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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 109 records · Page 6
All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
NASA NTRS1959

An Analysis of Flight-Test Measurements of the Wing Structural Deformations in Rough Air of a Large Flexible Swept-Wing Airplane

An analysis is made of wing deflection and streamwise twist measurements in rough-air flight of a large flexible swept-wing bomber. Random-process techniques are employed in analyzing the data in order to describe the magnitude and characteristics of the wing deflection and twist responses to rough air. Power spectra and frequency-response functions for the wing deflection and twist responses at several spanwise stations are presented. The frequency-response functions describe direct and absolute response characteristics to turbulence and provide a convenient basis for assessing analytic calculation techniques. The wing deformations in rough air are compared with the expected deformations for quasi-static loadings of the same magnitude, and the amplifications are determined. The results obtained indicate that generally the deflections are amplified by a small amount, while the streamwise twists are amplified by factors of the order of 2.0. The magnitudes of both the deflection velocities and the twist angles are shown to have significant effects on the local angles of attack at the various stations and provide the main source of aerodynamic loading, particularly at frequencies in the vicinity of the first wing-vibration mode.

Murrow, Harold N.↗
NASA NTRS1991

Quaternary pulse position modulation electronics for free-space laser communications

The development of a high data-rate communications electronic subsystem for future application in free-space, direct-detection laser communications is described. The dual channel subsystem uses quaternary pulse position modulation (QPPM) and operates at a throughput of 650 megabits per second. Transmitting functions described include source data multiplexing, channel data multiplexing, and QPPM symbol encoding. Implementation of a prototype version in discrete gallium arsenide logic, radiofrequency components, and microstrip circuitry is presented.

Budinger, J. M.↗
NASA NTRS1991

Quaternary pulse position modulation electronics for free-space laser communications

The development of a high data-rate communications electronic subsystem for future application in free-space, direct-detection laser communications is described. The dual channel subsystem uses quaternary pulse position modulation (GPPM) and operates at a throughput of 650 megabits per second. Transmitting functions described include source data multiplexing, channel data multiplexing, and QPPM symbol encoding. Implementation of a prototype version in discrete gallium arsenide logic, radiofrequency components, and microstrip circuitry is presented.

Budinger, J. M.↗
NASA NTRS2018

A Fast Monte Carlo Method for Model-Based Prognostics Based on Stochastic Calculus

This work proposes a fast Monte Carlo method to solve differential equations utilized in model-based prognostics. The methodology is derived from the theory of stochastic calculus, and the goal of such a method is to speed up the estimation of the probability density functions describing the independent variable evolution over time. In the prognostic scenarios presented in this paper, the stochastic differential equations describe variables directly or indirectly related to the degradation of a monitored system. The method allows the estimation of the probability density functions by solving the deterministic equation and approximating the stochastic integrals using samples of the model noise. By so doing, the prognostic problem is solved without the Monte Carlo simulation based on Euler's forward method, which is typically the most time consuming task of the prediction stage. Three different prognostic scenarios are presented as proof of concept: (i) life prediction of electrolytic capacitors, (ii) remaining time to discharge of Lithium-ion batteries, and (iii) prognostic of cracked structures under fatigue loading. The paper shows how the method produces probability density functions that are statistically indistinguishable from the distributions estimated with Euler's forward Monte Carlo simulation. However, the proposed solution is orders of magnitude faster when computing the time-to-failure distribution of the monitored system. The approach may enable complex real-time prognostics and health management solutions with limited computing power.

Corbetta, M.↗
NASA NTRS2019

A Fast Monte Carlo Method for Model-Based Prognostics Based on Stochastic Calculus

This work proposes a fast Monte Carlo method to solve differential equations utilized in model-based prognostics. The methodology is derived from the theory of stochastic calculus, and the goal of such a method is to speed up the estimation of the probability density functions describing the independent variable evolution over time. In the prognostic scenarios presented in this paper, the stochastic differential equations describe variables directly or indirectly related to the degradation of a monitored system. The method allows the estimation of the probability density functions by solving the deterministic equation and approximating the stochastic integrals using samples of the model noise. By so doing, the prognostic problem is solved without the Monte Carlo simulation based on Euler's forward method, which is typically the most time consuming task of the prediction stage. Three different prognostic scenarios are presented as proof of concept: (i) life prediction of electrolytic capacitors, (ii) remaining time to discharge of Lithium-ion batteries, and (iii) prognostic of cracked structures under fatigue loading. The paper shows how the method produces probability density functions that are statistically indistinguishable from the distributions estimated with Euler's forward Monte Carlo simulation. However, the proposed solution is orders of magnitude faster when computing the time-to-failure distribution of the monitored system. The approach may enable complex real-time prognostics and health management solutions with limited computing power.

stochastic calculus↗
DOE OSTI2026

Ecological and genomic variation in ectomycorrhizal fungal exploration types

Ectomycorrhizal fungi (EMF) produce mycelia with variable extension and complexity, which can be classified according to soil ‘exploration types’ (ETs). ETs have received attention as one of the few mycorrhizal trait frameworks, but without an empirical classification of ET functional diversity and environmental preferences, understanding and interpreting EMF biogeographic patterns has been difficult. We conducted a synthesis combining: comparative EMF genomics to describe functional divergence in decomposition and nutrient cycling genes across ETs; and EMF trait distribution modeling across continental Europe, pairing soil and root EMF surveys to establish biogeographic ET niche profiles. We demonstrate a signature of ETs encoded in EMF genomes, which is independent from phylogeny and linked to biomass production strategies. EMF ET relative abundances were separated by soil, root, and dominant tree leaf type habitats and exhibited unique correlations with forest biotic (e.g. plant productivity and plant pathogen densities) and abiotic (e.g. nitrogen deposition and soil pH) conditions. These findings support a theory that EMF niche partitioning can be partially explained by extraradical mycelial traits, with underlying variation in ET biogeography likely arising from distinct decomposition and nutrient cycling potentials. We also identify important limitations to this trait framework and provide a guided outlook for future research.

biogeography↗
DOE OSTI2024

SpinQuest in 10 Minutes

The SpinQuest experiment at Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory uses a 120 GeV proton beam from the Main Injector, incident upon transversely polarized protons and deuterons using $NH_3$ and $ND_3$ targets, respectively. SpinQuest will perform the first measurement of the Sivers asymmetry in Drell-Yan \(pp\) and \(pd\) scattering from sea quarks, thereby contributing to the world data to extract the Sivers function for the light sea quarks. This function describes the correlation between the momentum direction of the struck quark and the spin of its parent nucleon. A non-vanishing Sivers function for the sea quarks is evidence that there is sea quark orbital angular momentum (OAM). There are additional opportunities to study transverse-spin effects with the SpinQuest experiment, particularly the transverse single-spin asymmetry (TSSA) in \( J/\psi \) production. An update on the current status and progress of the experiment will be given.

72 PHYSICS OF ELEMENTARY PARTICLES AND FIELDS↗
NASA NTRS2005

Conflict Prevention and Separation Assurance Method in the Small Aircraft Transportation System

A multilayer approach to the prevention of conflicts due to the loss of aircraft-to-aircraft separation which relies on procedures and on-board automation was implemented as part of the SATS HVO Concept of Operations. The multilayer system gives pilots support and guidance during the execution of normal operations and advance warning for procedure deviations or off-nominal operations. This paper describes the major concept elements of this multilayer approach to separation assurance and conflict prevention and provides the rationale for its design. All the algorithms and functionality described in this paper have been implemented in an aircraft simulation in the NASA Langley Research Center s Air Traffic Operation Lab and on the NASA Cirrus SR22 research aircraft.

Consiglio, Maria C.↗
NASA NTRS1991

Description of the control system design for the SSF PMAD DC testbed

The Power Management and Distribution (PMAD) DC Testbed Control System for Space Station Freedom was developed using a top down approach based on classical control system and conventional terrestrial power utilities design techniques. The design methodology includes the development of a testbed operating concept. This operating concept describes the operation of the testbed under all possible scenarios. A unique set of operating states was identified and a description of each state, along with state transitions, was generated. Each state is represented by a unique set of attributes and constraints, and its description reflects the degree of system security within which the power system is operating. Using the testbed operating states description, a functional design for the control system was developed. This functional design consists of a functional outline, a text description, and a logical flowchart for all the major control system functions. Described here are the control system design techniques, various control system functions, and the status of the design and implementation.

Baez, Anastacio N.↗
NASA NTRS1991

Description of the control system design for the SSF PMAD DC testbed

The Power Management and Distribution (PMAD) DC Testbed Control System for Space Station Freedom was developed using a top down approach based on classical control system and conventional terrestrial power utilities design techniques. The design methodology includes the development of a testbed operating concept. This operating concept describes the operation of the testbed under all possible scenarios. A unique set of operating states was identified and a description of each state, along with state transitions, was generated. Each state is represented by a unique set of attributes and constraints, and its description reflects the degree of system security within which the power system is operating. Using the testbed operating states description, a functional design for the control system was developed. This functional design consists of a functional outline, a text description, and a logical flowchart for all the major control system functions. Described here are the control system design techniques, various control system functions, and the status of the design and implementation.

Baez, Anastacio N.↗
DOE OSTI2024

The 1 → 3 massive splitting functions from QCD factorization and SCET

Splitting functions are universal functions describing the collinear dynamics of gauge theories, and as such are crucial ingredients for a wide variety of calculations in perturbative QCD. We present analytic results for the triple collinear splitting functions in QCD with a single massive parton. We derive the splitting functions using two distinct methods; first by expanding the squared matrix elements in the collinear limit, and secondly by using soft-collinear effective theory with massive quarks. We find agreement between these two approaches, providing a strong check of our results. Additionally, we also check all iterated and soft limits of our results, finding agreement with predictions from factorization. Our results provide an important ingredient for higher order perturbative calculations involving massive partons, and for the description of the collinear dynamics of heavy flavor jets.

72 PHYSICS OF ELEMENTARY PARTICLES AND FIELDS↗
NASA NTRS1972

The interpretation of total line intensities from optically thin gases. I, II, III.

Description of a general method for inferring, from the line emission of an optically thin medium, the physical state of a gas along the column in a line of sight. The method is devised for applications to astronomy, especially for studies of the solar corona, the chromosphere-corona transition region, planetary nebulae, and other optically thin sources. A unique specification is found in terms of a bivariate distribution function describing the partitioning of matter in a gas over density and temperature. It is shown that, given sufficient observational data, it is in principle possible to determine both this bivariate distribution function and the chemical composition. The formulation for a situation encountered in the solar corona illustrates the application of the method.

Jefferies, J. T.↗
NASA NTRS1976

The Space Shuttle's testing gauntlet

The Space Shuttle verification program is detailed, with verification network flowcharts. Performance qualification tests, life endurance tests, structural verification tests, and vibration/dynamic tests of components, subsystems, and major systems at various test levels are dealt with. Ground tests, static firings of the Shuttle main engine, external-tank separation tests, ground vibration tests of vehicle mated to external tank, and main propulsion tests and test scheduling are described. Functions of the Shuttle avionics integration laboratory and electronic systems test laboratory are discussed. Test preparations and procedures for orbital flight testing, launch pad tests, and Shuttle approach- and landing-tests are described.

Mcintosh, G. P.↗
NASA NTRS1993

Application of multigrid methods to the solution of liquid crystal equations on a SIMD computer

We will describe a finite difference code for computing the equilibrium configurations of the order-parameter tensor field for nematic liquid crystals in rectangular regions by minimization of the Landau-de Gennes Free Energy functional. The implementation of the free energy functional described here includes magnetic fields, quadratic gradient terms, and scalar bulk terms through the fourth order. Boundary conditions include the effects of strong surface anchoring. The target architectures for our implementation are SIMD machines, with interconnection networks which can be configured as 2 or 3 dimensional grids, such as the Wavetracer DTC. We also discuss the relative efficiency of a number of iterative methods for the solution of the linear systems arising from this discretization on such architectures.

Farrell, Paul A.↗
NASA NTRS1975

Research study on stabilization and control: Modern sampled-data control theory. Design of the large space telescope system

Conditions of self-sustained oscillations in a two-axis model of the nonlinear LST system are studied. The describing function of the CMG frictional nonlinearity of the LST system is used for the analysis, as well as continuous-data and discrete-data models of the simplified LST control system. A numerical-iterative method is described for the analysis of the two-axis system. Approximation methods and the direct plotting of the stability equation are implemented in the study. It is shown that although the dynamics of the two axes are identical, the amplitudes of self-sustained oscillations in the two axes may in principle be different. Analysis shows that the LST systems are of equal amplitudes but with 180-degree phase shift.

Kuo, B. C.↗
NASA NTRS1973

Trends in transport aircraft avionics

A survey of avionics onboard present commercial transport aircraft was conducted to identify trends in avionics systems characteristics and to determine the impact of technology advances on equipment weight, cost, reliability, and maintainability. Transport aircraft avionics systems are described under the headings of communication, navigation, flight control, and instrumentation. The equipment included in each section is described functionally. However, since more detailed descriptions of the equipment can be found in other sources, the description is limited and emphasis is put on configuration requirements. Since airborne avionics systems must interface with ground facilities, certain ground facilities are described as they relate to the airborne systems, with special emphasis on air traffic control and all-weather landing capability.

Berkstresser, B. K.↗
NASA NTRS1975

Automatic documentation system extension to multi-manufacturers' computers and to measure, improve, and predict software reliability. Appendix A and B

A manual which explains how to use the DOMONIC command language is presented. The manual consists of the following sections: 1. Introduction 2. What You Must Know to Use DOMONIC 3. Functions of DOMONIC 4. Entering and Manipulating Data 5. Templates and Data Definitions 6. Recipes and Document Generation 7. Initiating A Project and 8. Entering and Changing Security Controls. The first four sections must be known by all DOMONIC users. Sections five, seven and eight describe functions normally used only by project management. Section six tells how to generate documents. The manual specifies what commands to use in performing each of the functions mentioned above.

Simmons, D. B.↗