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At least 19 records

Integrating MBSE into Ongoing Projects: Requirements Validation and Test Planning for the ISS SAFER

The International Space Station (ISS) Simplified Aid for Extra Vehicular Activity (EVA) Rescue (SAFER) is the spacewalking astronaut's final safety measure against separating from the ISS and being unable to return safely. Since the late 1990s, the SAFER has been a standard element of the spacewalking astronaut's equipment. The ISS SAFER project was chartered to develop a new block of SAFER units using a highly similar design to the legacy SAFER (known as the USA SAFER). An on-orbit test module was also included in the project to enable periodic maintenance/propulsion system checkout on the ISS SAFER. On the ISS SAFER project, model-based systems engineering (MBSE) was not the initial systems engineering (SE) approach, given the volume of heritage systems engineering and integration (SE&I) products. The initial emphasis was ensuring traceability to ISS program standards as well as to legacy USA SAFER requirements. The requirements management capabilities of the Cradle systems engineering tool were to be utilized to that end. During development, however, MBSE approaches were applied selectively to address specific challenges in requirements validation and test and verification (T&V) planning, which provided measurable efficiencies to the project. From an MBSE perspective, ISS SAFER development presented a challenge and an opportunity. Addressing the challenge first, the project was tasked to use the original USA SAFER operational and design requirements baseline, with a number of additional ISS program requirements to address evolving certification expectations for systems operating on the ISS. Additionally, a need to redesign the ISS SAFER avionics architecture resulted in a set of changes to the design requirements baseline. Finally, the project added an entirely new functionality for on-orbit maintenance. After initial requirements integration, the system requirements count was approaching 1000, which represented a growth of 4x over the original USA SAFER system. This presented the challenge - How to confirm that this new set of requirements set would result in the creation of the desired capability.

Anderson, Herbert A.↗

TOPEX/POSEIDON joint verification plan

TOPEX/POSEIDON is a satellite mission that will use altimetry to make precise measurements of sea level with the primary goal of studying global ocean circulation. The mission is jointly conducted by the United States' National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and the French space agency, Centre National d'Etudes Spatiales (CNES). The current plans call for a launch of the satellite in August 1992. The primary mission will last 3 years, and provisions were made to extend the mission for an additional 2 years. The mission was coordinated with a number of international oceanographic and meteorological programs, including the World Ocean Circulation Experiment and the Tropical Ocean and Global Atmosphere Program, both of which are sponsored by the World Climate Research Program. The observations of TOPEX/POSEIDON are timed to provide a global perspective for interpreting the in situ measurements collected by these programs and in turn will be combined with observations of other satellites to achieve a global, four-dimensional description of the circulation of the world's oceans. In the autumn of 1987, an international team of 38 Principal Investigators was selected to participate in the mission. These scientists have been working closely with the TOPEX/POSEIDON Project to refine the mission design and science plans. During the first 6 months after launch, a number of these investigators will join with the project to conduct a wide range of oceanographic and geophysical investigations using the TOPEX/POSEIDON data. The purpose of these investigations is to demonstrate the scientific utility of the mission to the international scientific community.

Source record↗

Global oceanic microwave anemometry - A planned space verification experiment.

Recent observations of the wind sensitivity of oceanic backscatter and temperature measurements are shown to have made it possible to design an experiment for verifying the potential use of an operational global satellite anemometer. The experiment is to be conducted with the Skylab in 1973, and its success may lead to the design and flight of an operational microwave scatterometer-radiometer instrument on a small satellite flying in a polar orbit sometime in the late 1970's.

Moore, R. K.↗

Verification of performance of the Mariner 9 television cameras.

The large volume of picture data produced by the Mariner 9 Television Experiment, in addition to providing a description of the planet Mars, emphasizes the need for in situ verification of camera performance. Such data provide the basis for initial quantitative image interpretation by confirmation of the relevance of preflight measurement. This information must be the result of planned calibration sequences rather than extraction from nominal mission photography. A lack of sufficient numbers of frames restricted Mariner camera verifications to only limited operational modes under optimal conditions and required significant extrapolation over the duration of the mission. The evidence does suggest that measurable photometric changes occurred, whereas agreement with preflight data is observed for other parameters.

Thorpe, T. E.↗

Aerodynamics support of research instrument development

A new velocimetry system is currently being developed at NASA LaRC. The device, known as a Doppler global velocimeter (DGV), can record three velocity components within a plane simultaneously and in near real time. To make measurements the DGV, like many other velocimetry systems, relies on the scattering of light from numerous small particles in a flow field. The particles or seeds are illuminated by a sheet of laser light and viewed by two CCD cameras. The scattered light from the particles will have a frequency which is a function of the source laser light frequency, the viewing angle, and most importantly the seed velocities. By determining the scattered light intensity the velocity can be measured at all points within the light sheet simultaneously. Upon completion of DGV component construction and initial check out a series of tests in the Basic Aerodynamic Research (wind) Tunnel (BART) are scheduled to verify instrument operation and accuracy. If the results are satisfactory, application of the DGV to flight measurements on the F-18 High Alpha Research Vehicle (HARV) are planned. The DGV verification test in the BART facility will utilize a 75 degree swept delta wing model. A major task undertaken this summer included evaluation of previous results for this model. A specific series of tests matching exactly the previous tests and exploring new DGV capabilities were developed and suggested. Another task undertaken was to study DGV system installation possibilities in the F-18 HARV aircraft. In addition, a simple seeding system modification was developed and utilized to make Particle Imaging Velocimetry (PIV) measurements in the BART facility.

Miller, L. Scott↗

Seven Processes that Enable NASA Software Engineering Technologies

This slide presentation reviews seven processes that NASA uses to ensure that software is developed, acquired and maintained as specified in the NPR 7150.2A requirement. The requirement is to ensure that all software be appraised for the Capability Maturity Model Integration (CMMI). The enumerated processes are: (7) Product Integration, (6) Configuration Management, (5) Verification, (4) Software Assurance, (3) Measurement and Analysis, (2) Requirements Management and (1) Planning & Monitoring. Each of these is described and the group(s) that are responsible is described.

Housch, Helen↗

Noncontacting device to indicate deflection of turbopump internal rotating parts

Phase 2 (development) which was concluded for the ultrasonic Doppler device and the light-pipe-reflectance device is reported. An ultrasonic Doppler breadboard system was assembled which accurately measured runout in the J-2 LOX pump impeller during operation. The transducer was mounted on the outside of the pump volute using a C-clamp. Vibration was measured by conducting the ultrasonic wave through the volute housing and through the fluid in the volute to the impeller surface. The impeller vibration was also measured accurately using the light-pipe probe mounted in an elastomeric-gland fitting in the pump case. A special epoxy resin developed for cryogenic applications was forced into the end of the fiber-optic probe to retain the fibers. Subsequently, the probe suffered no damage after simultaneous exposure to 2150 psi and 77 F. Preliminary flash X-radiographs were taken of the turbine wheel and the shaft-bearing-seal assembly, using a 2-megavolt X-ray unit. Reasonable resolution and contrast was obtained. A fast-neutron detector was fabricated and sensitivity was measured. The results demonstrated that the technique is feasible for integrated-time measurements requiring, perhaps, 240 revolutions to obtain sufficient exposure at 35,000 rpm. The experimental verification plans are included.

Hamilton, D. B.↗

Multibody modeling and verification

A summary of a ten week project on flexible multibody modeling, verification and control is presented. Emphasis was on the need for experimental verification. A literature survey was conducted for gathering information on the existence of experimental work related to flexible multibody systems. The first portion of the assigned task encompassed the modeling aspects of flexible multibodies that can undergo large angular displacements. Research in the area of modeling aspects were also surveyed, with special attention given to the component mode approach. Resulting from this is a research plan on various modeling aspects to be investigated over the next year. The relationship between the large angular displacements, boundary conditions, mode selection, and system modes is of particular interest. The other portion of the assigned task was the generation of a test plan for experimental verification of analytical and/or computer analysis techniques used for flexible multibody systems. Based on current and expected frequency ranges of flexible multibody systems to be used in space applications, an initial test article was selected and designed. A preliminary TREETOPS computer analysis was run to ensure frequency content in the low frequency range, 0.1 to 50 Hz. The initial specifications of experimental measurement and instrumentation components were also generated. Resulting from this effort is the initial multi-phase plan for a Ground Test Facility of Flexible Multibody Systems for Modeling Verification and Control. The plan focusses on the Multibody Modeling and Verification (MMV) Laboratory. General requirements of the Unobtrusive Sensor and Effector (USE) and the Robot Enhancement (RE) laboratories were considered during the laboratory development.

Wiens, Gloria J.↗

The Earth Observing System AM Spacecraft - Thermal Control Subsystem

Mission requirements for the EOS-AM Spacecraft intended to monitor global changes of the entire earth system are considered. The spacecraft is based on an instrument set containing the Advanced Spaceborne Thermal Emission and Reflection radiometer (ASTER), Clouds and Earth's Radiant Energy System (CERES), Multiangle Imaging Spectro-Radiometer (MISR), Moderate-Resolution Imaging Spectrometer (MODIS), and Measurements of Pollution in the Troposphere (MOPITT). Emphasis is placed on the design, analysis, development, and verification plans for the unique EOS-AM Thermal Control Subsystem (TCS) aimed at providing the required environments for all the onboard equipment in a densely packed layout. The TCS design maximizes the use of proven thermal design techniques and materials, in conjunction with a capillary pumped two-phase heat transport system for instrument thermal control.

Chalmers, D.↗

Electromagnetic analysis for large reflector antennas

A comparison is made between the measured E and H plane patterns of the 35 GHz offset paraboloidal reflector and the calculated patterns for the same reflector using the 200 points to describe the surface. The accuracy of the computer prediction is quite good considering that the only description of the surface was the coordinates of a finite number of points on the reflector. The results indicate the possibility of acceptable accuracy in the prediction of electromagnetic performance for arbitrarily distorted reflectors using the coordinates of a practical number of measured points. An optimization of the number and distribution of points, and experimental verification for a distorted reflector are planned.

Bailey, M. C.↗

Structural verification of the TOPEX/Poseidon satellite

The prototype flight structural design and verification concept developed for TOPEX/Poseidon is presented. The structural configuration, design requirements, verification plan, analysis, and system level testing are described. The principal goal of the mission is to observe and measure ocean currents via radio altimetry, for enhanced knowledge of the interaction between the atmosphere and ocean.

Larkin, Paul A.↗

Accuracy requirements and benchmark experiments for CFD validation

The role of experiment in the development of Computation Fluid Dynamics (CFD) for aerodynamic flow prediction is discussed. The CFD verification is a concept that depends on closely coordinated planning between computational and experimental disciplines. Because code applications are becoming more complex and their potential for design more feasible, it no longer suffices to use experimental data from surface or integral measurements alone to provide the required verification. Flow physics and modeling, flow field, and boundary condition measurements are emerging as critical data. Four types of experiments are introduced and examples given that meet the challenge of validation: flow physics experiments; flow modeling experiments; calibration experiments; and verification experiments. Measurement and accuracy requirements for each of these differ and are discussed. A comprehensive program of validation is described, some examples given, and it is concluded that the future prospects are encouraging.

Marvin, Joseph G.↗

Accuracy requirements and benchmark experiments for CFD validation

The role of experiment in the development of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) for aerodynamic flow prediction is discussed. The CFD verification is a concept that depends on closely coordinated planning between computational and experimental disciplines. Because code applications are becoming more complex and their potential for design more feasible, it no longer suffices to use experimental data from surface or integral measurements alone to provide the required verification. Flow physics and modeling, flow field, and boundary condition measurements are emerging as critical data. Four types of experiments are introduced and examples are given that meet the challenge of validation: flow physics experiments; flow modeling experiments; calibration experiments; and verification experiments. Measurement and accuracy requirements for each of these differ and are discussed. A comprehensive program of validation is described, some examples given, and it is concluded that the future prospects are encouraging.

Marvin, Joseph G.↗

Computer simulated building energy consumption for verification of energy conservation measures in network facilities

A computer program called ECPVER (Energy Consumption Program - Verification) was developed to simulate all energy loads for any number of buildings. The program computes simulated daily, monthly, and yearly energy consumption which can be compared with actual meter readings for the same time period. Such comparison can lead to validation of the model under a variety of conditions, which allows it to be used to predict future energy saving due to energy conservation measures. Predicted energy saving can then be compared with actual saving to verify the effectiveness of those energy conservation changes. This verification procedure is planned to be an important advancement in the Deep Space Network Energy Project, which seeks to reduce energy cost and consumption at all DSN Deep Space Stations.

Plankey, B.↗

Analysis of the GOES 6.7 micrometer channel observations during FIRE 2

Clouds form in moist environments. FIRE Phase II Cirrus Implementation Plan (August, 1990) noted the need for mesoscale measurements of upper tropospheric water vapor content. These measurements are needed for initializing and verifying numerical weather prediction models and for describing the environment in which cirrus clouds develop and dissipate. Various instruments where deployed to measure the water vapor amounts of the upper troposphere during FIRE II (e.g. Raman lidar, CLASS sonds and new cryogenic frost hygrometer on-board aircraft). The formation, maintenance and dissipation of cirrus clouds involve the time variation of the water budget of the upper troposphere. The GOES 6.7 mu m radiance observations are sensitive to the upper tropospheric relative humidity, and therefore proved extremely valuable in planning aircraft missions during the field phase of FIRE II. Warm 6.7 mu m equivalent black body temperatures indicate a relatively dry upper troposphere and were associated with regions generally free of cirrus clouds. Regions that were colder, implying more moisture was available may or may not have had cirrus clouds present. Animation of a time sequence of 6.7 mu m images was particularly useful in planning various FIRE missions. The 6.7 mu m observations can also be very valuable in the verification of model simulations and describing the upper tropospheric synoptic conditions. A quantitative analysis of the 6.7 mu m measurement is required to successfully incorporate these satellite observations into describing the upper tropospheric water vapor budget. Recently, Soden and Bretherton (1993) have proposed a method of deriving an upper tropospheric humidity based on observations from the GOES 6.7 mu m observations. The method is summarized in the next section. In their paper they compare their retrieval method to radiance simulations. Observations were also compared to ECMWF model output to assess the model performance. The FIRE experiment provides a unique opportunity to further verify the GOES upper tropospheric relative humidity retrieval scheme by providing (1) aircraft observations to cross-validate the calibration of the GOES 6.7 mu m channel, (2) accurate upper tropospheric water vapor concentrations for verification, and (3) veritical variability of upper tropospheric water vapor.

Soden, B. J.↗

Measurements of Parachute Dynamics in the World's Largest Wind Tunnel by Stereo Photogrammetry

Between 2012 and 2017, parachutes for four NASA Projects were tested in the 80- by 120-Ft test section of the National Full-Scale Aerodynamic Complex (NFAC) at NASA Ames Research Center. These projects were: (1) Low-Density Supersonic Decelerator (LDSD); (2) Capsule Parachute Assembly System (CPAS, for Orion); (3) Interior Exploration using Seismic Investigations, Geodesy and Heat Transport (InSight, a Mars mission); and (4) Mars 2020. In all tests stereo photogrammetry was used to measure time-dependent positions of features on the canopies. For the LDSD and CPAS tests, where the purpose was to study the trade-off between stability and drag of different parachute designs, the pendulum motion of the canopies about the riser attachment point was measured by calibrated cameras in the diffuser. The CPAS test also included static measurements where the inflated parachutes were pulled to the side by a system of tethers. The Insight tests were structural qualification tests where each canopy was packed in a bag and launched from a mortar. Cameras in the diffuser measured the trajectory of the bag and the stripping of the bag from the canopy. The Mars 2020 test was a workmanship verification test where the canopies were either launched from a mortar or deployed from a sleeve stretched along the tunnel axis. The deployments were recorded from many directions by thirteen high-speed cameras distributed in the diffuser and test section. Photogrammetry was not planned; however, after a tunnel-related accident ended the test prematurely, photogrammetric measurements were bootstrapped from the images to support the accident investigations. This paper describes how the photogrammetry measurements were made in each test and presents typical results.

Schairer, Edward T.↗

Data screening and preprocessing for Landsat MSS data

Two computer algorithms are presented. The first, called SCREEN, is used to automatically identify pixels representing clouds, cloud shadows, snow, water, or anomalous signals in Landsat-2 data. The second, called XSTAR, compensates Landsat-2 data for the effects of atmospheric haze, without requiring ground measurements or ground references. The presentation of these algorithms includes their theoretical background, algebraic details, and performance characteristics. Verification of the algorithms has for the present been limited to Landsat agricultural data. Plans for further development of the XSTAR technique are also presented.

Lambeck, P. F.↗