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At least 1,603 records · Page 89

Spacecraft dynamic environments

Zero-gravity conditions in Earth orbit cannot be obtained in the Shuttle Orbiter, however, through careful planning, the dynamic environment and its effects on experiments can be minimized. Futhermore, although the dynamic environment of the Shuttle Orbiter is to a large degree stochastics, it is possible to predict characteristics of this environments so that scientists and technologists can plan their experiments and mission managers can plan missions with a view toward minimizing the effects of spacecraft dynamics on experiments. Characteristics of the dynamic environment that might be predicted include typical and "worst case" values of vehicle acceleration for the anticipated acceleration sources, typical number of acceleration event, duration times of disctete acceleration events, bandwidth of acceleration time history, etc.

Fichtl, G. H.↗

Dynamic switch matrix for the TDMA satellite switching system

Future high capacity satellite communication systems require signal processing on board satellites. The on-board signal processing includes switching of RF signals between multiple antennas to provide interconnection between the uplink and downlink beams. This paper describes the development of a dynamic switch matrix for a TDMA satellite switching system to be used in the next generation communications satellites. In this paper, a dynamic switch matrix, which includes the microwave switch matrix, the distribution control unit and the timing source, will be described. Several different microwave switch matrix architectures and switching devices were evaluated and compared. A unique coupler crossbar switch matrix architecture with dual-gate field effect transistor as switching element was developed. Experimental results of both microwave switch matrix (MSM) and distribution control unit (DCU) are presented. These test results verify the MSM with coupler crossbar architecture and dual-gate FET as switching element will meet the future SS-TDMA system requirements. Finally, the reliability of the dynamic switch matrix is addressed. The analysis shows reliability of 0.9981 for 7 year space operation can be achieved for the designed dynamic switch matrix.

Ho, P. T.↗

Observations of the interaction of ozone and dynamics

Data on the global distribution of temperature and ozone obtained with the Limb Radiance Inversion Radiometer which flew on the Nimbus 6 spacecraft are analyzed within the conceptual framework of Hartmann and Garcia (1979). The analysis supports the conclusion that ozone perturbations are dynamically controlled when the photochemical time constant is much greater than the dynamical time constant; when the photochemical constant is much less than the dynamical constant, ozone perturbations are photochemically controlled. It is also shown that the transports of planetary waves, or eddy transports, appear to be strongly localized in the region between the regimes in which dynamical and photochemical controls operate.

Gille, J. C.↗

Dynamics of rotating and oscillating free drops

The Dynamics of Rotating and Oscillating Free Drops (DROP) experiment is to be performed using the Drop Dynamics Module (DDM). The main scientific objectives of the DROP experiment are the study of the equilibrium figures of a rotating drop and the study of the large-amplitude oscillations of a liquid drop. The objective of the DROP experiment in relation to the DDM is to establish the advantages of conducting future drops and bubbles experiments in space. The DROP experiment will be subjected to continual to ensure that the experiments are scientifically current and available. The two component experiments (rotation and oscillation) of the DROP experiment have been chosen as the simplest experiments representative of the entire class of drop dynamics experiments. The component experiment on the equilibrium shapes of a rotating liquid drop of a simple liquid is not only an important and interesting experiment in its own right, but is also the simplest gyrostatic experiment that can be performed. In later experiments, more complicated liquids can be used; bubbles can be included; and the dynamics of rotating drops can be studied. This experiment, as it now stands, is an important exercise of the module's ability to provide drop rotation and the requisite science data.

Wang, T. G.↗

Safe on-orbit experiment for measurement of large structures dynamics

The Solar Array Flight Experiment (SAFE) on-orbit experiment for measurement of large structures dynamics consists of a dynamic sensing system designed to record and analyze the dynamic characteristics of the SAFE. The early availability of the SAFE and its basic large space structure characteristics make it a logical candidate for verification of the sensing system and the evaluation technique. The characteristics of the solar array which place it well within the generic class of large space structures are: (1) large size, (2) low natural frequencies, (3) mechanical complexity of its extendable/retractable mast, and (4) the inability to dynamically test in the Earth's atmosphere and in one g. The fourth characteristic is due to its size, air damping dominance of the blanket, and structural instability in one g. The specific characteristics of the solar array are shown and the applicability to large space structures is illustrated.

Schock, R. W.↗

Calculation of exact vibration modes for plane grillages by the dynamic stiffness method

A dynamic stiffness method is developed for the calculation of the exact modal parameters for plane grillages which consist of straight and uniform beams with coincident elastic and inertial axes. Elementary bending-torsion beam theory is utilized, and bending translation is restricted to one direction. The exact bending-torsion dynamic stiffness matrix is obtained for a straight and uniform beam element with coincident elastic and inertial axes. The element stiffness matrices are assembled using the standard procedure of the static stiffness method to form the dynamic stiffness matrix of the complete grillage. The exact natural frequencies, mode shapes, and generalized masses of the grillage are then calculated by solving a nonlinear eigenvalue problem based on the dynamic stiffness matrix. The exact modal solutions for an example grillage are calculated and compared with the approximate solutions obtained by using the finite element method.

Hallauer, W. L., Jr.↗

Dynamics and control of a Shuttle attached antenna experiment

Study results obtained to date identify the requirements for a large space system flight experiment. This paper considers the dynamics and control of an offset feed wrap-rib antenna attached to the Shuttle for such an experiment. Results reported in this paper are primarily based on the analysis and simulation of the combined Shuttle and antenna flexible dynamics model, and the Shuttle Vernier Reaction Control Subsystem. These results establish the technical feasibility of the Shuttle attached antenna flight experiment. Static and dynamic disturbances examined do not cause significant dynamic interactions to the experiment. Shuttle Vernier jets can be used for control purpose or as controlled excitation sources for experiment. Interface between the Shuttle and the antenna can be rigid or actively decoupled depending on the experiment objective. Key large space systems control technologies such as distributed sensing and actuation, system identification, figure estimation and control, and control for slew or reconfiguration can be validated with the experiment configuration described in this paper.

Wang, S. J.↗

Shuttle on-orbit dynamics

Shuttle on-orbit dynamics are outlined. Topics discussed include: on-orbit dynamic environment; on-orbit dynamic interaction; accelerated g-levels and sources; phase plane controller; maximum average RCS pulsing rate; maximum RCS accelerations; manual pulse mode; dynamic interaction; generic screening.

Fay, S.↗

Identification of multivariable high-performance turbofan engine dynamics from closed loop data

A typical engine control design cycle consists of developing a dynamic engine simulation from steady-state component performance data, designing a control based upon this simulation, and then testing and modifying the control in an engine test cell to meet performance requirements. This design cycle was successful for state-of-the-art engines. However, for more advanced multivariable engines that exhibit strong variable interactions, this procedure will result in substantial trial and error modification of the control during the testing phase. One method to automate the design process and reduce control modification testing and development cost would be to identify accurate dynamic models directly from the closed-loop test data. These identified models would then be used in conjunction with a synthesis procedure to systematically refine the control. Recent advances in closed-loop identifiability present a methodology for this direct identification of engine model dynamics from closed-loop test data. The application of an identification method to simulated and actual closed-loop F100 engine data is described. This study was undertaken to determine if useful dynamic engine models could be identified directly from closed-loop engine test data.

Merrill, W. C.↗

Frequency-domain identification of XV-15 tilt-rotor aircraft dynamics

Frequency-domain methods are used to identify the open-loop dynamics of the XV-15 tilt-rotor aircraft from flight tests. Piloting and data analysis techniques are presented to determine frequency response plots and equivalent transfer function models. The open-loop pitch and roll dynamics for the hover flight condition exhibit unstable low-frequency oscillations, whereas the dynamics in the remaining degrees of freedom are lightly damped and generally decoupled. Comparisons of SV-13 flight-test and simulator data are more favorable for high-frequency inputs (omega greater than 1.0 rad/sec) than low-frequency inputs. The identification of symmetric and asymmetric beam-bending modes compares favorably with previous flight-test data. The results presented in this paper demonstrate the utility of the frequency-domain techniques for dynamics identification and simulator fidelity studies.

Tischler, M. B.↗

Numerical formulation for a higher order plane finite dynamic element

The paper describes the development of an eight-node plane rectangular finite dynamic element and presents detailed descriptions of the associated numerical formulation involving the higher order dynamic correction terms pertaining to the related stiffness and inertia matrices. Numerical test results of free vibration analyses are presented in detail for the newly developed eight-node element and also the corresponding four-node element in order to make a clear comparison of the relative efficiencies of the corresponding finite element and dynamic element procedures. Such results indicate a superior pattern of solution convergence of the presently developed dynamic element.

Gupta, K. K.↗

Dynamic Conversion Working Group Summary

The potential of dynamic conversion devices for use in solar and nuclear dynamic space power systems was addressed. Conversion systems considered were based on the use of Brayton, Stirling and Rankine cycles. Both organic and liquid metal Rankine cycles were included. The basic system considerations were: mission requirements, system attributes, system options, technology issues and constraints, and priorities of needed technology development. Mission requirements, where dynamic conversion was considered enabling technology, were identified along with the associated power levels and potential energy sources. When considering the system options special attention was given to recommend operating temperatures and other significant discriminators. A list of prioritized tasks considered important for the successful development of dynamic conversion systems for 1995 and beyond was compiled.

Chaffee, N.↗

The investigation of tethered satellite system dynamics

Tethered satellite system (TSS) dynamics were studied. The dynamic response of the TSS during the entire stationkeeping phase for the first electrodynamic mission was investigated. An out of plane swing amplitude and the tether's bowing were observed. The dynamics of the slack tether was studied and computer code, SLACK2, was improved both in capabilities and computational speed. Speed hazard related to tether breakage or plasma contactor failure was examined. Preliminary values of the potential difference after the failure and of the drop of the electric field along the tether axis have been computed. The update of the satellite rotational dynamics model is initiated.

Lorenzini, E.↗

Identification of dynamic systems, theory and formulation

The problem of estimating parameters of dynamic systems is addressed in order to present the theoretical basis of system identification and parameter estimation in a manner that is complete and rigorous, yet understandable with minimal prerequisites. Maximum likelihood and related estimators are highlighted. The approach used requires familiarity with calculus, linear algebra, and probability, but does not require knowledge of stochastic processes or functional analysis. The treatment emphasizes unification of the various areas in estimation in dynamic systems is treated as a direct outgrowth of the static system theory. Topics covered include basic concepts and definitions; numerical optimization methods; probability; statistical estimators; estimation in static systems; stochastic processes; state estimation in dynamic systems; output error, filter error, and equation error methods of parameter estimation in dynamic systems, and the accuracy of the estimates.

Maine, R. E.↗

The investigation of tethered satellite system dynamics

A progress report is presented that deals with three major topics related to Tethered Satellite System Dynamics. The SAO rotational dynamics computer code was updated. The program is now suitable to deal with inclined orbits. The output has been also modified in order to show the satellite Euler angles referred to the rotating orbital frame. The three-dimensional high resolution computer program SLACK3 was developed. The code simulates the three-dimensional dynamics of a tether going slack taking into account the effect produced by boom rotations. Preliminary simulations on the three-dimensional dynamics of a recoiling slack tether are shown in this report. A program to evaluate the electric potential around a severed tether is immersed in a plasma. The potential is computed on a three-dimensional grid axially symmetric with respect to the tether longitudinal axis. The electric potential variations due to the plasma are presently under investigation.

Lorenzini, E.↗

Dynamic loads analyses of flexible airplanes - New and existing techniques

This paper reviews existing techniques for calculating dynamic loads for flexible airplanes and presents a new technique. The new technique involves the summation-of-forces method of writing dynamic loads equations. Until now this form of the dynamic loads equations has been formulated in the frequency domain. The new technique uses s-plane approximation methods (previously applied only to the equations of motion) to transform the dynamic loads equations from a second-order frequency-domain formulation with frequency-dependent coefficients into a linear-time-invariant state-space formulation. Several numerical examples demonstrate the usefulfness of the new technique and the high quality of the results. In addition, a convergence investigation establishes that the summation-of-forces method converges more quickly (that is, with fewer modes) than does the mode displacement method.

Pototzky, A. S.↗

Planetary rings - A dynamic, evolving subject

Attention is drawn to current attempts to present the results of theoretical dynamical studies of the planetary rings, and to propagate observational results on ring structure and physical properties that are relevant to dynamical interpretations. Like earlier, optical models, dynamical models tend to assume simplified, single sized, smooth, and round, ring-constituting particles; a tendency is noted which confuses particles dominating optical properties with those that dominate dynamics.

Greenberg, R.↗

Robustness of continuous-time adaptive control algorithms in the presence of unmodeled dynamics

This paper examines the robustness properties of existing adaptive control algorithms to unmodeled plant high-frequency dynamics and unmeasurable output disturbances. It is demonstrated that there exist two infinite-gain operators in the nonlinear dynamic system which determines the time-evolution of output and parameter errors. The pragmatic implications of the existence of such infinite-gain operators is that: (1) sinusoidal reference inputs at specific frequencies and/or (2) sinusoidal output disturbances at any frequency (including dc), can cause the loop gain to increase without bound, thereby exciting the unmodeled high-frequency dynamics, and yielding an unstable control system. Hence, it is concluded that existing adaptive control algorithms as they are presented in the literature referenced in this paper, cannot be used with confidence in practical designs where the plant contains unmodeled dynamics because instability is likely to result. Further understanding is required to ascertain how the currently implemented adaptive systems differ from the theoretical systems studied here and how further theoretical development can improve the robustness of adaptive controllers.

Rohrs, C. E.↗