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All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
NASA NTRSDate not supplied

Remote Pilot Handoffs in Large UAS Multi-Vehicle Operations: Best Practices and Supportive Technologies

In response to pilot shortages and increasing air cargo demands, NASA's Pathfinding for Airspace with Autonomous Vehicles (PAAV) sub-project conducted the fourth in a series of tabletop studies investigating scalable solutions for integrating large Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) into the National Airspace System (NAS). This study solicited subject matter expertise to identify solutions to potential challenges for a further term vision, guiding participants through scenario-based discussions where the remote pilot (RP)-to-vehicle ratio has been scaled from 1:1 to m:N. Of those challenges, remote pilot handoffs were found throughout all phases of flight, both in nominal and non-nominal scenarios. The current paper details participant-suggested procedural and technological solutions for overcoming the handoff challenge, including determining the accepting RP, which aircraft to release, the location and timing of the transition, and options for supporting personnel, tools, and automation that could facilitate safe and efficient handoffs.

uncrewed aircraft systems↗
NASA NTRS2005

Long-duration Operation of 2-micron Coherent Doppler Lidar in Space

The reliability and lifetime of laser remote sensing systems that can operate autonomously over a sufficiently long period are mainly constrained by the laser diode arrays (LDAs) used for pumping their laser transmitters. The lifetime of a 2-micron coherent lidar operating in space is particularly of concern in lieu of required pump pulse duration of Thulium and Holmium solid state lasers (approx. 1msec) that are considerably longer than those of more widely used 1-micron lasers (< 0.2 msec). A factor of 5 to 10 times longer pulse duration can easily translate to over an order of magnitude shorter lifetime for a typical commercially available high-power 2-D array. Therefore, it is imperative to address the lifetime and reliability of LDAs for pumping 2-micron lasers by exploring all the potential options that significantly prolong their life meeting the required operational lifetime of space-based coherent Doppler lidars. The leading causes of sudden failure and premature degradation of LDAs are intrinsic semiconductor defects, optical facet breakdown resulting from excessive localized heating, and thermo-mechanical stresses due to the extreme thermal cycling of the laser active regions1-2. Long pulse operation grossly amplifies the impact of these failure/degradation causes, particularly the thermo-mechanical stresses due to pulse-to-pulse thermal cycling. Therefore, several experimental setups have been developed to investigate each of the failure mechanisms and causes of premature degradation in order to evaluate various package designs, define the best operating parameters, and to guide the technology advancement, leading to highly reliable and very long lifetime LDAs5. Several areas of improvement in the packaging and fabrication process of laser diodes have already been identified and efforts towards implementing these improvements are well underway. These efforts include the use of advanced high thermal conductivity materials for packaging of laser diode arrays and new fabrication techniques for mechanically attaching laser diode bars and submounts. But even using the existing LDAs, it may be possible to increase the lifetime by careful selection of the package type, number of bars per package and their pitch, operational temperature, and operating parameters such repetition rate, pulsewidth, and applied current. Obviously, the LDA specification and operational parameters will involve a system level trade analysis to ensure that the lidar instrument meets its performance objectives. One goal of this work is to enable such trade analysis by evaluating LDAs from different suppliers in different package types and quantifying their performance as a function of their operational parameters.

Amzajerdian, Farzin↗
NASA NTRS2001

Operational Performance of Sensor Systems Used to Determine Atmospheric Boundary Layer Properties as Part of the NASA Aircraft Vortex Spacing System Project

There has been a renewed interest in the application of remote sensor technology to operational aviation and airport-related activities such as Aircraft Vortex Spacing System (AVOSS). Radio Acoustic Sounding Systems (RASS), Doppler-acoustic sodars, Ultrahigh Frequencies (UHF) profilers and lidars have many advantages in measuring wind and temperature profiles in the lower atmospheric boundary layer since they can operate more or less continuously and unattended; however, there are limitations in their operational use at airports. For example, profilers deteriorate (limited altitude coverage or missing) in moderate or greater rain and can be affected by airplane targets in their field of view. Sodars can handle precipitation better but are affected by the high noise environments of airports and strong winds. Morning temperature inversions typically limit performance of RASS, sodars and profilers. Fog affects sonic anemometers. Lidars can have difficulties in clouds, fog or heavy precipitation. Despite their limitations these sensors have proven useful to provide wind and temperature profiles for AVOSS. Capabilities and limitations of these and other sensors used in the AVOSS program are discussed, parameter settings for the sensor systems are documented, and recommendations are made for the most cost-effective group of sensors for the future. The potential use of specially tuned dynamic forecast models and measurements from landing and departing aircraft are addressed.

Zak, J. Allen↗
DOE OSTI2020

Development of Remote Cutting Tools for use at ATR - 20438

As a result of years of operations of the Advanced Test Reactor (ATR) at the Idaho National Lab (INL), the ATR canal has become congested due to the storage of materials including waste consisting of highly irradiated remote handled (RH) metals. In order to support its continuing nuclear mission the ATR requires canal space to support fuel storage and future core internal change out (CIC) components. INL staff determined that the canal must be cleaned out and waste removed to efficiently utilize the valuable canal floor space. It was determined that a methodology for processing, packaging, characterizing, and removing current and future irradiated hardware from the ATR canal is needed. Orano Federal Services (OFS) and its subcontractor Babcock Services Inc. (BSI) were selected to provide remote tooling in order to safely and efficiently size reduce the material currently stored in the ATR canal. INL developed detailed requirements that established the design and performance requirements for the tooling. Orano TN and BSI had recently successfully completed similar tasks in clearing highly activated materials from spent fuel pools and canals at commercial nuclear plants. That experience directly translated into a proven approach that could be used at the ATR thereby saving time and money and lowering risks. Based on BSI's demonstrated proficiency in the design and deployment of remote size reduction specialty tooling at comparable commercial facilities, Orano Federal Services was confident that a solution to INL's requirements could be delivered. The tooling had to be designed to be compatible with the operational requirements of the ATR canal as well as the functionality needed by the facility operators that will use the equipment. Some of the major design requirements and functions of the equipment included remote operations, capability to shear highly irradiated sections of aluminum and steel tubing, pipe, and components ranging in size from 0.6 cm to 16.5 cm diameter into 1.5 m -1.8 m lengths, utilizing buoyancy compensation to assist with underwater operations, and use commercially available existing technology and components as much as practical. The design team evaluated and selected commercially available equipment that could be modified to meet the design and performance specifications. In addition, a waste sizing table (WST) was designed and fabricated to further ensure the size reduction equipment would perform as expected and give the facility operators a stable and usable remote, underwater work platform. After successful development of the tooling, a mock up test and operator training was conducted to ensure the tooling performed as expected and met the requirements of INL. (authors)

12 MANAGEMENT OF RADIOACTIVE AND NON-RADIOACTIVE W↗
NASA NTRS1990

Telepresence and Space Station Freedom workstation operations

The Space Station Freedom workstation system is a distributed network of computer based workstations that provides the man-machine interfaces for controlling space station systems. This includes control of external manipulator, robotic and free flyer devices by crewmembers in the space station's pressurized shirt-sleeve environment. These remotely controlled devices help minimize the requirement for costly crew extravehicular activity (EVA) time for such tasks as station assembly and payload support. Direct window views may be used for controlling some of the systems, but many activities will be remote or require levels of detail not possible by direct observation. Since controlling remote devices becomes more difficult when direct views are inadequate or unavailable, many performance enhancing techniques have been considered for representing information about remote activities to the operator. Described here are the telepresence techniques under consideration to support operations and training. This includes video enhancements (e.g., graphic and text overlays and stereo viewing), machine vision systems, remote activity animation, and force reflection representation.

Jensen, Dean G.↗
DOE OSTI2021

UPC++ v1.0 Programmer’s Guide, Revision 2021.9.0

UPC++ is a C++ library that provides Partitioned Global Address Space (PGAS) programming. It is designed for writing parallel programs that run efficiently and scale well on distributed-memory parallel computers. The PGAS model is single program, multiple-data (SPMD), with each separate constituent process having access to local memory as it would in C++. PGAS additionally provides one-sided Remote Memory Access (RMA) to a global address space, which is allocated in shared segments that are distributed over the processes. UPC++ also features Remote Procedure Call (RPC) communication, making it easy to move computation to operate on data that resides on remote processes. In UPC++, all communication operations are explicit, which encourages programmers to be aware of the cost of communication and data movement. Moreover, all communication operations are asynchronous by default, to enable programmers to write code that scales well even on hundreds of thousands of cores.

96 KNOWLEDGE MANAGEMENT AND PRESERVATION↗
NASA NTRS1998

Mission Operations with an Autonomous Agent

The Remote Agent (RA) is an Artificial Intelligence (AI) system which automates some of the tasks normally reserved for human mission operators and performs these tasks autonomously on-board the spacecraft. These tasks include activity generation, sequencing, spacecraft analysis, and failure recovery. The RA will be demonstrated as a flight experiment on Deep Space One (DSI), the first deep space mission of the NASA's New Millennium Program (NMP). As we moved from prototyping into actual flight code development and teamed with ground operators, we made several major extensions to the RA architecture to address the broader operational context in which PA would be used. These extensions support ground operators and the RA sharing a long-range mission profile with facilities for asynchronous ground updates; support ground operators monitoring and commanding the spacecraft at multiple levels of detail simultaneously; and enable ground operators to provide additional knowledge to the RA, such as parameter updates, model updates, and diagnostic information, without interfering with the activities of the RA or leaving the system in an inconsistent state. The resulting architecture supports incremental autonomy, in which a basic agent can be delivered early and then used in an increasingly autonomous manner over the lifetime of the mission. It also supports variable autonomy, as it enables ground operators to benefit from autonomy when L'@ey want it, but does not inhibit them from obtaining a detailed understanding and exercising tighter control when necessary. These issues are critical to the successful development and operation of autonomous spacecraft.

Pell, Barney↗
NASA NTRS2026

PERSIANN-Unet: A Global Deep Learning Framework for Near-Real-Time Precipitation Estimation Using Infrared Data

Access to high-quality, high-resolution, near-real-time precipitation data is essential for hydrological and meteorological research and disaster mitigation. Traditional tools such as rain gauges and radar networks, though effective, have limitations, including sparse coverage in remote areas and high operational costs. Satellite data, with its global coverage and high spatial and temporal resolutions, mitigates limitations in coverage. Satellite precipitation products like Hydro Estimator (HE), Integrated Multi-satellitE Retrievals for Global Precipitation Measurement (IMERG), and Precipitation Estimation from Remotely Sensed Information using Artificial Neural Networks (PERSIANN) utilize both geosynchronous thermal infrared (IR) and passive microwave (PMW) data in their operation. PMW sensors offer detailed atmospheric profiles but suffer from higher latency, whereas IR sensors provide lower latency but only capture cloud-top information. Despite this constraint, IR data remains attractive for low-latency precipitation estimation. Recent advances in deep learning, particularly convolutional neural networks (CNNs), have further improved satellite precipitation retrievals. This study introduces PERSIANN-Unet (PUnet or PERSIANN V3), a quasi-global algorithm covering 60°N–60°S that combines IR data, monthly climatology, and the UNet architecture to produce half-hourly precipitation estimates at 0.04° resolution. The product is evaluated against HE, IMERG, and PDIR-Now for 2022–2023. Results show that PUnet closely matches its training target, IMERG V07 Final, at the global scale, and performance is further evaluated against Stage IV as a reference over CONUS. Training PUnet on IMERG (2016–2021) leverages a high-quality, integrated PMW IR-gauge precipitation product while developing an IR-based framework not reliant on PMW availability. By operating on a single global image, PUnet avoids tile partitioning and blending steps, reducing edge discontinuities, and produces more spatially consistent precipitation fields across hemispheres.

Phu Nguyen↗
NASA NTRS1986

Two-Arm-Manipulator Controller

Shoulder harness allows wearer to control simultaneously and independently two remote manipulator arms and end effectors. Each manipulator arm would have 7 degrees of freedom. Two arm mechanisms of controller moved by operator's arms and hands. Remote manipulator, located elsewhere, responds to operator's arm and hand movements. Adjustable shoulder straps, waist belt, and leg straps hold harness securely on wearer. Mechanisms and harness allow operator to reach almost normally at control station.

Coryell, S.↗
NASA NTRS1974

Radio-controlled, sound-operated switch

Switch presently provides remote control switching, by radio signals, or pollution sampling devices. Can be used for remote weather station interrogation, firing of pyrotechnics, control of dangerous equipment, or control of device in location where it is impractical to run metallic conductors because of time limitations, distance, or terrain.

Bryant, T. D.↗
NASA NTRS1981

Space Operations Center, shuttle interaction study, volume 1

The feasibility of the shuttle remote manipulator system (SRMS)-aided space operations center (SOC)/orbiter berthing was evaluated to determine: (1) whether the initial rates between the SOC and the orbiter can be removed by the arm; (2) what is the best strategy to be used; (3) whether the post-capture and maneuvering loads are within the capability of the SRMS; (4) can the SOC berthing port be brought in the immediate proximity of the orbiter berthing port; and (5) what is the best way to remove the residual relative motions. Various notational conventions are established and various important locations on the orbiter and SOC structures are defined. Reference frames are defined together with the mass properties of both the SOC and the orbiter.

Source record↗
NASA NTRS1981

The University of Kansas Applied Sensing Program: An operational perspective

The Kansas applied remote sensing (KARS) program conducts demonstration projects and applied research on remote sensing techniques which enable local, regional, state and federal agency personnel to better utilize available satellite and airborne remote sensing systems. As liason with Kansas agencies for the Earth Resources Laboratory (ERL), Kansas demonstration project, KARS coordinated interagency communication, field data collection, hands-on training, and follow-on technical assistance and worked with Kansas agency personnel in evaluating land cover maps provided by ERL. Short courses are being conducted to provide training in state-of-the-art remote sensing technology for university faculty, state personnel, and persons from private industry and federal government. Topics are listed which were considered in intensive five-day courses covering the acquisition, interpretation, and application of information derived through remote sensing with specific training and hands-on experience in image interpretation and the analysis of LANDSAT data are listed.

Martinko, E. A.↗
NASA NTRS1969

Integral valve provides automatic relief and remote venting

In-line, pilot-operated, differential area, poppet type valve provides both automatic relief of a tank at a precise over-pressure and remote control of tank venting. Relief and vent operations are separate functions incorporated in an integral valve package.

Gilmore, R. F.↗
NASA NTRS2002

Secure Remote Access Issues in a Control Center Environment

The ISS finally reached an operational state and exists for local and remote users. Onboard payload systems are managed by the Huntsville Operations Support Center (HOSC). Users access HOSC systems by internet protocols in support of daily operations, preflight simulation, and test. In support of this diverse user community, a modem security architecture has been implemented. The architecture has evolved over time from an isolated but open system to a system which supports local and remote access to the ISS over broad geographic regions. This has been accomplished through the use of an evolved security strategy, PKI, and custom design. Through this paper, descriptions of the migration process and the lessons learned are presented. This will include product decision criteria, rationale, and the use of commodity products in the end architecture. This paper will also stress the need for interoperability of various products and the effects of seemingly insignificant details.

Pitts, Lee↗
NASA NTRS1994

IMIS: An intelligence microscope imaging system

Until recently microscope users in space relied on traditional microscopy techniques that required manual operation of the microscope and recording of observations in the form of written notes, drawings, or photographs. This method was time consuming and required the return of film and drawings from space for analysis. No real-time data analysis was possible. Advances in digital and video technologies along with recent developments in article intelligence will allow future space microscopists to have a choice of three additional modes of microscopy: remote coaching, remote control, and automation. Remote coaching requires manual operations of the microscope with instructions given by two-way audio/video transmission during critical phases of the experiment. When using the remote mode of microscopy, the Principal Investigator controls the microscope from the ground. The automated mode employs artificial intelligence to control microscope functions and is the only mode that can be operated in the other three modes as well. The purpose of this presentation is to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of the four modes of of microscopy and how the IMIS, a proposed intelligent microscope imaging system, can be used as a model for developing and testing concepts, operating procedures, and equipment design of specifications required to provide a comprehensive microscopy/imaging capability onboard Space Station Freedom.

Caputo, Michael↗
DOE OSTI2020

Development of intelligent control module for the J-TEXT electron cyclotron emission imaging system

An Electron Cyclotron Emission Imaging (ECEI) system has been developed on the J-TEXT tokamak and employed for the multi-dimensional electron temperature fluctuation imaging measurement in 2019 campaign. The intelligent control module has been developed and been used to flexibly setup the 256-channel ECEI system configurations for different plasma scenarios. The adjustments of key parameters are merged in this module including size and position of the geometric observation window, and the dynamic range of the signal and image resolution. The user-friendly interface is also developed for the tokamak operator to set the ECEI system focusing on physics interested region. Furthermore, this module is installed close to the diagnostic system around the J-TEXT tokamak, which can be remotely controlled by authorized operators in the control room. It significantly improves ECEI flexibility and stability, and also keeps the operation technician away from the harsh radiation environment.

70 PLASMA PHYSICS AND FUSION TECHNOLOGY↗
NASA NTRS1988

Man-systems requirements for the control of teleoperators in space

The microgravity of the space environment has profound effects on humans and, consequently, on the design requirements for subsystems and components with which humans interact. There are changes in the anthropometry, vision, the perception of orientation, posture, and the ways in which we exert energy. The design requirements for proper human engineering must reflect each of the changes that results, and this is especially true in the exercise of control over remote and teleoperated systems where the operator is removed from any direct sense of control. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration has recently completed the first NASA-wide human factors standard for microgravity. The Man-Systems Integration Standard, NASA-STD-3000, contains considerable information on the appropriate design criteria for microgravity, and there is information that is useful in the design for teleoperated systems. There is not, however, a dedicated collection of data which pertains directly to the special cases of remote and robotic operations. The design considerations for human-system interaction in the control of remote systems in space are discussed, with brief details on the information to be found in the NASA-STD-3000, and arguments for a dedicated section within the Standard which deals with robotic, teleoperated and remote systems and the design requirements for effective human control of these systems in the space environment, and from the space environment.

Shields, Nicholas L., Jr.↗