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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 1,441 records · Page 80

All sources NASA NTRS DOE OSTI

NASA NTRS1991

Spacecraft design optimization using Taguchi analysis

The quality engineering methods of Dr. Genichi Taguchi, employing design of experiments, are important statistical tools for designing high quality systems at reduced cost. The Taguchi method was utilized to study several simultaneous parameter level variations of a lunar aerobrake structure to arrive at the lightest weight configuration. Finite element analysis was used to analyze the unique experimental aerobrake configurations selected by Taguchi method. Important design parameters affecting weight and global buckling were identified and the lowest weight design configuration was selected.

Unal, Resit↗

NASA NTRS1994

Proposal for the design of a zero gravity tool storage device

Astronauts frequently use a variety of hand tools during space missions, especially on repair missions. A toolbox is needed to allow storage and retrieval of tools with minimal difficulties. The toolbox must contain tools during launch, landing, and on-orbit operations. The toolbox will be used in the Shuttle Bay and therefore must withstand the hazardous space environment. The three main functions of the toolbox in space are: to protect the tools from the space environment and from damaging one another, to allow for quick, one-handed access to the tools; and to minimize the heat transfer between the astronaut's hand and the tools. This proposal explores the primary design issues associated with the design of the toolbox. Included are the customer and design specifications, global and refined function structures, possible solution principles, concept variants, and finally design recommendations.

Stuckwisch, Sue↗

NASA NTRS1994

Computer tools for systems engineering at LaRC

The Systems Engineering Office (SEO) has been established to provide life cycle systems engineering support to Langley research Center projects. over the last two years, the computing market has been reviewed for tools which could enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of activities directed towards this mission. A group of interrelated applications have been procured, or are under development including a requirements management tool, a system design and simulation tool, and project and engineering data base. This paper will review the current configuration of these tools and provide information on future milestones and directions.

Walters, J. Milam↗

NASA NTRS1995

Software For Design And Analysis Of Tanks And Cylindrical Shells

Skin-stringer Tank Analysis Spreadsheet System (STASS) computer program developed for use as preliminary design software tool that enables quick-turnaround design and analysis of structural domes and cylindrical barrel sections in propellant tanks or other cylindrical shells. Determines minimum required skin thicknesses for domes and cylindrical shells to withstand material failure due to applied pressures (ullage and/or hydrostatic) and runs buckling analyses on cylindrical shells and skin-stringers. Implemented as workbook program, using Microsoft Excel v4.0 on Macintosh II. Also implemented using Microsoft Excel v4.0 for Microsoft Windows v3.1 IBM PC.

Luz, Paul L.↗

NASA NTRS1995

Preloaded joint analysis methodology for space flight systems

This report contains a compilation of some of the most basic equations governing simple preloaded joint systems and discusses the more common modes of failure associated with such hardware. It is intended to provide the mechanical designer with the tools necessary for designing a basic bolted joint. Although the information presented is intended to aid in the engineering of space flight structures, the fundamentals are equally applicable to other forms of mechanical design.

Chambers, Jeffrey A.↗

DOE OSTI2024

Database schema design: Energy Flexibility Environmental Tradeoffs Tool

The Energy Flexibility-Environment Tradeoff Toolset is designed using Streamlit framework, with Python as the programming language. Data storage is facilitated through the use of SQLite. Streamlit is an open-source Python framework for machine learning and data science teams, and SQLite is the most used database engine.

96 KNOWLEDGE MANAGEMENT AND PRESERVATION↗

NASA NTRS2006

Habitat Design Optimization and Analysis

Long-duration surface missions to the Moon and Mars will require habitats for the astronauts. The materials chosen for the habitat walls play a direct role in the protection against the harsh environments found on the surface. Choosing the best materials, their configuration, and the amount required is extremely difficult due to the immense size of the design region. Advanced optimization techniques are necessary for habitat wall design. Standard optimization techniques are not suitable for problems with such large search spaces; therefore, a habitat design optimization tool utilizing genetic algorithms has been developed. Genetic algorithms use a "survival of the fittest" philosophy, where the most fit individuals are more likely to survive and reproduce. This habitat design optimization tool is a multi-objective formulation of structural analysis, heat loss, radiation protection, and meteoroid protection. This paper presents the research and development of this tool.

SanSoucie, Michael P.↗

NASA NTRS2014

Use of Semantic Technology to Create Curated Data Albums

One of the continuing challenges in any Earth science investigation is the discovery and access of useful science content from the increasingly large volumes of Earth science data and related information available online. Current Earth science data systems are designed with the assumption that researchers access data primarily by instrument or geophysical parameter. Those who know exactly the data sets they need can obtain the specific files using these systems. However, in cases where researchers are interested in studying an event of research interest, they must manually assemble a variety of relevant data sets by searching the different distributed data systems. Consequently, there is a need to design and build specialized search and discover tools in Earth science that can filter through large volumes of distributed online data and information and only aggregate the relevant resources needed to support climatology and case studies. This paper presents a specialized search and discovery tool that automatically creates curated Data Albums. The tool was designed to enable key elements of the search process such as dynamic interaction and sense-making. The tool supports dynamic interaction via different modes of interactivity and visual presentation of information. The compilation of information and data into a Data Album is analogous to a shoebox within the sense-making framework. This tool automates most of the tedious information/data gathering tasks for researchers. Data curation by the tool is achieved via an ontology-based, relevancy ranking algorithm that filters out nonrelevant information and data. The curation enables better search results as compared to the simple keyword searches provided by existing data systems in Earth science.

Ramachandran, Rahul↗

NASA NTRS2014

Use of Semantic Technology to Create Curated Data Albums

One of the continuing challenges in any Earth science investigation is the discovery and access of useful science content from the increasingly large volumes of Earth science data and related information available online. Current Earth science data systems are designed with the assumption that researchers access data primarily by instrument or geophysical parameter. Those who know exactly the data sets they need can obtain the specific files using these systems. However, in cases where researchers are interested in studying an event of research interest, they must manually assemble a variety of relevant data sets by searching the different distributed data systems. Consequently, there is a need to design and build specialized search and discovery tools in Earth science that can filter through large volumes of distributed online data and information and only aggregate the relevant resources needed to support climatology and case studies. This paper presents a specialized search and discovery tool that automatically creates curated Data Albums. The tool was designed to enable key elements of the search process such as dynamic interaction and sense-making. The tool supports dynamic interaction via different modes of interactivity and visual presentation of information. The compilation of information and data into a Data Album is analogous to a shoebox within the sense-making framework. This tool automates most of the tedious information/data gathering tasks for researchers. Data curation by the tool is achieved via an ontology-based, relevancy ranking algorithm that filters out non-relevant information and data. The curation enables better search results as compared to the simple keyword searches provided by existing data systems in Earth science.

Ramachandran, Rahul↗

NASA NTRS2015

Update on HCDstruct - A Tool for Hybrid Wing Body Conceptual Design and Structural Optimization

HCDstruct is a Matlab® based software tool to rapidly build a finite element model for structural optimization of hybrid wing body (HWB) aircraft at the conceptual design level. The tool uses outputs from a Flight Optimization System (FLOPS) performance analysis together with a conceptual outer mold line of the vehicle, e.g. created by Vehicle Sketch Pad (VSP), to generate a set of MSC Nastran® bulk data files. These files can readily be used to perform a structural optimization and weight estimation using Nastran’s® Solution 200 multidisciplinary optimization solver. Initially developed at NASA Langley Research Center to perform increased fidelity conceptual level HWB centerbody structural analyses, HCDstruct has grown into a complete HWB structural sizing and weight estimation tool, including a fully flexible aeroelastic loads analysis. Recent upgrades to the tool include the expansion to a full wing tip-to-wing tip model for asymmetric analyses like engine out conditions and dynamic overswings, as well as a fully actuated trailing edge, featuring up to 15 independently actuated control surfaces and twin tails. Several example applications of the HCDstruct tool are presented.

Gern, Frank H.↗

DOE OSTI2020

An Integrated Computer-Aided Design and Manufacturing Workflow for Synthetic Biology

Biological computer-aided design and manufacturing (bioCAD/CAM) tools facilitate the design and build processes of engineering biological systems using iterative design-build-test-learn (DBTL) cycles. In this book chapter, we highlight some of the bioCAD/CAM tools developed and used at the US Department of Energy (DOE) Joint Genome Institute (JGI), Joint BioEnergy Institute (JBEI), and Agile BioFoundry (ABF). We demonstrate the use of these bioCAD/CAM tools on a common workflow for designing and building a multigene pathway in a hierarchical fashion. Additionally, each tool presented in this book chapter is specifically tailored to support one or more specific steps in a workflow, can be integrated with the others into design and build workflows, and can be deployed at academic, government, or commercial entities.

59 BASIC BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES↗

NASA NTRS2002

Improvements in Thermal Protection Sizing Capabilities for TCAT: Conceptual Design for Advanced Space Transportation Systems

The Thermal Calculation Analysis Tool (TCAT), originally developed for the Space Systems Design Lab at the Georgia Institute of Technology, is a conceptual design tool capable of integrating aeroheating analysis into conceptual reusable launch vehicle design. It provides Thermal Protection System (TPS) unit thicknesses and acreage percentages based on the geometry of the vehicle and a reference trajectory to be used in calculation of the total cost and weight of the vehicle design. TCAT has proven to be reasonably accurate at calculating the TPS unit weights for in-flight trajectories; however, it does not have the capability of sizing TPS materials above cryogenic fuel tanks for ground hold operations. During ground hold operations, the vehicle is held for a brief period (generally about two hours) during which heat transfer from the TPS materials to the cryogenic fuel occurs. If too much heat is extracted from the TPS material, the surface temperature may fall below the freezing point of water, thereby freezing any condensation that may be present at the surface of the TPS. Condensation or ice on the surface of the vehicle is potentially hazardous to the mission and can also damage the TPS. It is questionable whether or not the TPS thicknesses provided by the aeroheating analysis would be sufficiently thick to insulate the surface of the TPS from the heat transfer to the fuel. Therefore, a design tool has been developed that is capable of sizing TPS materials at these cryogenic fuel tank locations to augment TCAT's TPS sizing capabilities.

Olds, John R.↗

DOE OSTI2022

G2Aero (Separable shape tensors for aerodynamic design) [SWR-22-44]

G2Aero is a flexible and practical tool for design and deformation of 2D airfoils and 3D blades using data-driven approaches. G2Aero utilizes the geometry of matrix manifolds—specifically the Grassmannian—to build a novel framework for representing physics-based separable deformations of shapes. G2Aero offers the flexibility to generate perturbations in a customizable way over any portion of the blade. The G2Aero framework utilizes data-driven methods based on a curated database of physically relevant airfoils. Specific tools include: - principal geodesic analysis over normal coordinate neighborhoods of matrix manifolds; - a variety of data-regularized deformations to nominal 2D airfoil shapes; - Riemannian interpolation connecting a sequence of airfoil cross-sections to build 3D blades from 2D data; - consistent perturbations over the span of interpolated 3D blades based on dominant modes from the data-driven analysis.

Doronina, Olga↗

NASA NTRS2024

End-to-End Mission Design & Trajectory Optimization

Need: A need exists for a generalized, robust, user-friendly and accessible end-to-end mission design optimization tool. Solution: Our solution to developing this capability was to interface two JSC tools—Copernicus and Genesis. Each of these tools has a specific area of the mission design process that it excels at. By utilizing them both, we can gain performance benefits not seen by either on their own. - Copernicus is a trajectory design and optimization software used for in-space trajectories around multiple bodies. - Genesis is a flight mechanics tool used to model ascent, entry, descent, and landing trajectories around a single planetary body. Year 1 was focused on combining these 2 software packages—allowing Copernicus to incorporate the ascent/descent capabilities of Genesis into the optimization problem—and developing this end-to-end mission design capability. Year 2 we focused on increasing the robustness of this capability by building the initial guess generator (IGG), which produces initial guesses based on simplifying assumptions and the physics of the problem. Year 3 of our project focused on utilizing the end-to-end mission design and optimization capabilities developed in the previous 2 years to analyze specific mission scenarios—scaling up from proof of concept to real analyses—capturing any resulting performance benefits, as well as addressing the Big Data challenges we’re faced with—namely, how we’re going to manage and interpret all the data that’s generated.

Kristin Nichols↗

DOE OSTI2021

Wear Mechanism Analysis of a New Rotary Shear Biomass Comminution System

A new biomass comminution system, Crumbler rotary shear, was developed to process fuel-grade biomass. The rotary shear is more efficient than the traditional hammer mill in comminuting high-moisture biomass and producing more uniform particles with minimal fines. However, the milling unit experiences significant wear in processing dirty woodchips. This study investigated the wear mechanisms of the rotary shear system based on analysis of the minerals carried by woodchips and characterization of actual worn components. Abrasive wear was found to be the dominant effect, and localized adhesive wear (material transfer), microfracture (chipping), and plastic deformation were additional effects. Connections have been made between the wear progression of key cutting components and the particle size change of biomass extrinsic minerals. On the basis of the wear mechanism understanding, mitigations based on advanced tool materials and optimized tool geometric designs are being developed for improving the tool life and cutting efficiency.

09 BIOMASS FUELS↗

DOE OSTI2023

Section 48C Tax Credits - designated energy communities

Collection of data and an interactive mapping tool that designates census tracts that are considered energy communities for the purposes of the 48C tax credit. While any location in the U.S. is eligible for 48C, to be considered for the portion of credits dedicated to energy communities, a project must be located in a census tract that satisfies the relevant requirements of an energy community as noted in 48C and has not received funding in a prior round of 48C. Additional information on the 48C tax credit can be accessed on the Interagency Working Group on Coal & Power Plant Communities & Economic Revitalization Energy Communities website (https://energycommunities.gov/).

48C↗

NASA NTRS1987

Helicopter-V/STOL dynamic wind and turbulence design methodology

Aircraft and helicopter accidents due to severe dynamic wind and turbulence continue to present challenging design problems. The development of the current set of design analysis tools for a aircraft wind and turbulence design began in the 1940's and 1950's. The areas of helicopter dynamic wind and turbulence modeling and vehicle response to severe dynamic wind inputs (microburst type phenomena) during takeoff and landing remain as major unsolved design problems from a lack of both environmental data and computational methodology. The development of helicopter and V/STOL dynamic wind and turbulence response computation methology is reviewed, the current state of the design art in industry is outlined, and comments on design methodology are made which may serve to improve future flight vehicle design.

Bailey, J. Earl↗

NASA NTRS1992

Technology integration box beam failure study

The objective of this paper is to describe current results from an on-going study of the mechanisms that led to the failure of the TIBB. Experimental and analytical results are presented. Experimental results include load, strain, and deflection data for the TIBB (Technology Integration Box Beam). An analytical investigation was conducted to compliment the experimental investigation and to gain additional insight into the TIBB structural response. Analytical results include strain and deflection results from a global analysis of the TIBB. A local analysis of the failure region is being completed. These analytical results are validated through comparisons with the experimental results from the TIBB tests. The experimental and analytical results from the TIBB tests are used to determine a sequence of events that may have resulted in failure of the TIBB. A potential cause of failure is high stresses in a stiffener runout region. Typical analytical results are presented for a stiffener runout specimen that is being defined to simulate the TIBB failure mechanisms. The results of this study are anticipated to provide better understanding of potential failure mechanisms in composite aircraft structures, to lead to future design improvements, and to identify needed analytical tools for design and analysis.

Shuart, Mark J.↗