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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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At least 19 records
All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
DOE OSTI2024

Tuning circuitry for a wireless power system

A wireless power supply power supply including first tuning circuitry coupled directly to a transmitter, the first tuning circuitry including an LCC configuration. The wireless power supply may include second tuning circuitry coupled directly to switching circuitry (e.g., an inverter) of the power supply, where the second tuning circuitry may be operable to direct power from the switching circuitry to the first tuning circuitry for supply to the transmitter, and where the second tuning circuitry includes a reactance operable to establish inductive operation of the switching circuitry at the switching frequency of the switching circuitry.

Pries, Jason L.↗
DOE OSTI2021

Enhanced Integer Permutation based Genetic Algorithm for Optimization of Tube-Fin Heat Exchanger Circuitry with Splits and Merges

Tube-fin heat exchangers (HXs) are widely used in air-conditioning and heat pump applications. The performance of these heat exchangers is strongly influenced by the refrigerant circuitry. Studies have proved that by optimizing the refrigerant circuitry, the performance of HXs can be significantly improved. In our previous research, an Integer Permutation based Genetic Algorithm (IPGA) was developed to obtain the optimal circuitry designs. Our previous research showed that IPGA demonstrates superior capability to obtain better refrigerant circuitries with lower computational cost than the other methods in literature. And the optimal circuitry designs obtained from IPGA are manufacturable with the available tooling. However, the IPGA developed previously cannot generate designs with splitting and merging of circuits. To remedy this limitation, a new chromosome which can represent circuitry with splitting and merging of circuits is developed. In addition to the six genetic operators implemented previously, two new genetic operators are developed to generate splits and merges. As a result, the enhanced IPGA can explore the solution space more thoroughly than the previous IPGA. A case study using an evaporator from an A-type indoor unit shows that, given the similar capacity improvements obtained from the enhanced IPGA compared with the previous IPGA, the refrigerant pressure drop reduction obtained from the enhanced IPGA is 26.5% compared against 1.0% pressure drop reduction from the previous IPGA. The benchmark of the enhanced IPGA with other methods in literature demonstrates that the enhanced IPGA can generate circuitry designs with performance superior to those obtained from other methods.

LI, Zhenning↗
DOE OSTI2021

Multi-objective optimization of low-GWP mixture composition and heat exchanger circuitry configuration for improved system performance and reduced refrigerant flammability

The recently introduced hydrofluoroolefin (HFO) refrigerants, including R1234yf and R1234ze(E), have significantly lower global warming potentials (GWPs) than traditional hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) refrigerants like R410A. However, prior tests show that direct drop-in of pure R1234yf or R1234ze(E) into equipment designed for R410A results in a decrease in heat exchanger capacity and the system coefficient of performance. The primary reason is the lower in-tube heat transfer performance of R1234yf and R1234ze(E) compared with that of R410A. To address this issue, previous studies have mixed the mildly flammable HFC R32 with HFOs to improve system performance, with HFC R125 also added to suppress flammability. Previous studies selected compositions based on simple cycle analyses and did not consider modifications of the heat exchanger circuitry configuration to adapt to the new refrigerants. This study presents a novel multi-objective optimization approach to design a refrigerant composition that maximizes energy efficiency within flammability and GWP limits. The approach in this work simultaneously optimizes mixture composition and heat exchanger circuitry configuration. A case study on a rooftop unit indicates that, compared with mixture-only optimization, simultaneous optimization of mixture and heat exchanger circuitry yields a 5.9% improvement in cycle efficiency and a 48.6% reduction in refrigerant flammability with a GWP of 268. Circuitry optimization using refrigerants with different temperature glides shows that the larger the temperature glide is, the larger EER improvement is obtained. The results show that zeotropic blends with a large temperature glide are more sensitive to the refrigerant circuitry than pure refrigerants and may suffer significant performance degradation with subpar heat exchanger circuitry design. The proposed optimization approach is generally applicable to mixtures with any number of components. Using this approach to design a HVAC system can yield higher system efficiency within flammability and GWP constraints.

32 ENERGY CONSERVATION, CONSUMPTION, AND UTILIZATI↗
NASA NTRS1998

Use of SX Series Devices and IEEE 1149.1 JTAG Circuitry

This report summarizes the use of SX series devices and their JTAG 1149.1 circuitry. 'JTAG' circuitry was originally designed to standardize testing of boards via a simple control port interface electrically without having to use devices such as a bed of nails tester. JTAG is also used for other functions such as executing built-in-test sequences, identifying devices, or, through custom instructions, other functions designed in by the chip designer. The JTAG circuitry is designed for test only; it has no functional use in the integrated circuit during normal operations. The JTAG circuitry and the mode of the device is controlled by a circuit block known as the 'TAP controller,' which is a sixteen-state state machine along with various registers. The controller is normally in an operational state known as TEST-LOGIC-RESET. In this state, the device is held in a fully functional, operating mode. However, a Single Event Upset (SEU) may remove the TAP controller from this state, causing a loss of control of the integrated circuit, unless certain precautions are taken, such as grounding the optional JTAG TRST signal.

Katz, Richard B.↗
NASA NTRS1998

Use of SX Series Devices and IEEE 1149.1 JTAG Circuitry

This report summarizes the use of SX series devices and their JTAG 1149.1 circuitry. 'JTAG' circuitry was originally designed to standardize testing of boards via a simple control port interface electrically without having to use devices such as a bed of nails tester. JTAG is also used for other functions such as executing built-in-test sequences, identifying devices, or, through custom instructions, other functions designed in by the chip designer. The JTAG circuitry is designed for test only; it has no functional use in the integrated circuit during normal operations. The JTAG circuitry and the mode of the device is controlled by a circuit block known as the 'TAP controller,' which is a sixteen-state state machine along with various registers. The controller is normally in an operational state known as TEST-LOGIC-RESET. In this state, the device is held in a fully functional, operational mode. However, a Single Event Upset (SEU) may remove the TAP controller from this state, causing a loss of control of the integrated circuit, unless certain precautions are taken, such as grounding the optional JTAG TRST signal.

Katz, Richard B.↗
DOE OSTI2015

Apparatus, system and method for providing cryptographic key information with physically unclonable function circuitry

Techniques and mechanisms for providing a value from physically unclonable function (PUF) circuitry for a cryptographic operation of a security module. In an embodiment, a cryptographic engine receives a value from PUF circuitry and based on the value, outputs a result of a cryptographic operation to a bus of the security module. The bus couples the cryptographic engine to control logic or interface logic of the security module. In another embodiment, the value is provided to the cryptographic engine from the PUF circuitry via a signal line which is distinct from the bus, where any exchange of the value by either of the cryptographic engine and the PUF circuitry is for communication of the first value independent of the bus.

24 POWER TRANSMISSION AND DISTRIBUTION↗
NASA NTRS2009

Electro-active sensor, method for constructing the same; apparatus and circuitry for detection of electro-active species

An electro-active sensor includes a nonconductive platform with a first electrode set attached with a first side of a nonconductive platform. The first electrode set serves as an electrochemical cell that may be utilized to detect electro-active species in solution. A plurality of electrode sets and a variety of additional electrochemical cells and sensors may be attached with the nonconductive platform. The present invention also includes a method for constructing the aforementioned electro-active sensor. Additionally, an apparatus for detection and observation is disclosed, where the apparatus includes a sealable chamber for insertion of a portion of an electro-active sensor. The apparatus allows for monitoring and detection activities. Allowing for control of attached cells and sensors, a dual-mode circuitry is also disclosed. The dual-mode circuitry includes a switch, allowing the circuitry to be switched from a potentiostat to a galvanostat mode.

Buehler, Martin↗
DOE OSTI2016

Method, apparatus and system to compensate for drift by physically unclonable function circuitry

Techniques and mechanisms to detect and compensate for drift by a physically uncloneable function (PUF) circuit. In an embodiment, first state information is registered as reference information to be made available for subsequent evaluation of whether drift by PUF circuitry has occurred. The first state information is associated with a first error correction strength. The first state information is generated based on a first PUF value output by the PUF circuitry. In another embodiment, second state information is determined based on a second PUF value that is output by the PUF circuitry. An evaluation of whether drift has occurred is performed based on the first state information and the second state information, the evaluation including determining whether a threshold error correction strength is exceeded concurrent with a magnitude of error being less than the first error correction strength.

97 MATHEMATICS AND COMPUTING↗
DOE OSTI2023

Cryogenic Control Circuitry for Superconducting Qubits

Superconducting qubits have reached the point where system designers are worried about the heat that control wiring brings into the cryostat. To continue scaling cryogenic quantum systems, control solutions that work inside the cold space must be explored. One possibility is to use control electronics that is native to superconductivity, so called single-flux-quantum (SFQ) circuitry, to form an interface between qubits and whatever other electronics is needed to control eventual quantum systems. To begin exploring the utility of SFQ as control circuitry, we performed modeling and experiments on qubit readout using ballistic fluxons which are SFQ in the limit of ballistic fluxon transport. Our modeling results show that a flavor of qubit, the fluxonium, can be read out using ballistic fluxons. We designed test samples to prove some of the key concepts needed for such a readout but were ultimately unable to getting a working demonstration. The lack of testing success was due to challenges in fabrication and running short of time to perform testing rather than a fundamental problem with our analysis.

75 CONDENSED MATTER PHYSICS, SUPERCONDUCTIVITY AND↗
NASA NTRS1966

Semiconductors can be tested without removing them from circuitry

Oscilloscope, with specially developed test circuitry, quickly checks semiconductors without removing them from the circuitry. For transistors, approximate gain and linearity, as well as PNP or NPN determinations are made. When testing diodes, open or short circuits, and reverse polarity show up plainly.

Allen, B. C.↗
NASA NTRS1972

Modification to the MED and LED source-encoding circuitry for the IMP H and J spacecraft

The circuitry and fabrication changes made on the MED and LED electronics cards for the IMP H and J are reported. Except for the noted changes, the circuitry and module-matrix arrangement is essentially the same as the IMP-1 electronics cards described. In addition, analysis of the IMP-1 transmitted data indicated the desirability of incorporating additional coincident-event threshold detection levels to further discriminate between received particles.

Garrahan, N. M.↗
NASA NTRS1987

Interface circuitry for superconducting bolometer

The interface circuitry described links the computer with the superconducting bolometer array. This helps demonstrate the feasibility of the array. Using the circuitry and the array, imaging will be made possible. Initial imaging will be done on laboratory objects, and the pixel characteristics will be investigated experimentally.

Nelson, P. J.↗
NASA NTRS2001

Advanced Data Acquisition Systems with Self-Healing Circuitry

Kennedy Space Center's Spaceport Engineering & Technology Directorate has developed a data acquisition system that will help drive down the cost of ground launch operations. This system automates both the physical measurement set-up function as well as configuration management documentation. The key element of the system is a self-configuring, self-calibrating, signal-conditioning amplifier that automatically adapts to any sensor to which it is connected. This paper will describe the core technology behind this device and the automated data system in which it has been integrated. The paper will also describe the revolutionary enhancements that are planned for this innovative measurement technology. All measurement electronics devices contain circuitry that, if it fails or degrades, requires the unit to be replaced, adding to the cost of operations. Kennedy Space Center is now developing analog circuits that will be able to detect their own failure and dynamically reconfigure their circuitry to restore themselves to normal operation. This technology will have wide ranging application in all electronic devices used in space and ground systems.

Larson, William E.↗
NASA NTRS2002

Spaceflight induces changes in the synaptic circuitry of the postnatal developing neocortex

The establishment of the adult pattern of neocortical circuitry depends on various intrinsic and extrinsic factors, whose modification during development can lead to alterations in cortical organization and function. We report the effect of 16 days of spaceflight [Neurolab mission; from postnatal day 14 (P14) to P30] on the neocortical representation of the hindlimb synaptic circuitry in rats. As a result, we show, for the first time, that development in microgravity leads to changes in the number and morphology of cortical synapses in a laminar-specific manner. In the layers II/III and Va, the synaptic cross-sectional lengths were significantly larger in flight animals than in ground control animals. Flight animals also showed significantly lower synaptic densities in layers II/III, IV and Va. The greatest difference was found in layer II/III, where there was a difference of 344 million synapses per mm(3) (15.6% decrease). Furthermore, after a 4 month period of re-adaptation to terrestrial gravity, some changes disappeared (i.e. the alterations were transient), while conversely, some new differences also appeared. For example, significant differences in synaptic density in layers II/III and Va after re-adaptation were no longer observed, whereas in layer IV the density of synapses increased notably in flight animals (a difference of 185 million synapses per mm(3) or 13.4%). In addition, all the changes observed only affected asymmetrical synapses, which are known to be excitatory. These results indicates that terrestrial gravity is a necessary environmental parameter for normal cortical synaptogenesis. These findings are fundamental in planning future long-term spaceflights.

Non-NASA Center↗
NASA NTRS2008

On Certain New Methodology for Reducing Sensor and Readout Electronics Circuitry Noise in Digital Domain

NASA Hubble Space Telescope (HST) and upcoming cosmology science missions carry instruments with multiple focal planes populated with many large sensor detector arrays. These sensors are passively cooled to low temperatures for low-level light (L3) and near-infrared (NIR) signal detection, and the sensor readout electronics circuitry must perform at extremely low noise levels to enable new required science measurements. Because we are at the technological edge of enhanced performance for sensors and readout electronics circuitry, as determined by thermal noise level at given temperature in analog domain, we must find new ways of further compensating for the noise in the signal digital domain. To facilitate this new approach, state-of-the-art sensors are augmented at their array hardware boundaries by non-illuminated reference pixels, which can be used to reduce noise attributed to sensors. There are a few proposed methodologies of processing in the digital domain the information carried by reference pixels, as employed by the Hubble Space Telescope and the James Webb Space Telescope Projects. These methods involve using spatial and temporal statistical parameters derived from boundary reference pixel information to enhance the active (non-reference) pixel signals. To make a step beyond this heritage methodology, we apply the NASA-developed technology known as the Hilbert- Huang Transform Data Processing System (HHT-DPS) for reference pixel information processing and its utilization in reconfigurable hardware on-board a spaceflight instrument or post-processing on the ground. The methodology examines signal processing for a 2-D domain, in which high-variance components of the thermal noise are carried by both active and reference pixels, similar to that in processing of low-voltage differential signals and subtraction of a single analog reference pixel from all active pixels on the sensor. Heritage methods using the aforementioned statistical parameters in the digital domain (such as statistical averaging of the reference pixels themselves) zeroes out the high-variance components, and the counterpart components in the active pixels remain uncorrected. This paper describes how the new methodology was demonstrated through analysis of fast-varying noise components using the Hilbert-Huang Transform Data Processing System tool (HHT-DPS) developed at NASA and the high-level programming language MATLAB (Trademark of MathWorks Inc.), as well as alternative methods for correcting for the high-variance noise component, using an HgCdTe sensor data. The NASA Hubble Space Telescope data post-processing, as well as future deep-space cosmology projects on-board instrument data processing from all the sensor channels, would benefit from this effort.

Kizhner, Semion↗
NASA NTRS2017

System and Method for Fabricating Super Conducting Circuitry on Both Sides of an Ultra-Thin Layer

A method of fabricating circuitry in a wafer includes depositing a superconducting metal on a silicon on insulator wafer having a handle wafer, coating the wafer with a sacrificial layer and bonding the wafer to a thermally oxide silicon wafer with a first epoxy. The method includes flipping the wafer, thinning the flipped wafer by removing a handle wafer, etching a buried oxide layer, depositing a superconducting layer, bonding the wafer to a thermally oxidized silicon wafer having a handle wafer using an epoxy, flipping the wafer again, thinning the flipped wafer, etching a buried oxide layer from the wafer and etching the sacrificial layer from the wafer. The result is a wafer having superconductive circuitry on both sides of an ultra-thin silicon layer.

Brown, Ari D.↗
DOE OSTI2023

Heat Exchangers Circuitry Optimization using Low-GWP Refrigerants in Reversible Heat Pump Applications

Tube-fin heat exchangers (TFHX) are widely used in heat pump applications. Circuitry optimization can improve system performance. Previous optimizations focus on improving component-level performance under a specific operating condition, i.e., the TFHX either works as a condenser or an evaporator. The optimal circuitry obtained under air conditioning (AC) mode cannot guarantee optimal performance when used in heat pump (HP) mode. This study implements a bi-objective formulation to achieve optimal system performance in both AC and HP modes. An integer permutation-based Genetic Algorithm is integrated with Heat Pump Design Model (HPDM) to perform heat pump optimization. Six refrigerants, i.e., R410A, R452B, R454B, R32, D2Y60 and L41a are investigated. Case studies show that optimal heat exchangers yield 2.1%-6.1% EER improvement under AC mode and 1.9%-8.5% COP improvement under HP mode. Use of this design approach can help assure a preferable performance of reversible heat pumps during both cooling and heating mode usage.

Li, Zhenning↗
DOE OSTI2022

Molecular dissection of the glutamine synthetase-GlnR nitrogen regulatory circuitry in Gram-positive bacteria

How bacteria sense and respond to nitrogen levels are central questions in microbial physiology. In Gram-positive bacteria, nitrogen homeostasis is controlled by an operon encoding glutamine synthetase (GS), a dodecameric machine that assimilates ammonium into glutamine, and the GlnR repressor. GlnR detects nitrogen excess indirectly by binding glutamine-feedback-inhibited-GS (FBI-GS), which activates its transcription-repression function. The molecular mechanisms behind this regulatory circuitry, however, are unknown. Here we describe biochemical and structural analyses of GS and FBI-GS-GlnR complexes from pathogenic and non-pathogenic Gram-positive bacteria. The structures show FBI-GS binds the GlnR C-terminal domain within its active-site cavity, juxtaposing two GlnR monomers to form a DNA-binding-competent GlnR dimer. The FBI-GS-GlnR interaction stabilizes the inactive GS conformation. Strikingly, this interaction also favors a remarkable dodecamer to tetradecamer transition in some GS, breaking the paradigm that all bacterial GS are dodecamers. These data thus unveil unique structural mechanisms of transcription and enzymatic regulation.

59 BASIC BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES↗