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Results for “emerging technologies”

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 1,315 records · Page 73

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NASA NTRS1986

Sensitivity analysis for solar plates

Economic evaluation methods and analyses of emerging photovoltaic (PV) technology since 1976 was prepared. This type of analysis was applied to the silicon research portion of the PV Program in order to determine the importance of this research effort in relationship to the successful development of commercial PV systems. All four generic types of PV that use silicon were addressed: crystal ingots grown either by the Czochralski method or an ingot casting method; ribbons pulled directly from molten silicon; an amorphous silicon thin film; and use of high concentration lenses. Three technologies were analyzed: the Union Carbide fluidized bed reactor process, the Hemlock process, and the Union Carbide Komatsu process. The major components of each process were assessed in terms of the costs of capital equipment, labor, materials, and utilities. These assessments were encoded as the probabilities assigned by experts for achieving various cost values or production rates.

Aster, R. W.↗

NASA NTRS1985

A decentralized square root information filter/smoother

A number of developments has recently led to a considerable interest in the decentralization of linear least squares estimators. The developments are partly related to the impending emergence of VLSI technology, the realization of parallel processing, and the need for algorithmic ways to speed the solution of dynamically decoupled, high dimensional estimation problems. A new method is presented for combining Square Root Information Filters (SRIF) estimates obtained from independent data sets. The new method involves an orthogonal transformation, and an information matrix filter 'homework' problem discussed by Schweppe (1973) is generalized. The employed SRIF orthogonal transformation methodology has been described by Bierman (1977).

Bierman, G. J.↗

NASA NTRS1988

Eigenvalue computation of large symmetric tridiagonal matrices on concurrent processors

Symmetric tridiagonal eigenvalue problems may arise indirectly in structural dynamic analysis. An algorithm for eigenvalue computation of large symmetric tridiagonal matrices on concurrent processors to meet the challenge of the new emerging computer hardware technology is presented. A standard bisection method in conjunction with Sylvester's Theorem is chosen to be converted into a parallel N-section algorithm. This parallel algorithm takes advantage of the multi-processor environment by carrying out N (number of processors) triangular factorizations of chosen shifted matrices in all processors concurrently and by minimizing communication between processors. The algorithm is designed for local-memory concurrent processors, i.e. message passing type processors. The efficiency and speed-up are given in terms of problem and machine parameters. The algorithm is very efficient when both the number of processors and the number of eigenvalues to be extracted are much smaller than the order of the tridiagonal matrix.

Chang, H. Y.↗

NASA NTRS1990

Space Station Freedom ECLSS: A step toward autonomous regenerative life support systems

The Environmental Control and Life Support System (ECLSS) is a Freedom Station distributed system with inherent applicability to extensive automation primarily due to its comparatively long control system latencies. These allow longer contemplation times in which to form a more intelligent control strategy and to prevent and diagnose faults. The regenerative nature of the Space Station Freedom ECLSS will contribute closed loop complexities never before encountered in life support systems. A study to determine ECLSS automation approaches has been completed. The ECLSS baseline software and system processes could be augmented with more advanced fault management and regenerative control systems for a more autonomous evolutionary system, as well as serving as a firm foundation for future regenerative life support systems. Emerging advanced software technology and tools can be successfully applied to fault management, but a fully automated life support system will require research and development of regenerative control systems and models. The baseline Environmental Control and Life Support System utilizes ground tests in development of batch chemical and microbial control processes. Long duration regenerative life support systems will require more active chemical and microbial feedback control systems which, in turn, will require advancements in regenerative life support models and tools. These models can be verified using ground and on orbit life support test and operational data, and used in the engineering analysis of proposed intelligent instrumentation feedback and flexible process control technologies for future autonomous regenerative life support systems, including the evolutionary Space Station Freedom ECLSS.

Dewberry, Brandon S.↗

NASA NTRS1988

AdaNET executive summary

The goal of AdaNET is to transfer existing and emerging software engineering technology from the Federal government to the private sector. The views and perspectives of the current project participants on long and short term goals for AdaNET; organizational structure; resources and returns; summary of identified AdaNET services; and the summary of the organizational model currently under discussion are presented.

Digman, R. Michael↗

NASA NTRS1991

Model-based displays for satellite ground control

With the emergence of new technology for both human-computer interaction and knowledge-based systems, a range of opportunities exists to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of satellite ground controllers. The use of models of operator function to represent operator activity in the context of changing system events and operator functions is illustrated. Although there are many models, the operator function model (OFM) was used in this research. In addition to representing operator activities, the OFM can be used to design 'intelligent' operator displays and, in real time, control the displayed information so that the operator has the appropriate information, at the appropriate time, and at the appropriate level of abstraction. The OFM was demonstrated in the context of a NASA Goddard Space Flight Center satellite ground control system. To evaluate the effectiveness of the model-based workstation, an experiment was conducted to compare system performance with a conventional operator workstation versus the model based workstation.

Mitchell, Christine M.↗

NASA NTRS1991

OFMspert: An architecture for an operator's associate that evolves to an intelligent tutor

With the emergence of new technology for both human-computer interaction and knowledge-based systems, a range of opportunities exist which enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of controllers of high-risk engineering systems. The design of an architecture for an operator's associate is described. This associate is a stand-alone model-based system designed to interact with operators of complex dynamic systems, such as airplanes, manned space systems, and satellite ground control systems in ways comparable to that of a human assistant. The operator function model expert system (OFMspert) architecture and the design and empirical validation of OFMspert's understanding component are described. The design and validation of OFMspert's interactive and control components are also described. A description of current work in which OFMspert provides the foundation in the development of an intelligent tutor that evolves to an assistant, as operator expertise evolves from novice to expert, is provided.

Mitchell, Christine M.↗

NASA NTRS1991

RoMPS concept review automatic control of space robot

The Robot operated Material Processing in Space (RoMPS) experiment is being performed to explore the marriage of two emerging space commercialization technologies: materials processing in microgravity and robotics. This concept review presents engineering drawings and limited technical descriptions of the RoMPS programs' electrical and software systems.

Source record↗

NASA NTRS1993

Automated Assembly Center (AAC)

The objectives of this project are as follows: to integrate advanced assembly and assembly support technology under a comprehensive architecture; to implement automated assembly technologies in the production of high-visibility DOD weapon systems; and to document the improved cost, quality, and lead time. This will enhance the production of DOD weapon systems by utilizing the latest commercially available technologies combined into a flexible system that will be able to readily incorporate new technologies as they emerge. Automated assembly encompasses the following areas: product data, process planning, information management policies and framework, three schema architecture, open systems communications, intelligent robots, flexible multi-ability end effectors, knowledge-based/expert systems, intelligent workstations, intelligent sensor systems, and PDES/PDDI data standards.

Stauffer, Robert J.↗

NASA NTRS1991

Advances in microsensor development for gas and flow measurement in space power and propulsion systems

Emerging microelectromechanical sculpturing technology is presently extended, in conjunction with the use of deep semiconductor impurities having extreme flow sensitivities, small masses for shortest time response, and unconventional electrode schemes for elevated-temperature operation, for rocket-engine fuel flow sensing tasks. The radiation component of heat transfer is negligible, so that the device operates on the basis of conduction and convection loss.

Henderson, H. T.↗

NASA NTRS1994

High-speed data search

The high-speed data search system developed for KSC incorporates existing and emerging information retrieval technology to help a user intelligently and rapidly locate information found in large textual databases. This technology includes: natural language input; statistical ranking of retrieved information; an artificial intelligence concept called semantics, where 'surface level' knowledge found in text is used to improve the ranking of retrieved information; and relevance feedback, where user judgements about viewed information are used to automatically modify the search for further information. Semantics and relevance feedback are features of the system which are not available commercially. The system further demonstrates focus on paragraphs of information to decide relevance; and it can be used (without modification) to intelligently search all kinds of document collections, such as collections of legal documents medical documents, news stories, patents, and so forth. The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate the usefulness of statistical ranking, our semantic improvement, and relevance feedback.

Driscoll, James N.↗

NASA NTRS1994

The detectability of extrasolar terrestrial and giant planets during their luminous final accretion

One of the outstanding scientific questions in astronomy is the frequency at which solar systems form. Answering this question is an observational challenge because extrasolar planets are intrinsically difficult to directly detect. The direct detectability of planets is examined during the short but unique epoch of giant impacts that is a hallmark of the standard theory of planetary formation. Sufficiently large impacts during this era are capable of creating a luminous, 1500-2500 K photosphere, which can persist for timescales exceeding 103 years in some cases. The detectability of such events and the number of young stars one would need to examine to expect to find a luminous terrestrial class planet after a giant impact are examined. With emerging IR interferometric technology, thermally-luminous earth-sized objects can be detected in nearby star forming regions in 1-2 nights observing time. Unfortunately, predictions indicate that approximately 250 young stars would have to be searched to expect to find one hot, terrestrial-sized planet. By comparison, the detection of Saturn and Uranus/Neptune-sized planets after a giant impact requires only 1-2 hours of observing time. A single Keck-class telescope should be able to determine whether such planets are common in the nearest star forming regions by examining about less than 100 young stars over a few tens of nights. The results obtained herein suggest a new strategy for the detection of solar systems with the potential for the observational confirmation of the standard theory of late-stage planetary accretion.

Stern, S. Alan↗

NASA NTRS1994

A system study for satellite operation and control in next generation

Ever since the first satellite, ETS-1, in 1975, 28 NASDA satellites in total have been launched. With regards to satellite operations, NASDA has developed realtime TLM/CMD processing systems which could be commonly used for different types of satellite. Presently the third generation system is operational. Meanwhile, the recent trend of satellite operations is becoming more complicated, for example, CCSDS-adapted Satellites are emerging and computer technology is developing quite rapidly. Moreover, NASDA's role in satellite operations is changing from mainly Satellite Bus operations to experimental/whole satellite missions operations. Considering these circumstances, NASDA has initiated a study for the next generation system which is suitable for operations of future satellites keeping in mind the following viewpoints: (1) demands from mission support; (2) trend of satellite design; and (3) progress of computer environment. This is an interim report of the study.

Nakayama, K.↗

NASA NTRS1994

The detectability of extrasolar terrestrial and giant planets during their luminous final accretion

One of the outstanding scienfific questions in astronomy is the frequency at which solar systems form. Answering this question is an observational challenge because extrasolar planets are intrinsically difficult to directly detect. Here I examine the direct detectability of planets during the short but unique epoch of giant impacts that is a hallmark of the standard theory of planetary formation. Sufficiently large impacts during this era are capable of creating a luminous, 1500-2500 K photosphere, which can persist for time scales exceeding 10(exp 3) yr in some cases. I examine the detectability of such events and the number of young stars one would need to examine to expect to find a luminous terrestrial-class planet after a giant impact. With emerging IR interferometric technology, thermally luminous Earth-sized objects can be detected in nearby star forming regions in 1-2 nights of observing time. Unfortunately, predictions indicated that approximately 250 young stars would have to be searched to expect to find one hot, terrestrial-sized planet. By comparison, the detection of Saturn and Uranus-Neptune-sized planets after a giant impact requires only 1-2 h of observing time. A single Keck-class telescope should be able to determine whether such planets are common in the nearest star forming regions by examining less than or approximately equal to 100 young stars over a few tens of nights. The results obtained here suggest a new strategy for the detection of solar systems with the potential for the observational confirmation of the standard theory of late-stage planetary accretion.

Stern, S. Alan↗

NASA NTRS1996

Group Support Systems (GSS)

Groupware is a term describing an emerging computer software technology enhancing the ability of people to work together as a group, (a software driven 'group support system'). This project originated at the beginning of 1992 and reports were issued describing the activity through May 1995. These reports stressed the need for process as well as technology. That is, while the technology represented a computer assisted method for groups to work together, the Group Support System (GSS) technology als required an understanding of the facilitation process electronic meetings demand. Even people trained in traditional facilitation techniques did not necessarily aimlessly adopt groupware techniques. The latest phase of this activity attempted to (1) improve the facilitation process by developing training support for a portable groupware computer system, and (2) to explore settings and uses for the portable groupware system using different software, such as Lotus Notes.

Hamel, Gary P.↗

NASA NTRS1996

Comparison of Separation Shock for Explosive and Nonexplosive Release Actuators on a Small Spacecraft Panel

Functional shock, safety, overall system costs, and emergence of new technologies, have raised concerns regarding continued use of pyrotechnics on spacecraft. NASA Headquarters-Office of Chief Engineer requested Langley Research Center (LaRC) study pyrotechnic alternatives using non-explosive actuators (NEA's), and LARC participated with Lockheed Martin Missile and Space Co. (LMMSC)-Sunnyvale, CA in objectively evaluating applicability of some NEA mechanisms to reduce small spacecraft and booster separation event shock. Comparative tests were conducted on a structural simulator using five different separation nut mechanisms, consisting of three pyrotechnics from OEA-Aerospace and Hi-Shear Technology and two NEA's from G&H Technology and Lockheed Martin Astronautics (LMA)-Denver, CO. Multiple actuations were performed with preloads up to 7000 pounds, 7000 being the comparison standard. All devices except LMA's NEA rotary flywheel-nut concept were available units with no added provisions to attenuate shock. Accelerometer measurements were recorded, reviewed, processed into Shock Response Spectra (SRS), and comparisons performed. For the standard preload, pyrotechnics produced the most severe and the G&H NEA the least severe functional shock levels. Comparing all results, the LMA concept produced the lowest levels, with preload limited to approximately 4200 pounds. Testing this concept over a range of 3000 to 4200 pounds indicated no effect of preload on shock response levels. This report presents data from these tests and the comparative results.

Lucy, M. H.↗

NASA NTRS1998

A Method for Evaluating the Safety Impacts of Air Traffic Automation

This report describes a methodology for analyzing the safety and operational impacts of emerging air traffic technologies. The approach integrates traditional reliability models of the system infrastructure with models that analyze the environment within which the system operates, and models of how the system responds to different scenarios. Products of the analysis include safety measures such as predicted incident rates, predicted accident statistics, and false alarm rates; and operational availability data. The report demonstrates the methodology with an analysis of the operation of the Center-TRACON Automation System at Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport.

Kostiuk, Peter↗

NASA NTRS1998

Reliability Modeling Methodology for Independent Approaches on Parallel Runways Safety Analysis

This document is an adjunct to the final report An Integrated Safety Analysis Methodology for Emerging Air Transport Technologies. That report presents the results of our analysis of the problem of simultaneous but independent, approaches of two aircraft on parallel runways (independent approaches on parallel runways, or IAPR). This introductory chapter presents a brief overview and perspective of approaches and methodologies for performing safety analyses for complex systems. Ensuing chapter provide the technical details that underlie the approach that we have taken in performing the safety analysis for the IAPR concept.

Babcock, P.↗