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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 145 records · Page 8

A comparison of stratified versus regression estimators

LANDSAT data acquired over an agricultural area along with ground enumeration of the same area are used to obtain crop acreage estimates which are better (as measured in terms of bias and variance) than can be obtained from either data source alone. Two basic approaches considered within the AgRISTARS program are a stratified crop acreage estimator and a regression estimator. A statement of the problem was mathematically formulated and some theorems were proved which relate to the variance of the two estimators. For a particular set of data, the regression and stratified estimators are compared in terms of certain easily computed parameters.

Takacs, H. C.↗

Integrated residential photovoltaic array development

An optimum integrated residential photovoltaic array/module is addressed. Nineteen existing or proposed systems intended for residential applications are described. Each of these systems is rated against a comprehensive set of evaluation criteria in an effort to formulate three module design concepts for further study and analysis. This evaluation led to a number of observations which are enumerated and should be considered in future module and array designs. Three module concepts are presented as baseline design approaches to be further analyzed and optimized. These options include: (1) a rectangular, direct mounted, shingle type module; (2) an integrally mounted module with nonconductive exposed elements; and (3) an aluminum framed, stand off module. Preliminary design drawings are presented for each of these module configurations.

Shepard, N. F., Jr.↗

Defect design of insulation systems for photovoltaic modules

A defect-design approach to sizing electrical insulation systems for terrestrial photovoltaic modules is presented. It consists of gathering voltage-breakdown statistics on various thicknesses of candidate insulation films where, for a designated voltage, module failure probabilities for enumerated thickness and number-of-layer film combinations are calculated. Cost analysis then selects the most economical insulation system. A manufacturing yield problem is solved to exemplify the technique. Results for unaged Mylar suggest using fewer layers of thicker films. Defect design incorporates effects of flaws in optimal insulation system selection, and obviates choosing a tolerable failure rate, since the optimization process accomplishes that. Exposure to weathering and voltage stress reduces the voltage-withstanding capability of module insulation films. Defect design, applied to aged polyester films, promises to yield reliable, cost-optimal insulation systems.

Mon, G. R.↗

An analysis of aircrew procedural compliance

This research examines the relationships between aircrew compliance with procedures and operator errors. The data for this analysis were generated by reexamination of a 1976 experiment in full mission simulation conducted by Dr. H. P. Ruffell Smith (1979) for the NASA-Ames Research Center. The character of individual operators, the chemistry of crew composition, and complex aspects of the operational environment affected procedural compliance by crew members. Associations between enumerated operator errors and several objective indicators of crew coordination were investigated. The correspondence among high operator error counts and infrequent compliance with specific crew coordination requirements was most notable when copilots were accountable for control of flight parameters.

Schofield, J. E.↗

Assessment of lubricated contacts: Mechanisms of scuffing and scoring

Scoring and scuffing are defined as two distinct but related forms of failure of hardened ferrous components lubricated by liquids. Experimental observations of these phenomena are described, and criteria for scoring and scuffing are discussed. The mechanisms proposed by various authors to explain these observations are enumerated. The view presented here is that, under conditions yet to be defined, scoring is a gradual breakdown of the lubrication of interacting asperities, such lubrication being boundary or microelastohydrodynamic in nature, or a mixture of the two. The final scuffing stage represents a breakdown of the main elastohydrodynamic system, but this may be triggered by the deterioration in surface topography as a result of scoring. An extension of published theoretical treatment of elastohydrodynamic breakdown is proposed, and a critical experiment to assess the importance of edge effects in band contacts is suggested. The practical implications of the proposed mechanism are reviewed, and recommendations for further work are made. A possible thermal instability mechanism for the breakdown of boundary lubrication is outlined.

Dyson, A.↗

Workshop on Magmatic Processes of Early Planetary Crusts: Magma Oceans and Stratiform Layered Intrusions

The significance of the lunar highland pristine cumulate samples were reevaluated with the aid of the additional insights provided by geologically constrained terrestrial investigations. This exercise involved a review of the state of knowledge about terrestrial and lunar cumulate rocks as well as an enumeration and reevaluation of the processes hypothesized to have been responsible for their formation, both classically and at present.

Walker, D.↗

Stirling engine design manual, 2nd edition

This manual is intended to serve as an introduction to Stirling cycle heat engines, as a key to the available literature on Stirling engines and to identify nonproprietary Stirling engine design methodologies. Two different fully described Stirling engines are discussed. Engine design methods are categorized as first order, second order, and third order with increased order number indicating increased complexity. FORTRAN programs are listed for both an isothermal second order design program and an adiabatic second order design program. Third order methods are explained and enumerated. In this second edition of the manual the references are updated. A revised personal and corporate author index is given and an expanded directory lists over 80 individuals and companies active in Stirling engines.

Martini, W. R.↗

Orbiter global positioning system design and Ku-band problem investigations, exhibit B, revision 1

The hardware, software, and interface between them was investigated for a low dynamics, nonhostile environment, low cost GPS receiver (GPS Z set). The set is basically a three dimensional geodetic and way point navigator with GPS time, ground speed, and ground track as possible outputs in addition to the usual GPS receiver set outputs. Each functional module comprising the GPS set is described, enumerating its functional inputs and outputs, leading to the interface between hardware and software of the set.

Lindsey, W. C.↗

Ascent air data system results from the space shuttle flight test program

The ascent air data system of the Space Shuttle consists of a simple biconic spike probe on the nose of the external tank. Pressure measurements were calibrated in a wind tunnel to obtain vehicle attitude and speed (relative to the air) and dynamic pressure. The wind tunnel test data analysis and the calibration are discussed in terms of test problems and calibration parameter formulation. The flight pressures are traced from telemetry data to final air data products. Analysis of the flight results showed that static pressure could not be accurately determined at the higher Mach numbers (above approx. 2.0). By replacing static pressure with data from a postflight estimated trajectory the ascent air data system performance met the user requirements. Lessons learned are enumerated, the most important being the need for a thorough systems integration effort.

Hillje, E. R.↗

A Preliminary Survey of Plankton and Periphyton in the Turn Barge Canal and Basin Area of Kennedy Space Center, Florida

While thirty-seven species of various groups of organisms were identified at the five stations at KSC, further sampling is needed to further enumerate and identify phytoplankton and periphyton for the long term monitoring program and assessment for a probable polygeneration site. Thallophyta, Cyanophyta coccoid and Chrysophyta pennate were the dominant organisms. Chlorobium was the most abundant Thallophyta. Pennate diatoms were larger and more abundant at station one. The absence of Skeletonema costatum was surprising. Stations four and five appear to be acid marsh swales. Rhabdoderma lineare, a Cyanophyta coccoid found in acid lakes, was abundant in stations four and five.

Barnes, G. D.↗

Tracking and data acquisition system for the 1990's. Volume 7: TDAS space technology assessment

The results of the TDAS and user spacecraft technology assessment effort are provided. For each TDAS Satellite enhancement and user spacecraft element previously enumerated, the technology issues are identified and the R&D needed to resolve these issues is delineated. Subsequently, taking into account developments taking place elsewhere, the addition unique TDAS satellite module and user spacecraft element R&D efforts needed are identified, and conclusions are drawn in each case. From these conclusions, it is evident that with additional unique R&D efforts carried out for TDAS and appropriate user spacecraft elements the desired TDAS' capabilities for the 1990's can be realized and user spacecraft can be implemented that adequately interface with the projected TDAS.

Khatri, R.↗

The analysis of solar models: Neutrinos and oscillations

Tests of solar neutrino flux and solar oscillation frequencies were used to assess standard stellar structure theory. Standard and non-standard solar models are enumerated and discussed. The field of solar seismology, wherein the solar interior is studied from the measurement of solar oscillations, is introduced.

Ulrich, R. K.↗

Priority for empirical methods development

Several noise sources combine to make up the total helicopter noise spectrum. The sources that are most important to community annoyance are the tail rotor (discrete), main rotor (unsteady), and engine (unsteady). The periodic and broadband noise components of the helicopter rotor were enumerated, and an approach to rotorcraft noise prediction was discussed. Helicopter noise sources were prioritized, and design improvements to reduce noise were reviewed. Main rotor noise is believed to be the key to quieter helicopters since there are proven and relatively inexpensive ways to handle the tail rotor. Blade Vortex Interaction (BVI) noise is a problem to some extent with all helicopters, particularly in the descent mode. Methodology must be developed to allow forecast and control of this type of noise. Additional means of controlling it, such as reduced rotor speeds for terminal operations should also be pursued because they may be the most effective means of control and they apply to all helicopter models. Main rotor broadband noise is the limiting factor in overall helicopter noise generation. Development of semi-empirical methods to predict its behavior is necessary if results are to be achieved in the short time period available.

King, R. J.↗

Large Deployable Reflector Science and Technology Workshop. Volume 3: Systems and Technology Assessment

The results of five technology panels which convened to discuss the Large Deployable Reflector (LDR) are presented. The proposed LDR is a large, ambient-temperature, far infrared/submillimeter telescope designed for space. Panel topics included optics, materials and structures, sensing and control, science instruments, and systems and missions. The telescope requirements, the estimated technology levels, and the areas in which the generic technology work has to be augmented are enumerated.

Leidich, C. A.↗

Large Deployable Reflector Science and Technology Workshop. Volume 3: Systems and Technology Assessment. Conclusions

The physical parameters of the Large Deployable Reflector (LDR) required to achieve the anticipated astronomical objectives are reviewed briefly. System parameters and performance requirements for the LDR are enumerated. The LDR was compared with the Cosmic Background Experiment (COBE), the Infrared Astronomical Satellite (IRAS), and the Space Infrared Telescope Facility (SIRTF). Angular resolution and high resolution spectroscopy requirements for LDR were considered.

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Research relative to high energy astrophysics

Various parameters which affect the design of the proposed large area modular array of reflectors (LAMAR) are considered, including thermal control, high resolution X-ray spectroscopy, pointing control, and mirror performance. The LAMAR instrument is to be a shuttle-launched X-ray observatory to carry out cosmic X-ray investigations. The capabilities of LAMAR are enumerated. Angular resolution performance of the mirror module prototype was measured to be 30 sec of ARC for 50% of the power. The LAMAR thermal pre-collimator design concepts and test configurations are discussed in detail.

Gorenstein, P.↗

User Requirements

The capabilities, enumerated during the Planetary Data Workshop, which the ideal Planetary Data System (PDS) should provide to its users are summarized. System design and implementation activities must take into account that all requirements do not carry the same weight. While some system requirements are essential and must be met early, other requirements are of a less immediate nature and can be implemented during later stages of development. Some requirements may be determined to be not essential to the operation of a PDS or impractical, and then not considered for implementation. It is assumed, that the PDS implementation will be modular in architecture and accomplishment. The modular plan is supported by many potential benefits in that it: simplifies the design and planning activities; improves the ability to respond to the changing demands of the user community; permits incorporation of emerging technologies; and allows the implementation to remain flexible in the face of fluctuating resources.

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