, N.↗
NASA NTRS1993

Specialized data analysis for the Space Shuttle Main Engine and diagnostic evaluation of advanced propulsion system components

The Marshall Space Flight Center is responsible for the development and management of advanced launch vehicle propulsion systems, including the Space Shuttle Main Engine (SSME), which is presently operational, and the Space Transportation Main Engine (STME) under development. The SSME's provide high performance within stringent constraints on size, weight, and reliability. Based on operational experience, continuous design improvement is in progress to enhance system durability and reliability. Specialized data analysis and interpretation is required in support of SSME and advanced propulsion system diagnostic evaluations. Comprehensive evaluation of the dynamic measurements obtained from test and flight operations is necessary to provide timely assessment of the vibrational characteristics indicating the operational status of turbomachinery and other critical engine components. Efficient performance of this effort is critical due to the significant impact of dynamic evaluation results on ground test and launch schedules, and requires direct familiarity with SSME and derivative systems, test data acquisition, and diagnostic software. Detailed analysis and evaluation of dynamic measurements obtained during SSME and advanced system ground test and flight operations was performed including analytical/statistical assessment of component dynamic behavior, and the development and implementation of analytical/statistical models to efficiently define nominal component dynamic characteristics, detect anomalous behavior, and assess machinery operational condition. In addition, the SSME and J-2 data will be applied to develop vibroacoustic environments for advanced propulsion system components, as required. This study will provide timely assessment of engine component operational status, identify probable causes of malfunction, and indicate feasible engineering solutions. This contract will be performed through accomplishment of negotiated task orders.

Source record↗
NASA NTRS2009

Lightning-Generated NO(x) Seen By OMI during NASA's TC-4 Experiment: First Results

We present here case studies identifying upper-tropospheric NO2 produced in convective storms during NASA's Tropical Composition, Cloud and Climate Coupling Experiment (TC~i)n July and August 2007. DC8 aircraft missions, flown from the mission base in Costa Rica, recorded in situ NO2 profiles near active storms and in relatively quiet areas. We combine these data with measurements from the Ozone Monitoring Instrument (OMI) on the Aura satellite to estimate the amount of NO2 produced by lightning (LN02) above background levels in the regions influenced by storms. In our analysis, improved off-line processing techniques are employed to minimize known artifacts in the OM1 data. Information on lightning flashes (primarily CG) observed by the surface network operated by the Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad are examined upwind of regions where OM1 indicates enhanced LNO2. Comparisons of the observed flash data with measurements by the TRMM/LIS satellite instrument are used to obtain the lightning detection efficiency for total flashes. Finally, using the NO/NO2 ratio estimated from DC-8 observations, we estimate the average NO(x) production per lightning flash for each case in this study. The magnitudes of the measured NO(x) enhancements are compared with those observed by the DC-8 and with similar OM1 measurements analyzed in mid-latitude experiments.

Bucsela, Eric↗