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At least 1,783 records · Page 99

Rotational discontinuities and the structure of the magnetopause

Symmetric and asymmetric rotational discontinuities are studied by means of a one-dimensional computer simulation and by single-particle trajectory calculations. The numerical simulations show the symmetric rotation to be stable for both ion and electron senses of rotation with a thickness of the order of a few ion gyroradii when the rotation angle of the tangential field is 180 deg or less. Larger rotation angles tend to be unstable. In an expansive discontinuity, when the magnetic field on the downstream side of the discontinuity is larger, an expanding transition layer separating the highfield from a low-field region develops on the downstream side, and a symmetric rotational discontinuity forms at the upstream edge. The implication of these results for magnetopause structure and energy flow through the magnetopause is described.

Swift, D. W.↗

Flow Coupling Effects in Jet-in-Crossflow Flowfields

The combustor designer is typically required to design liner orifices that effectively mix air jets with crossflow effluent. CFD combustor analysis is typically used in the design process; however the jets are usually assumed to enter the combustor with a uniform velocity and turbulence profile. The jet-mainstream flow coupling is usually neglected because of the computational expense. This CFD study was performed to understand the effect of jet-mainstream flow coupling, and to assess the accuracy of jet boundary conditions that are commonly used in combustor internal calculations. A case representative of a plenum-fed quick-mix section of a Rich Burn/Quick Mix/Lean Burn combustor (i.e. a jet-mainstream mass-flow ratio of about 3 and a jet-mainstream momentum-flux ratio of about 30) was investigated. This case showed that the jet velocity entering the combustor was very non-uniform, with a low normal velocity at the leading edge of the orifice and a high normal velocity at the trailing edge of the orifice. Three different combustor-only cases were analyzed with uniform inlet jet profile. None of the cases matched the plenum-fed calculations. To assess liner thickness effects, a thin-walled case was also analyzed. The CFD analysis showed the thin-walled jets had more penetration than the thick-walled jets.

Bain, D. B.↗

Information Infrastructure Technology and Applications (IITA) Program: Annual K-12 Workshop

The purpose of the K-12 workshop is to stimulate a cross pollination of inter-center activity and introduce the regional centers to curing edge K-1 activities. The format of the workshop consists of project presentations, working groups, and working group reports, all contained in a three day period. The agenda is aggressive and demanding. The K-12 Education Project is a multi-center activity managed by the Information Infrastructure Technology and Applications (IITA)/K-12 Project Office at the NASA Ames Research Center (ARC). this workshop is conducted in support of executing the K-12 Education element of the IITA Project The IITA/K-12 Project funds activities that use the National Information Infrastructure (NII) (e.g., the Internet) to foster reform and restructuring in mathematics, science, computing, engineering, and technical education.

Hunter, Paul↗

Supersonic Quadrupole Noise Theory for High-Speed Helicopter Rotors

High-speed helicopter rotor impulsive noise prediction is an important problem of aeroacoustics. The deterministic quadrupoles have been shown to contribute significantly to high-speed impulsive (HSI) noise of rotors, particularly when the phenomenon of delocalization occurs. At high rotor-tip speeds, some of the quadrupole sources lie outside the sonic circle and move at supersonic speed. Brentner has given a formulation suitable for efficient prediction of quadrupole noise inside the sonic circle. In this paper, we give a simple formulation based on the acoustic analogy that is valid for both subsonic and supersonic quadrupole noise prediction. Like the formulation of Brentner, the model is exact for an observer in the far field and in the rotor plane and is approximate elsewhere. We give the full analytic derivation of this formulation in the paper. We present the method of implementation on a computer for supersonic quadrupoles using marching cubes for constructing the influence surface (Sigma surface) of an observer space- time variable (x; t). We then present several examples of noise prediction for both subsonic and supersonic quadrupoles. It is shown that in the case of transonic flow over rotor blades, the inclusion of the supersonic quadrupoles improves the prediction of the acoustic pressure signature. We show the equivalence of the new formulation to that of Brentner for subsonic quadrupoles. It is shown that the regions of high quadrupole source strength are primarily produced by the shock surface and the flow over the leading edge of the rotor. The primary role of the supersonic quadrupoles is to increase the width of a strong acoustic signal.

Farassat, F.↗

Left ventricular endocardial surface detection based on real-time 3D echocardiographic data

OBJECTIVE: A new computerized semi-automatic method for left ventricular (LV) chamber segmentation is presented. METHODS: The LV is imaged by real-time three-dimensional echocardiography (RT3DE). The surface detection model, based on level set techniques, is applied to RT3DE data for image analysis. The modified level set partial differential equation we use is solved by applying numerical methods for conservation laws. The initial conditions are manually established on some slices of the entire volume. The solution obtained for each slice is a contour line corresponding with the boundary between LV cavity and LV endocardium. RESULTS: The mathematical model has been applied to sequences of frames of human hearts (volume range: 34-109 ml) imaged by 2D and reconstructed off-line and RT3DE data. Volume estimation obtained by this new semi-automatic method shows an excellent correlation with those obtained by manual tracing (r = 0.992). Dynamic change of LV volume during the cardiac cycle is also obtained. CONCLUSION: The volume estimation method is accurate; edge based segmentation, image completion and volume reconstruction can be accomplished. The visualization technique also allows to navigate into the reconstructed volume and to display any section of the volume.

Non-NASA Center↗

Study of the damping characteristics of general aviation aircraft panels and development of computer programs to calculate the effectiveness of interior noise control treatment, part 1

Tests were carried out on 20 inch x 20 inch panels at different test conditions using free-free panels, clamped panels, and panels as installed in the KU-FRL acoustic test facility. Tests with free-free panels verified the basic equipment set-up and test procedure. They also provided a basis for comparison. The results indicate that the effect of installed panels is to increase the damping ratio at the same frequency. However, a direct comparison is not possible, as the fundamental frequency of a free-free panel differs from the resonance frequency of the panel when installed. The damping values of panels installed in the test facility are closer to the damping values obtained with fixed-fixed panels. Effects of damping tape, stiffeners, and bonded and riveted edged conditions were also investigated. Progress in the development of a simple interior noise level control program is reported.

Navaneethan, R.↗

A computationally efficient modelling of laminar separation bubbles

In order to predict the aerodynamic characteristics of airfoils operating at low Reynolds numbers, it is necessary to accurately account for the effects of laminar (transitional) separation bubbles. Generally, the greatest difficulty comes about when attempting to determine the increase in profile drag that results from the presence of separation bubbles. While a number of empirically based separation bubble models have been introduced in the past, the majority assume that the bubble development is fully predictable from upstream conditions. One way of accounting for laminar separation bubbles in airfoil design is the bubble analog used in the design and analysis program of Eppler and Somers. A locally interactive separation bubble model was developed and incorporated into the Eppler and Somers program. Although unable to account for strong interactions such as the large reduction in suction peak sometimes caused by leading edge bubbles, it is able to predict the increase in drag and the local alteration of the airfoil pressure distribution that is caused by bubbles occurring in the operational range which is of most interest.

Dini, Paolo↗

A computationally efficient modelling of laminar separation bubbles

In order to predict the aerodynamic characteristics of airfoils operating at low Reynolds numbers, it is necessary to accurately account for the effects of laminar (transitional) separation bubbles. Generally, the greatest difficulty comes about when attempting to determine the increase in profile drag that results from the presence of separation bubbles. While a number of empirically based separation bubble models have been introduced in the past, the majority assume that the bubble development is fully predictable from upstream conditions. One way of accounting for laminar separation bubbles in airfoil design is the bubble analog used in the design and analysis program of Eppler and Somers. A locally interactive separation bubble model was developed and incorporated into the Eppler and Somers program. Although unable to account for strong interactions such as the large reduction in suction peak sometimes caused by leading edge bubbles, it is able to predict the increase in drag and the local alteration of the airfoil pressure distribution that is caused by bubbles occurring in the operational range which is of most interest.

Dini, Paolo↗

High speed transition prediction

The main objective of this work period was to develop, acquire and apply state-of-the-art tools for the prediction of transition at high speeds at NASA Ames. Although various stability codes as well as basic state codes were acquired, the development of a new Parabolized Stability Equation (PSE) code was minimal. The time that was initially allocated for development was used on other tasks, in particular for the Leading Edge Suction problem, in acquiring proficiency in various graphics tools, and in applying these tools to evaluate various Navier-Stokes and Euler solutions. The second objective of this work period was to attend the Transition and Turbulence Workshop at NASA Langley in July and August, 1991. A report on the Workshop follows. From July 8, 1991 to August 2, 1991, the author participated in the Transition and Turbulence Workshop at NASA Langley. For purposes of interest here, analysis can be said to consist of solving simplified governing equations by various analytical methods, such as asymptotic methods, or by use of very meager computer resources. From the composition of the various groups at the Workshop, it can be seen that analytical methods are generally more popular in Great Britain than they are in the U.S., possibly due to historical factors and the lack of computer resources. Experimenters at the Workshop were mostly concerned with subsonic flows, and a number of demonstrations were provided, among which were a hot-wire experiment to probe the boundary layer on a rotating disc, a hot-wire rake to map a free shear layer behind a cylinder, and the use of heating strips on a flat plate to control instability waves and consequent transition. A highpoint of the demonstrations was the opportunity to observe the rather noisy 'quiet' supersonic pilot tunnel in operation.

Gasperas, Gediminis↗

Anisotropic Plasticity of BN Nanotubes

Plastic collapse of compressed BN nanotubes are investigated and compared with carbon nanotubes of similar nature. Using a generalized tight-binding molecular dynamics (GTBMD) method for system containing B, N and C atoms we compute stiffness and plastic collapse of BN and C nanotubes under axial compression. For small compressional strain, BN nanotubes are found to be about 92% as stiff as similar C nanotubes. Due to BN bond buckling effect, however, the elastic limit of BN nanotubes is found to be more than C nanotubes. A route to plasticity is explored in which we find that at elastic limit the accumulated strain is released by a local plastic deformation of the nanotube. The mechanism of strain release and the resulting plastic deformation, however. are anisotropic in nature. The strain is released preferentially towards N as leading edge of a buckled BN bond and the tube, compressed at both ends, plastically collapses preferentially towards one end. Details of the anisotropic plasticity and prospective applications will be discussed in this presentation.

Madhu, Menon↗

Rotating Desk for Collaboration by Two Computer Programmers

A special-purpose desk has been designed to facilitate collaboration by two computer programmers sharing one desktop computer or computer terminal. The impetus for the design is a trend toward what is known in the software industry as extreme programming an approach intended to ensure high quality without sacrificing the quantity of computer code produced. Programmers working in pairs is a major feature of extreme programming. The present desk design minimizes the stress of the collaborative work environment. It supports both quality and work flow by making it unnecessary for programmers to get in each other s way. The desk (see figure) includes a rotating platform that supports a computer video monitor, keyboard, and mouse. The desk enables one programmer to work on the keyboard for any amount of time and then the other programmer to take over without breaking the train of thought. The rotating platform is supported by a turntable bearing that, in turn, is supported by a weighted base. The platform contains weights to improve its balance. The base includes a stand for a computer, and is shaped and dimensioned to provide adequate foot clearance for both users. The platform includes an adjustable stand for the monitor, a surface for the keyboard and mouse, and spaces for work papers, drinks, and snacks. The heights of the monitor, keyboard, and mouse are set to minimize stress. The platform can be rotated through an angle of 40 to give either user a straight-on view of the monitor and full access to the keyboard and mouse. Magnetic latches keep the platform preferentially at either of the two extremes of rotation. To switch between users, one simply grabs the edge of the platform and pulls it around. The magnetic latch is easily released, allowing the platform to rotate freely to the position of the other user

Riley, John Thomas↗

Slat Noise Simulations: Status and Challenges

Noise radiation from the leading edge slat of a high-lift system is known to be an important component of aircraft noise during approach. NASA's Langley Research Center is engaged in a coordinated series of investigations combining high-fidelity numerical simulations and detailed wind tunnel measurements of a generic, unswept, 3-element, high-lift configuration. The goal of this effort is to provide a validated predictive capability that would enable identification of the dominant noise source mechanisms and, ultimately, help develop physics inspired concepts for reducing the far-field acoustic intensity. This paper provides a brief overview of the current status of the computational effort and describes new findings pertaining to the effects of the angle of attack on the aeroacoustics of the slat cove region. Finally, the interplay of the simulation campaign with the concurrently evolving development of a benchmark dataset for an international workshop on airframe noise is outlined.

Choudhari, Meelan M.↗

Economical Third-Order Methods for Accurate Surface Heating Predictions on Simplex Element Meshes

A node-centered edge-based finite volume discretization of the compressible Navier-Stokes equations is presented with the heat flux reformulated as a first order system. A dissipation vector is derived for the reformulated system, such that the heat flux can be upgraded to O(h^3) on simplex element meshes in the same fashion as the inviscid fluxes. The method of manufactured solutions is used to demonstrate this uniform order property in heat flux. This new system is shown to efficiently produce accurate surface heating predictions on hypersonic hemisphere flow using an anisotropic simplex element mesh, achieving O(h^3) accuracy at relatively low computational cost compared to similar methods.

Computational Fluid Dynamics↗

Computation of unsteady transonic flows through rotating and stationary cascades. 1: Method of analysis

A numerical method of solution of the inviscid, compressible, two-dimensional unsteady flow on a blade-to-blade stream surface through a stage (rotor and stator) or a single blade row of an axial flow compressor or fan is described. A cyclic procedure has been developed for representation of adjacent blade-to-blade passages which asymptotically achieves the correct phase between all passages of a stage. A shock-capturing finite difference method is employed in the interior of the passage, and a method of characteristics technique is used at the boundaries. The blade slipstreams form two of the passage boundaries and are treated as moving contact surfaces capable of supporting jumps in entropy and tangential velocity. The Kutta condition is imposed by requiring the slipstreams to originate at the trailing edges, which are assumed to be sharp. Results are presented for several transonic fan rotors and compared with available experimental data, consisting of holographic observations of shock structure and pressure contour maps. A subcritical stator solution is also compared with results from a relaxation method. Finally, a periodic solution for a stage consisting of 44 rotor blades and 46 stator blades is discussed.

Erdos, J. I.↗

Laser velocimeter measurements of rotor blade loads and tip vortex rollup

A method for obtaining and analyzing the instantaneous velocities of helicopter rotor flow fields through use of a laser velocimeter capable of simultaneously sensing two components of velocity is described. Rotor blade aerodynamic loads may be computed from the velocity distributions near the blades. The experiment was conducted with a 2.13 m (7 ft) diameter model helicopter rotor operating in a wind tunnel. Velocity distributions are presented which document the flow field near the advancing blade. Circulation is calculated from the velocity measurements, and the radial distribution of circulation is discussed. The influence of the tip vortex from the preceding blade is apparent in this distribution. Tip vortex rollup on the advancing blade was documented by making a series of measurements at various distances behind the blade. Effects of blade drag are evident in the velocities behind the blade trailing edge.

Biggers, J. C.↗

Transonic aerodynamic and aeroelastic characteristics of a variable sweep wing

The flow over the B-1 wing is studied computationally, including the aeroelastic response of the wing. Computed results are compared with results from wind tunnel and flight tests for both low-sweep and high-sweep cases, at 25.0 deg. and 67.5 deg., respectively, for selected transonic Mach numbers. The aerodynamic and aeroelastic computations are made by using the transonic unsteady code ATRAN3S. Steady aerodynamic computations compare well with wind tunnel results for the 25.0 deg. sweep case and also for small angles of attack at the 67.5 deg. sweep case. The aeroelastic response results show that the wing is stable at the low sweep angle for the calculation at the Mach number at which there is a shock wave. In the higher sweep case, for the higher angle of attack at which oscillations were observed in the flight and wind tunnel tests, the calculations do not show any shock waves. Their absence lends support to the hypothesis that the observed oscillations are due to the presence of leading edge separation vortices and are not due to shock wave motion as was previously proposed.

Goorjian, P. M.↗

Transonic aerodynamic and aeroelastic characteristics of a variable sweep wing

The flow over the B-1 wing is studied computationally, including the aeroelastic response of the wing. Computed results are compared with results from wind tunnel and flight tests for both low-sweep and high-sweep cases, at 25.0 and 67.5 deg., respectively, for selected transonic Mach numbers. The aerodynamic and aeroelastic computations are made by using the transonic unsteady code ATRAN3S. Steady aerodynamic computations compare well with wind tunnel results for the 25.0 deg sweep case and also for small angles of attack at the 67.5 deg sweep case. The aeroelastic response results show that the wing is stable at the low sweep angle for the calculation at the Mach number at which there is a shock wave. In the higher sweep case, for the higher angle of attack at which oscillations were observed in the flight and wind tunnel tests, the calculations do not show any shock waves. Their absence lends support to the hypothesis that the observed oscillations are due to the presence of leading edge separation vortices and are not due to shock wave motion as was previously proposed.

Goorjian, P. M.↗

Correcting the distortion of images taken with the ultraviolet imaging telescope

The Ultraviolet Imaging Telescope (UIT) cameras include two-stage magnetically focused image intensifiers that introduce small but significant geometrical distortions into the data. These distortions, which create positional offsets as large as 25 arcsec at the field edges, are corrected by the procedure described here to 2-3 arcsec, approximately the resolution of the images. The distortion is measured by comparing and correcting UIT images to digitized Guidestar survey plates of the same fields. Two-dimensional third-order polynomials are used to model the distortion. The models assume that the distortion is an instrumental effect, independent of mission elapsed time and target, and that the effect of distortion is an instrumental effect, independent of mission elapsed time and target, and that the effect of distortion in the center of each field is minimal. The models are used to improve computed astrometric plate solutions and to remove the geometric distortion while transforming the image to a standard north-up, ease-left orientation.

Greason, M. R.↗