Engineering Papers⌕ Search

SEARCH · Engineering Papers

Results for “engineered form”

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.

Quote a phrase for an exact phrase match. Source license links do not imply unrestricted reuse.

At least 163 records · Page 9

Model-Based Approaches to Generate Knowledge from Data in a Plant Reliability Context

One challenge that nuclear power plant system engineers are facing is continuous generation of an extremely large amount of equipment reliability (ER) data. These data elements come in textual (e.g., condition reports) and numeric (e.g., generated by monitoring systems) forms. They provide system engineers with valuable insights and information by discovering anomalous behaviors or degradation trends, identifying possible causes behind such behaviors and trends, and predicting their direct consequences. This paper directly targets the knowledge generation from ER data by putting “data into context.” We employ model-based system engineering (MBSE) of systems and assets to represent and capture their architecture and functional (i.e., cause-effect) relations. ER data elements are processed by first identifying which of the developed MBSE elements they are referring to. This task is harder for textual data since the information contained in issue or maintenance reports needs to be “understood” by a computational tool. We called this process “knowledge extraction” since our methods extract knowledge from textual data. Last, once numeric and textual ER data elements have been processed and “understood,” we discover possible cause-effect relations among them. This is performed by observing whether a logical connection through the MBSE models exists, and if there is a temporal relationship among them. The logic and temporal are the two main ingredients to perform “machine reasoning” from ER data.

97 - MATHEMATICS AND COMPUTING↗

Understanding Generative AI Content with Embedding Models

The construction of high-quality numerical features is critical to any quantitative data analysis. Feature engineering has been historically addressed by carefully hand-crafting data representations based on domain expertise. This work views the internal representations of modern deep neural networks (DNNs), called embeddings, as an implicit form of traditional feature engineering. For trained DNNs, we show that these embeddings can reveal interpretable, high-level concepts in unstructured sample data. We use these embeddings in natural language and computer vision tasks to uncover both inherent heterogeneity in the underlying data and human-understandable explanations for it. In particular, we find empirical evidence that there is inherent separability between real data and those generated from AI models.

Vargas, Max↗

The Stanford how things work project

We provide an overview of the Stanford How Things Work (HTW) project, an ongoing integrated collection of research activities in the Knowledge Systems Laboratory at Stanford University. The project is developing technology for representing knowledge about engineered devices in a form that enables the knowledge to be used in multiple systems for multiple reasoning tasks and reasoning methods that enable the represented knowledge to be effectively applied to the performance of the core engineering task of simulating and analyzing device behavior. The central new capabilities currently being developed in the project are automated assistance with model formulation and with verification that a design for an electro-mechanical device satisfies its functional specification.

Fikes, Richard↗

Tests of Nacelle-Propeller Combinations in Various Positions with Reference to Wings IV : Thick Wing - Various Radial-Engine Cowlings - Tandem Propellers

This report is the fourth of a series giving the results obtained from wind tunnel tests to determine the interference lift and drag and propulsive efficiency of wing-nacelle-propeller combinations. Previous reports give the results of tests with tractor propellers with various forms of nacelles and engine cowlings. This report gives the results of tests of tandem arrangements of engines and propellers in 11 positions with reference to a thick wing.

Mchugh, James G↗

Engineering visualization utilizing advanced animation

Engineering visualization is the use of computer graphics to depict engineering analysis and simulation in visual form from project planning through documentation. Graphics displays let engineers see data represented dynamically which permits the quick evaluation of results. The current state of graphics hardware and software generally allows the creation of two types of 3D graphics. The use of animated video as an engineering visualization tool is presented. The engineering, animation, and videography aspects of animated video production are each discussed. Specific issues include the integration of staffing expertise, hardware, software, and the various production processes. A detailed explanation of the animation process reveals the capabilities of this unique engineering visualization method. Automation of animation and video production processes are covered and future directions are proposed.

Sabionski, Gunter R.↗

Real-Time Simulation of the X-33 Aerospace Engine

This paper discusses the development and performance of the X-33 Aerospike Engine RealTime Model. This model was developed for the purposes of control law development, six degree-of-freedom trajectory analysis, vehicle system integration testing, and hardware-in-the loop controller verification. The Real-Time Model uses time-step marching solution of non-linear differential equations representing the physical processes involved in the operation of a liquid propellant rocket engine, albeit in a simplified form. These processes include heat transfer, fluid dynamics, combustion, and turbomachine performance. Two engine models are typically employed in order to accurately model maneuvering and the powerpack-out condition where the power section of one engine is used to supply propellants to both engines if one engine malfunctions. The X-33 Real-Time Model is compared to actual hot fire test data and is been found to be in good agreement.

Aguilar, Robert↗

Achieving giant electrostrain of above 1% in (Bi,Na)TiO 3 -based lead-free piezoelectrics via introducing oxygen-defect composition

Piezoelectric ceramics have been extensively used in actuators, where the magnitude of electrostrain is key indicator for large-stroke actuation applications. Here, we propose an innovative strategy based on defect chemistry to form a defect-engineered morphotropic phase boundary and achieve a giant strain of 1.12% in lead-free Bi 0.5 Na 0.5 TiO 3 (BNT)–based ceramics. The incorporation of the hypothetical perovskite BaAlO 2.5 with nominal oxygen defect into BNT will form strongly polarized directional defect dipoles, leading to a strong pinning effect after aging. The large asymmetrical strain is mainly attributed to two factors: The defect dipoles along crystallographic [001] direction destroy the long-range ordering of the ferroelectric and activate a reversible phase transition while promoting polarization rotation when the dipoles are aligned along the applied electric field. Our results not only demonstrate the potential application of BNT-based materials in low-frequency, large-stroke actuators but also provide a general methodology to achieve large strain.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗

Perform - A performance optimizing computer program for dynamic systems subject to transient loadings

A description and applications of a computer capability for determining the ultimate optimal behavior of a dynamically loaded structural-mechanical system are presented. This capability provides characteristics of the theoretically best, or limiting, design concept according to response criteria dictated by design requirements. Equations of motion of the system in first or second order form include incompletely specified elements whose characteristics are determined in the optimization of one or more performance indices subject to the response criteria in the form of constraints. The system is subject to deterministic transient inputs, and the computer capability is designed to operate with a large linear programming on-the-shelf software package which performs the desired optimization. The report contains user-oriented program documentation in engineering, problem-oriented form. Applications cover a wide variety of dynamics problems including those associated with such diverse configurations as a missile-silo system, impacting freight cars, and an aircraft ride control system.

Pilkey, W. D.↗

An automated procedure for developing hybrid computer simulations of turbofan engines

A systematic, computer-aided, self-documenting methodology for developing hybrid computer simulations of turbofan engines is presented. The methodology makes use of a host program that can run on a large digital computer and a machine-dependent target (hybrid) program. The host program performs all of the calculations and date manipulations needed to transform user-supplied engine design information to a form suitable for the hybrid computer. The host program also trims the self contained engine model to match specified design point information. A test case is described and comparisons between hybrid simulation and specified engine performance data are presented.

Szuch, J. R.↗

Photographic Study of Combustion in a Rocket Engine I : Variation in Combustion of Liquid Oxygen and Gasoline with Seven Methods of Propellant Injection

Motion pictures at camera speeds up to 3000 frames per second were taken of the combustion of liquid oxygen and gasoline in a 100-pound-thrust rocket engine. The engine consisted of thin contour and injection plates clamped between two clear plastic sheets forming a two-dimensional engine with a view of the entire combustion chamber and nozzle. A photographic investigation was made of the effect of seven methods of propellant injection on the uniformity of combustion. From the photographs, it was found that the flame front extended almost to the faces of the injectors with most of the injection methods, all the injection systems resulted in a considerable nonuniformity of combustion, and luminosity rapidly decreased in the divergent part of the nozzle. Pressure vibration records indicated combustion vibrations that approximately corresponded to the resonant frequencies of the length and the thickness of the chamber. The combustion temperature divided by the molecular weight of the combustion gases as determined from the combustion photographs was about 50 to 70 percent of the theoretical value.

Bellman, Donald R↗

Clustered engine study

Several topics are presented in viewgraph form which together encompass the preliminary assessment of nuclear thermal rocket engine clustering. The study objectives, schedule, flow, and groundrules are covered. This is followed by the NASA groundrules mission and our interpretation of the associated operational scenario. The NASA reference vehicle is illustrated, then the four propulsion system options are examined. Each propulsion system's preliminary design, fluid systems, operating characteristics, thrust structure, dimensions, and mass properties are detailed as well as the associated key propulsion system/vehicle interfaces. A brief series of systems analysis is also covered including: thrust vector control requirements, engine out possibilities, propulsion system failure modes, surviving system requirements, and technology requirements. An assessment of vehicle/propulsion system impacts due to the lessons learned are presented.

Shepard, Kyle↗

NTP system simulation and detailed nuclear engine modeling

The topics are presented in viewgraph form and include the following: nuclear thermal propulsion (NTP) & detailed nuclear engine modeling; modeling and engineering simulation of nuclear thermal rocket systems; nuclear thermal rocket simulation system; INSPI-NTVR core axial flow profiles; INSPI-NTRV core axial flow profiles; specific impulse vs. chamber pressure; turbine pressure ratio vs. chamber pressure; NERVA core axial flow profiles; P&W XNR2000 core axial flow profiles; pump pressure rise vs. chamber pressure; streamline of jet-induced flow in cylindrical chamber; flow pattern of a jet-induced flow in a chamber; and radiative heat transfer models.

Anghaie, Samim↗

Developing a Decision Support Engine to Enable Irrigation Modernization - Poster

Irrigation systems in the United States are some of the oldest continually utilized infrastructure in existence today, with some systems exceeding 100 years in age. They are operated to meet farming demands but are managed through a balance of varying influence: policies limiting water usage, stakeholder interests, and environmental impacts. Irrigation modernization is defined as a set of activities that update and improve existing irrigation systems, including, but not limited to improving water quantity, development of distributed energy resources for surrounding communities, ecosystem services, and improved agricultural yields. Modernizing an existing irrigation system can enable stakeholders to combat changing environmental and population demands but is difficult because the complexity involved in determining the potential benefits and consequences of irrigation modernization is high. We are combining a large amount of various geospatial, tabular, and temporal data with subject matter expertise into a decision support engine that will enable stakeholders to determine the benefits and consequences of irrigation modernization in their irrigation systems. A web-based GIS will allow the user to construct the modifications out of a palette of modernization options, which will be sent to the analytics engine for computations, and back to the web client for a graphical display and comparison of relevant metrics. Our development process involves four phases: 1) identify mechanisms of modernization, 2) identify data requirements, data streams, first principles and applicable algorithms necessary to quantify modernization mechanisms, 3) create ‘modules’ for each modernization mechanism, these modules will form the decision support engine, each capable of performing independently but can also inform other modules when needed, 4) Merge the decision support engine with a user interface, capable of ingesting user inputs and returning insights into the impacts of a modernization project as they relate to economic, environmental, monetary, and energy generation. Once complete, it is our intention that this tool will be fundamental in irrigation modernization projects, providing a strong analytical basis from which stakeholders can quickly make informed decisions regarding project development.

13 HYDRO ENERGY↗

Modernizing engine displays

The introduction of electronic fuel control to modern turbine engines has a number of advantages, which are related to an increase in engine performance and to a reduction or elimination of the problems associated with high angle of attack engine operation from the surface to 50,000 feet. If the appropriate engine display devices are available to the pilot, the fuel control system can provide a great amount of information. Some of the wealth of information available from modern fuel controls are discussed in this paper. The considered electronic engine control systems in their most recent forms are known as the Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC) and the Digital Electronic Engine Control (DEEC). Attention is given to some details regarding the control systems, typical engine problems, the solution of problems with the aid of displays, engine displays in normal operation, an example display format, a multipage format, flight strategies, and hardware considerations.

Schneider, E. T.↗

An automated procedure for developing hybrid computer simulations of turbofan engines

This paper offers a systematic, computer-aided, self-documenting methodology for developing hybrid computer simulations of turbofan engines. The methodology that is presented makes use of a host program that can run on a large digital computer and a machine-dependent target (hybrid) program. The host program performs all of the calculations and data manipulations that are needed to transform user-supplied engine design information to a form suitable for the hybrid computer. The host program also trims the self-contained engine model to match specified design point information. A test case is described and comparisons between hybrid simulation and specified engine performance data are presented.

Szuch, J. R.↗

Ship Design

Marine Consultants & Designers, Inc. is a leader in development of innovative designs for self unloading bulk cargo carriers. Company also performs engineering services related to design of tankers, tugboats and other forms of marine transportation. In its engineering work, the firm makes extensive use of COSMIC's SHCP, which provides highly accurate results, helps to increase product safety and reliability.

Source record↗

Initiation of Long-Wave Instability of Vortex Pairs at Cruise Altitudes

Previous studies have usually attributed the initiation of the long-wave instability of a vortex pair to turbulence in the atmosphere or in the wake of the aircraft. The purpose here is to show by use of observations and photographs of condensation trails shed by aircraft at cruise altitudes that another initiating mechanism is not only possible but is usually the mechanism that initiates the long-wave instability at cruise altitudes. The alternate initiating mechanism comes about when engine thrust is robust enough to form an array of circumferential vortices around each jet-engine-exhaust stream. In those cases, initiation begins when the vortex sheet shed by the wing has rolled up into a vortex pair and descended to the vicinity of the inside bottom of the combined shear-layer vortex arrays. It is the in-and-out (up and down) velocity field between sequential circumferential vortices near the bottom of the array that then impresses disturbance waves on the lift-generated vortex pair that initiate the long-wave instability. A time adjustment to the Crow and Bate estimate for vortex linking is then derived for cases when thrust-based linking occurs.

Rossow, Vernon J.↗

NSI directed to continue SPAN's functions

During a series of network management retreats in June and July 1990, representatives from NASA Headquarters Codes O and S agreed on networking roles and responsibilities for their respective organizations. The representatives decided that NASA Science Internet (NSI) will assume management of both the Space Physics Analysis Network (SPAN) and the NASA Science Network (NSN). SPAN is now known as the NSI/DECnet, and NSN is now known as the NSI/IP. Some management functions will be distributed between Ames Research Center (ARC) and Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC). NSI at ARC has the lead role for requirements generation and networking engineering. Advanced Applications and the Network Information Center is being developed at GSFC. GSFC will lead the NSI User Services, but NSI at Ames will continue to provide the User Services during the transition. The transition will be made as transparent as possible for the users. DECnet service will continue, but is now directly managed by NSI at Ames. NSI will continue to work closely with routing center managers at other NASA centers, and has formed a transition team to address the change in management. An NSI/DECnet working group had also been formed as a separate engineering group within NSI to plan the transition to Phase 5, DECnet's approach to Open System Integration (OSI). Transition is not expected for a year or more due to delays in produce releases. Plans to upgrade speeds in tail circuits and the backbone are underway. The proposed baseline service for new connections is up to 56 Kbps; 9.6 Kbps lines will gradually be upgraded as requirements dictate. NSI is in the process of consolidating protocol traffic, tail circuits, and the backbone. Currently NSI's backbone is fractional T1; NSI will go to full T1 service as soon as it is feasible.

Rounds, Fred↗