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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 1,243 records · Page 69
All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
NASA NTRS1990

Weather prediction using a genetic memory

Kanaerva's sparse distributed memory (SDM) is an associative memory model based on the mathematical properties of high dimensional binary address spaces. Holland's genetic algorithms are a search technique for high dimensional spaces inspired by evolutional processes of DNA. Genetic Memory is a hybrid of the above two systems, in which the memory uses a genetic algorithm to dynamically reconfigure its physical storage locations to reflect correlations between the stored addresses and data. This architecture is designed to maximize the ability of the system to scale-up to handle real world problems.

Rogers, David↗
NASA NTRS1993

Prelaunch performance of the NASA altimeter for the TOPEX/POSEIDON project

Validation of in-orbit performance has demonstrated the ability of satellite radar altimetry to measure mesoscale absolute dynamic sea surface topography and to measure the variation in the general circulation on the largest spatial scales. Measurements of basin scale mean circulation, however, have been corrupted by system inaccuracies. The TOPEX/POSEIDON radar altimeter satellite applies recent advances in remote sensing instrumentation to reduce long wavelength measurement errors to dramatically lower levels. The TOPEX altimeter measures the range to the ocean surface with 2-cm precision and accuracy through the use of both Ku- and C-band radars, a high pulse repetition frequency, an agile tracker, and absolute internal height calibration. Dual pulse bandwidths for both frequencies make it possible to quickly acquire the surface and begin tracking after crossing the land/ocean boundary. This paper presents the altimeter requirements and the elements of the altimeter design that have resulted in meeting these requirements. Prelaunch test data, based on the use of a Radar Altimeter System Evaluator to simulate the backscatter from the ocean surface, are presented to demonstrate that the TOPEX altimeter will meet these requirements and provide the data necessary to the understanding of basin scale mean circulation.

Marth, Paul C.↗
NASA NTRS1995

Baffle Effect on Sloshing-Modulated Torques Responsed to Orbital Accelerations in Microgravity

The behavior of sloshing-dynamics-modulated fluid systems driven by orbital accelerations including gravity gradient and jitter accelerations has been studied. Partly liquid-filled rotating Dewars applicable to a full-scale Gravity Probe-B Spacecraft container with and without baffle are considered. Results show that a slosh wave excited along the liquid-vapor interface induced by jitter-acceleration-dominated orbital accelerations provides a torsional moment with an up-and-down movement of bubble oscillations in the rotating Dewar. The fluctuations of fluid forces and fluid moment (torque) exerted on the Dewar wall of the container caused by slosh-wave excitation driven by orbital accelerations are also investigated. Since the viscous force across a liquid-solid interface and the surface-tension force across a liquid-vapor or liquid-solid interface can greatly contribute to the damping effect of slosh-wave excitation, a rotating Dewar with a baffle provides more areas of liquid-solid, and liquid-vapor, and solid-vapor interfaces than does a rotating Dewar without a baffle. Results show that the damping effect provided by the baffle reduces the amplitudes of force and moment feedback from the fluids to the container-in particular, the components of fluctuations transverse to the direction of the baffle boards.

Pan, H. L.↗
NASA NTRS2004

Demonstration of a 10-m Solar Sail System

The NASA In-Space Propulsion (ISP) program has been sponsoring system design development and hardware demonstration activities of solar sail technology over the past 16 months. Efforts to validate by test a moderate-scale (10-m) 1/4 symmetry ground demonstration sail system are nearly complete. Results of testing and analytical model validation of component and assembly functional, strength, stiffness, shape, and dynamic behavior are discussed.

Murphy, David M.↗
NASA NTRS2004

A Survey of Collectives

Due to the increasing sophistication and miniaturization of computational components, complex, distributed systems of interacting agents are becoming ubiquitous. Such systems, where each agent aims to optimize its own performance, but where there is a well-defined set of system-level performance criteria, are called collectives. The fundamental problem in analyzing/designing such systems is in determining how the combined actions of self-interested agents leads to 'coordinated' behavior on a iarge scale. Examples of artificial systems which exhibit such behavior include packet routing across a data network, control of an array of communication satellites, coordination of multiple deployables, and dynamic job scheduling across a distributed computer grid. Examples of natural systems include ecosystems, economies, and the organelles within a living cell. No current scientific discipline provides a thorough understanding of the relation between the structure of collectives and how well they meet their overall performance criteria. Although still very young, research on collectives has resulted in successes both in understanding and designing such systems. It is eqected that as it matures and draws upon other disciplines related to collectives, this field will greatly expand the range of computationally addressable tasks. Moreover, in addition to drawing on them, such a fully developed field of collective intelligence may provide insight into already established scientific fields, such as mechanism design, economics, game theory, and population biology. This chapter provides a survey to the emerging science of collectives.

Tumer, Kagan↗
NASA NTRS1996

Age-related alterations in the fractal scaling of cardiac interbeat interval dynamics

We postulated that aging is associated with disruption in the fractallike long-range correlations that characterize healthy sinus rhythm cardiac interval dynamics. Ten young (21-34 yr) and 10 elderly (68-81 yr) rigorously screened healthy subjects underwent 120 min of continuous supine resting electrocardiographic recording. We analyzed the interbeat interval time series using standard time and frequency domain statistics and using a fractal measure, detrended fluctuation analysis, to quantify long-range correlation properties. In healthy young subjects, interbeat intervals demonstrated fractal scaling, with scaling exponents (alpha) from the fluctuation analysis close to a value of 1.0. In the group of healthy elderly subjects, the interbeat interval time series had two scaling regions. Over the short range, interbeat interval fluctuations resembled a random walk process (Brownian noise, alpha = 1.5), whereas over the longer range they resembled white noise (alpha = 0.5). Short (alpha s)- and long-range (alpha 1) scaling exponents were significantly different in the elderly subjects compared with young (alpha s = 1.12 +/- 0.19 vs. 0.90 +/- 0.14, respectively, P = 0.009; alpha 1 = 0.75 +/- 0.17 vs. 0.99 +/- 0.10, respectively, P = 0.002). The crossover behavior from one scaling region to another could be modeled as a first-order autoregressive process, which closely fit the data from four elderly subjects. This implies that a single characteristic time scale may be dominating heartbeat control in these subjects. The age-related loss of fractal organization in heartbeat dynamics may reflect the degradation of integrated physiological regulatory systems and may impair an individual's ability to adapt to stress.

NASA Discipline Cardiopulmonary↗
NASA NTRS2006

Dynamic Wind-Tunnel Testing of a Sub-Scale Iced Business Jet

The effect of ice accretion on a 1/12-scale complete aircraft model of a business jet was studied in a rotary-balance wind tunnel. Three types of ice accretions were considered: ice protection system failure shape, pre-activation roughness, and runback shapes that form downstream of the thermal ice protection system. The results were compared with those from a 1/12-scale semi-span wing of the same aircraft at similar Reynolds number. The data showed that the full aircraft and the semi-span wing models showed similar characteristics, especially post stall behavior under iced configuration. However, there were also some discrepancies, such as the magnitude in the reductions in the maximum lift coefficient. Most of the ice-induced effects were limited to longitudinal forces. Rotational and forced oscillation studies showed that the effects of ice on lateral forces were relatively minor.

Lee, Sam↗
NASA NTRS2003

Evidence for Tropopause Layer Moistening by Convection During CRYSTAL-FACE

Measurements and analysis of the impact of deep convection on tropopause layer moisture are easily confounded by difficulties making precise observations with sufficient spatial coverage before and after convective events and difficulties distinguishing between changes due to local convection versus large-scale advection. The interactions between cloud microphysics and dynamics in the convective transport of moisture into the tropopause layer also result in a sufficiently complex and poorly characterized system to allow for considerable freedom in theoretical models of stratosphere-troposphere exchange. In this work we perform detailed large-eddy simulations with an explicit cloud microphysics model to study the impact of deep convection on tropopause layer moisture profiles observed over southern Florida during CRYSTALFACE. For four days during the campaign (July 11, 16, 28, and 29) we initialize a 100-km square domain with temperature and moisture profiles measured prior to convection at the PARSL ground site, and initiate convection with a warm bubble that produces an anvil at peak elevations in agreement with lidar and radar observations on that day. Comparing the moisture field after the anvils decay with the initial state, we find that convection predominantly moistens the tropopause layer (as defined by minimum temperature and minimum potential temperature lapse rate), although some drying is also predicted in localized layers. We will also present results of sensitivity tests designed to separate the roles of cloud microphysics and dynamics.

Ackerman, A.↗
DOE OSTI2023

Multiphysics Computational Fluid Dynamics for Design and Scale-Up of CO 2 /Syngas Bioreactors [Poster]

What are we trying to do? Develop validated, high fidelity computational models for gas fermentation using CO 2 , CO and H 2 . How is it done today? Microbiological advances are made at the lab scale in well mixed reactors. Process scale-up remains an open question when considering novel microorganisms/reaction systems. Why is this important? Lab-to-production scale transition is required to achieve CO 2 conversion at Mton/Gton scale and computational models can de-risk/accelerate this transition.

09 BIOMASS FUELS↗
DOE OSTI2023

Semi-Empirical Shadow Molecular Dynamics: A PyTorch Implementation

Here, extended Lagrangian Born–Oppenheimer molecular dynamics (XL-BOMD) in its most recent shadow potential energy version has been implemented in the semiempirical PyTorch-based software PySeQM. The implementation includes finite electronic temperatures, canonical density matrix perturbation theory, and an adaptive Krylov subspace approximation for the integration of the electronic equations of motion within the XL-BOMB approach (KSA-XL-BOMD). The PyTorch implementation leverages the use of GPU and machine learning hardware accelerators for the simulations. The new XL-BOMD formulation allows studying more challenging chemical systems with charge instabilities and low electronic energy gaps. The current public release of PySeQM continues our development of modular architecture for large-scale simulations employing semi-empirical quantum-mechanical treatment. Applied to molecular dynamics, simulation of 840 carbon atoms, one integration time step executes in 4 s on a single Nvidia RTX A6000 GPU.

37 INORGANIC, ORGANIC, PHYSICAL, AND ANALYTICAL CH↗
NASA NTRS2016

Simulations of Solar Jets Confined by Coronal Loops

Coronal jets are collimated, dynamic events that occur over a broad range of spatial scales in the solar corona. In the open magnetic field of coronal holes, jets form quasi-radial spires that can extend far out into the heliosphere, while in closed-field regions the jet outflows are confined to the corona. We explore the application of the embedded-bipole model to jets occurring in closed coronal loops. In this model, magnetic free energy is injected slowly by footpoint motions that introduce twist within the closed dome of the jet source region, and is released rapidly by the onset of an ideal kink-like instability. Two length scales characterize the system: the width (N) of the jet source region and the footpoint separation (L) of the coronal loop that envelops the jet source. We find that both the conditions for initiation and the subsequent dynamics are highly sensitive to the ratio L/N. The longest-lasting and most energetic jets occur along long coronal loops with large L/N ratios, and share many of the features of open-field jets, while smaller L/N ratios produce shorter-duration, less energetic jets that are affected by reflections from the far-loop footpoint. We quantify the transition between these behaviors and show that our model replicates key qualitative and quantitative aspects of both quiet Sun and active-region loop jets. We also find that there connection between the closed dome and surrounding coronal loop is very extensive: the cumulative reconnected flux at least matches the total flux beneath the dome for small L/N, and is more than double that value for large L/N.

Wyper, P. F.↗
DOE OSTI2025

Spin-glass dynamics: Experiment, theory, and simulation

This review updates the field of spin glasses with broad application to a large variety of physical systems. In particular, this review tracks the progress of experiment, theory, and large scale simulations. It highlights the importance of their synergy, from the inception of the field to the present day, and includes future opportunities for research.

Dahlberg, E. D. [Univ. of Minnesota, Minneapolis, ↗
NASA NTRS1985

Experiments in structural dynamics and control using a grid

Future spacecraft are being conceived that are highly flexible and of extreme size. The two features of flexibility and size pose new problems in control system design. Since large scale structures are not testable in ground based facilities, the decision on component placement must be made prior to full-scale tests on the spacecraft. Control law research is directed at solving problems of inadequate modelling knowledge prior to operation required to achieve peak performance. Another crucial problem addressed is accommodating failures in systems with smart components that are physically distributed on highly flexible structures. Parameter adaptive control is a method of promise that provides on-orbit tuning of the control system to improve performance by upgrading the mathematical model of the spacecraft during operation. Two specific questions are answered in this work. They are: What limits does on-line parameter identification with realistic sensors and actuators place on the ultimate achievable performance of a system in the highly flexible environment? Also, how well must the mathematical model used in on-board analytic redundancy be known and what are the reasonable expectations for advanced redundancy management schemes in the highly flexible and distributed component environment?

Montgomery, R. C.↗
NASA NTRS1990

Digital-flutter-suppression-system investigations for the active flexible wing wind-tunnel model

Active flutter suppression control laws were designed, implemented, and tested on an aeroelastically-scaled wind-tunnel model in the NASA Langley Transonic Dynamics Tunnel. One of the control laws was successful in stabilizing the model while the dynamic pressure was increased to 24 percent greater than the measured open-loop flutter boundary. Other accomplishments included the design, implementation, and successful operation of a one-of-a-kind digital controller, the design and use of two simulation methods to support the project, and the development and successful use of a methodology for online controller performance evaluation.

Perry, Boyd, III↗
NASA NTRS1993

Solar concentrators for advanced solar-dynamic power systems in space

This report summarizes the results of a study performed by Hughes Danbury Optical Systems, HDOS, (formerly Perkin-Elmer) to design, fabricate, and test a lightweight (2 kg/sq M), self supporting, and highly reflective sub-scale concentrating mirror panel suitable for use in space. The HDOS panel design utilizes Corning's 'micro sheet' glass as the top layer of a composite honeycomb sandwich. This approach, whose manufacturability was previously demonstrated under an earlier NASA contract, provides a smooth (specular) reflective surface without the weight of a conventional glass panel. The primary result of this study is a point design and it's performance assessment.

Rockwell, Richard↗
DOE OSTI2026

Revealing multiscale competing processes in the solid-state synthesis of single-crystalline layered oxide positive electrodes

Solid-state synthesis involves a web of coupled chemical reactions and physical changes that unfold across multiple scales. Efforts to fine-tune its parameters have historically followed heuristic, trial-driven workflows that demand significant time and resources. In this study, we aimed to open this black box by employing multiscale in situ synchrotron imaging and diffraction. Using LiNi 0.5 Mn 0.3 Co 0.2 O 2 battery positive electrode material as a model system and Ba-based sintering aids, we reveal dopant segregation, intergranular mass transport, and porosity evolution as key drivers of single-crystalline particle formation. Notably, we uncovered a dynamic competition between particle-level grain coalescence and atomic-scale cation disordering, both of which are thermally activated yet have opposing impacts on battery performance. These findings highlight the coupled, multiscale nature of structure development and offer a mechanistic basis for optimizing the solid-state synthesis process. This framework provides a path toward more controlled, efficient, and scalable production of high-performance battery positive electrode materials.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗
NASA NTRS2014

Computational Aerodynamic Simulations of a 1484 ft/sec Tip Speed Quiet High-Speed Fan System Model for Acoustic Methods Assessment and Development

Computational Aerodynamic simulations of a 1484 ft/sec tip speed quiet high-speed fan system were performed at five different operating points on the fan operating line, in order to provide detailed internal flow field information for use with fan acoustic prediction methods presently being developed, assessed and validated. The fan system is a sub-scale, low-noise research fan/nacelle model that has undergone experimental testing in the 9- by 15-foot Low Speed Wind Tunnel at the NASA Glenn Research Center. Details of the fan geometry, the computational fluid dynamics methods, the computational grids, and various computational parameters relevant to the numerical simulations are discussed. Flow field results for three of the five operating points simulated are presented in order to provide a representative look at the computed solutions. Each of the five fan aerodynamic simulations involved the entire fan system, which includes a core duct and a bypass duct that merge upstream of the fan system nozzle. As a result, only fan rotational speed and the system bypass ratio, set by means of a translating nozzle plug, were adjusted in order to set the fan operating point, leading to operating points that lie on a fan operating line and making mass flow rate a fully dependent parameter. The resulting mass flow rates are in good agreement with measurement values. Computed blade row flow fields at all fan operating points are, in general, aerodynamically healthy. Rotor blade and fan exit guide vane flow characteristics are good, including incidence and deviation angles, chordwise static pressure distributions, blade surface boundary layers, secondary flow structures, and blade wakes. Examination of the computed flow fields reveals no excessive or critical boundary layer separations or related secondary-flow problems, with the exception of the hub boundary layer at the core duct entrance. At that location a significant flow separation is present. The region of local flow recirculation extends through a mixing plane, however, which for the particular mixing-plane model used is now known to exaggerate the recirculation. In any case, the flow separation has relatively little impact on the computed rotor and FEGV flow fields.

Tweedt, Daniel L.↗
DOE OSTI2021

All-Atom Molecular Dynamics Simulations of the Temperature Response of Densely Grafted Polyelectrolyte Brushes

Water acts a “good” solvent for most polyelectrolyte (PE) systems due to its high dielectric strength. Theoretical and experimental studies have highlighted some remarkably unconventional properties of strongly water-swollen PE brushes such as a reduction in brush height with increase in temperature. However, an understanding of the atomistic-scale response of the grafted PE chains as well as the local arrangement and organization of the brush-supported counterions and water molecules to changes in temperature is missing. Here, we conduct an all-atom molecular dynamics (MD) study to probe the influence of temperature on the “microstructure” of densely grafted, fully ionized polyacrylic acid (PAA) brushes. The atomistic insights obtained from our study shed light on prior experimental observations and elucidate the key role played by changes in hydrogen bonding network in dictating the hydrophilicity of the brushes. In addition to the temperature-mediated reduction in height of the PE brush layer, we study the influence of temperature on several properties of the brush-supported water molecules such as the number distribution and kinetics of water-water and water-PE hydrogen bonds (HBs), mass density, orientational tetrahedral order parameter, and the activation energy associated with the self-diffusion of water. The effect of temperature on the properties of the brush-trapped counterions is also quantified via changes in their solvation structure, counterion-water radial distribution function (RDF), and the translational mobility. Our findings unravel several hitherto unknown phenomena such as the enhanced propensity for attaining PE brush-induced “water-in-salt”-like scenarios at elevated temperatures, and an increase in the activation energy for the self-diffusion of water with increase in the degree of PE brush-induced nanoconfinement (from ‘bulk water’ to ‘sparsely grafted PE brushes’ to ‘densely grafted PE brushes’). Further, we anticipate that this work will be helpful in improving our predictive capabilities of the temperature response of water-swollen PE brushes, which would be instrumental for better design of several PE brush systems used in a multitude of applications.

37 INORGANIC, ORGANIC, PHYSICAL, AND ANALYTICAL CH↗