Engineering Papers⌕ Search

SEARCH · Engineering Papers

Results for “phase correction”

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 1,027 records · Page 57
All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
NASA NTRS1996

A Framework for Performing V&V within Reuse-Based Software Engineering

Verification and validation (V&V) is performed during application development for many systems, especially safety-critical and mission-critical systems. The V&V process is intended to discover errors, especially errors related to critical processing, as early as possible during the development process. Early discovery is important in order to minimize the cost and other impacts of correcting these errors. In order to provide early detection of errors, V&V is conducted in parallel with system development, often beginning with the concept phase. In reuse-based software engineering, however, decisions on the requirements, design and even implementation of domain assets can be made prior to beginning development of a specific system. In this case, V&V must be performed during domain engineering in order to have an impact on system development. This paper describes a framework for performing V&V within architecture-centric, reuse-based software engineering. This framework includes the activities of traditional application-level V&V, and extends these activities into domain engineering and into the transition between domain engineering and application engineering. The framework includes descriptions of the types of activities to be performed during each of the life-cycle phases, and provides motivation for the activities.

Addy, Edward A.↗
NASA NTRS1999

Optimization of Insertion Cost for Transfer Trajectories to Libration Point Orbits

The objective of this work is the development of efficient techniques to optimize the cost associated with transfer trajectories to libration point orbits in the Sun-Earth-Moon four body problem, that may include lunar gravity assists. Initially, dynamical systems theory is used to determine invariant manifolds associated with the desired libration point orbit. These manifolds are employed to produce an initial approximation to the transfer trajectory. Specific trajectory requirements such as, transfer injection constraints, inclusion of phasing loops, and targeting of a specified state on the manifold are then incorporated into the design of the transfer trajectory. A two level differential corrections process is used to produce a fully continuous trajectory that satisfies the design constraints, and includes appropriate lunar and solar gravitational models. Based on this methodology, and using the manifold structure from dynamical systems theory, a technique is presented to optimize the cost associated with insertion onto a specified libration point orbit.

Howell, K. C.↗
NASA NTRS2005

Entry Abort Determination Using Non-Adaptive Neural Networks for Mars Precision Landers

The 2009 Mars Science Laboratory (MSL) will attempt the first precision landing on Mars using a modified version of the Apollo Earth entry guidance program. The guidance routine, Entry Terminal Point Controller (ETPC), commands the deployment of a supersonic parachute after converging the range to the landing target. For very dispersed cases, ETPC may not converge the range to the target and safely command parachute deployment within Mach number and dynamic pressure constraints. A full-lift up abort can save 85% of these failed trajectories while abandoning the precision landing objective. Though current MSL requirements do not call for an abort capability, an autonomous abort capability may be desired, for this mission or future Mars precision landers, to make the vehicle more robust. The application of artificial neural networks (NNs) as an abort determination technique was evaluated by personnel at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Johnson Space Center (JSC). In order to implement an abort, a failed trajectory needs to be recognized in real time. Abort determination is dependent upon several trajectory parameters whose relationships to vehicle survival are not well understood, and yet the lander must be trained to recognize unsafe situations. Artificial neural networks (NNs) provide a way to model these parameters and can provide MSL with the artificial intelligence necessary to independently declare an abort. Using the 2009 Mars Science Laboratory (MSL) mission as a case study, a non-adaptive NN was designed, trained and tested using Monte Carlo simulations of MSL descent and incorporated into ETPC. Neural network theory, the development history of the MSL NN, and initial testing with severe dust storm entry trajectory cases are discussed in Reference 1 and will not be repeated here. That analysis demonstrated that NNs are capable of recognizing failed descent trajectories and can significantly increase the survivability of MSL for very dispersed cases. NN testing was then broadened to evaluate fully dispersed entry trajectories. The NN correctly classified 99.7% of descent trajectories as abort or nonabort and reduced the probability of an unsafe parachute deployment by 83%. This second, broader testing phase is discussed in this paper.

Graybeal, Sarah R.↗
NASA NTRS2012

An Assessment of Comprehensive Code Prediction State-of-the-Art Using the HART II International Workshop Data

Despite significant advancements in computational fluid dynamics and their coupling with computational structural dynamics (= CSD, or comprehensive codes) for rotorcraft applications, CSD codes with their engineering level of modeling the rotor blade dynamics, the unsteady sectional aerodynamics and the vortical wake are still the workhorse for the majority of applications. This is especially true when a large number of parameter variations is to be performed and their impact on performance, structural loads, vibration and noise is to be judged in an approximate yet reliable and as accurate as possible manner. In this paper, the capabilities of such codes are evaluated using the HART II Inter- national Workshop data base, focusing on a typical descent operating condition which includes strong blade-vortex interactions. Three cases are of interest: the baseline case and two cases with 3/rev higher harmonic blade root pitch control (HHC) with different control phases employed. One setting is for minimum blade-vortex interaction noise radiation and the other one for minimum vibration generation. The challenge is to correctly predict the wake physics - especially for the cases with HHC - and all the dynamics, aerodynamics, modifications of the wake structure and the aero-acoustics coming with it. It is observed that the comprehensive codes used today have a surprisingly good predictive capability when they appropriately account for all of the physics involved. The minimum requirements to obtain these results are outlined.

vanderWall, Berend G.↗
NASA NTRS2013

The HART II International Workshop: An Assessment of the State-of-the-Art in Comprehensive Code Prediction

Significant advancements in computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and their coupling with computational structural dynamics (CSD, or comprehensive codes) for rotorcraft applications have been achieved recently. Despite this, CSD codes with their engineering level of modeling the rotor blade dynamics, the unsteady sectional aerodynamics and the vortical wake are still the workhorse for the majority of applications. This is especially true when a large number of parameter variations is to be performed and their impact on performance, structural loads, vibration and noise is to be judged in an approximate yet reliable and as accurate as possible manner. In this article, the capabilities of such codes are evaluated using the HART II International Workshop database, focusing on a typical descent operating condition which includes strong blade-vortex interactions. A companion article addresses the CFD/CSD coupled approach. Three cases are of interest: the baseline case and two cases with 3/rev higher harmonic blade root pitch control (HHC) with different control phases employed. One setting is for minimum blade-vortex interaction noise radiation and the other one for minimum vibration generation. The challenge is to correctly predict the wake physics-especially for the cases with HHC-and all the dynamics, aerodynamics, modifications of the wake structure and the aero-acoustics coming with it. It is observed that the comprehensive codes used today have a surprisingly good predictive capability when they appropriately account for all of the physics involved. The minimum requirements to obtain these results are outlined.

vanderWall, Berend G.↗
NASA NTRS2016

Late Time Multi-Wavelength Observations of Swift J1644+5734: A Luminous Optical/IR Bump and Quiescent X-Ray Emission

We present late time multi-wavelength observations of Swift J1644+57, suggested to be a relativistic tidal disruption flare (TDF). Our observations extend to greater than 4 years from discovery and show that 1.4 years after outburst the relativistic jet switched off on a timescale less than tens of days, corresponding to a power-law decay faster than t (sup -70). Beyond this point weak X-rays continue to be detected at an approximately constant luminosity of L (sub X) approximately equal to 5 times 10 (sup 42) ergs per second and are marginally inconsistent with a continuing decay of t (sup minus 5 divided by 3), similar to that seen prior to the switch-off. Host photometry enables us to infer a black hole mass of M (mass) (sub BH (black hole) equal to 3 times 10 (sup 6) the mass of the sun, consistent with the late time X-ray luminosity arising from sub-Eddington accretion onto the black hole in the form of either an unusually optically faint active galactic nucleus or a slowly varying phase of the transient. Optical/IR observations show a clear bump in the light curve at timescales of 30 to 50 days, with a peak magnitude (corrected for host galaxy extinction) of M (sub R) approximately equal to minus 22 to minus 23. The luminosity of the bump is significantly higher than seen in other, nonrelativisticTDFs and does not match any re-brightening seen at X-ray or radio wavelengths. Its luminosity, light curve shape, and spectrum are broadly similar to those seen in superluminous supervnovae, although subject to large uncertainties in the correction of the significant host extinction. We discuss these observations in the context of both TDF and massive star origins for Swift J1644+5734 and other candidate relativistic tidal flares.

galaxies: active – galaxies: jets – supernovae↗
NASA NTRSDate not supplied

Pressurized Rover Lunar Surface Windows Thermal Trade Study

The pressurized rover (PR) is a habitable lunar vehicle that supports up to two crew members and EVAs. The PR is expected to operate with a crew at the lunar south pole for up to 30 consecutive days. Lunar surface missions represent a significant thermal challenge due in part to the extreme changes in temperature environment. Minimizing heat leaks is essential to be able to survive cold phases of lunar surface missions. Windows in particular can be a significant source of heat leak when designed without thermal performance in mind. In addition, correctly modeling windows, and transparent materials in general, represents a significant thermal challenge. It can also be challenging to obtain accurate radiative properties for modern window materials. This study focuses on the modeling approach, results, and possible window heat leak mitigation techniques for pressurized rover. Mitigation techniques explored in this study include low emissivity coatings and removable internal or external covers. Window layup, geometry, and size are also assessed in this study for their impact to heat leak.

Sydney June Taylor↗
DOE OSTI2026

Continuum contribution to charged-current absorption of low-energy $ν_e$ on $^{40}$Ar

Accurate modeling of the absorption of tens-of-MeV $ν_e$ on $^{40}$Ar is needed to enable measurements of astrophysical neutrinos using large liquid argon time projection chamber (LArTPC) detectors, such as those planned for the Deep Underground Neutrino Experiment (DUNE). We revisit the MARLEY neutrino interaction model used in present estimates of DUNE sensitivity to supernova and solar neutrino signals. Multiple theoretical refinements are pursued, especially in the unbound continuum region of nuclear excitation energy. Inclusive charged-current neutrino-argon cross sections are calculated using a hybrid strategy. Nuclear transitions to unbound states are treated using a Hartree-Fock Continuum Random Phase Approximation (HF-CRPA) model, including forbidden contributions. Allowed transitions to low-lying discrete levels are also included using indirect measurements and approximate corrections for the momentum transfer dependence. Exclusive predictions are obtained by coupling these calculations with a statistical nuclear de-excitation model. The impact on observables of interest for DUNE and similar experiments is examined in terms of both total and differential cross sections. Our refined calculations predict a lower allowed portion of the cross section relative to the prior MARLEY model. At neutrino energies appreciably below 100 MeV, the inclusion of forbidden transitions does not fully compensate for the loss of allowed strength. For a representative neutrino burst from a galactic core-collapse supernova, our results suggest that MARLEY 1.2.0 overestimates the event yield in a DUNE-like detector by approximately 20%. However, because this overestimation is more severe at backwards angles, use of the charged-current $ν_e$-$^{40}$Ar reaction for supernova pointing may be more feasible than previously expected.

Gardiner, Steven [Fermilab]↗
DOE OSTI2023

N-particle irreducible actions for stochastic fluids

We construct one- and two-particle irreducible (1PI and 2PI) effective actions for the stochastic fluid dynamics of a conserved density undergoing diffusive motion. We compute the 1PI action in one-loop order and the 2PI action in two-loop approximation. We derive a set of Schwinger-Dyson equations and regularize the resulting equations using Pauli-Villars fields. We numerically solve the Schwinger-Dyson equations for a non-critical fluid. We find that higher-loop effects summed by the Schwinger-Dyson renormalize the non-linear coupling. We also find indications of a diffuson-cascade, the appearance of n-loop correction with smaller and smaller exponential suppression.

73 NUCLEAR PHYSICS AND RADIATION PHYSICS↗
NASA NTRS2001

Adjustable Focus Optical Correction Lens (AFOCL)

This report describes a metrology plan that was developed for the characterization of PLZT-based devices, such as the Adjustable Focus Optical Correction Lens (AFOCL) in support of and as part of the deliverables for NASA contract NAS8-00118. The areas to be investigated include intensiometric effects (those that limit or alter the intensity of the light transmitted through the optic); interferometric effects (the phase change induced through the optic); and polarimetric effects (evaluating the differential lag between two polarization states propagating through the optic). These distinct phenomena are often coupled together in real applications consequently, there is a need to develop different standardized testing apparatus to: (1) isolate one effect from another; (2) gather information for understanding the physical effects; (3) anchor wavefront corrector modeling efforts; (4) develop the ability to decouple different effects; (5) demonstrate the suitability of PLZT technology to perform wavefront correction. The Center for Applied Optics (CAO) at the University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH) is skilled in the characterization of transmission wavefront shaping devices using traditional interferometers available within the CAO Optical Metrology Laboratory and their Advanced Polarization Test Facility. Besides the imaging and interferometers available, the polarimetry facility has at its disposal, a Mueller Matrix Imaging Polarimeter (MMIP) which is well suited to the characterization of SLMs, polarizers, and thin film coatings within the visible and near-IR spectrums. In addition, the phase-shifting interferometry facilities at NASA-MSFC and the unique interferometers they processes are some of the most advanced available and may be of value especially for performing real-time optical performance evaluation of AFOCL test components.

Peters, Bruce R.↗
NASA NTRS2021

System Validation on the Europa Clipper mission in Early Implementation Phase

NASA’s next flag-ship mission - Europa Clipper, will embark on a journey to Jupiter’s icy moon Europa in 2024 to assess its environment and habitability with a highly capable spacecraft. Post Jupiter-Orbit-Insertion, the spacecraft will be commanded to perform intricate, yet meticulously planned Europa flybys to perform science investigations using a suite of instruments, while withstanding Jupiter’s harsh radiation environment. The success of this mission is dependent on a well-coordinated project and its elements such as the flight hardware and software, the ground support and mission operations teams, procedures and other cross-cutting elements. The Europa Clipper project needs to ensure that these elements are realized at a reasonable confidence level prior to launch and other mission critical events. System Validation test and analysis activities exercise and confirm the integrity of the system of all project elements in the expected flight environment with reasonable stressing conditions. These activities go beyond system design requirements verification and are driven by validation objectives that describe the end-to-end functional and operational capabilities required during nominal and off-nominal flight-like scenarios and critical events. The challenges associated with validating that the Europa Clipper project as a whole can function and perform correctly to meet the intended mission objectives with the as-delivered capabilities of all of its elements are daunting. This paper discusses the systematic methodology established in the early implementation phase of the Europa Clipper project for developing System Validation activities and their validation objectives, and addressing any validation-related challenges on the project. Approaches include decomposition of mission objectives using activity timelines in the Mission Design plan for developing nominal scenarios, use of fault trees for exploring off-nominal cases and system boundaries, and use of Model-based Systems Engineering (MBSE) tools for planning and prioritizing these activities.

Wang, Xu↗
DOE OSTI2025

Single-distance nano-holotomography with coded apertures

High-resolution phase-contrast 3D imaging using nano-holotomography typically requires collecting multiple tomograms at varying sample-to-detector distances, usually 3 to 4. This multi-distance approach limits temporal resolution, making it impractical for operando studies. Moreover, shifting the sample complicates reconstruction, requiring precise alignment, registration, and interpolation to correct for shift-dependent magnification on the detector. In response, we propose and validate through simulations a novel, to the best of our knowledge, single-distance approach that leverages coded apertures to structure beam illumination while the sample rotates. Finally, this approach relies on a joint reconstruction scheme, which integrates phase retrieval with 3D tomography, ensuring data consistency and achieving artifact-free reconstructions from a single distance, unlocking dynamic experiments.

Nikitin, Viktor [Argonne National Laboratory (ANL)↗
DOE OSTI2022

Double-Bilayer polar nanoregions and Mn antisites in (Ca, Sr)3Mn2O7

Abstract The layered perovskite Ca 3 Mn 2 O 7 (CMO) is a hybrid improper ferroelectric candidate proposed for room temperature multiferroicity, which also displays negative thermal expansion behavior due to a competition between coexisting polar and nonpolar phases. However, little is known about the atomic-scale structure of the polar/nonpolar phase coexistence or the underlying physics of its formation and transition. In this work, we report the direct observation of double bilayer polar nanoregions (db-PNRs) in Ca 2.9 Sr 0.1 Mn 2 O 7 using aberration-corrected scanning transmission electron microscopy (S/TEM). In-situ TEM heating experiments show that the db-PNRs can exist up to 650 °C. Electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) studies coupled with first-principles calculations demonstrate that the stabilization mechanism of the db-PNRs is directly related to an Mn oxidation state change (from 4+ to 2+), which is linked to the presence of Mn antisite defects. These findings open the door to manipulating phase coexistence and achieving exotic properties in hybrid improper ferroelectric.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗
DOE OSTI2026

Unveiling horizons in quantum critical collapse

Critical gravitational collapse offers a unique window into regimes of arbitrarily high curvature, culminating in a naked singularity arising from smooth initial data — thus providing a dynamical counterexample to weak cosmic censorship. Near the critical regime, quantum effects from the collapsing matter are expected to intervene before full quantum gravity resolves the singularity. Despite its fundamental significance, a self-consistent treatment has so far remained elusive. In this work, we perform a one-loop semiclassical analysis using the robust anomaly-based method in the canonical setup of Einstein gravity minimally coupled to a free, massless scalar field. Focusing on explicitly solvable near-critical solutions in both 2 + 1 and 3 + 1 dimensions, we analytically solve the semiclassical Einstein equations and obtain controlled, quantitative results for several long-standing questions within the dominant s-wave sector. We find that regularity uniquely selects a Boulware-like quantum state, encoding genuine vacuum polarization effects from the collapsing matter. Remarkably, the resulting quantum corrections manifest as a growing mode. Horizon-tracing analyses, incorporating both classical and quantum modes, reveal the emergence of a finite mass gap, signaling a phase transition from classical Type II to quantum-modified Type I behavior, thereby providing a quantum enforcement of the weak cosmic censorship. The most non-trivial aspect of our analysis involves dealing with non-conformal matter fields in explicitly time-dependent critical spacetimes. Along the way, we uncover intriguing and previously underexplored features of quantum field theory in curved spacetime.

2D Gravity↗
DOE OSTI2024

Neutron scattering and neural-network quantum molecular dynamics investigation of the vibrations of ammonia along the solid-to-liquid transition

Abstract Vibrational spectroscopy allows us to understand complex physical and chemical interactions of molecular crystals and liquids such as ammonia, which has recently emerged as a strong hydrogen fuel candidate to support a sustainable society. We report inelastic neutron scattering measurement of vibrational properties of ammonia along the solid-to-liquid phase transition with high enough resolution for direct comparisons to ab-initio simulations. Theoretical analysis reveals the essential role of nuclear quantum effects (NQEs) for correctly describing the intermolecular spectrum as well as high energy intramolecular N-H stretching modes. This is achieved by training neural network models using ab-initio path-integral molecular dynamics (PIMD) simulations, thereby encompassing large spatiotemporal trajectories required to resolve low energy dynamics while retaining NQEs. Our results not only establish the role of NQEs in ammonia but also provide general computational frameworks to study complex molecular systems with NQEs.

37 INORGANIC, ORGANIC, PHYSICAL, AND ANALYTICAL CH↗
DOE OSTI2021

Fractional chiral hinge insulator

We propose and study a wave function describing an interacting three-dimensional fractional chiral hinge insulator (FCHI) constructed by Gutzwiller projection of two noninteracting second-order topological insulators with chiral hinge modes at half filling. We use large-scale variational Monte Carlo computations to characterize the model states via the entanglement entropy and charge-spin fluctuations. We show that the FCHI possesses fractional chiral hinge modes characterized by a central charge c = 1 and Luttinger parameter K = 1/2, like the edge modes of a Laughlin 1/2 state. The bulk and surface topology is characterized by the topological entanglement entropy (TEE) correction to the area law. While our computations indicate a vanishing bulk TEE, we show that the gapped surfaces host an unconventional two-dimensional topological phase. In a clear departure from the physics of a Laughlin 1/2 state, we find a TEE per surface compatible with (ln √2 )/2, half that of a Laughlin 1/2 state. This value cannot be obtained from topological quantum field theory for purely two-dimensional systems. For the sake of completeness, we also investigate the topological degeneracy.

75 CONDENSED MATTER PHYSICS, SUPERCONDUCTIVITY AND↗
DOE OSTI2019

Reduced Common-Mode Voltage PWM Scheme for Full-SiC Three-Level Uninterruptible Power Supply With Small DC-Link Capacitors

In this article, a pulsewidth modulation (PWM) scheme for three-level full-SiC uninterruptible power supplies is developed to achieve a high power density. Two key passive components are selected for size reduction of the ac-ac stage: common-mode (CM) EMI filter, and dc-link capacitors. To reduce the CM noise, a new vector combination is proposed based on synchronous switching among three-phases. The proposed combinations align CM voltage (CMV) to be a single pulse per switching period. Owing to the simple shape, CMV cancellation between a three-level rectifier and inverter can be maximally utilized. A transition between the three combinations can control the drift of neutral point voltage. An equivalent carrier-based implementation is developed. Second, a simple algorithm to compensate neutral point voltage fluctuation is proposed both for differential mode (DM) and CM output voltage. Low-order harmonics on three-phase currents and an additional high-frequency CM noise by misaligned switching instant can be eliminated. The proposed compensation can be implemented by a simple correction on carrier slopes and injected zero-sequence voltage. The proposed PWM scheme is verified with 20-kW full-SiC UPS switching at 60 kHz with 140 μF dc-link capacitors.

42 ENGINEERING↗
NASA NTRS1995

Nonlinear system guidance in the presence of transmission zero dynamics

An iterative procedure is proposed for computing the commanded state trajectories and controls that guide a possibly multiaxis, time-varying, nonlinear system with transmission zero dynamics through a given arbitrary sequence of control points. The procedure is initialized by the system inverse with the transmission zero effects nulled out. Then the 'steady state' solution of the perturbation model with the transmission zero dynamics intact is computed and used to correct the initial zero-free solution. Both time domain and frequency domain methods are presented for computing the steady state solutions of the possibly nonminimum phase transmission zero dynamics. The procedure is illustrated by means of linear and nonlinear examples.

Meyer, G.↗