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At least 1,171 records · Page 65

Performance of the Muon g - 2 calorimeter and readout systems measured with test beam data

A single calorimeter station for the Muon $g-2$ experiment at Fermilab includes the following subsystems: a 54-element array of PbF$_{2}$ Cherenkov crystals read out by large-area SiPMs, bias and slow-control electronics, a suite of 800 MSPS waveform digitizers, a clock and control distribution network, a gain calibration and monitoring system, and a GPU-based frontend read out through a MIDAS data acquisition environment. The entire system performance was evaluated using 2.5 - 5 GeV electrons at the End Station Test Beam at SLAC. This paper includes a description of the individual subsystems and the results of measurements of the energy response and resolution, energy-scale stability, timing resolution, and spatial uniformity. All measured performances meet or exceed the $g-2$ experimental requirements. Based on the success of the tests, the complete production of the required 24 calorimeter stations has been made and installation into the main experiment is complete. Furthermore, the calorimeter response measurements determined here informed the design of the reconstruction algorithms that are now employed in the running $g-2$ experiment.

46 INSTRUMENTATION RELATED TO NUCLEAR SCIENCE AND ↗

Initial Development of A Digital Twin Model for an Electrified Aircraft Propulsion Emulation Rig

In support of aviation fuel burn and emission reduction goals, NASA is pursing high-payoff research investments that promise to transform aviation. This includes investments in Electrified Aircraft Propulsion (EAP), which relies on the generation, storage, transmission, and use of electrical power for producing thrust and optimizing propulsion system efficiency. Multiple technology challenges must be addressed to unlock the full potential of EAP. This includes advances in propulsion controls, which will be vital for ensuring coordinated efficient operation of the complex integrated subsystems that comprise EAP architectures. To support EAP controls research, the NASA Glenn Research Center has developed the Hybrid Propulsion Emulation Rig (HyPER). The HyPER laboratory hardware includes shaft-mounted electric machines, power converters, power supplies, power distribution cables, and an energy storage device that can be reconfigured to represent a variety of EAP architectures. It also includes an integrated real-time computer system that hosts developed EAP control software and turbomachinery simulations. This enables the electrical system and rotating shafts of EAP designs to be implemented in actual hardware and integrated with turbomachinery simulations and system-level EAP control logic implemented in software. In this form, the HyPER laboratory provides a partially simulated, partially hardware-in-the-loop test environment enabling the initial development and evaluation of EAP control technology. A prerequisite for the development of EAP control designs is the availability of a system model that accurately reflects the operation of the electrical system hardware. To support this need, a digital twin model of the HyPER electrical system hardware is under development. This model is being coded in the MATLAB Simulink environment and uses the NASA-developed Electrical Modeling and Thermal Analysis Toolbox (EMTAT) to construct a digital twin framework. EMTAT contains generic electrical component building blocks that are simulated at turbomachinery timescales. Associated inputs and outputs allow the blocks to be combined to model complete electrical systems. The EMTAT blocks also contain adjustable internal maps and parameters that can be set to reflect the operation of a specific electrical component. For the HyPER digital twin, the settings of these EMTAT block internal maps and parameters is determined through machine learning approaches applied to characterization run data collected from the laboratory. During characterization runs the laboratory electrical system hardware is subjected to a full range of torque, speed, and power settings. Acquired data is then used to estimate EMTAT block parameters using a variety of machine learning techniques. The resulting digital twin model is found to match the operation of actual HyPER hardware with an accuracy suitable for control development purposes. It also holds promise for other applications including modeling the performance of HyPER laboratory reconfigurations and model-based anomaly detection. Planned follow-on work to automate post-processing of acquired laboratory data to update the HyPER digital twin model will also be presented and discussed.

Electrified Aircraft Propulsion↗

Hybrid AI-ML and FE-based Digital Twin Predictive Modeling Framework for a PWR Coolant System Components: Updates on Multi-Time-Series-3D-Location Dependent Usages Factor Prediction

The long-term operation (LTO) of nuclear power plants (NPP) beyond their original design life of 40 years can lead to more material damage associated with cyclic fatigue under thermal-mechanical loading cycles and associated long-term exposure of reactor material to the deleterious reactor-coolant environments. However, under this LTO condition, the reactor components can still safely operate but may require more frequent Nondestructive Evaluation (NDE) of reactor components. Requiring frequent NDE inspections may lead to frequent NPP shutdowns which can lead to power outages and additional NDE inspection cost-related economic loss. The economic loss can be minimized by reducing uncertainty in life estimation of safety-critical pressure boundary components and by implementing a more digital approach such as using upcoming digital-twin (DT) technology for predicting the structural states (e.g., time and location dependent inside/outside thickness temperature, stress, strain, plastic deformation, etc.) and associated fatigue life of a component in real time. The DT framework is based on limited experimental data, Artificial-intelligence (AI)-Machine-Learning (ML) and multiphysics-computationalmechanics such as finite element- (FE) based models. Given the real-time thermal-hydraulic process measurements from several existing plant sensors, the overall goal of the DT framework is to predict the cumulative usages factors or equivalent fatigue lives in real time and at any random 3D location of the components. This includes inaccessible locations such as inside the thickness or location of a component. This prediction can be at thousands to millions of 3D point clouds or locations like conventional FE-based models, but without running an FE model in real time.

22 GENERAL STUDIES OF NUCLEAR REACTORS↗

Evaluation of Joint Cyber/Safety Risk in Nuclear Power Systems

This report presents an analysis of the Emergency Core Cooling System (ECCS) for a generic Boiling Water Reactor (BWR)-4 NPP. The Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) developed Hazards and Consequences Analysis for Digital Systems (HAZCADS) process is applied to the ECCS and its subsystems to identify unsafe control actions (UCAs) which act as possible cyber events of concern. The analysis is performed for two design basis events: Small-break Loss of Coolant Accident (SLOCA) and general transients (TRANS), such as unintended reactor trip. In previous work, HAZCADS UCAs were combined with other cyber-attack analysis to develop a risk-informed approach; however, this was for a single system. This report explores advanced systems engineering modeling approaches to model the interactions between digital assets across multiple systems which may be targeted by cyber adversaries. The complex and interdependent design of digital systems has the potential to introduce emergent cyber properties that are generally not covered by hazard analyses nor formal nuclear Probabilistic Risk Assessment (PRA). The R&D and supporting analysis presented here explores approaches to predict and manage how interdependent system properties effect risk. To show the potential impact of a successful cyber-attack to formal PRA event tree probabilities, HAZCADS analysis was also used. HAZCADS was also used to model the automatic depressurization system (ADS) automatic actuation. This analysis extended to an integrated system analysis for common-cause failure (CCF). In this aspect, the HAZCADS analysis continued by analyzing plant design details for system connectivity in support of critical plant functions. A dependency matrix was developed to depict the integrated functionality of the interconnected systems. Areas of potential CCF are indicated. Future work could include adversary attack development to show how CCF could be caused, resulting in PRA events. Across the multiple systems that comprise the ECCS, the analysis shows that the change in such probabilities was very different between systems. This indicates that some systems have a larger potential risk impact from successful cyber-attack or digital failure, which indicates a need for these systems to have a higher priority for design and defensive measures. Furthermore, we were able to establish that a risk analysis using any arbitrary threat model establishes an ordering of components with regard to cyber-risk. This ordering can be used to influence the overall system design with an eye to lowering risk, or as a way to understand real-time risk to operational systems based on a current threat landscape. Expert knowledge of both the analysis process and the system being analyzed is required to perform a HAZCADS analysis. The need for a tiered risk analysis is demonstrated by the results of this report.

21 SPECIFIC NUCLEAR REACTORS AND ASSOCIATED PLANTS↗

Overview of timing/synchronization for digital communications

Systems in general, and switched systems in particular, are explained. It pointed out some of the criteria that greatly influence timing/synchronization subsystem design for a military communications network but have little or no significance for civil systems. Timing techniques were evaluated in terms of fundamental features. Different combinations of these features covered most possibilities from which a synchronous timing system could be chosen.

Stover, H. A.↗

Appraisal of digital terrain elevation data for low-altitude flight

The use of terrain elevation databases in advanced guidance and navigation systems has greatly expanded. However, the limitations and accuracies of these databases must be considered and established prior to safe system flight evaluation. A simple approach to quantify reasonable flight limits is presented and evaluated for a helicopter guidance system dependent on a terrain database. The flight test evaluated involved a helicopter equipped with a Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver and radar altimeter, and a ground station GPS receiver which provided improved helicopter positioning. The precision navigation and radar altimeter data was acquired while flying low-altitude missions in south-central Pennsylvania. The aircraft-determined terrain elevations were compared with the terrain predicted by the Defense Mapping Agency (DMA) Level 1 terrain elevation data for the same area. The results suggest a safe set clearance altitude of 220 ft for flight testing of a DMA-based guidance avionic in the same area.

Zelenka, Richard E.↗

Appraisal of digital terrain elevation data for low-altitude flight

The use of terrain elevation databases in advanced guidance and navigation systems has greatly expanded. However, the limitations and accuracies of these databases must be considered and established prior to safe system flight evaluation. A simple approach to quantify reasonable flight limits is presented and evaluated for a helicopter guidance system dependent on a terrain database. The flight test evaluated involved a helicopter equipped with a Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver and radar altimeter, and a ground station GPS receiver which provided improved helicopter positioning. The precision navigation and radar altimeter data was acquired while flying low-altitude missions in south-central Pennsylvania. The aircraft-determined terrain elevations were compared with the terrain predicted by the Defense Mapping Agency (DMA) Level 1 terrain elevation data for the same area. The results suggest a safe set clearance altitude of 220 ft for flight testing of a DMA-based guidance avionic in the same area.

Zelenka, Richard E.↗

High-spatial resolution and high-spectral resolution detector for use in the measurement of solar flare hard X-rays

In the areas of high spatial resolution, the evaluation of a hard X-ray detector with 65 micron spatial resolution for operation in the energy range from 30 to 400 keV is proposed. The basic detector is a thick large-area scintillator faceplate, composed of a matrix of high-density scintillating glass fibers, attached to a proximity type image intensifier tube with a resistive-anode digital readout system. Such a detector, combined with a coded-aperture mask, would be ideal for use as a modest-sized hard X-ray imaging instrument up to X-ray energies as high as several hundred keV. As an integral part of this study it was also proposed that several techniques be critically evaluated for X-ray image coding which could be used with this detector. In the area of high spectral resolution, it is proposed to evaluate two different types of detectors for use as X-ray spectrometers for solar flares: planar silicon detectors and high-purity germanium detectors (HPGe). Instruments utilizing these high-spatial-resolution detectors for hard X-ray imaging measurements from 30 to 400 keV and high-spectral-resolution detectors for measurements over a similar energy range would be ideally suited for making crucial solar flare observations during the upcoming maximum in the solar cycle.

Desai, U. D.↗

Evaluation of Lunar Dark Mantle Deposits as Key to Future Human Missions

I proposed to continue detailed mapping, analysis and assessment of the lunar pyroclastic dark mantle deposits in support of the Human Exploration and Development of Space (HEDS) initiative. Specifically: (1) I continued gathering data via the Internet and mailable media, and a variety of other digital lunar images including; high resolution digital images of the new Apollo masters from JSC, images from Clementine and Galileo, and recent telescopic images from Hawaii; (2) continued analyses on these images using sophisticated hardware and software at JSC and the College of Charleston to determine and map composition using returned sample data for calibration; (3) worked closely with Dr. David McKay and others at JSC to relate sample data to image data using laboratory spectra from JSC and Brown University; (4) mapped the extent, thickness, and composition of important dark mantle deposits in selected study areas; and (5) began composing a geographically referenced database of lunar pyroclastic materials in the Apollo 17 area. The results have been used to identify and evaluate several candidate landing sites in dark mantle terrains. Additional work spawned from this effort includes the development of an educational CD-Rom on exploring the Moon: Contact Light. Throughout the whole process I have been in contact with the JSC HEDS personnel.

Coombs, Cassandra↗

Variable Coding and Modulation Experiment Using NASA's Space Communication and Navigation Testbed

National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)'s Space Communication and Navigation Testbed on the International Space Station provides a unique opportunity to evaluate advanced communication techniques in an operational system. The experimental nature of the Testbed allows for rapid demonstrations while using flight hardware in a deployed system within NASA's networks. One example is variable coding and modulation, which is a method to increase data-throughput in a communication link. This paper describes recent flight testing with variable coding and modulation over S-band using a direct-to-earth link between the SCaN Testbed and the Glenn Research Center. The testing leverages the established Digital Video Broadcasting Second Generation (DVB-S2) standard to provide various modulation and coding options. The experiment was conducted in a challenging environment due to the multipath and shadowing caused by the International Space Station structure. Performance of the variable coding and modulation system is evaluated and compared to the capacity of the link, as well as standard NASA waveforms.

waveforms↗

Application Guide for the Cyber-Resilient Design Framework for Hybrid Systems

As the energy landscape evolves, hybrid power plants—integrating multiple renewable energy sources (e.g., solar, wind, and battery storage) with the bulk power electric system—play a crucial role in meeting growing energy demands. However, with a hybrid power plant’s increased number of components, complex network connectivity and digitization of controls, these systems face growing cybersecurity risks. To help mitigate these risks, Idaho National Laboratory (INL) presents this application guide specifically designed for operators and systems engineers to evaluate the cybersecurity resilience of their hybrid power plant’s design.

14 SOLAR ENERGY↗

The handling qualities simulation program for the augmentor wing jet STOL research aircraft.

Description of a program in which a complete STOL research aircraft (modified de Havilland C8-A Buffalo) was simulated to determine final design values for control systems and devices which augment aircraft control. Program objectives, computer requirements, and the simulation software and hardware are outlined together with the organization of the digital operations. The simulation program in combination with simulator hardware provided test pilots a realistic representation of the aircraft, with the result that various control and stability augmentation systems were evaluated using pilot handling qualities ratings. Final design parameters were then found for the aircraft which is scheduled for flight test in early 1972.

Cleveland, W. B.↗

Application of real-time engine simulations to the development of propulsion system controls

The development of digital controls for turbojet and turbofan engines is presented by the use of real-time computer simulations of the engines. The engine simulation provides a test-bed for evaluating new control laws and for checking and debugging control software and hardware prior to engine testing. The development and use of real-time, hybrid computer simulations of the Pratt and Whitney TF30-P-3 and F100-PW-100 augmented turbofans are described in support of a number of controls research programs at the Lewis Research Center. The role of engine simulations in solving the propulsion systems integration problem is also discussed.

Szuch, J. R.↗

The application of a time-domain deconvolution technique for identification of experimental acoustic-emission signals

A method is presented for the signature analysis of pulses by reconstructing in the time domain the shape of the pulse prior to its passing through the measurement system. This deconvolution technique is first evaluated using an idealized system and analytical pulse models and is shown to provide improved results. An experimental situation is then treated; system-component models are developed for the digitizer, tape recorder, filter, transducer and mechanical structure. To accommodate both calibration results and manufacturer's data, and to provide stable mathematical models entails considerable effort: some 30 parameters must be identified to model this system - which is still a substantial approximation - albeit of very high order. Experimental pulses generated by a ball drop, spark discharge and a tearing crack are then deconvoluted 'back through' the system as modeled, using this technique. These results are compared and indicate (a) that consistent shapes may be expected from a given type of source and (b) that some sources can be identified with greater clarity using the deconvolution approach.

Houghton, J. R.↗

Application of LANDSAT data to the study of urban development in Brasilia

The urban growth of Brasilia within the last ten years is analyzed with special emphasis on the utilization of remote sensing orbital data and automatic image processing. The urban spatial structure and the monitoring of its temporal changes were examined in a whole and dynamic way by the utilization of MSS-LANDSAT images for June (1973, 1978 and 1983). In order to aid data interpretation, a registration algorithm implemented in the Interactive Multispectral Image Analysis System (IMAGE-100) was utilized aiming at the overlap of multitemporal images. The utilization of suitable digital filters, combined with the images overlap, allowed a rapid identification of areas of possible urban growth and oriented the field work. The results obtained in this work permitted an evaluation of the urban growth of Brasilia, taking as reference the proposal stated for the construction of the city in the Pilot Plan elaborated by Lucio Costa.

Parada, N. D. J.↗

Preliminary flight test results of the F100 EMD engine in an F-15 airplane

An assessment is given of results from a 17-flight evaluation of the F100 Engine Model Derivative (EMD) powerplant in an F-15 fighter. The EMD variant of the F100 engine incorporates a larger fan, a higher temperature turbine, a digital control system, and a 16-segment afterburner. These modifications result in a 15 to 20 percent increase in thrust which is exhibited in the reduction of F-15 acceleration time to Mach 2.0 by 23 percent. The only uncorrected shortcoming of the engine upon completion of the 17-flight test course was the occurrence of compressor stalls at the throttle's idle setting. These stalls had not been predicted by either ground facility tests or compressor stability assessments.

Myers, L. P.↗

Vegetation canopy discrimination and biomass assessment using multipolarized airborne SAR

Multipolarized airborne Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) data were acquired over a largely agricultural test site near Macomb, Illinois, in conjunction with the Shuttle Imaging Radar (SIR-B) experiment in October 1984. The NASA/JPL L-band SAR operating at 1.225 GHz made a series of daily overflights with azimuth view angles both parallel and orthogonal to those of SIR-B. The SAR data was digitally recorded in the quadpolarization configuration. An extensive set of ground measurements were obtained throughout the test site and include biophysical and soil measurements of approximately 400 agricultural fields. Preliminary evaluation of some of the airborne SAR imagery indicates a great potential for crop discrimination and assessment of canopy condition. False color composites constructed from the combination of three linear polarizations (HH, VV, and HV) were found to be clearly superior to any single polarization for purposes of crop classification. In addition, an image constructed using the HH return to modulate intensity and the phase difference between HH and VV returns to modulate chroma indicates a clear capability for assessment of canopy height and/or biomass. In particular, corn fields heavily damaged by infestations of corn borer are readily distinguished from noninfested fields.

Ulaby, F. T.↗

Space shuttle main engine vibration data base

In order to evaluate Space Shuttle Main Engine (SSME) vibration data without having to constantly replay analog tapes, the SSME Vibration Data Base was developed. This data base contains data that have been digitized at a high sample rate for the entire test duration. It provides quick and efficient recall capabilities for numerious computation and display routines. The data base components are described as well as some of the compution and display features.

Lewallen, Pat↗