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At least 109 records · Page 6

An Evolutionary Optimization System for Spacecraft Design

Spacecraft design optimization is a domian that can benefit from the application of optimization algorithms such as genetic algorithms. In this paper, we describe DEVO, an evolutionary optimization system that addresses these issues and provides a tool that can be applied to a number of real-world spacecraft design applications. We describe two current applications of DEVO: physical design if a Mars Microprobe Soil Penetrator, and system configuration optimization for a Neptune Orbiter.

Orbiter optimization algorithms↗

Distributed Parallel Processing and Dynamic Load Balancing Techniques for Multidisciplinary High Speed Aircraft Design

Multidisciplinary design optimization (MDO) for large-scale engineering problems poses many challenges (e.g., the design of an efficient concurrent paradigm for global optimization based on disciplinary analyses, expensive computations over vast data sets, etc.) This work focuses on the application of distributed schemes for massively parallel architectures to MDO problems, as a tool for reducing computation time and solving larger problems. The specific problem considered here is configuration optimization of a high speed civil transport (HSCT), and the efficient parallelization of the embedded paradigm for reasonable design space identification. Two distributed dynamic load balancing techniques (random polling and global round robin with message combining) and two necessary termination detection schemes (global task count and token passing) were implemented and evaluated in terms of effectiveness and scalability to large problem sizes and a thousand processors. The effect of certain parameters on execution time was also inspected. Empirical results demonstrated stable performance and effectiveness for all schemes, and the parametric study showed that the selected algorithmic parameters have a negligible effect on performance.

Krasteva, Denitza T.↗

Volt-VAR Optimization in Distribution Networks Using Twin Delayed Deep Reinforcement Learning

Modern distribution grids are undergoing new challenges due to the stochastic nature of distributed energy resources (DERs). High penetration of DERs has a significant impact on Volt-VAR profile and system power losses. This work proposes a deep reinforcement learning (DRL)-based Volt-VAR optimization approach for improving voltage profile and reducing system power loss under high penetration of distributed energy resources, such as battery energy storage and solar photovoltaic units in distribution grids. The twin delayed deep deterministic policy gradient (TD3) method-based DRL agent is proposed to configure optimal set-points of reactive power outputs of fast responding smart inverters. The agent schedules the reactive power of inverters according to their physical capabilities, such as minimum allowed power factor, e.g., 0.9 leading/lagging. The reward function of the proposed DRL scheme is designed carefully to ensure a proper voltage profile of the grids with effective scheduling of reactive power outputs from inverters. The performance of the proposed model is verified on modified IEEE 34- and 123-bus systems and compared with base case with no reactive supply by inverters, and local droop Volt-VAR control approach. The results show that the proposed method performs better than the local droop control and deep deterministic policy gradient (DDPG)-based DRL method for reducing voltage fluctuation and minimizing power loss.

Hossain, Rakib↗

Constructive molecular configurations for surface-defect passivation of perovskite photovoltaics

Surface trap-mediated nonradiative charge recombination is a major limit to achieving high-efficiency metal-halide perovskite photovoltaics. The ionic character of perovskite lattice has enabled molecular defect passivation approaches through interaction between functional groups and defects. However, a lack of in-depth understanding of how the molecular configuration influences the passivation effectiveness is a challenge to rational molecule design. In this work, the chemical environment of a functional group that is activated for defect passivation was systematically investigated with theophylline, caffeine, and theobromine. When N-H and C=O were in an optimal configuration in the molecule, hydrogen-bond formation between N-H and I (iodine) assisted the primary C=O binding with the antisite Pb (lead) defect to maximize surface-defect binding. A stabilized power conversion efficiency of 22.6% of photovoltaic device was demonstrated with theophylline treatment.

14 SOLAR ENERGY↗

Broadband Transmission Loss Due to Reverberant Excitation

The noise transmission characteristics of candidate curved aircraft sidewall panel constructions is examined analytically using finite element models of the selected panel geometries. The models are validated by experimental modal analyses and transmission loss testing. The structural and acoustic response of the models are then examined when subjected to random or reverberant excitation, the simulation of which is also discussed. For a candidate curved honeycomb panel, the effect of add-on trim panel treatments is examined. Specifically, two different mounting configurations are discussed and their effect on the transmission loss of the panel is presented. This study finds that the add-on acoustical treatments do improve on the primary structures transmission loss characteristics, however, much more research is necessary to draw any valid conclusions about the optimal configuration for the maximum noise transmission loss. This paper describes several directions for the extension of this work.

Barisciano, Lawrence P. Jr.↗

Computational parametric study of sidewall-compression scramjet inlet performance at Mach 10

A computational parametric study of three-dimensional, sidewall-compression scramjet inlets was performed to identify the effects of geometric parameters on inlet performance. The parameters were the leading-edge sweep angle, varied between 30 and 60 deg, and the leading-edge position of the cowl, located at the throat and at two forward positions. A laminar boundary layer with cold-wall (T(sub wall) = 300 K (540 R)) boundary conditions was imposed. The parametric study was performed for a Mach number of 10 and a unit free-stream Reynolds number of 7.06 x 10(exp 6) per meter (2.15 x 10(exp 6) per foot) at a geometric contraction ratio of 5. The performance of each configuration was evaluated in terms of the mass capture, throat Mach number, total pressure recovery, kinetic energy efficiency, and internal compression. One computation of an unswept configuration was included as a baseline to determine the effects of introducing leading-edge sweep on the flow-field parameters. The purpose of the computational parametric study was to perform a trade-off of the effects of various parameters on the global performance of the inlet. Although no single optimal configuration emerged, trade-offs among the stated performance parameters identified a leading-edge sweep angle of 45 deg as possessing the most attractive performance characteristics.

Holland, Scott D.↗

Structural Tuning of Self‐Conductive Polymer as Gas Diffusion Layer for Electrocatalytic Reactions at High Current

Electrocatalytic conversions offer a promising route for sustainable chemical production using renewable energy. Gas diffusion layers (GDLs) enable selective product formation at high current densities but suffer from electrolyte flooding, and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)-based GDLs typically require metal conductive layers, which constrain catalyst development. A recently developed GDL configuration, electropolymerized poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT)-coated PTFE, demonstrates notable flooding resistance, but suffers from gas diffusion limitations at elevated currents due to limited gas diffusion through the PEDOT layer. Here, different dopants in PEDOT are exploited to modify the physical properties and enhance gas transport. ClO 4 − -doped PEDOT exhibits superior performance due to optimized physical structure, leading to increased gas permeance and faradaic efficiency (FE) for CO production during electrocatalytic CO 2 reduction. Further optimization of coverage and thickness achieved by adjusting charge density led to an optimal configuration at 33 mC cm −2 . This GDL supports various metal electrocatalysts and demonstrates FE CO of > 90% for over 150 h at −200 mA cm −2 using a commercial silver electrocatalyst. This work highlights the importance of GDL engineering in enhancing performance and durability for long-term electrocatalytic processes.

37 INORGANIC, ORGANIC, PHYSICAL, AND ANALYTICAL CH↗

Design of structures for optimum geometry

A method is presented for configuration optimization of finite element structures, given a reasonable initial geometry. The objective is to minimize weight or cost. Design variables include geometric as well as member sizing parameters. The number of elements and joints, and the element-joint relationships are prescribed and are not changed during the optimization process. However, the joint locations are changed. The structure is assumed to be linearly elastic and may be statically indeterminate. Multiple loading conditions are allowed. Constraints include limits on stiffness as well as strength. The method is demonstrated with application to truss design, subject to minimum size, strength, buckling, and displacement constraints. Major design improvements are achieved through configurations changes.

Vanderplaats, G. N.↗

Dual Liquid Flyback Booster for the Space Shuttle

Liquid Flyback Boosters provide an opportunity to improve shuttle safety, increase performance, and reduce operating costs. The objective of the LFBB study is to establish the viability of a LFBB configuration to integrate into the shuffle vehicle and meet the goals of the Space Shuttle upgrades program. The design of a technically viable LFBB must integrate into the shuffle vehicle with acceptable impacts to the vehicle elements, i.e. orbiter and external tank and the shuttle operations infrastructure. The LFBB must also be capable of autonomous return to the launch site. The smooth integration of the LFBB into the space shuttle vehicle and the ability of the LFBB to fly back to the launch site are not mutually compatible capabilities. LFBB wing configurations optimized for ascent must also provide flight quality during the powered return back to the launch site. This paper will focus on the core booster design and ascent performance. A companion paper 'Conceptual Design for a Space Shuttle Liquid Flyback Booster' will focus on the flyback system design and performance. The LFBB study developed design and aerodynamic data to demonstrate the viability of a dual booster configuration to meet the shuttle upgrade goals, i.e. enhanced safety, improved performance and reduced operations costs.

Blum, C.↗

Dual Liquid Flyback Booster for the Space Shuttle

Liquid Flyback Boosters provide an opportunity to improve shuttle safety, increase performance, and reduce operating costs. The objective of the LFBB study is to establish the viability of a LFBB configuration to integrate into the shuttle vehicle and meet the goals of the Space Shuttle upgrades program. The design of a technically viable LFBB must integrate into the shuttle vehicle with acceptable impacts to the vehicle elements, i.e. orbiter and external tank and the shuttle operations infrastructure. The LFBB must also be capable of autonomous return to the launch site. The smooth integration of the LFBB into the space shuttle vehicle and the ability of the LFBB to fly back to the launch site are not mutually compatible capabilities. LFBB wing configurations optimized for ascent must also provide flight quality during the powered return back to the launch site. This paper will focus on the core booster design and ascent performance. A companion paper, "Conceptual Design for a Space Shuttle Liquid Flyback Booster" will focus on the flyback system design and performance. The LFBB study developed design and aerodynamic data to demonstrate the viability of a dual booster configuration to meet the shuttle upgrade goals, i.e. enhanced safety, improved performance and reduced operations costs.

Blum, C.↗

A Hybrid Power Management (HPM) Based Vehicle Architecture

Society desires vehicles with reduced fuel consumption and reduced emissions. This presents a challenge and an opportunity for industry and the government. The NASA John H. Glenn Research Center (GRC) has developed a Hybrid Power Management (HPM) based vehicle architecture for space and terrestrial vehicles. GRC's Electrical and Electromagnetics Branch of the Avionics and Electrical Systems Division initiated the HPM Program for the GRC Technology Transfer and Partnership Office. HPM is the innovative integration of diverse, state-of-the-art power devices in an optimal configuration for space and terrestrial applications. The appropriate application and control of the various power devices significantly improves overall system performance and efficiency. The basic vehicle architecture consists of a primary power source, and possibly other power sources, providing all power to a common energy storage system, which is used to power the drive motors and vehicle accessory systems, as well as provide power as an emergency power system. Each component is independent, permitting it to be optimized for its intended purpose. This flexible vehicle architecture can be applied to all vehicles to considerably improve system efficiency, reliability, safety, security, and performance. This unique vehicle architecture has the potential to alleviate global energy concerns, improve the environment, stimulate the economy, and enable new missions.

Eichenberg, Dennis J.↗

Bat Impact Minimization Technology: An Improved Bat Deterrent for the Full Swept Rotor Area of Any Wind Turbine

The growth in the number of wind turbine generators has led to a significant number of fatal interactions with bat species. The need to reduce the number of bat fatalities while minimizing power losses is the greatest conservation challenge for wind energy development in parts of the country, according to the American Wind Wildlife Institute. Technological solutions that can also allow turbines to operate normally would generate the maximum electricity and avoid financial losses. Bats use echolocation to perceive their surroundings by listening to features of echoes from their high frequency vocal signals reflecting from targets. In this project, Frontier Wind built on previous research demonstrating that ultrasonic noise can mask echolocation and act as a repellent or deterrent to bat flight activity. Whereas the initial study only broadcast ultrasonic transmissions from the center of the turbine, the Strike Free™ system developed for this project extended the ultrasonic coverage to the entire area swept by the turbine blades. Frontier Wind designed the system components and their integration and then tested them in the lab and in the field at Pattern Energy’s Hatchet Ridge Wind Facility near Redding, California. The researchers used an acoustic model to determine the optimal configuration of transmitters along the blades to provide sound transmission coverage across the turbine rotor swept area volume. The custom ultrasonic transmitters were designed specifically for the echolocation frequencies of the four main bat species that have been shown to have died at Hatchet Ridge, although the transmitters can be customized for different frequencies as needed in other geographic locations. The Strike Free™ system shows promise for reducing bat fatalities, and the path to commercialization requires further testing to validate and optimize performance in the field.

17 WIND ENERGY↗

Hybrid Power Management-Based Vehicle Architecture

Hybrid Power Management (HPM) is the integration of diverse, state-of-the-art power devices in an optimal configuration for space and terrestrial applications (s ee figure). The appropriate application and control of the various power devices significantly improves overall system performance and efficiency. The basic vehicle architecture consists of a primary power source, and possibly other power sources, that provides all power to a common energy storage system that is used to power the drive motors and vehicle accessory systems. This architecture also provides power as an emergency power system. Each component is independent, permitting it to be optimized for its intended purpose. The key element of HPM is the energy storage system. All generated power is sent to the energy storage system, and all loads derive their power from that system. This can significantly reduce the power requirement of the primary power source, while increasing the vehicle reliability. Ultracapacitors are ideal for an HPM-based energy storage system due to their exceptionally long cycle life, high reliability, high efficiency, high power density, and excellent low-temperature performance. Multiple power sources and multiple loads are easily incorporated into an HPM-based vehicle. A gas turbine is a good primary power source because of its high efficiency, high power density, long life, high reliability, and ability to operate on a wide range of fuels. An HPM controller maintains optimal control over each vehicle component. This flexible operating system can be applied to all vehicles to considerably improve vehicle efficiency, reliability, safety, security, and performance. The HPM-based vehicle architecture has many advantages over conventional vehicle architectures. Ultracapacitors have a much longer cycle life than batteries, which greatly improves system reliability, reduces life-of-system costs, and reduces environmental impact as ultracapacitors will probably never need to be replaced and disposed of. The environmentally safe ultracapacitor components reduce disposal concerns, and their recyclable nature reduces the environmental impact. High ultracapacitor power density provides high power during surges, and the ability to absorb high power during recharging. Ultracapacitors are extremely efficient in capturing recharging energy, are rugged, reliable, maintenance-free, have excellent lowtemperature characteristic, provide consistent performance over time, and promote safety as they can be left indefinitely in a safe, discharged state whereas batteries cannot.

Eichenberg, Dennis J.↗

System-Level Experimental Validations for Supersonic Commercial Transport Aircraft Entering Service in the 2018-2020 Time Period

This report describes the work conducted under NASA funding for the Boeing N+2 Supersonic Experimental Validation project to experimentally validate the conceptual design of a supersonic airliner feasible for entry into service in the 2018 -to 2020 timeframe (NASA N+2 generation). The primary goal of the project was to develop a low-boom configuration optimized for minimum sonic boom signature (65 to 70 PLdB). This was a very aggressive goal that could be achieved only through integrated multidisciplinary optimization tools validated in relevant ground and, later, flight environments. The project was split into two phases. Phase I of the project covered the detailed aerodynamic design of a low boom airliner as well as the wind tunnel tests to validate that design (ref. 1). This report covers Phase II of the project, which continued the design methodology development of Phase I with a focus on the propulsion integration aspects as well as the testing involved to validate those designs. One of the major airplane configuration features of the Boeing N+2 low boom design was the overwing nacelle. The location of the nacelle allowed for a minimal effect on the boom signature, however, it added a level of difficulty to designing an inlet with acceptable performance in the overwing flow field. Using the Phase I work as the starting point, the goals of the Phase 2 project were to design and verify inlet performance while maintaining a low-boom signature. The Phase II project was successful in meeting all contract objectives. New modular nacelles were built for the larger Performance Model along with a propulsion rig with an electrically-actuated mass flow plug. Two new mounting struts were built for the smaller Boom Model, along with new nacelles. Propulsion integration testing was performed using an instrumented fan face and a mass flow plug, while boom signatures were measured using a wall-mounted pressure rail. A side study of testing in different wind tunnels was completed as a precursor to the selection of the facilities used for validation testing. As facility schedules allowed, the propulsion testing was done at the NASA Glenn Research Center (GRC) 8 x 6-Foot wind tunnel, while boom and force testing was done at the NASA Ames Research Center (ARC) 9 x 7-Foot wind tunnel. During boom testing, a live balance was used for gathering force data. This report is broken down into nine sections. The first technical section (Section 2) covers the general scope of the Phase II activities, goals, a description of the design and testing efforts, and the project plan and schedule. Section 3 covers the details of the propulsion system concepts and design evolution. A series of short tests to evaluate the suitability of different wind tunnels for boom, propulsion, and force testing was also performed under the Phase 2 effort, with the results covered in Section 4. The propulsion integration testing is covered in Section 5 and the boom and force testing in Section 6. CFD comparisons and analyses are included in Section 7. Section 8 includes the conclusions and lessons learned.

Magee, Todd E.↗

Optimization of the moderators in the STS preliminary design

This report details the results for an optimization of the dimensions of the moderators in the preliminary design of the Spallation Neutron Source Second Target Station (STS). This study uses the optimization algorithms of Dakota and an unstructured mesh model for the moderators in MCNP. More details on the unstructured mesh model and the automated mesh generation can be found in [3]. Parallel to this effort, the same moderator geometries have been optimized using a constructive solid geometry (CSG) MCNP model. More details on this model and its results can be found in [4]. Three optimal designs are selected for each moderator: one that is optimized for maximum peak brightness, one for maximum time-integrated brightness, and one for a combination of peak and time-integrated brightness. The backbone of the optimization work flow is provided by Dakota. For each set of design parameters requested by Dakota, a new solid geometry is automatically built in Creo and SpaceClaim, and subsequently exported to Attila4MC to generate an unstructured mesh geometry for MCNP. After the MCNP calculation is finished, the objective function (e.g., brightness metric) is returned to Dakota. After the new design has been evaluated, a result-file is written, and Dakota proposes the next set of design parameters to be evaluated. The loop continues until a specified convergence criterion has been met. The design parameters of the cylindrical (upper) moderator include the hydrogen radius, the premoderator thickness (top, bottom, radial), the beryllium radius and the horizontal position of the moderator. The crucial design choice is the hydrogen radius. A radius of 62 mm is shown to provide the maximum time-integrated brightness. The maximum peak brightness occurs with a radius of 40 mm. A combined (middle) design, which balances peak and time-integrated brightnesses, is obtained with a hydrogen radius of 50 mm. The premoderator thicknesses and the beryllium radius are slightly larger in the design optimized for time-integrated brightness than in the design optimized for peak brightness. The sensitivity to these two parameters is relatively small close to the optimal configurations. The hydrogen vessel and vacuum vessel wall thicknesses are dependent on the radius of the liquid hydrogen due to structural integrity requirements. The increased wall thicknesses for larger vessels significantly penalize the time-integrated brightness, with the maximum obtainable value reduced by more than 10% relative to earlier studies which used fixed vessel wall thicknesses. The impact of the variable wall thicknesses is much less for the peak brightness and combined brightness designs. The design parameters of the tube (lower) moderator selected for the optimization are the tube length, the annular premoderator thickness, the beryllium radius and the horizontal position of the moderator. The tube length is the crucial parameter and is chosen large (210 mm) and small (125 mm) in the designs optimized for time-integrated and peak brightness respectively. A combined optimal design has a tube length of 170 mm. The premoderator thickness and the beryllium radius are chosen larger in the design optimized for time-integrated brightness.

42 ENGINEERING↗

Facets of hydro power and future trends in a Nordic Context

Hydropower technologies bolster high penetration of variable renewable energies (VREs) in the net zero emissions scenarios. Nevertheless, there are various challenges to meeting the ambitious goal, such as stability, reliability, resiliency, security, lack of reactive power, voltage support and inertia, large-scale storage deployment and coordination, interconnectedness, demand-side response, higher thermal cycles with increased start/stops, and inadequate Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE) for system-wise VRE integration and profitability. This survey conducts a bottom-up analysis to unveil the opportunities to utilize hydropower facilities and disentangle the nested problem for intertwining design features, control algorithms, operation, optimization approaches, incentives, services, and market mechanisms using a three-pillar framework perspective: grid owners, power producers, and machine designers. The survey identified emerging trends in real-time and capacity markets, flexible power systems, and enhanced grid capabilities, including advanced voltage support and updated grid codes. These developments present significant opportunities for hydropower, such as achieving super-flexibility through hybridization, expanded reactive power capabilities, and advanced operational modes like a synchronous condenser and power adequator functionalities. These opportunities require novel design philosophies — including new winding, stator, and rotor configurations, optimized ventilation, and active cooling systems — to enhance performance under stressed grid and climate conditions. Finally, integrating climate and energy models for multi-basin optimization with finer spatial and temporal granularity enhances the planning accuracy for water management of hydropower while addressing environmental challenges. The review delivers helpful prospective suggestions and tools that would serve researchers, power engineers, and stakeholders in making decisions about hydropower technologies and services in 2050 and beyond.

13 HYDRO ENERGY↗

Stability optimization of energetic particle driven modes in nuclear fusion devices: the FAR3d gyro-fluid code

The development of reduced models provide efficient methods that can be used to perform short term experimental data analysis or narrow down the parametric range of more sophisticated numerical approaches. Reduced models are derived by simplifying the physics description with the goal of retaining only the essential ingredients required to reproduce the phenomena under study. This is the role of the gyro-fluid code FAR3d, dedicated to analyze the linear and nonlinear stability of Alfvén Eigenmodes (AE), Energetic Particle Modes (EPM) and magnetic-hydrodynamic modes as pressure gradient driven mode (PGDM) and current driven modes (CDM) in nuclear fusion devices. Such analysis is valuable for improving the plasma heating efficiency and confinement; this can enhance the overall device performance. The present review is dedicated to a description of the most important contributions of the FAR3d code in the field of energetic particles (EP) and AE/EPM stability. FAR3d is used to model and characterize the AE/EPM activity measured in fusion devices as LHD, JET, DIII-D, EAST, TJ-II and Heliotron J. In addition, the computational efficiency of FAR3d facilitates performing massive parametric studies leading to the identification of optimization trends with respect to the AE/EPM stability. This can aid in identifying operational regimes where AE/EPM activity is avoided or minimized. This technique is applied to the analysis of optimized configurations with respect to the thermal plasma parameters, magnetic field configuration, external actuators and the effect of multiple EP populations. In addition, the AE/EPM saturation phase is analyzed, taking into account both steady-state phases and bursting activity observed in LHD and DIII-D devices. The nonlinear calculations provide: the induced EP transport, the generation of zonal structures as well as the energy transfer towards the thermal plasma and between different toroidal/helical families. Finally, FAR3d is used to forecast the AE/EPM stability in operational scenarios of future devices as ITER, CFETR, JT60SA and CFQS as well as possible approaches to optimization with respect to variations in the most important plasma parameters.

Alfv én Eigenmodes↗

Global techno-economic and life cycle greenhouse gas emissions assessment of solar and wind based renewable hydrogen production

This study conducts a global assessment of renewable hydrogen production pathways, focusing on techno-economic performance and life cycle greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. It evaluates standalone solar photovoltaic (PV), wind, and hybrid PV/wind systems, integrated with proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolyzers, through multi-objective optimization and considering embodied emissions in manufacturing PV, wind and electrolyzers. Results identify optimal configurations to minimize levelized cost of hydrogen (LCOH) and carbon intensity (CI) of hydrogen, showing potential reductions of cost and CI by 2030. Standalone PV systems can achieve LCOH values smaller than 6.5 USD/kg H 2 and CI less than 2.5 kg CO 2 eq/kg H 2 in regions with high solar irradiance, such as North Africa, the Middle East and Chile. Wind systems in regions such as Middle East, North Africa, Australia and Central United States achieve LCOH below 5 USD/kg H 2 and CI under 1.5 kg CO 2 eq/kg H 2 . Hybrid systems emerge as the optimal solution for minimizing both the LCOH and CI by maximizing the use of renewable energy. Moreover, the results also indicate that, with the technological advancements, future reduction in the capital cost of renewable energy systems and the PEM electrolyzer as well as the trade of coproduct O 2 could drive the LCOH of all the RES-based hydrogen systems below 1 USD/kg H 2 and the CI below zero in different regions as Middle East, North Africa and Central United State

08 HYDROGEN↗