Tracking, command, control and data-acquisition of NASA flight programs.
NASA Space Tracking and Data-Acquisition Network, describing command telemetry, tracking handling and recording system operations
NASA PROGRAM↗
SEARCH · Engineering Papers
Results for “Data-acquisition”
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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Generalized software system for multiple small data-acquisition systems
Computer program system for failure analysis data acquisition systems with on-line programming capabilities
Landis, N. A., Jr.↗
Application of interactive computer graphics in wind-tunnel dynamic model testing
The computer-controlled data-acquisition system recently installed for use with a transonic dynamics tunnel was described. This includes a discussion of the hardware/software features of the system. A subcritical response damping technique, called the combined randomdec/moving-block method, for use in windtunnel-model flutter testing, that has been implemented on the data-acquisition system, is described in some detail. Some results using the method are presented and the importance of using interactive graphics in applying the technique in near real time during wind-tunnel test operations is discussed.
Doggett, R. V., Jr.↗
A combined boundary-profile and automated data-reduction and analysis system
A portable boundary-layer meteorological data-acquisition and analysis system is described which employs a small tethered balloon and a programmable calculator. The system is capable of measuring pressure, wet- and dry-bulb temperature, wind speed, and temperature fluctuations as a function of height and time. Other quantities, which can be calculated in terms of these, can also be made available in real time. All quantities, measured and calculated, can be printed, plotted, and stored on magnetic tape in the field during the data-acquisition phase of an experiment.
Deloach, R.↗
The ScIDEP muon radiography project at the Egyptian Pyramid of Khafre
The ScIDEP Collaboration is constructing muon telescopes based on scintillator technology to investigate the internal structure of the Egyptian Pyramid of Khafre at Giza near Cairo using cosmic-ray muons. The collaboration aims to scan the pyramid from multiple viewpoints, both inside the king’s burial chamber that is located centrally at the base of the pyramid, and outside of the pyramid, to potentially identify any new internal structures. An overview of the project is presented, including the development of the data-acquisition system, the simulation framework, and very first detector studies.
47 OTHER INSTRUMENTATION↗
Correcting impedance measurements for background parasitics to characterize circuit components in cryogenic environments
Predictable circuit response is a critical prerequisite for accurate electronic measurements. Here, we describe a powerful yet straightforward experimental method and analysis model that utilizes an affordable LCR meter in conjunction with an in situ parasitic-impedance background-correction procedure to measure the temperature-dependent impedance (magnitude and phase) of up to ten individual passive circuit elements in a single cryostat run. We show how the model unambiguously identified a ∼20× drop in capacitance for 22 μF 5XR multilayer ceramic capacitors cooled from 300 K to 360 mK in an environment with a parasitic capacitance of ∼300 pF. The same experimental procedure, based on a simple two-wire measurement, was also used to measure 10 and 22 pF thin-film capacitors and 100 MΩ thick-film resistors. The results showed that the resistor values increased by up to an order of magnitude when the devices were cooled from 300 K to 360 mK. Most importantly, we showed that the simple data-acquisition method, coupled with our analysis model, enabled the measurement of component parasitics, and effectively extended the accuracy of a commercial LCR meter beyond its manufacturer-guaranteed values for a wide range of measurement frequencies. We also showed that, in the current configuration, our simple approach is limited to a capacitance accuracy of ∼10 pF.
Carpenter, R. J. [Santa Clara Univ., Santa Clara, ↗
artdaq
The artdaq toolkit is a data-acquisition framework designed for high-energy physics experiments. It provides a flexible, reliable backbone for data transfers and has several locations where users can perform custom analysis tasks using the art framework.
Flumerfelt, EricL. [Fermi National Accelerator Lab↗
otsdaq
otsdaq is a Ready-to-Use data-acquisition (DAQ) solution aimed at scaling down to test-beam, detector development, and other rapid-deployment scenarios; and scaling up through the development cycle to fullscale production and operation. otsdaq uses the artdaq DAQ framework under-the-hood, providing flexibility and scalability to meet evolving DAQ needs. otsdaq provides a library of supported front-end boards and firmware modules which implement a custom UDP protocol. Additionally, an integrated Run Control GUI and readout software are provided, preconfigured to communicate with otsdaq firmware.
Rivera, Ryan [Fermi National Accelerator Laborator↗
Practical and Optimal Sequential Bayesian Experimental Design for Complex Systems Incorporating Human Experimenter Preferences (Final Scientific/Technical Report)
Experiments are indispensable for developing models of complex systems. Carefully designed experiments can provide substantial savings for these expensive data-acquisition opportunities. However, designs based on heuristics are often suboptimal for systems with multiphysics, nonlinear dynamics, and uncertain and noisy environments. Optimal experimental design, while leveraging predictive models, seeks to systematically quantify and maximize the value of experiments. In this project, we focused on the design of multiple experiments, where current approaches are largely suboptimal: batch-design does not adapt to new data acquired during the experiment campaign (no feedback), and greedy/myopic design ignores future dynamics and consequences (no lookahead). We developed the mathematical framework and computational methods for sequential optimal experimental design (sOED) for complex systems. We enabled tractable model-based sOED in a rigorous manner through novel algorithms based on reinforcement learning, and investigated the effects of human experimenters on the design process. Our methods are fully Bayesian, able to quantify and update uncertainty in a principled manner. The traits aimed by our approach—mathematical rigor and optimality, human effects and uncertainty quantification, computational practicality—are crucial for elevating the standards of artificial intelligence (AI) to support decision-making in scientific domains, and contribute toward trust and realistic adoption of AI in experimental design practice.
97 MATHEMATICS AND COMPUTING↗
FLIGHT OPERATIONS FACILITIES
Early in the Mercury design stages, it became evident that this project would require an extensive tracking and data-acquisition network. The presence of man in a satellite demanded that considerably different requirements be placed on the tracking network than had hitherto been necessary for unmanned vehicles. The most significant of these requirements was that it was now imperative that the system respond rapidly to contingency situations to insure adequate safety of the astronaut.
Manned space flight↗
Research program for experiment M133
The development of the automatic data-acquisition and sleep-analysis system is reported. The purpose was consultation and evaluation in the transition of the Skylab M133 Sleep-Monitoring Experiment equipment from prototype of flight status; review of problems associated with acquisition and on-line display of data in near-real time via spacecraft telemetry; and development of laboratory facilities and design of equipment to assure reliable playback and analysis of analog data. The existing prototype system modified, and the changes improve the performance of the analysis circuitry and increase its reliability. These modifications are useful for pre- and postflight analysis, but are not now proposed for the inflight system. There were improvements in the EEG recording cap, some of which will be incorporated into the flight hardware.
Frost, J. D., Jr.↗
ERTS-1, the spacecraft and its sensors
The basic objectives of the ERTS-1 mission are defined as follows: (1) to determine what data can be acquired from an orbiting satellite on the natural and cultural resources and on the environment; and (2) to develop and demonstrate the combination of data-acquisition procedures and interpretative techniques which can make this new knowledge available for use in the many facets of man's life. A general description of the satellite's observatory system and its sensors is given, including the thermal control subsystem, the power subsystem, the attitude control subsystem, the orbit adjust subsystem, the telemetry and tracking systems, the communications and data handling subsystem, the return beam vidicon subsystem, the multispectral scanner subsystem, the two wideband video tape recorders, and the data collection subsystem.
Weiland, S.↗
Earth resources experiment package sensor performance evaluation. Volume 2: S191
An S191 performance summary based on ground testing and orbital operations in terms of pertinent parameters is provided. Additional tasks covering S191 short-wavelength radiometric calibration, data-acquisition camera, and viewfinder tracking system design criteria, radiometric comparison of S190A, S191, and S192, and wavelength calibration data are included as supplemental analyses. Descriptions of techniques employed in the performance analyses are also discussed. Final results of the evaluations in terms of significant performance degradation, sensor and system anomalies, and achieved performance are presented. Conclusions were based on S191 performance and interaction of S191 with the EREP system. Recommendations for additional analyses and improvements in design and operation are presented.
Kenney, G. P.↗
The revolution in data gathering systems
This paper gives a review of the data-acquisition systems used in NASA's wind tunnels from the 1950's to the present as a basis for assessing the impact of minicomputers and microcomputers on data acquisition and processing. The operation and disadvantages of wind-tunnel data systems are summarized for the period before 1950, the early 1950's, the early and late 1960's, and the early 1970's. Some significant advances discussed include the use or development of solid-state components, minicomputer systems, large central computers, on-line data processing, autoranging DC amplifiers, MOS-FET multiplexers, MSI and LSI logic, computer-controlled programmable amplifiers, solid-state remote multiplexing, integrated circuits, and microprocessors. The distributed system currently in use with the 40-ft by 80-ft wind tunnel at Ames Research Center is described in detail. The expected employment of distributed systems and microprocessors in the next decade is noted.
Cambra, J. M.↗
Acquisition system for biomedical data
Multifunctional biomedical data-acquisition system monitors cardiovascular and pulmonary performance of patient in real time.
Bergman, S. A., Jr.↗
Computer simulation and evaluation of edge detection algorithms and their application to automatic path selection
The construction of an autonomous roving vehicle requires the development of complex data-acquisition and processing systems, which determine the path along which the vehicle travels. Thus, a vehicle must possess algorithms which can (1) reliably detect obstacles by processing sensor data, (2) maintain a constantly updated model of its surroundings, and (3) direct its immediate actions to further a long range plan. The first function consisted of obstacle recognition. Obstacles may be identified by the use of edge detection techniques. Therefore, the Kalman Filter was implemented as part of a large scale computer simulation of the Mars Rover. The second function consisted of modeling the environment. The obstacle must be reconstructed from its edges, and the vast amount of data must be organized in a readily retrievable form. Therefore, a Terrain Modeller was developed which assembled and maintained a rectangular grid map of the planet. The third function consisted of directing the vehicle's actions.
Longendorfer, B. A.↗
Recommended procedures for measuring aircraft noise and associated parameters
Procedures are recommended for obtaining experimental values of aircraft flyover noise levels (and associated parameters). Specific recommendations are made for test criteria, instrumentation performance requirements, data-acquisition procedures, and test operations. The recommendations are based on state-of-the-art measurement capabilities available in 1976 and are consistent with the measurement objectives of the NASA Aircraft Noise Prediction Program. The recommendations are applicable to measurements of the noise produced by an airplane flying subsonically over (or past) microphones located near the surface of the ground. Aircraft types covered by the recommendations are fixed-wing airplanes powered by turbojet or turbofan engines and using conventional aerodynamic means for takeoff and landing. Various assumptions with respect to subsequent data processing and analysis were made (and are described) and the recommended measurement procedures are compatible with the assumptions. Some areas where additional research is needed relative to aircraft flyover noise measurement techniques are also discussed.
Marsh, A. H.↗
A rocket-borne pulse-height analyzer for energetic particle measurements
The pulse-height analyzer basically resembles a time-sharing multiplexing data-acquisition system which acquires analog data (from energetic particle spectrometers) and converts them into digital code. The PHA simultaneously acquires pulse-height information from the analog signals of the four input channels and sequentially multiplexes the digitized data to a microprocessor. The PHA together with the microprocessor form an on-board real-time data-manipulation system. The system processes data obtained during the rocket flight and reduces the amount of data to be sent back to the ground station. Consequently the data-reduction process for the rocket experiments is speeded up. By using a time-sharing technique, the throughput rate of the microprocessor is increased. Moreover, data from several particle spectrometers are manipulated to share one information channel; consequently, the TM capacity is increased.
Leung, W.↗