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At least 109 records · Page 6

Application of Ensemble Detection and Analysis to Modeling Uncertainty in Non Stationary Process

Characterization of non stationary and nonlinear processes is a challenge in many engineering and scientific disciplines. Climate change modeling and projection, retrieving information from Doppler measurements of hydrometeors, and modeling calibration architectures and algorithms in microwave radiometers are example applications that can benefit from improvements in the modeling and analysis of non stationary processes. Analyses of measured signals have traditionally been limited to a single measurement series. Ensemble Detection is a technique whereby mixing calibrated noise produces an ensemble measurement set. The collection of ensemble data sets enables new methods for analyzing random signals and offers powerful new approaches to studying and analyzing non stationary processes. Derived information contained in the dynamic stochastic moments of a process will enable many novel applications.

Racette, Paul↗

Large eddy simulation of a boundary layer with concave streamwise curvature

One of the most exciting recent developments in the field of large eddy simulation (LES) is the dynamic subgrid-scale model. The dynamic model concept is a general procedure for evaluating model constants by sampling a band of the smallest scales actually resolved in the simulation. To date, the procedure has been used primarily in conjunction with the Smagorinsky model. The dynamic procedure has the advantage that the value of the model constant need not be specified a priori, but rather is calculated as a function of space and time as the simulation progresses. This feature makes the dynamic model especially attractive for flows in complex geometries where it is difficult or impossible to calibrate model constants. The dynamic model was highly successful in benchmark tests involving homogeneous and channel flows. Having demonstrated the potential of the dynamic model in these simple flows, the overall direction of the LES effort at CTR shifted toward an evaluation of the model in more complex situations. The current test cases are basic engineering-type flows for which Reynolds averaged approaches were unable to model the turbulence to within engineering accuracy. Flows currently under investigation include a backward-facing step, wake behind a circular cylinder, airfoil at high angles of attack, separated flow in a diffuser, and boundary layer over a concave surface. Preliminary results from the backward-facing step and cylinder wake simulations are encouraging. Progress on the LES of a boundary layer on a concave surface is discussed. Although the geometry of a concave wall is not very complex, the boundary layer that develops on its surface is difficult to model due to the presence of streamwise Taylor-Gortler vortices. These vortices arise as a result of a centrifugal instability associated with the convex curvature.

Lund, Thomas S.↗

Three-Component Force Measurements on a Scramjet in a Reflected-Shock Tunnel

A three-component stress-wave force-balance for a large scramjet has been designed, calibrated and tested in the HYPULSE reflected shock tunnel at GASL Inc., New York. The scramjet model is over 3-foot long and weighs in excess of 90 Ibm. The stress-wave force-balance is comprised of three stress bars which are attached to the model. Calibration results indicate that the force balance responds well within about 1 ms and that the sensitivity of the balance to the distribution of load is not large. Results with and without fuel injection were obtained in the tunnel operated for Mach 7 and Mach 10 flight simulation. These tests showed the force-balance can resolve axial force increments due to combustion of about 40 lb in the presence of model lift forces of 500-700 lb.

Tsai, C.-Y.↗

Automatic calibration of space based manipulators and mechanisms

Four tasks in manipulator kinematic calibration are summarized. Calibration of a seven degree of freedom manipulator was simulated. A calibration model is presented that can be applied on a closed-loop robot. It is an expansion of open-loop kinematic calibration algorithms subject to constraints. A closed-loop robot with a five-bar linkage transmission was tested. Results show that the algorithm converges within a few iterations. The concept of model differences is formalized. Differences are categorized as structural and numerical, with emphasis on the structural. The work demonstrates that geometric manipulators can be visualized as points in a vector space with the dimension of the space depending solely on the number and type of manipulator joint. Visualizing parameters in a kinematic model as the coordinates locating the manipulator in vector space enables a standard evaluation of the models. Key results include a derivation of the maximum number of parameters necessary for models, a formal discussion on the inclusion of extra parameters, and a method to predetermine a minimum model structure for a kinematic manipulator. A technique is presented that enables single point sensors to gather sufficient information to complete a calibration.

Everett, Louis J.↗

SWOT Applications in Alaska

Use of SWOT for model calibration and assimilation are encouraging, but further work is needed: account for uncertainty in meteorological forcing (calibration) and apply ensemble Kalman Smoother (data assimilation). Lessons learned can inform development of operational NOAA National Water Model Alaskan domain and other SWOT applications.

SWOT↗

Aspects of spatial and temporal aggregation in estimating regional carbon dioxide fluxes from temperate forest soils

We examine the influence of aggregation errors on developing estimates of regional soil-CO2 flux from temperate forests. We find daily soil-CO2 fluxes to be more sensitive to changes in soil temperatures (Q(sub 10) = 3.08) than air temperatures (Q(sub 10) = 1.99). The direct use of mean monthly air temperatures with a daily flux model underestimates regional fluxes by approximately 4%. Temporal aggregation error varies with spatial resolution. Overall, our calibrated modeling approach reduces spatial aggregation error by 9.3% and temporal aggregation error by 15.5%. After minimizing spatial and temporal aggregation errors, mature temperate forest soils are estimated to contribute 12.9 Pg C/yr to the atmosphere as carbon dioxide. Georeferenced model estimates agree well with annual soil-CO2 fluxes measured during chamber studies in mature temperate forest stands around the globe.

Kicklighter, David W.↗

An experimental summary of plasma arc exposures of space shuttle high-temperature reusable surface insulation tile array with a single missing tile (conducted at the Ames Research Center)

A space shuttle high temperature reusable surface insulation (HRSI) tile array with a single missing or lost tile was exposed to a hot gas simulated reentry environment to investigate the heating conditions in and around the vicinity of the missing HRSI tile. Heat flux and pressure data for the lost tile condition were obtained by the use of a water cooled lost tile calibration model. The maximum aluminum substrate temperature obtained during the simulated reentry was 128 C (263 F). The lost tile calibration data indicated a maximum heat flux in the lost tile cavity region of 63 percent of the upstream reference value. This test was conducted at the Ames Research Center in the 20 MW semielliptical thermal protection system (TPS) pilot plasma arc test facility.

Galanter, S. A.↗

Predictions Of Fatigue Damage From Strain Histories

Semiempirical mathematical model of fatigue damage in stressed objects uses experimental histories of strains in those objects to predict fatigue lives. Accounts for initiation and propagation of fatigue cracks on cycle-by-cycle basis. Measured strain history first digitized, then converted to history of turning-point strains for purposes of analysis. Data between turning points not used. When model calibrated against proper test data for each type of object characterized, its predictions of fatigue lives superior to statistical models as one based on root-mean-square strain.

Sire, Robert A.↗

Characterizations of the Earth Radiation Budget Experiment (ERBE) scanning radiometers

NASA's Earth Radiation Budget Experiment employs the Earth Radiation Budget Satellite and the NOAA 9 and 10 spacecraft to obtain absolute measurements of incoming solar radiation, shortwave earth-reflected solar radiation, and longwave earth-emitted radiation, using both scanning and nonscanning radiometers. Each of the three remote-sensing spacecraft carry narrow FOV scanning radiometers whose detection sensors are thermistor bolometers. Attention is presently given to the calibration models and methods employed in characterizing the scanning radiometers' output signals; the design features of the scanners and flight calibration systems are presented.

Lee, Robert B., III↗

Chronology of surface units on the icy satellites of Saturn

Because the impact flux history in the Saturnian system has been similar in its general form to that for the inner solar system and Jupiter, it is possible to develop an absolute calibration model for the relative ages derived from the density of impact craters. This has been done by identifying the density at which the crater populations change characteristics from that during post-accretion heavy bombardment to a later population of low but continuous flux. The transition between these two populations occurred at a known time throughout the solar system, 3.9 by, and provides an absolute calibration point on which to construct a calibration curve. Results based on calibrating relative age data to this absolute flux model suggest that most surfaces are ancient, greater than 3.9 by (or within several 100 million years). Only Enceladus and Dione have had prolonged activity that has resulted in resurfacing. The activity on Enceladus was probably driven by tidal forces, whereas the mechanism for driving resurfacing on Dione has yet to be identified.

Boyce, J. M.↗

Simple Parametric Model for Intensity Calibration of Cassini Composite Infrared Spectrometer Data

Accurate intensity calibration of a linear Fourier-transform spectrometer typically requires the unknown science target and the two calibration targets to be acquired under identical conditions. We present a simple model suitable for vector calibration that enables accurate calibration via adjustments of measured spectral amplitudes and phases when these three targets are recorded at different detector or optics temperatures. Our model makes calibration more accurate both by minimizing biases due to changing instrument temperatures that are always present at some level and by decreasing estimate variance through incorporating larger averages of science and calibration interferogram scans.

Brasunas, J.↗

Tidal disruption of Periodic Comet Shoemaker-Levy 9 and a constraint on its mean density

The apparent tidal disruption of Periodic Comet Shoemaker-Levy 9 (1993e) during a close encounter within approximately 1.62 planetary radii of Jupiter can be used along with theoretical models of tidal disruption to place an upper bound on the density of the predisruption body. Depending on the theoretical model used, these upper bounds range from rho(sub c) less than 0.702 +/- 0.080 g/cu cm for a simple analytical model calibrated by numerical smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH) simulations to rho(sub c) less than 1.50 +/- 0.17 g/cu cm for a detailed semianalytical model. The quoted uncertainties stem from an assumed uncertainty in the perijove radius. However, the uncertainty introduced by the different theoretical models is the major source of error; this uncertainty could be eliminated by future SPH simulations specialized to cometary disruptions, including the effects of initially prolate, spinning comets. If the SPH-based upper bound turns out to be most appropriate, it would be consistent with the predisruption body being a comet with a relatively low density and porous structure, as has been asserted previously based on observations of cometary outgassing. Regardless of which upper bound is preferable, the models all agree that the predisruption body could not have been a relatively high-density body, such as an asteroid with rho approximately = 2 g/cu cm.

Boss, Alan P.↗

Using Commercial Satellite Imagery to Reconstruct 3 m and Daily Spring Snow Water Equivalent

Snow water equivalent (SWE) distribution at fine spatial scales (≤10 m) is difficult to estimate due to modeling and observational constraints. However, the distribution of SWE throughout the spring snowmelt season is often correlated to the timing of snow disappearance. Here, we show that snow cover maps generated from PlanetScope's constellation of Dove Satellites can resolve the 3 m date of snow disappearance across seven alpine domains in California and Colorado. Across a 5-year period (2019–2023), the average uncertainty in the date of snow disappearance, or the period of time between the last date of observed snow cover and the first date of observed snow absence, was 3 days. Using a simple shortwave-based snowmelt model calibrated at nearby snow pillows, the PlanetScope date of snow disappearance could be used to reconstruct spring SWE. Relative to lidar SWE estimates, the SWE reconstruction had a spatial coefficient of correlation of 0.75, and SWE spatial variability that was biased by 9%, on average. SWE reconstruction biases were then improved to within 0.04 m, on average, by calibrating snowmelt rates to track the spring temporal evolution of fractional snow cover observed by PlanetScope, including fractional snow cover over the full modeling domain, and across domain subsections where snowmelt rates may differ. This study demonstrates the utility of fine-scale and high-frequency optical observations of snow cover, and the simple and annually repeatable connections between snow cover and spring snow water resources in regions with seasonal snowpack.

Justin M Pflug↗

Deep space network software cost estimation model

A parametric software cost estimation model prepared for Deep Space Network (DSN) Data Systems implementation tasks is presented. The resource estimation model incorporates principles and data from a number of existing models. The model calibrates task magnitude and difficulty, development environment, and software technology effects through prompted responses to a set of approximately 50 questions. Parameters in the model are adjusted to fit DSN software life cycle statistics. The estimation model output scales a standard DSN Work Breakdown Structure skeleton, which is then input into a PERT/CPM system, producing a detailed schedule and resource budget for the project being planned.

Tausworthe, R. C.↗

Software cost/resource modeling: Deep space network software cost estimation model

A parametric software cost estimation model prepared for JPL deep space network (DSN) data systems implementation tasks is presented. The resource estimation model incorporates principles and data from a number of existing models, such as those of the General Research Corporation, Doty Associates, IBM (Walston-Felix), Rome Air Force Development Center, University of Maryland, and Rayleigh-Norden-Putnam. The model calibrates task magnitude and difficulty, development environment, and software technology effects through prompted responses to a set of approximately 50 questions. Parameters in the model are adjusted to fit JPL software lifecycle statistics. The estimation model output scales a standard DSN work breakdown structure skeleton, which is then input to a PERT/CPM system, producing a detailed schedule and resource budget for the project being planned.

Tausworthe, R. J.↗

Deep space network software cost estimation model

A parametric software cost estimation model prepared for Jet PRopulsion Laboratory (JPL) Deep Space Network (DSN) Data System implementation tasks is described. The resource estimation mdel modifies and combines a number of existing models. The model calibrates the task magnitude and difficulty, development environment, and software technology effects through prompted responses to a set of approximately 50 questions. Parameters in the model are adjusted to fit JPL software life-cycle statistics.

Tausworthe, R. C.↗

Improved Analysis of GW150914 Using a Fully Spin-Precessing Waveform Model

This paper presents updated estimates of source parameters for GW150914, a binary black-hole coalescence event detected by the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-wave Observatory (LIGO) in 2015 [Abbott et al. Phys. Rev. Lett. 116, 061102 (2016).]. Abbott et al. [Phys. Rev. Lett. 116, 241102 (2016).] presented parameter estimation of the source using a 13-dimensional, phenomenological precessing-spin model (precessing IMRPhenom) and an 11-dimensional nonprecessing effective-one-body (EOB) model calibrated to numerical-relativity simulations, which forces spin alignment (nonprecessing EOBNR). Here, we present new results that include a 15-dimensional precessing-spin waveform model (precessing EOBNR) developed within the EOB formalism. We find good agreement with the parameters estimated previously [Abbott et al. Phys. Rev. Lett. 116, 241102 (2016).], and we quote updated component masses of 35(+5)(-3) solar M; and 30(+3)(-4) solar M; (where errors correspond to 90 symmetric credible intervals). We also present slightly tighter constraints on the dimensionless spin magnitudes of the two black holes, with a primary spin estimate is less than 0.65 and a secondary spin estimate is less than 0.75 at 90% probability. Abbott et al. [Phys. Rev. Lett. 116, 241102 (2016).] estimated the systematic parameter-extraction errors due to waveform-model uncertainty by combining the posterior probability densities of precessing IMRPhenom and nonprecessing EOBNR. Here, we find that the two precessing-spin models are in closer agreement, suggesting that these systematic errors are smaller than previously quoted.

Abbott, B. P.↗

A Hybrid CFD/Engineering Model for Predicting Plume Induced Erosion and Cratering

The Descent Interpolated Gas-Granular Erosion Model (DIGGEM) is a hybrid computational fluid dynamics (CFD) / engineering model calibrated with flight data from Apollo. It is used for the prediction of plume induced viscous erosion and cratering during the descent of landing vehicles. The model assumes a functional relationship between local shear stress and eroded mass flux. It is used along with a suite of other tools to predict complex plume induced environments for Human Landing System (HLS) and Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPSS) vehicles.

PSI↗