NASA 1987 SBIR Phase 1 Solicitation
Project Title:
Multigrid Solution of Internal Flows Using Generalized Solution Adaptive Meshes
01.01-3800
Multigrid Solution of Internal Flows Using
Generalized Solution Adaptive Meshes
Creare Incorporated
PO Box 71
Hanover, NH 03755
Wayne Smith (603-643-3800)
LeRC -- NAS3-25405
Abstract:
In this project, an innovative, interactive, general purpose solver for high-speed
compressible flows that uses unstructured, solution-adaptive meshes composed of tetrahedral
cells was investigated. Such a computer program will represent a significant advance
in the state of the art and will be a powerful tool for the study of inviscid and
turbulent three-dimensional transonic and supersonic flows.
The Phase I effort demonstrated that an unstructured, second-order accurate, finite-volume
formulation is able to produce accurate, highly detailed flow solutions. The unstructured
mesh formulation easily accommodates complex flow features such as shocks and boundary
layers. The mesh refinement algorithm provides highly localized mesh refinement while
maintaining excellent cell aspect and volume ratios.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: This code will have significant applications for
research and design involving high speed flows in turbines, compressors, inlets,
aircraft, and hypersonic flight vehicles.
Project Title:
Boundary Layer Control Methods in High Speed Inlet Systems
01.01-5094
Boundary Layer Control Methods in High Speed
Inlet Systems
Rose Engineering & Research, Inc.
PO Box 5146
Incline Village, NV 89450
William C. Rose (702-831-5094)
LeRC -- NAS3-25408
Abstract:
The objective of the Phase I effort was to determine the feasibility of using
innovative, boundary-layer control arrangements that allow high inlet recovery to
be achieved at low bleed rates. This analytical investigation was carried out with
the use of a full Navier-Stokes code, and a review was conducted of the relevant
literature on recent developments in boundary-layer control in high-speed engine
inlets. Of particular interest were inlets intended to operate at flight Mach numbers
above 3.0 where viscous effects dominate the behavior of the internal flow.
Various proposed flow control techniques were investigated. The cutback sidewall
technique was very successful at minimizing distortion, but an unknown and potentially
debilitating amount of the inlet mass flow would, of necessity, be spilled as a result
of the lack of the lateral sidewalls. The Phase I effort concentrated on the "design"
value for Mach 5; however, it is recognized that flow control methods must work across
a wide range of Mach numbers.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Commercial applications include military aircraft
and civilian aircraft used for transportation of people and packages throughout the
world.
Project Title:
Advanced Thermal Protection Materials
01.02-0236
Advanced Thermal Protection Materials
Ultramet
12173 Montague Street
Pacoima, CA 91331
Richard B. Kaplan (818-899-0236)
LeRC -- NAS3-25411
Abstract:
The objective of this project is to develop a new process for making light-weight,
high-temperature, high-performance structural materials for use in hot section components
of aircraft propulsion engines through an innovative application of chemical vapor
deposition and infiltration (CVD or CVI). The process involves infiltrating a reticulated
carbon foam with rhenium, sheathing it with rhenium to form a quasi-honeycomb structure,
and overcoating the resultant composite structure with a refractory ceramic for oxidation
and erosion protection.
Phase I thoroughly investigated the rhenium infiltration process to form a refractory-metal
foam; however, equipment and time limitations did not allow a determination of the
effects of a rhenium sheath on the foam properties. Nevertheless, application of
a sheath on the foam caused a 2000 percent increase in crush strength from 1000 psi
to >20,000 psi, the load cell limit. The drastic increase in strength results from
an almost complete load transfer and uniform stress distribution over the stronger
"skin" of the structure. One-sided heating tests demonstrated the material's high
thermal impedance, stability, and shock resistance. Oxidation protection for the
rhenium, using a diffusion barrier and Hf-Si-C deposited on the foam structure, was
demonstrated by inspection of the surface after heating with an H2-O2 torch to 1800
C.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Primary applications are for a combustor liner
in advanced small gas turbine engines; for other hot section components of jet engines
such as turbine shrouds, exhaust nozzles and nozzle liners, and convergent and divergent
flaps; for hot gas valves and rocket nozzles; and for oxidation protection of refractory
metals and intermetallics.
Project Title:
Pulse Combustor Driven Recuperated or Regenerated Gas Turbine
01.02-7300
Pulse Combustor Driven Recuperated or
Regenerated Gas Turbine
Altex Technologies Corporation
650 Nuttman Road
Santa Clara, CA 95054
John T. Kelly (408-395-7300)
LeRC -- NAS3-25404
Abstract:
The goal of achieving minimum-volume, light-weight, efficient and environmentally
clean "small" gas-turbine systems for aircraft propulsion may be met with an innovative
pulsed-combustor-driven, recuperated or regenerated, gas turbine (PCRGT) concept.
It is based upon the fact that pulsating combustion generates velocity fluctuations
which propagate throughout the system and increase heat and mass transport. Combustion
and diluent air mixing are intensified by the pulsations, thereby leading to greater
combustion efficiency and smaller and lighter combustors. Pressure is gained across
the combustor, which directly increases cycle efficiency. Heat-exchanger heat transport
is significantly improved, leading to smaller and lighter heat exchangers.
Under the Phase I SBIR effort, the concept was analytically evaluated and shown
to reduce small gas turbine specific fuel consumption by 22 percent, increase specific
power by 32 percent, reduce recuperator volume and weight by 46 percent and 32 percent,
respectively, and reduce emissions of oxides of nitrogen by 75 percent. These substantial
increases in engine performance were found to require minimal engine modifications
beyond replacing the steady flow combustor with a pulsating combustor.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: The PCRGT concept is applicable to a wide variety
of commercial and government aircraft propulsion, ground transportation, and power
generation applications.
Project Title:
Propeller-Wake-Induced Structure-Borne Interior Noise
01.02-9511
Propeller-Wake-Induced Structure-Borne Interior
Noise
Dynamic Analysis & Testing Associates
2231 Faraday Avenue, Suite 103
Carlsbad, CA 92008
C. Thomas Savell (619-931-9511)
LeRC -- NAS3-25338
Abstract:
The purpose of this project is to establish a unified model for predicting the
portion of the interior, aircraft-cabin noise transmitted through the wing structure
and produced by the wake from a wing-mounted propeller. The method used: a velocity
defect model representing the viscous wake behind a twisted and leaned prop-fan blade;
standard acoustic source modeling methods to describe the wing vibration and pressure
loading perturbation resulting from the wake slapping the wing; and finite-element,
acoustic-structure interaction analysis to predict the vibration energy transmission
through the wing structure, the excitation of the rest of the aircraft structure,
and the resulting noise radiation to the interior of the aircraft cabin.
In Phase I several computer codes were developed for analyzing the acoustic-structure
interaction problem of the noise experienced in the interior of an aircraft driven
by advanced prop-fans. Simplified models of the aircraft wing, fuselage, and cabin
interior were used. The wing was modeled as three beam sections of different thickness
joined to the fuselage side panels. The fuselage panels were modeled as flat plates
attached to stringers at the edges. The cabin interior was modeled as a rectangular
cavity. The final computer model was exercised in a parametric study in which the
wing and fuselage section properties and joining conditions were varied.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: There is an industry-wide need for a general purpose
code to solve acoustic-structure interaction problems for all forms of transportation
vehicles, in acoustic fatigue and failure analysis, and in general architectural
acoustics.
Project Title:
Simultaneous Temperature, Density, and Flow Diagnostics for Aeropropulsion Systems
01.03-1520
Simultaneous Temperature, Density, and Flow
Diagnostics for Aeropropulsion Systems
Deacon Research
900 Welch Road, Suite 203
Palo Alto, CA 94304
Anthony O'Keefe (415-326-1520)
LeRC -- NAS3-25401
Abstract:
The design of advanced propulsion systems requires simultaneous measurement of
the flow velocities and the thermodynamic properties in order to verify the mathematical
models based on the time-averaged, Navier-Stokes equations. The coherent anti-Stokes
Raman scattering (CARS) technique makes possible the measurement of the temperature
and pressure but not velocity. Laser Doppler velocimeters fail at high velocities
because the measured dust particles no longer follow the flow lines. The innovation
is in combining CARS with a well-known spectroscopic technique, stimulated Brillouin
scattering (SBS), which can measure flow velocity from subsonic through hypersonic
speeds. By adding a detection system and changing the CARS geometry slightly, one
can measure the flow velocity, temperature, and density with a single, stop-motion
laser pulse.The Phase I investigation showed that an SBS system can be configured
to measure velocities in the range of Mach 0 to 20 and above with an accuracy of
Mach 0.02, expanding, thereby, the range of velocity measurements more than an order
of magnitude. An SBS technique can also be coupled with a CARS measurement of the
temperature and density so that the three critical variables of the Navier-Stokes
equations can be measured independently within 100 ns of each other.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: An SBS velocimeter could find applications not
only at ground-based testing facilities but also in flight testing, where the SBS
configuration makes these simultaneous flow and thermodynamic measurements possible
for the first time.
Project Title:
High-Temperature LDV Seed Particle Development
01.03-9030
High-Temperature LDV Seed Particle
Development
Physical Sciences Inc.
Research Park
PO Box 3100
Andover, MA 01810
Michael B. Frish (508-475-9030)
LeRC -- NAS3-25284
Abstract:
To perform laser Doppler velocimetry (LDV) in the gas flows of aerospace propulsion
systems, light scattering particles able to withstand the harsh ambient environment
are needed. This project explored the feasibility of manufacturing mono-disperse,
heat-resistant particles having diameters of 0.05 to 0.5 m which can be seeded into
the flow. The technique employs a pulsed, CO2 laser to decompose gases flowing in
a supersonic nozzle, resulting in vapor products which condense, polymerize, or react
to form carbonaceous or silicon particulates which are prevented from agglomerating.
The particles generated were collected, evaluated for size and shape by electron
microscopy, and checked for agglomeration.
In Phase I, a small-scale feasibility study, non-agglomerated, nearly mono-disperse
carbonaceous spheres, typically 100 to 500 nm in diameter, were made by pyrolysis
of ethylene with a pulsed laser. It is expected that, by pyrolysis of other gases
or gas mixtures, this process or a similar one can be made to yield a multitude of
different particle compositions and sizes that can be selected as required to suit
specific LDV seeding applications.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Applications include LDV seeding and the commercial
ceramics or abrasive materials manufacturing field where mono-disperse, non-agglomerated
powders having particle diameters ranging from tens to thousands of nanometers are
highly desirable.
Project Title:
Supersonic Turbulent Reacting Flow Modeling and Calculation
01.04-9457
Supersonic Turbulent Reacting Flow Modeling
and Calculation
Nielsen Engineering & Research, Inc.
510 Clyde Avenue
Mountain View, CA 94043
Mohammed Farschi (415-968-9457)
LeRC -- NAS3-25285
Abstract:
Accurate modeling and calculation of supersonic turbulent reacting flows depends
on a thermochemical model that can account for dominant time scales involved in the
reaction and a turbulence model capable of predicting the effects of compressibility
and heat release. This project addresses a method of modeling supersonic combustion
through the use of a probability-density function (PDF) of scalars in the reaction.
The method accounts for the effects of compressibility and heat release in the turbulent
kinetic energy and length scales by analysis of exact pressure and vorticity equations.
Phase I of the work concentrated on the analysis of the properties of pressure fluctuations
and development of a second-order turbulence closure model. Also a specified PDF
model was used to relate the local thermodynamic state to a single, conserved scalar
for an equilibrium chemical reaction. These models were implemented in a two-dimensional
Navier-Stokes solver and applied to several test cases.
Phase I had four significant results. General governing equations for compressible,
turbulent chemically reacting flows were developed. The role of pressure-velocity
correlations for compressible, turbulent flows was analyzed and used to develop a
Reynolds stress turbulence model accounting for compressibility effects. An eddy-viscosity
turbulence model for scalar fluxes along with an assumed PDF thermochemical model
based only on the mean values was used. A numerical technique was chosen and developed
for the solution of the coupled set of governing equations obtained from the above
closure models.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: A versatile and efficient computer code with simple
but accurate chemical reaction and non-equilibrium turbulence models in supersonic
flow regions will be used by aircraft engine companies and defense industries and
by researchers and consulting engineers in a variety of other applications such as
laser technology.
Project Title:
Shock Waves for Enhanced Mixing in Scramjet Combustors
01.05-8500
Shock Waves for Enhanced Mixing in Scramjet
Combustors
Flow Research, Inc.
21414 68th Avenue South
Kent, WA 98032
Suresh Menon (206-872-8500)
LeRC -- NAS3-25332
Abstract:
For an efficient supersonic combustion ramjet (scramjet), mixing enhancement between
the incoming supersonic air and the injected fuel is essential. However, at hypersonic
flight speeds, the short residence time and decreased mixing rate cause deterioration
in the combustion efficiency as compared with lower speeds. A configuration recently
developed to promote rapid mixing in a supersonic flow is a single-step flame holder
with a wedge on the opposite supersonic passage wall to induce a weak shock. The
objective of this project is to evaluate the configuration as a means for rapid and
thorough mixing of the fuel with the supersonic air stream through interactions between
the shock wave and shear layer.
During Phase I, the interaction between a shock wave generated by a wedge and a
supersonic (Mach 2.5) mixing layer was investigated by observing the mixing between
two species (nitrogen and helium) downstream of a scramjet flame holder (i.e., rearward-facing
step). Schlieren flow visualization and Rayleigh scattering concentration measurements
indicate that significant spreading of the mixing layer may be occurring downstream
of the shock impingement region. It appears that the shock wave/shear layer interaction
allows the helium to diffuse more rapidly across the supersonic nitrogen flow.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: The flame holder design, the experimental data,
and the diagnostic instrumentation developed in this project will be provided to
NASA for practical evaluation in the scramjet engine.
Project Title:
Adaptive Schemes for Complex Subsonic 3D-Flow Problems in Arbitrary Domains
02.01-0618
Adaptive Schemes for Complex Subsonic 3D-Flow
Problems in Arbitrary Domains
The Computational Mechanics Company, Inc.
3701 N. Lamar, Suite 201
Austin, TX 78705
Jon M. Bass (512-467-0069)
MSFC -- NAS8-37621
Abstract:
The innovation explored in this project is in fully adaptive computational schemes
with quantitative measures of the accuracy of solutions of very complex problems
in fluid dynamics. Particular emphasis is given to the development of models for
subsonic, three-dimensional flow problems in arbitrary domains.
Phase I involved detailed studies of the feasibility of the development of new algorithms
for subsonic flows. In the area of adaptive methods, some encouraging results have
been obtained in the development of a fast, mesh refinement strategy that dynamically
allocates cell and node numbers. The method leads to fully unstructured meshes and
can automatically refine an unstructured mesh so as to keep cell errors within preassigned
limits. In addition, pilot codes on combined mesh refinement and spectral-order enrichment
were developed and tested. In the area of error estimation, new and general error
estimation techniques were developed which produced results superior to existing
error estimation methods. Overall, several new developments in computational fluid
dynamics have been made which could improve the reliability and efficiency with which
subsonic flow problems are analyzed.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Numerous commercial applications are possible for
design analysis of low-Mach number flows in rocket propulsion systems, pumps, turbo-machinery,
ducts, and channels and on aerodynamic surfaces.
Project Title:
Software Package for Solving Large Systems of Nonlinear Equations
02.01-3600
Software Package for Solving Large Systems of
Nonlinear Equations
Kuck and Associates, Inc.
1808 Woodfield Drive
Savory, IL 61820
Ahmed Sameh (217-344-3600)
MSFC -- NAS8-37633
Abstract:
The numerical simulation of many problems in engineering leads to solving large
systems of nonlinear equations. In the past this has required developing a host of
specialized codes to solve scientific problems in various applications areas. The
goal of this project is a general package for solving nonlinear systems of equations
that would include the most recent innovations in solutions of nonlinear and linear
equations which have great potential benefits to the scientific community.
In Phase I, a few preliminary kernels of such a package were implemented and tested
on a number of sample problems arising mostly from computational fluid dynamics.
The numerical methods tested include a nonlinear GMRES (generalized minimal residual)
method with point Gauss-Seidel, line, and biharmonic preconditioning and a standard
Newton method with the Jacobian system solved by either a direct solver or an iterative
solver. All the above techniques gave execution times several orders of magnitude
smaller than MINPACK, one of the only existing public domain packages available for
solving nonlinear systems of equations.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: A package for solving general, large systems of
equations efficiently would provide research groups in industry, government, and
universities with a tool that can be integrated into existing codes.
Project Title:
Computational Fluid Dynamics of Store Separation
01-3922
Computational Fluid Dynamics of Store
Separation
JAI Associates, Inc.
PO Box 293
Mountain View, CA 94086
Samuel P. Shanks (415-964-3922)
ARC -- NAS2-12779
Abstract:
Development of a three-dimensional, computational fluid dynamics code was studied
to provide reliable, economic computations of store separation from an aircraft where
the stores have plumes. The purpose of this code is to study plume ingestion and
mutual aerodynamic interference between the store and the aircraft. The effort in
this project is consistent with and meant to complement the on-going shuttle work
at NASA Ames.
Phase I provided a study of the three-dimensional static CHIMERA code to determine
how best to modify it for store separation and how best to include a plume. A generic
wing was chosen with a generic missile without fins. An algebraic grid generator
was written for fighter wings. The codes were modified for the wing and wing-store
solutions. Several wing-alone runs were made to test the accuracy of the flow solver.
Issues pertinent to store separation were identified and solution theory was formulated.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: The general method may apply to the calculation
of ground effects on automobile performance and transient aerodynamic effects of
two or more closely moving bodies, e.g., the effects of wing tip vortices from large
aircraft on other aircraft.
Project Title:
Propulsion Simulation for Magnetically Suspended Wind Tunnel Models
02.02-9030
Propulsion Simulation for Magnetically
Suspended Wind Tunnel Models
Physical Sciences Inc.
Research Park
PO Box 3100
Andover, MA 01810
Prakash B. Joshi (617-475-9030)
LaRC -- NAS1-18616
Abstract:
The purpose of this project is to provide innovative methods for simulating propulsion
effects in aerodynamic research conducted with models in magnetic suspension wind
tunnels. The feasibility of various techniques of generating exhaust jets of appropriate
characteristics was evaluated in Phase I. Judgments of feasibility considered the
ability of the selected methods to generate model flow rates and velocities of propulsive
jets for a variety of aircraft configurations, flight regimes, and model scales.
Four concepts of remotely-operated propulsion simulators were examined. Three conceptual
designs involving innovative adaptation of conventional technologies (compressed
gas cylinders, liquid, and solid propellants) were developed. The fourth innovation,
namely, the laser-assisted thruster, which can potentially simulate both inlet and
exhaust flows, was found to require very high power levels for small thrust levels.
This concept needs further research.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Applications would be in conducting aerodynamic
research in wind tunnels equipped with magnetic devices for model suspension.
Project Title:
Modelling of Massively Separated Flows: Renormalization Group Formulation
02.03-9778
Modelling of Massively Separated Flows:
Renormalization Group Formulation
Spectrex, Inc.
PO Box 707
Gloucester, VA 23061
R. Balasubramanian (804-693-9778)
LaRC -- NAS1-18610
Abstract:
The overall goal of this project is to describe the behavior of massively separated
flows using turbulence models based on renormalization group methods and spectral
patching elements that easily model complex geometries. Existing turbulence transport
models often fail to describe the behavior of non-equilibrium turbulent flows in
which there are strong deviations from the law-of-the-wall. This breakdown may be
traced to an inadequate treatment of the interaction between eddy and molecular transport
in the wall layers. The firm developed a new method based on renormalization group
techniques that have been shown to perform well in a variety of situations, including
non-equilibrium flows. The success of these techniques originates from the fact that
they are differential in character and not based on classical ad hoc algebraic relations.
In Phase I, a new, differential, turbulence-transport model based on renormalization
group methods was developed and validated to solve turbulence problems involved in
massively separated flows. Issues concerning boundary conditions, numerical stiffness,
and wall region modelling with recirculation zones were successfully addressed.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Many practical commercial engineering problems
involve massively separated flows, at both high Mach numbers and low speeds, for
which these renormalization group models provide a key new technology.
Project Title:
Three-Dimensional Euler Solver
02.04-8450
Three-Dimensional Euler Solver
G.M.A.F., Inc.
PO Box 184
Freeport, NY 11520
Gino Moretti (516-378-8450)
LaRC -- NAS1-18618
Abstract:
The computational technique for two-dimensional, unsteady flows developed by the
firm (a combination of the lambda-scheme and shock-fitting) produces excellent results
and requires substantially less computational time than shock-capturing techniques.
Extending the technique to three-dimensional flows and conducting several feasibility
tests, including some with complicated shock patterns in ducts, are the goals of
this project.
Phase I showed the feasibility of the project, using both H-grids and Cartesian
grids with a special treatment for wall points.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: The method applies to the analysis of intake and
nozzle designs for supersonic flows.
Project Title:
Computations of Separated Flows with Two Equation Models
02.05-1427
Computations of Separated Flows with Two
Equation Models
Applied & Theoretical Mechanics, Inc.
4501 Sequoyah Road
Oakland, CA 94605
Joelle M. Champney (415-635-1427)
ARC -- NAS2-12778
Abstract:
This project has resulted in a practical numerical model for use by research personnel
to test and develop turbulence models. The selected numerical model was the TURF
code (Coakley, 1984). As part of the effort, the code was organized in a user-friendly,
modular form and verified on simple test problems for which analytical solutions
exist. The innovative turbulence model designed by Mansour, Kim and Moin (1987),
called the MKM model, was implemented in the code. The model was successfully tested
for channel flow and applied to flows with separation. The experimental flows studied
were a backward-facing step and a two-dimensional compression corner at a Mach number
of 2.8. The MKM model was compared to the Jones-Launder, Chien, and Coakley (version
1) two-equation models.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: This effort will provide a versatile, easy-to-modify,
numerical tool to be utilized by workers in turbulence modeling and aircraft design.
Project Title:
Stimulated Brillouin Diagnostics of Hypersonic Flows
02.06-1520
Stimulated Brillouin Diagnostics of Hypersonic
Flows
Deacon Research
900 Welch Road, Suite 203
Palo Alto, CA 94304
Anthony O'Keefe (415-326-1520)
JSC -- NAS9-17937
Abstract:
Conventional laser Doppler velocimetry fails for supersonic or turbulent flows.
As an alternative, a remote velocity sensor based on stimulated Brillouin scattering
(SBS) was investigated. This innovation should operate reliably both at low and high
speeds and offer the same scanning capability with better time resolution than the
existing technique. Because of the phase conjugation property of SBS resulting in
near 100 percent backscatter, this system provides a unique opportunity for measuring
supersonic airflows in the vicinity of aircraft in flight. Such a capability will
allow a better understanding of the factors limiting the performance envelope of
new and existing airframes and provide benchmark information for the simulation codes
in a parameter range which cannot be reproduced in wind tunnels.
Phase I work involved scaling of SBS characteristics based upon both the theoretical
and the experimental investigations of the SBS process reported in the literature.
This study has shown that such a system can be built with commercially available
components.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: This new technology is expected to play an important
role in the development of new high speed airframes and conceivably in the extension
of the performance envelope of existing ones.
Project Title:
A Laser-Based Transition Detector
02.06-5630
A Laser-Based Transition Detector
Complere, Inc.
PO Box 1697
Palo Alto, CA 94302
F. K. Owen (415-321-5630)
ARC -- NAS2-12781
Abstract:
One of the largest sources of uncertainty in proposed hypersonic testing of the
National Aerospace Plane will be the measurement of the extent of laminar flow on
wind tunnel test models with free and forced transition. In an attempt to alleviate
this problem, a novel concept for the remote detection of boundary-layer transition
has been investigated. This laser-based turbulent burst detector will enable non-intrusive,
microscopic studies of the onset and extent of transition by rapidly scanning boundary
layers on wind tunnel models. The potential of this new instrument will be in the
capability it provides for the rapid mapping of irregular transition patterns which
often occur on complicated wind-tunnel test models. It will also replace the impractically
large numbers of surface gages which would be required for transition measurement
and so substantially reduce model construction costs and wind-tunnel test time. Completion
of this project has been delayed pending the availability of the 3.5 foot wind tunnel
at NASA-ARC.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: This innovation would replace the impractically
large numbers of surface gages required in rapid mapping of irregular flow patterns
on complicated wind tunnel test models, reducing model costs and test time.
Project Title:
Photochemical Ignition and Enhancement of Supersonic Combustion
02.06-7970
Photochemical Ignition and Enhancement of
Supersonic Combustion
M. L. Energia, Inc.
PO Box 1468
Princeton, NJ 08542
Moshe Lavid (609-799-7970)
ARC -- NAS2-12782
Abstract:
Significant and revolutionary advances in combustion technology are needed for
the new generation of hypersonic flight vehicles. The condition of high-speed flight
imposes severe strains on ignition, overall efficiency, and stability of combustion
which are risks to the success of the hypersonic program. A novel approach to alleviate
these difficulties was proposed and successfully tested under a Phase I feasibility
study. The innovative idea is to irradiate selectively targeted species in the reaction
zone. The ensuing photo-dissociation reactions generate highly reactive radicals
which significantly modify the kinetics leading to ignition and enhancement via chain
branching paths.
The experiments were fully successful in demonstrating that photo-dissociation of
sensitizers, e.g. NO2, can significantly modify combustion processes. Specifically,
ignition was demonstrated at conditions where conventional ignition has failed. Explosion
limits were also extended. These findings suggest that other combustion properties,
e.g. ignition delay time and flame speed, can also be favorably affected by this
innovative idea.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Potential commercial applications include the Aero-Assisted
Orbital Transfer Vehicle (AOTV), the National Aerospace Plane (NASP) and the Supersonic
Transport (SST).
Project Title:
Aerothermodynamic Radiation Studies
02.06-9030
Aerothermodynamic Radiation Studies
Physical Sciences Inc.
Research Park
PO Box 3100
Andover, MA 01810
George E. Caledonia (617-475-9030)
JSC -- NAS9-17949
Abstract:
The ability to predict accurately radiative heat transfer from the non-equilibrium
bow shock of vehicles operating at hypersonic velocities and elevated altitudes is
critical to the design of large NASA vehicles such as the Aero-Assisted Orbital Transfer
Vehicle. The extant data base is insufficient to validate models used for this purpose.
In the Phase I effort, this project demonstrated that an optical, multi-channel
analyzer can be used to measure accurately the temporal and spectral behavior of
non-equilibrium, shock-heated air and that data can be analyzed to deduce temporally
excited state population histories even in the presence of overlapping band systems.
An innovative technique was also developed for the measurement of N2(X) vibrational
relaxation behind a shock front. The Phase I effort has demonstrated that the integration
of modern measurement techniques with a modern shock tube experiment can provide
the necessary data for improving the predictive capabilities of computer-based radiation
models used to design advanced re-entry vehicles.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Applications of this facility would be in the study
of chemical kinetics and radiative phenomena in high-temperature gases and molecular
systems not readily studied by existing techniques.
Project Title:
Rarefied Gas Aerodynamic Bridging Procedures
02.07-8581
Rarefied Gas Aerodynamic Bridging Procedures
Remtech, Inc.
3304 Westmill Drive
Huntsville, AL 35805
E. C. Knox (205-536-8581)
MSFC -- NAS8-37635
Abstract:
Shuttle flight data have shown that the "bridging" relations used to predict the
Shuttle reentry aerodynamics in the rarefied-gas portion of its trajectory were inadequate
in that twice the predicted body-flap deflection was required to trim the vehicle.
Fortunately, there was sufficient margin built into the Shuttle; however, providing
such margins on future vehicle designs may render them not viable. For example, the
next generation of spaceflight vehicles, such as the Aero-Assisted Flight Experiment
(AFE) currently being designed, will require more precise predictions of the vehicle
aerodynamics in the transitional flow regime in order to reduce the allowance for
propellants in favor of increased payload.
In Phase I the bridging techniques and formulas used to connect the continuum with
the free-molecular flow regime in predicting the aerodynamic characteristics of vehicles
designed to fly in the rarefied gas regime were revisited. Results from the Phase
I study show that some improvements can be made in the bridging techniques, but that
further work is needed to account for real-gas effects and molecular-surface interactions.
Failure to account for the molecular-surface interactions can cause the drag on a
typical vehicle operating in this regime to be in error by as much as 25 percent.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Applications would be for spacecraft operating
between the continuum region near the earth and the free-molecular regime of space.
Project Title:
Direct Simulation Monte Carlo of Vacuum Plumes
02.08-1759
Direct Simulation Monte Carlo of Vacuum Plumes
Ergo-Tech Systems Inc.
6937 Estepa Drive
Tujunga, CA 91042
Jose E. Chirivella (818-352-1759)
MSFC -- NAS8-37623
Abstract:
The overall objective of this project is the development of a three-dimensional,
direct-simulation, Monte Carlo (DSMC) code to model the interaction of rocket vacuum
plumes with spacecraft structures and the surrounding atmosphere. This work focuses
on the complex flow field encountered in the wakes of trans-atmospheric vehicles
operating from an altitude of 75 km to a low earth orbit.
The methods to link the continuum plume with the DSMC molecular description were
studied in Phase I. An axially symmetric code (Atlantic 1.3) which can handle an
unlimited number of species, structural segments, and molecular sources was developed
and applied in simulating the interaction of the base of the Aero-Assisted Flight
Experiment vehicle with its reaction control thrusters. A more advanced version,
Atlantic 1.4, tested by simulating the firing of a thruster within a vacuum chamber,
features improved accuracy, increased efficiency, multiple region topology, and an
architecture that can be readily extended to three dimensions. Phase I has shown
the feasibility of direct-simulation Monte Carlo to model and conduct numerical experiments
when the flow pattern and geometry are extremely complex.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Monte Carlo simulation of the dynamics of complex
systems may solve a difficult, important problem in space technology and could be
reformulated to treat other stochastic systems which appear in nucleonics, robotics,
and bio-technology.
Project Title:
Numerical Modeling of Fully Viscous Rocket Plume Flows
02.08-8150
Numerical Modeling of Fully Viscous Rocket
Plume Flows
GT-Devices, Inc.
5705 General Washington Drive
Alexandria, VA 22312
Rodney L. Burton (703-642-8150)
LeRC -- NAS3-25407
Abstract:
The plume produced by the gas flow through the nozzle of a rocket engine or system
vent on a spacecraft can contaminate the spacecraft, its sensors, and other nearby
apparatus. Current analytical methods patch numerical solutions for the nozzle core
flow to those for the boundary layer flow. The resulting continuum solution is then
patched to a Monte Carlo calculation for the free-molecular regime. This approach
only models steady plumes so that the start-up and shut-down problems cannot be investigated.
This project addressed the problem of non-steady plume flows by means of a two-dimensional,
fully viscous, non-steady solution for the continuum regime. This numerical method
is well-adapted to solving time-dependent flows including viscosity, steep gradients,
and even shocks and is, therefore, capable of calculating the fully time-dependent
flow of a rocket nozzle during a complete pulse.
Phase I demonstrated the feasibility of using the flux-corrected transport (FCT)
algorithm with constant viscosity to model non-steady, axially symmetric flow of
CO2 in a conical nozzle and in the forward plume region. The computations were validated
with experimental nozzle data and were shown to give agreement of better than 7 percent
for total pressure, exhaust velocity, and boundary layer thickness as far as 1.5
nozzle diameters downstream. Shutdown flow was also modeled.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: PC-based calculation of rocket engine forward and
back-flow plumes for axially symmetric nozzles of general shape and simple chemistry
in vacuum will be possible.
Project Title:
Vacuum Plume Impingement Evaluator
02.08-8581A
Vacuum Plume Impingement Evaluator
Remtech, Inc.
3304 Westmill Drive
Huntsville, AL 35805
Robert L. Bender (205-536-8581)
MSFC -- NAS8-37636
Abstract:
As an Orbital Maneuvering Vehicle or astronauts seated in the Man Maneuvering Unit
move externally about the Space Station to perform assembly, maintenance, payload
servicing, and other extra-vehicular activities, the plumes from the reaction-control
micro-thrusters may impinge on various structures and payloads and create locally
severe environments and surface contamination. The possibilities for potentially
severe impingement and contamination are unbounded since mission plans are not final,
station growth will occur, and payloads will be constantly changing.
An engineering tool was studied which will geometrically track an arbitrary thruster
vacuum plume over an orbiting spacecraft, provide a quick computation of the environment
at any nozzle position, and evaluate the criticality of the impingement environment.
Phase I research established the feasibility of utilizing a three-dimensional, color
graphics display of the impingement zone as the means to evaluate the environment.
A quick, visual assessment of the impingement environments is possible even over
a complex structure with a variety of components and shapes. The static problem where
the plume is fixed relative to the impinged structure was thoroughly exercised in
Phase I.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: This development applies to the design of a spacecraft
or satellites for simulating and assessing impingement of plumes of gas prior to
flight.
Project Title:
Low-Speed Visualization Studies of Vortex Systems on Chine-Forebody/Delta Wing
02.09-0794A
Low-Speed Visualization Studies of Vortex
Systems on Chine-Forebody/Delta Wing
Configurations
Vigyan Research Associates, Inc.
30 Research Drive
Hampton, VA 23666
Dhanvada M. Rao (804-865-1400)
ARC -- NAS2-12780
Abstract:
Fore-bodies with vortex-generating side edges or chines blending into highly swept
leading edges are known to stabilize leading edge vortices through aerodynamic coupling
at high angles of attack. However, in post-stall maneuvering flight, chine-vortex
interaction with the wing and vertical tails can lead to roll and yaw sensitivity
together with reduced or negative damping, making the configuration prone to departure.
This research explored the feasibility of decoupling the chine and wing vortices
by applying three alternate geometrical modifications whose effectiveness on a generic,
delta-wing fighter configuration were investigated through low-speed, wind-tunnel
flow visualizations in a broad angle-of-attack and sideslip envelope.
Smoke visualizations and limited wing-pressure surveys indicated that vortex decoupling
could be achieved by introducing a local discontinuity at the chine and leading-edge
junction and, even more effectively, by deflecting inboard leading-edge flaps.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: These results will be used by the national aeronautical
industry involved in tactical aircraft developments of the U.S. Air Force and Navy.
Project Title:
Wing-Rock Dynamics and Control
09-9316
Wing-Rock Dynamics and Control
Eidetics International, Inc.
3415 Lomita Boulevard
Torrance, CA 90505
T. Terry Ng (213-326-8228)
ARC -- NAS2-12787
Abstract:
Modern fighter aircraft operate with increasing demands for maneuverability and
controllability in order to track targets accurately for gun or missile shots. A
self-induced, limit-cycle oscillation in roll, wing-rock, is sometimes accompanied
by coupled oscillations in yaw that occur near the stall angle of attack. The purpose
of this project was to develop the capability for performing experiments in a water
tunnel to visualize the complex vortex flow fields of aircraft-like models undergoing
oscillations in roll. A forced-oscillation-in-roll apparatus was developed. The effects
of sweep angle, leading edge radius, oscillation amplitude and frequency, and angle
of attack were evaluated. Motion histories of the model and flow response were recorded
on video tape.
Phase I has demonstrated the feasibility and usefulness of water-tunnel flow visualization
and the forced-oscillation rig in investigating dynamic behavior such as wing-rock.
By carefully matching the frequency and amplitude of oscillation, the flow of a forced
wing oscillation closely resembles that of natural wing-rock. A forced oscillation
rig should also be more convenient to use in many experiments because of the readily
available phase reference from the forcing signal. Furthermore, wing-rock frequency
and amplitude are dependent on model parameters such as moment of inertia and bearing
friction; this often makes comparison between different experiments difficult. With
controlled oscillation, matching between two different models or model and actual
vehicle is
more achievable.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Applications could be as an alternative control
system for new airplanes or, possibly, as a retrofit to existing aircraft. This study
also demonstrated the value of water tunnels as a research tool.
Project Title:
Performance Optimization for Rotors in Hover and Axial Flight
02.10-9282
Performance Optimization for Rotors in Hover
and Axial Flight
Continuum Dynamics, Inc.
PO Box 3073
Princeton, NJ 08543
Todd R. Quackenbush (609-734-9282)
ARC -- NAS2-12789
Abstract:
The rotorcraft community has a continuing need for improved design techniques for
hover and axial flight. Such techniques can be employed to best advantage if they
are coupled with numerical optimization methods to reduce the trial and error computations
when searching for configurations to meet particular design specifications. A new,
highly advanced, hover-performance analysis, EHPIC (Evaluation of Hover Performance
using Influence Coefficients), recently developed by the firm, seems well-suited
to the development of an optimization analysis. As a by-product of the solution method,
arrays of influence coefficients relating the rotor loads and wake geometry to the
down-wash are generated. These arrays are useful in the development of an optimization
scheme.
The Phase I effort demonstrated that a numerical optimization algorithm could be
coupled to the EHPIC code to produce rotors with substantially improved performance.
The coupling was accomplished by expanding the matrix of linear influence coefficients
in EHPIC to accommodate design variables and deriving coefficients for linear equations
governing perturbations in power and thrust. Using the rotor power as an objective
function and introducing constraints on the design variable perturbations, a sequential
linear optimization analysis was formed that was invoked to predict changes in the
twist distribution that produced reductions in power at constant thrust for a variety
of rotor configurations in hover and axial flight.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Applications will be by researchers in the government
and rotorcraft designers in industry.
Project Title:
Zonal Method for Modeling Powered-Lift Aircraft Flow Fields
02.11-8060
Zonal Method for Modeling Powered-Lift Aircraft
Flow Fields
Amtec Engineering, Inc.
3055 112th Ave NE #208
Bellevue, WA 98004
Donald W. Roberts (206-827-3304)
ARC -- NAS2-12801
Abstract:
The need exists for a cost-effective three-dimensional flow analysis tool for modeling
the complex flow fields of powered-lift aircraft. This effort addressed the development
of a zonal method that couples a three-dimensional Navier-Stokes code to a potential
flow code based on panel methodology. The Navier-Stokes code is limited to viscous-dominated
zones such as impinging jets, ground vortices, separated flows, vectored nozzles,
etc. The potential flow code models the inviscid regions. Phase I resulted in a successful
coupling procedure. The results indicated that the interzone boundary placement influences
the overall convergence rate and that zonal solutions should be converged simultaneously
with the boundary conditions as opposed to converging these solutions to a low level
during each coupling iteration.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: The results of this work could be applied by aircraft
companies to design and evaluate powered-lift aircraft concepts.
Project Title:
Direct Computation of Turbulence Noise
02.12-7070
Direct Computation of Turbulence Noise
AeroChem Research Laboratories, Inc.
PO Box 12
Princeton, NJ 08542
Charles H. Berman (609-921-7070)
LaRC -- NAS1-18622
Abstract:
Direct computation of turbulence noise produced by jet engines is a logical application
for advanced computational fluid dynamics (CFD) programs run on supercomputers. Numerical
techniques for computing turbulence noise over a range of subsonic and supersonic
nozzle exit conditions would eliminate the highly empirical aspects of present noise
prediction techniques and enable study of advanced hypersonic propulsion systems.
Just as there are many CFD techniques, there are also many ways to determine the
acoustic field given the flow results.
Phase I focussed on the connection between CFD and aeroacoustic theory and on modifications
and improvements in CFD techniques needed for noise calculations. It evaluated the
computational potential for hypersonic flows and recommended specific computational
techniques for future development. Procedures were developed for extrapolating near-field
numerical pressure computations to the far field. Rules were formulated for the size
and shape of the computational domain to obtain accurate acoustic results. Methods
for numerically solving the time dependent Lilley equation were developed, and the
first known results were presented. A Mach number of 2 or greater was tentatively
chosen as the jet Mach number above which compressibility should be considered in
the noise source model.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Applications are in noise control for civilian
aircraft such as the High Speed Civil Transport and the National Aerospace Plane.
A spinoff of the program will be improved numerical techniques for general, time-dependent
turbulent flows.
Project Title:
Analysis of Main-Rotor-Wake/Tail-Rotor Interaction Noise
02.12-9282
Analysis of Main-Rotor-Wake/Tail-Rotor
Interaction Noise
Continuum Dynamics, Inc.
PO Box 3073
Princeton, NJ 08543
Alan J. Bilanin (609-734-9282)
LaRC -- NAS1-18607
Abstract:
The importance of reducing the noise of the helicopter tail rotor has been recognized
for many years. However, both the prediction of tail rotor noise and the development
of low-noise designs have been impeded by a poor ability to simulate noise-generating
interactions between the main-rotor wake and the tail rotor. In many cases, even
the flight conditions leading to substantial interactions between the main-rotor
wake and the tail rotor have been difficult to determine. Recent advances in the
modelling of free-vortex wakes by the firm have generated tools that can generate
complete descriptions of the incident-vorticity field in the vicinity of the tail
rotor. In light of previous successes, it is anticipated that these tools can produce
a computational simulation capable of providing improved definition of interactions
between the main-rotor wake and the tail rotor and the resultant unsteady loads that
lead to strong acoustic emissions.
The Phase I effort successfully demonstrated that an advanced full-span model of
the main rotor wake could be incorporated in a novel scheme that permits high-resolution
descriptions of the tail rotor flow field to be reconstructed from preliminary, computationally
inexpensive simulations with coarse resolution.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: This analysis would aid rotorcraft designers in
meeting noise specifications for both civil and military helicopters and facilitate
research by government personnel in helicopter aero-acoustics.
Project Title:
Advanced Instrumentation for Aircraft Icing Research
03.01-8887
Advanced Instrumentation for Aircraft Icing
Research
Aerometrics, Inc.
894 Ross Drive, Suite 105
Sunnyvale, CA 94089
William D. Bachalo (408-745-0321)
LeRC -- NAS3-25348
Abstract:
The concern of this project is the need for instruments that can provide reliable
data on drop-size spectra and liquid water content in large-scale icing research
tunnels and airborne cloud measurements. Advanced laser-based diagnostics is the
thrust of this project, which investigated the possibility of utilizing the recently
developed phase Doppler particle analyzer (PDPA) in obtaining these data. Fiber-optic
probes are applied in order to make drop size distribution and liquid-water-content
measurements within the large scale (6'x 9') icing research tunnel and from aircraft.
Although fiber-optic links are compact, robust, and immune from electronic noise,
critical questions remain on coupling the laser beams into single-mode fibers and
maintaining alignment in a noisy, vibrational environment.
In Phase I, a basic fiber optic probe was evaluated in simulated aircraft icing
clouds. Comparisons of the measured drop size and velocity distributions, number-density,
and liquid water content made with the standard PDPA and the probe were in excellent
agreement. Preliminary testing in the NASA Lewis Icing Research Tunnel produced reasonable
results but revealed some problems with vibration and signal quality at high speeds.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: A reliable and tested means for obtaining data
on cloud drop sizes will have extensive applications in meteorology and aircraft
icing research, monitoring pollutant droplet emissions from power plants, scrubber
performance, and numerous other industrial applications.
Project Title:
Airborne Advance Warning of Air Turbulence
03.02-2150
Airborne Advance Warning of Air Turbulence
Turbulence Prediction Systems
4876 Sterling Drive
Boulder, CO 80301
H. Patrick Adamson (303-433-2150)
LaRC -- NAS1-18637
Abstract:
An innovative, operational, airborne, air-turbulence, advance warning system was
studied. It is a light-weight, low-power, passive, scanning, infrared optical instrument
with a state-of-the-art microprocessor. The basic instrument stems from NASA-sponsored,
airborne research on clear air turbulence (CAT) and low-level wind shear (LLWS).
The goal is to install the first pre-production system in an aircraft for initial
in-service testing. Microbursts and gust fronts, the major causes of LLWS, have a
distinctive temperature profile. This profile provides a basis for advance detection.
Using multiple IR wave bands, temperature close to the aircraft and up to five to
seven miles ahead of the aircraft can be ascertained.
Phase I explored the feasibility of using remote, passive, IR volumetric measurements
to provide advance warning of LLWS. The results obtained from testing of the instrument
in a simulated atmosphere (computer simulation with NASA-provided microburst LLWS
models) and ground testing of the prototype instrument demonstrated that the use
of IR represents a feasible method to provide advance warning of LLWS.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Applications are for commercial and corporate aircraft
representing an existing market of more than 20,000 existing domestic units plus
foreign aircraft. The technology could also be used to detect other atmospheric conditions,
e.g. volcanic ash clouds and the jet stream, as a ground-based sensor either alone
or in conjunction with other sensors.
Project Title:
Aeronautical Human Factors Research
03.03-0660
Aeronautical Human Factors Research
Decision Science Consortium, Inc.
1895 Preston White Drive
Reston, VA 22091
Marvin S. Cohen (703-620-0660)
ARC -- NAS2-12795
Abstract:
Pilot judgment is a crucial ingredient in almost every aspect of commercial air
transport: safety, fuel efficiency, and passenger satisfaction. Effective introduction
into the cockpit of systems which support pilot judgments in important decisions
will require the development of display and interface designs based on an understanding
of pilot cognitive processes.
Phase I involved the development of hypotheses regarding pilot cognitive processes
and the design of preliminary cockpit displays that reflect those hypotheses. These
displays cater to preferred pilot decision-making strategies with regard both to
the balancing of competing objectives and to the handling of uncertainty. Phase I
proceeded in four steps: structured interviews of pilots, development of preliminary
prototype displays, evaluation and comments by pilots, and revision of the displays.
The aiding concepts developed were designed to help the commercial pilot make decisions
regarding potential changes in flight level, routes, or even destination in response
to a variety of factors. These concepts try to work with the pilot's preferred methods
of decision-making and his values and preferences. However, the aiding concepts attempt
to deal with decrements in pilot decision-making performance that could occur under
conditions of high stress.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Commercial airlines are the major potential users
of this technology.
Project Title:
Electroencephalographic Monitoring of Complex Mental Tasks
03.03-2975
Electroencephalographic Monitoring of Complex
Mental Tasks
Center for NeuroDiagnostic Study, Inc.
275 Hospital Parkway, Suite 530
San Jose, CA 95119
Raul Guisado (408-281-4238)
LaRC -- NAS1-18625
Abstract:
The mental demands created by the increasing complexity of man-machine interactions
underline the need for rapid and non-invasive methods of monitoring the ability of
the human operator to handle increasingly large amounts of information and make rapid
decisions. Reports by others and current work done in the firm's laboratory suggest
that changes in electro- and rheo-encephalographic signals can be correlated to changes
in the complexity of a mental task. A study of the changes in electro- and rheo-encephalographic
parameters during mental tasks has been initiated in order to define discrete changes
predictive of increasing human mental workload.
The Phase I contract permitted development of a non-invasive system of monitoring
spatial patterns of neurophysiological changes during cognitive tasks and relating
these patterns to cognitive workload. The innovation is based on the integration
into a state-space model of neurophysiological and hemodynamic profiles to identify
mental state changes that occur during cognition. This approach incorporates electroencephalographic
information from the entire array of electrodes in order to reveal the evolving spatial
dynamics of the scalp electropotential field. In addition, it incorporates rheoencephalographic
assessment of intracranial hemodynamic changes as an additional dimension of this
spatial analysis.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Potential commercial applications of the innovation
include: the development of non-invasive recording units for use in high mental-demand
environments; medical diagnostic applications for the assessment of abnormalities
of cognitive processing in a variety of disease states, such as brain injury, dementia,
neuro-rehabilitation, dyslexia, etc.; an aid in optimizing operator systems and work
profiles in private sector human engineering.
Project Title:
Integrated Design System for High-Altitude Long- Endurance Aircraft for Micro-Computers
03.04-9024
Integrated Design System for High-Altitude Long- Endurance Aircraft for Micro-Computers
David Hall Consulting
1113 Columbine Avenue
Sunnyvale, CA 94086
David W. Hall (408-248-4800)
ARC -- NAS2-12773
Abstract:
In recent years, increasing attention has been given in the aerospace industry
to the integration of aircraft design disciplines. This idea has been applied theoretically
to the design of sail planes for solar-powered, high-altitude, long-endurance (HALE)
aircraft and, more recently, for microwave-powered aircraft. These attempts at arriving
at integrated designs of one class of aircraft used then-existing, state-of-the-art
computer capabilities. No attempt was made to use new programming techniques derived
from artificial intelligence to develop more flexible systems for the conceptual
design of HALE aircraft.
The purpose of this project was to develop a general parametric sizing capability
for micro-computers using integrated design methodology. Design of a HALE aircraft
was used as a test case. This integrated design methodology incorporates some detailed
calculations and many qualitative rules-of-thumb and constraints which are not easily
quantified except by the accumulation of design experience. The system is currently
running on personal computers at the company, NASA, and the Georgia Institute of
Technology.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: This general aircraft sizing methodology, incorporating
a knowledge-based system for the design of high-altitude, long-endurance aircraft,
has application to other aircraft types. Non-aircraft applications may be possible
with further development.
Project Title:
Practical Application of Multivariable Robustness Methods to Advanced Aircraft Flight Control
03.05-2281
Practical Application of Multivariable Robustness
Methods to Advanced Aircraft Flight Control
Systems Technology, Inc.
13766 South Hawthorne Boulevard
Hawthorne, CA 90250
Peter M. Thompson (213-769-2281)
LaRC -- NAS1-18634
Abstract:
Much of the motivation for recent developments in general theory for assessing
robustness of linear, multi-variable, control systems comes from flight control system
(FCS) designs for aerospace vehicles which present the designer with many uncertain
and highly variable properties. For the assimilation of the new theories into "real
world" design, FCS designers will have to translate the theory into physical understanding.
Taking a distinctly different approach to bridge the gap between theory and practical
flight control design, this project combined singular-value and structured-singular-value
procedures with a literal (symbolic) development which leads to direct identification
of important aircraft dynamic and control system design parameters and their connections
with robust performance criteria. The work focused on practical flight control problems
expected to be encountered in air-breathing, hypersonic, high-angle-of-attack super-maneuverable
vehicles.
All of the project goals were met, and a number of surprises were uncovered. The
most notable arose from the comparison of a conventional and presumed highly robust
design where the latter exhibited superior robustness for some uncertainties and
very inferior robustness properties for uncertainties in aircraft parameters.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: The project outcome could find application in the
aircraft industry in the design and testing of advanced, highly integrated, flight
control systems. The techniques and procedures would be made widely available as
an extension of the firm's existing commercial control system design software.
Project Title:
Passive Electro-Optical Sensor Processing for Helicopter Obstacle Avoidance
03.06-8740
Passive Electro-Optical Sensor Processing for
Helicopter Obstacle Avoidance
Space Computer Corporation
2800 Olympic, Suite 104
Santa Monica, CA 90404
William B. Kendall (213-829-7733)
ARC -- NAS2-12774
Abstract:
The purpose of this project is to develop and demonstrate an innovative new computer
vision approach for mapping the three-dimensional region surrounding a moving vehicle
with passive electro-optical sensors. The primary application is for helicopter obstacle
avoidance. Until now, this has not been possible due to the lack of robust processing
techniques that can be implemented in real time within practical limitations on hardware
size, weight, power, and cost.
During Phase I the firm developed and successfully demonstrated an innovative, velocity
filter approach to passive ranging using complex natural-image scenes containing
illumination gradients, noise, occlusion, and other real-world artifacts. Furthermore,
this approach can be implemented with compact, low-cost hardware, and it is an effective
method for the determination of three-dimensional scene information from optical
imagery generated by a moving television camera. Those complex, real-world images
were processed in a robust manner through an extension of this method involving a
combination of image preprocessing and brightness continuity. The accuracy of depth
information obtainable with this new technique appears to be substantially greater
than that achieved by any other method thus far reported in the literature. For both
the lateral and forward motion cases, the experimental accuracy achieved approaches
the theoretical maximum as limited by the sensor resolution and the geometry and
appears to be more than adequate for helicopter obstacle avoidance and terrain clearance
purposes.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Commercial applications include autonomous navigation
of robot vehicles, control of robot arms, detection and tracking of moving objects,
and passive ranging and vision for the blind.
Project Title:
Miniature Airborne Dew Point Sensor
03.07-0821
Miniature Airborne Dew Point Sensor
Niagara Scientific, Inc.
4004 New Court Avenue
Syracuse, NY 13206
Carl F. Fahrenkrug (315-437-0821)
LaRC -- NAS1-18623
Abstract:
The rapid, continuous measurement of relative humidity in fast-flowing gas streams
is a matter of a major concern not only for flight requirements, but also for many
industrial processes. While many methods exist at present, they all suffer limitations,
and there are no truly reliable instruments for measurements at either extreme humidity
or temperature. The instrument explored in this project should operate under a wide
range of humidity and temperature. It is expected to have a rapid response without
hysteresis. It is also expected to be immune to ambient effects such as acceleration
and temperature. It will be small in physical dimensions and require little energy
to operate.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: There is virtually no major industrial process
in which humidity is not an important parameter. The instrument developed under this
program will fill an important requirement in many of those processes and activities.
It would fit well in this company's interest in sensors and monitors.
Project Title:
Smart Angle-of-Attack and Angle-of-Sideslip Sensor
03.07-0905
Smart Angle-of-Attack and Angle-of-Sideslip
Sensor
Engineering Development Laboratory
11840 Canon Boulevard, Suite 500
Newport News, VA 23606
Richard E. Campbell (804-873-0905)
LaRC -- NAS1-18662
Abstract:
Virtually all flight vehicles require the accurate measurement of angle of attack
(alpha); those undergoing flight testing and some commercial and military aircraft
also make use of information on angle of sideslip (beta). Existing angle measurement
methods have limitations that make the measurement of alpha and beta impossible under
certain flight conditions. Some of these sensors have poor durability and can be
sensitive to the environment.
The concept studied in this project is intended to overcome these limitations. It
involves the use of miniature, solid-state transducers to detect changes in differential
mass flow as the flow angle varies. Included is a microprocessor used as an interface
to provide corrections and linearization of the output signal. Phase I consisted
of studies and concept verification using a two-dimensional model with a limited
number of variations in shape. Low-speed flow testing indicated sensitivity to the
shape of the instrument housing that requires further research.
Potential Commercial Applications: The proposed instrument could be used on all
types of operational military and commercial aircraft and for aeronautics research
and development flight testing.
Project Title:
Aircraft Flight Testing Techniques and Instrumentation
03.07-0979
Aircraft Flight Testing Techniques and
Instrumentation
North American Aerospace Corp.
PO Box 162284
Austin, TX 78716
Larry Bird (512-328-0979)
ARC -- NAS2-12741
Abstract:
The company's air flow analyzer (AFA) measures boundary-layer transitions and pressure
lines associated with laminar, transitional, and turbulent air flows associated with
airfoil, rotor blade, and propeller surfaces. The AFA has two distinct advantages
over existing flow analysis tools. First, it provides data from thousands of sense
points; second, it does not interfere with the natural laminar flow of the airfoil
surfaces. In addition, the light weight of the system should make it readily adaptable
to a variety of in-flight tests. Instrumentation was the primary emphasis during
Phase I, with the incorporation of new types of sensors. A demonstration using a
thin-film, ferro-electric, sensor array proved the practicability of using piezo-polymeric
devices to study boundary layer transition points and pressure lines. The real problem
is to correlate the raw data into meaningful data. This was partially addressed in
developing the algorithms for initial filtering of the raw data. It appears that
a practical, sensitive, boundary-layer-transition instrument is feasible with refinement
of the sensor array tested in this project. This system is now ready to be flight
tested to implement a practical new instrument for many air-data-collection applications.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: The applications are as a boundary layer detector
for wind tunnel and experimental aerodynamics, an air-data computer, and angle-of-attack
instruments.
Project Title:
Expert Systems for Real-Time Monitoring and Fault Diagnosis
03.07-3474
Expert Systems for Real-Time Monitoring and
Fault Diagnosis
Charles River Analytics Inc.
55 Wheeler Street
Cambridge, MA 02138
Alper K. Caglayan (617-491-3474)
ARC -- NAS2-12725
Abstract:
The major deficiencies in current real-time automatic fault diagnosis applications
for aerospace systems are the high rate of false alarms and the maintenance problems
caused by intermittent failures. The aim of this project is to demonstrate the use
of expert systems technology in improving the performance of current real-time avionics
monitoring and fault diagnosis applications and in designing new reconfigurable flight
control systems. In particular, the goal is development of a rule-set method allowing
a rule-based specification of the domain knowledge in these applications, development
of an expert system based on this specification, and integration of this compiled
knowledge into existing real-time monitoring and diagnosis solutions implemented
in conventional programming languages.
Phase I defined, designed, and developed a rule-set processor which retains the
desirable attributes of expert systems during the development state while producing
an efficient, conventional embedded code for real-time on-board expert system applications.
A prototype of the rule-set processor which allows the specification of topological
and procedural knowledge for time-critical applications has been implemented in the
Ada language.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: The results of this development of expert systems
technology have applications in new, real-time, fault diagnosis and monitoring systems
for aircraft and spacecraft.
Project Title:
Real-Time Modification of Structural Modes
03.07-4674
Real-Time Modification of Structural Modes
Systems Technology, Inc.
2672 Bayshore Parkway #505
Mountain View, CA 94043
Wayne F. Jewell (415-961-4674)
ARC -- NAS2-12726
Abstract:
The goal of this project was to improve a method of estimating, in a near-real-time
manner, modal frequencies and damping ratios of randomly excited aeroelastic vibrations
from flight test measurements. The estimation method operates without knowledge of
the random excitation, as well as with knowledge of a deterministic forcing function
applied to the aircraft through an excitation system. It is an adaptation of the
real-time non-intrusive parameter identification procedure developed by the firm
for the NASA Ames Research Center's Dryden Flight Research Facility.
The performance of the estimation method was documented by identifying the modal
frequencies and damping ratios of the modelled system both with and without knowledge
of the forcing function or input. With knowledge of the input, the method could accurately
identify both the frequency and damping ratio of the simulated modes as long as the
sampling frequency was properly chosen with respect to the modal frequency. The results
of applying the method without knowledge of the input show that it is possible to
identify accurately the frequency but the damping ratios were underestimated. The
model was applied to a limited amount of flight test data collected by NASA for the
F-18 aircraft.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Real-time analysis of vibration and flutter tests
and real-time parameter identification, in general, would find applications in the
aerospace industry.
Project Title:
High-Performance, High-Temperature Heat Pipes
03.08-0236
High-Performance, High-Temperature Heat Pipes
Ultramet
12173 Montague Street
Pacoima, CA 91331
J. Grady Sheek (818-899-0236)
LaRC -- NAS1-18644
Abstract:
A reliable, efficient means for moving large amounts of heat from the source to
a heat sink will be required for thermal management systems in future aerospace applications
such as trans-atmospheric vehicles. The heat pipe is just such a device and, through
proper selection of the case material and working fluid, can operate nearly isothermally
from 5-2300 K. Heat pipes have been produced since the 1960's. This project, however,
addresses a unique and innovative method of producing seamless heat pipes utilizing
the process of chemical vapor deposition (CVD) and chemical vapor infiltration (CVI).
Since the resulting heat pipe will be seamless with the exception of the fill port,
it should have a high inherent reliability.
In Phase I, the process for making heat pipes was demonstrated. Vapor passages were
drilled through the thickness of reticulated carbon foam which was then infiltrated
with tungsten to provide the capillary wick structure. A tungsten wick is suitable
for most liquid metal working fluids. The porosity of the foam was then bridged
by CVD to create a wall over the part. The heat pipe was successfully tested using
methanol as a working fluid.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: This innovative heat pipe design will meet the
requirements of thermal management systems for future aerospace applications which
will have to be able to move massive amounts of heat and will require materials or
devices with high thermal conductivity.
Project Title:
Oxidation Resistant Ti/6Al/4V-SiC Composite Materials by Ion Implantation
04.01-6000
Oxidation Resistant Ti/6Al/4V-SiC Composite
Materials by Ion Implantation
Spire Corporation
Patriots Park
Bedford, MA 01730
James K. Hirvonen (617-275-6000)
LeRC -- NAS3-25326
Abstract:
Lifetime of silicon-carbide-reinforced, titanium-aluminum-vanadium composites at
high temperature is presently limited by oxidation and embrittlement to a few hours
or less. An oxidation inhibitor could increase this to more than 800 hours at temperature,
a time consistent with mission requirements for hypersonic vehicles such the National
Aerospace Plane. This project investigated the feasibility of extending the operating
temperature of these composites by ion implantation, which has previously been found
to significantly enhance the oxidation resistance of titanium.
The Phase I effort explored improving the oxidation resistance of Ti-6Al-4V alloy
at 540 C in air by ion implantation processing and using it in SiC-fiber, titanium
alloy composite structures. The plan was to use barium and other ions because previous
work by the principal investigator showed significantly improved oxidation resistance
in elemental Ti after implantation. These choices proved to be very difficult to
pursue due to the high secondary electron yield of Ba, which produced high-voltage
breakdown on the internal electrodes of the ion implanter.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Extending the operating temperature of SiC-fiber-reinforced,
Ti-6Al-4V composites will open up a large number of applications such as aircraft
wing panels for hypersonic flight, compressor blades in advanced turbojet engines,
and turbine engine cases, spacers, and turbine disks.
Project Title:
Embedded Fiber Optic Sensors for Polymer-Matrix Composite Process Monitoring
04.01-7070
Embedded Fiber Optic Sensors for Polymer-Matrix Composite Process Monitoring
Geo-Centers, Inc.
7 Wells Avenue
Newton Centre, MA 02159
Ian Aeby (617-964-7070)
LeRC -- NAS3-25337
Abstract:
At present, confidence levels in the integrity of polymer-matrix, composite structures
are low due to uncertainties in process control during their manufacture. Control
of chemical changes during fabrication will require improved process parameter sensors
and control methodologies. The use of fiber optic sensors embedded within the composite
structure during fabrication was proposed as a means toward this end. Embedded sensors
offer improved data accuracy over remote sensors, and the small physical dimensions
of optical fibers minimize their impact on the mechanical properties of the finished
composite.
During the Phase I feasibility study, it was established that embedded fiber optic
sensors could be used to monitor critical composite process parameters such as temperature
and state of cure. Examples of these sensors were successfully embedded in various
composite layups. In addition, an interesting new referencing technique for intensity-modulated
sensors was discovered. While progress has been made in monitoring polymeric-matrix
composite fabrication processes, there is clearly much work to be done before the
value of an embedded fiber optic sensor system has been proven in a manufacturing
environment.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Embedded fiber-optic pressure and temperature sensors
have applications in the commercial composite industry and, potentially, in medicine
for diagnostic instrumentation. Other possible uses are in environmental control
and monitoring performance of automobile engines.
Project Title:
Micro-Mechanical Model for Prediction of Failure Modes in Ceramic-Matrix Composites
04.01-7747
Micro-Mechanical Model for Prediction of Failure
Modes in Ceramic-Matrix Composites
Incubator Technologies, Inc.
800 West 14th Street, Suite 111
Rolla, MO 65401
Li Chai (314-364-7747)
LeRC -- NAS3-25333
Abstract:
The failure of ceramic-matrix composites is a complex phenomenon and differs from
the failure behavior of monolithic ceramics and polymeric composites. Prior studies
indicate that the growth of existing flaws in ceramic-matrix composites is not self-similar
and that substantial frictional slippage occurs at the fiber-matrix interface as
evidenced by large pull-outs. The improved fracture toughness for these composites
is largely due to these two energy dissipating mechanisms. The objective of this
project was to investigate the contribution of these two mechanisms.
A micromechanical analytical model based on the consistent shear-lag theory was
developed for predicting the failure modes in a fiber-reinforced, unidirectional,
ceramic-matrix composite. The model accounts for the relatively large matrix stiffness,
up to 100 percent of the fiber stiffness. The fiber and matrix stresses were established
as functions of the applied stress, crack geometry, and, most importantly, the microstructural
properties of the constituents and the fiber-matrix interface. The mode of failure
was established, and the role of microstructural properties on the failure mode,
ultimate strength, and the fracture toughness was assessed. A parametric study was
carried out using the model to establish regions of non-steady state cracking (stable
crack growth) in a unidirectional, ceramic-matrix composite.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: This work may lead to the optimization of ceramic
performance based on matrix and fiber properties for applications in aerospace propulsion
and primary structures, for example, on hypersonic transatmospheric aircraft.
Project Title:
Controlled Density Composite Carbide Structural Ceramics
04.01-9785
Controlled Density Composite Carbide Structural
Ceramics
Aker Industries, Inc.
952 57th Street
Oakland, CA 94608
Glendon M. Benson (415-658-7248)
LeRC -- NAS3-25406
Abstract:
This project explored an innovative and inexpensive process for producing composite
carbide ceramics reinforced with carbide fibers and measured the physical properties
of test samples so produced. The goal is to develop a process to tailor the matrix
properties through chemical means in order to produce optimum composite properties.
It is expected that this process will produce low-cost composite ceramic components
that exhibit higher fracture toughness and strength than exhibited by conventional
ceramics.
In Phase I, several hundred test specimens were prepared in which formulations and
processing parameters were varied according to the findings of previous research
to provide a range of physical properties. The processing steps varied were in mixing,
blending, aging, dispersing, curing, and pyrolyzing. Five resin formulations were
also included in these experiments. From this investigation, choices of the best
resins, fillers, dispersing agents, and processing variables can be deduced. Results
from Phase I indicate that high strength ceramic composites can be made to net shape
at low cost by the proposed process.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Composite carbide ceramics have potential applications
for turbojet engines in the hot sections, heat exchangers, and structural components
requiring high hot strengths, wear and fatigue resistance, fracture toughness, benign
failure mode, and resistance to corrosive high-temperature environments.
Project Title:
Controlled CTE High-Performance Films for Space Structures
04.02-3200
Controlled CTE High-Performance Films for
Space Structures
Foster-Miller, Inc.
350 Second Avenue
Waltham, MA 02254
Richard W. Lusignea (617-890-3200)
LaRC -- NAS1-18636
Abstract:
Certain thermoplastic polyimides exhibit a combination of good processability and
excellent performance (chemical resistance and high mechanical, adhesive, thermo-mechanical
and thermo-oxidative properties) due to groups within the polymer which introduce
semi-crystalline character through thermal annealing. The combination of these qualities
overcomes the shortcomings of most commercially available high performance polyimides.
This program's objective is the development of film processing methods to orient
a semicrystalline thermoplastic film to improve and control the coefficient of thermal
expansion, fracture toughness, thermo-mechanical behavior, strength, and stiffness.
During the Phase I program, the firm applied innovative film processing and orientation
methods to LARC-CPI, a new semi-crystalline thermoplastic polyimide developed at
the NASA Langley Research Center. These methods successfully reduced the coefficient
of thermal expansion from 38 ppm/C to 16 ppm/C and showed that it could be further
reduced to less than 10 ppm/C. The project also showed that LARC-CPI can be processed
into high performance thermoplastic films with tensile strength and modulus over
300 mPa (44 Ksi) and 91.6 GPa (1.4 Msi), respectively.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Potential applications will be for films used for
liners, vacuum bags, and encapsulation in the chemical process industry; for electronics
where high-density, surface-mounted, multi-chip modules require dimensional stability
in thin dielectric layers; and for spacecraft use as reflector substrates, solar
cell array panels, and self-deployable structures.
Project Title:
Development of Composite Structures with Enhanced Damage Tolerance
04.02-5325
Development of Composite Structures with
Enhanced Damage Tolerance
Textile Technologies, Inc.
2800 Turnpike Drive
Hatboro, PA 19040
Janice R. Maiden (215-433-5325)
LaRC -- NAS1-18628
Abstract:
The evolution of the aircraft industry has been characterized by a steady growth
in the use of lightweight materials strong enough to withstand the increasing demands
placed on today's high performance aircraft. However, these materials, such as graphite/epoxy
composites, suffer serious compression strength reductions as a result of impact
loads. The innovation addressed in this project solves this problem through the use
of advanced weave designs that allow for through-the-thickness reinforcement of multi-layer
graphite fabrics. This reinforcement provides a capability for the laminate to withstand
out-of-the-plane tensile loads induced by impact.
Design verification for small (6" x 36") laminate panels has been completed using
a loom to weave laminate plies and to stitch them together at the same time. The
next step is to scale-up the process to production size laminates (14" x 100 yards).
Alternate stitching materials--glass, Kevlar and graphite yarns--will also be investigated.
Multi-layer, through-the-thickness, laminate panels will be woven, infiltrated with
epoxy, and tested along side composites made of state-of-the-art laminates. By comparing
the damage area and strengths both before and after impact, it will be possible to
assess the value of inter-laminar strength and establish a design basis for an efficient
through-the-thickness weave. This project was not complete at the time this document
was prepared.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Composite structures with enhanced damage tolerance
and reduced costs will be applicable in commercial and military aircraft as well
as in sporting goods, boats, automobiles, etc.
Project Title:
High-Temperature Turbine Blades
04.03-0236A
High-Temperature Turbine Blades
Ultramet
12173 Montague Street
Pacoima, CA 91331
John T. Harding (818-899-0236)
LeRC -- NAS3-25349
Abstract:
Iridium-coated, rhenium thrusters have been fabricated to net internal shape by
chemical vapor deposition (CVD) from the inside out. This program proposes to fabricate
coated, hollow, niobium turbine blades to net external dimensions by CVD on the inside
of a hollow mandrel conforming to the net external shape of the blade: an outside-in
process. An oxidation-resistant coating of silica, hafnia, or iridium would be applied
first, followed by a thick deposit of niobium or niobium alloy. This process ensures
the achievement of net shape for the coated blade; also, contamination of the niobium
at the interface, as a result of the coating deposition process and typically involving
oxygen, hydrogen, chlorine, or water, would be avoided. The resulting structure should
have an uncooled operating temperature capability of 1500 C or higher.
In Phase I, a method for forming iridium-coated, hollow niobium airfoils to net
shape by chemical vapor deposition was demonstrated. The iridium coating was shown
to provide oxidation protection to the niobium structure up to 1700 C.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: A practical manufacturing process for extending
the operating temperature of turbine blades has applications in military and commercial
jet engines as well as in spacecraft power systems.
Project Title:
Response of Rapidly-Solidified Ti Alloys to Thermochemical Treatment
04.03-6900B
Response of Rapidly-Solidified Ti Alloys to
Thermochemical Treatment
Universal Energy Systems, Inc.
4401 Dayton-Xenia Road
Dayton, OH 45432
Rabi S. Bhattacharya (513-426-6900)
LaRC -- NAS1-18620
Abstract:
The objective of this project was to develop titanium alloys with very fine microstructure
using rapid solidification and a thermochemical treatment employing hydrogen as a
temporary alloying element. In Phase I, the company investigated the microstructure
of rapidly solidified alloys of titanium with copper, boron, and carbon (Ti-4Cu,
Ti-1B and Ti-1C) before and after thermochemical treatment. This treatment showed
significant refinement of microstructure and precipitates in the case of Ti-4Cu.
Ti-1B showed promising results; however more work is necessary to optimize the parameters.
Ti-1C alloy did not respond positively to thermochemical treatment with hydrogen,
as indicated by an observed coarsening of the microstructure.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: A significant enhancement of mechanical properties
of Ti alloys would make them attractive for aerospace and other industrial applications.
Project Title:
Chemical Vapor Deposition of Ti-Al Foils
04.03-7648
Chemical Vapor Deposition of Ti-Al Foils
MSNW, Inc.
PO Box 865
San Marcos, CA 92069
George H. Reynolds (619-744-7648)
LaRC -- NAS1-18615
Abstract:
Effective use of intermetallic compounds in composite and honeycomb structures
will require high-strength, high-quality foils for starting materials. Direct fabrication
of titanium-aluminum (TiAl) foils by chemical-vapor deposition onto sacrificial tape
substrates was studied as a novel means to produced the desired starting materials.
Two techniques, high-temperature, chemical-vapor deposition from mixed halide vapors
and low-temperature, chemical-vapor deposition from mixed organometallic gases, were
explored. In Phase I, a cold-wall, chemical-vapor-deposition apparatus was constructed,
and TiAl alloy films ranging in composition from essentially pure Ti to approximately
TiAl3 and from 5-40 microns in thickness were successfully deposited on molybdenum
substrates. As characterized by optical and scanning electron metallographic examinations,
X-ray diffraction, microchemical analysis, and micro-hardness testing, the films
were found to be chemically homogeneous and generally dense although some films contained
isolated porosity and exhibited microcracks. Deposition was in agreement with the
predictions of a preliminary chemical process model constructed to describe the chemical-vapor
synthesis of TiAl films from halide precursors.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: The product foils could be useful in preparation
of thin-gage tapes and complex, honeycomb structures of difficult-to-work materials.
Other applications might include intermetallic-matrix composites for hypersonic vehicle
structural elements, advanced propulsion system components, and space structures.
Project Title:
An Expert System for Integrated Structural Analysis and Design Optimization
04.04-1319
An Expert System for Integrated Structural
Analysis and Design Optimization
Structural Analysis Technology, Inc.
4677 Old Ironsides Drive, #250
Santa Clara, CA 95054
Hasan Kamil (408-496-1120)
LeRC -- NAS3-25327
Abstract:
The purpose of this project was to explore the feasibility of an expert system
for integrated structural analysis and design optimization by answering questions
regarding data and computational requirements, architecture, and cost and by initiating
preliminary development.
In the Phase I research and development effort, an architecture and conceptual design
were developed for an integrated expert software for the structural design process
covering conceptual design work, iterative cycles of finite-element structural analysis
and design optimization, and detailed final design. The feasibility of this approach
was investigated, and a demonstration package with two expert software modules was
developed.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: The resulting expert software could be used by
NASA, other government organizations, and their contractors in designing aerospace
structures and vehicles with improved efficiency, reliability, and significant savings
in man-hours and costs.
Project Title:
Low CTE, Particulate-Reinforced Metal-Matrix Composite Material
04.05-1504
Low CTE, Particulate-Reinforced Metal-Matrix
Composite Material
DWA Composite Specialties, Inc.
21119 Superior Street
Chatsworth, CA 91311
Olin Hudson (818-998-1504)
JSC -- NAS9-17938
Abstract:
Joints and couplings for space structures require a low coefficient of thermal
expansion (CTE) while remaining light in weight and high in structural integrity.
They must also be easy to fabricate and low in cost. No material developed to date
adequately meets all of these criteria. The purpose of this project is demonstrating
and evaluating various low-CTE, particulate-reinforced, metal-matrix composites for
use as the construction material for these components. The approach is to combine
ultra-low-CTE reinforcements in selected low-CTE aluminum matrices aimed at producing
an isotropic composite material that exhibits a CTE of about 3 x10-6 in/in/F and
an ultimate strength >40 ksi.
Phase I efforts demonstrated that technology is available for producing very low-CTE
end fittings and other applications. Wide tailoring of mechanical and physical properties
is possible through judicious selection of matrix alloy, particulate composition,
size, volume fraction, and matrix reinforcement bond conditions. The relative usefulness
of analytical prediction of the CTE was also demonstrated for use as a guide in tailoring
key properties.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: The applications are in low-cost, stable (low-CTE),
light-weight space structures and components having high strength and stiffness,
no outgassing, and increased temperature capability.
Project Title:
Ultra-High Stiffness Net-Shape Tubular Space Structures
04.05-3200A
Ultra-High Stiffness Net-Shape Tubular Space
Structures
Foster-Miller, Inc.
350 Second Avenue
Waltham, MA 02254
Ted E. Kirchner (617-890-3200)
JSC -- NAS9-17940
Abstract:
Net-shaped tubular extrusions of solution-processed, ordered (liquid crystal) polymers
can be combined with inter-penetrating networks (IPNs) to produce tubular space structures
having ultra stiffness (40 Msi), near zero (less than 1 ppm/deg.C) coefficient of
thermal expansion (CTE), and low weight (1.56 gm/cc). The approach taken was to co-extrude
biaxially oriented (microfibrillar network), thin-walled poly p-phenyline benzolbisthiazole
(PBZT) tubing and, then, introduce a polyimide IPN, Thermid AL-600. The goals were
to achieve high axial stiffness through a nearly axial orientation of the PBZT molecules
in the inner tube and a low CTE through the combined effects of the more biaxial
orientation of the outer tube and the polyimide IPN. These materials would have superior
performance to aluminum and would be cheaper to fabricate than graphite-reinforced,
metal-matrix tubes.
The project was successful in extruding PBZT tubing with controlled orientation
and volume fractions of polyimide IPN. A zero CTE was bracketed but not achieved.
The bonding between the coaxial tubes during the post-cure processing was evident;
however, the high modulus was not reached for these tubes as had been demonstrated
for PBZT films and tubes in other projects. The difficulty in reaching a high modulus
is the result of processing problems.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: The primary application would be for space-based
structures fabricated from many tubular struts, truss members, and supports.
Project Title:
Filament Winding Process for Thermoplastic Matrix Composites
04.05-8900
Filament Winding Process for Thermoplastic
Matrix Composites
PDA Engineering
2975 Red Hill Avenue
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Ronald Allred (714-540-8900)
MSFC -- NAS8-37632
Abstract:
Thermoplastic composites have high impact strength and higher solvent resistance
and can potentially be processed much faster than thermoset composites; however,
there is a lack of suitable processing techniques. To overcome this, a processing
method involving in-situ fusion and compaction during filament winding using an advanced
thermoplastic co-mingled with graphite fiber strands was investigated that used heat
for fusion from induced currents.
Exploratory experiments have shown that eddy current heating of graphite fibers
can be directed and confined to the interface bond line to achieve melt temperature
(about 400 C) in a thermoplastic matrix and form a solid structural composite. Compaction
of the fiber strands while the resin is molten can be accomplished through proper
design of a pressure application device that will conform to cross-overs and other
surface irregularities encountered in the filament winding process.
The tests conducted in the Phase I program show that induction heating can be used
to process graphite-thermoplastic composites on a continuous basis. Since the research
was conducted on the worst case of unidirectional composites, it may be possible
to process all types of fiber layups.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Commercial applications of this technology include
manufacture and repair of aircraft skins, aircraft structures, vehicles, boats, spacecraft,
rockets, housing materials, and lightweight equipment.
Project Title:
Polymer with Biaxial Strength for Pyroelectric Applications
04.06-8200B
Polymer with Biaxial Strength for Pyroelectric
Applications
Chronos Research Inc.
4186 Sorrento Valley Boulevard
San Diego, CA 92121
Randall B. Olsen (619-455-8200)
GSFC -- NAS5-30270
Abstract:
A new method of electrical energy generation called pyroelectric conversion promises
to deliver power to spacecraft from a lightweight and inexpensive system. Pyroelectric
conversion may enable order of magnitude reductions in future launch and capital
costs for power systems.
The Phase I objective of providing a means for forming pyroelectric polymeric films
with mechanical properties superior to those of films previously available was successfully
accomplished. The enhanced mechanical properties of these films will greatly improve
the performance of pyroelectric generators, heat pumps, and refrigerators. An unexpected
immediate benefit of reaching the Phase I goal is that the pyroelectric conversion
performance of the active polymer was dramatically improved with respect to lifetime.
Because of the success of Phase I, the firm now has a method of fabricating durable
copolymer films hundreds of meters long, compared to the 3 cm limit of previous technology.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: In addition to their application in space power
systems, pyroelectric converters are expected to be an economical means to convert
low temperature heat into electrical energy in terrestrial systems at a capital cost
of less than one dollar per Watt.
Project Title:
Development of Specialized Floor Coverings for Launch Site Facilities
04.07-8371
Development of Specialized Floor Coverings for
Launch Site Facilities
Springborn Materials Science, Inc.
10 Springborn Center
Enfield, CT 06082
James P. Galica (203-749-8371)
KSC -- NAS10-11455
Abstract:
The existing floor materials at NASA launch site facilities, primarily in shuttle
assembly areas, have not been performing satisfactorily. Contamination arises from
outgassing of the plasticizers used in vinyl tiles and from chalking and dusting
of epoxy floor coverings.
The goal of this project is a conductive floor tiling material that has surface
and volume resistivities of 10 million ohm-cm. In addition, the floor covering will
be non-contaminating via out-gassing, resistant to hypergolic propellants and other
chemicals, non-flammable, non-dusting, and available in tile form. Other desirable
features include a light color, ease of installation, cleaning, and repair, low cost,
and resistance to impacts.
The objective of the Phase I effort was to formulate new floor covering compounds
that show feasibility for meeting the criteria for NASA's floor application but which
may still require further work in Phase II to formulate optimal compounds. Four resins
were selected for investigation: polyethylene, polypropylene, polybutylene and polyvinyl
chloride. Phase I demonstrated the feasibility of formulating such a suitable flooring
material using polymeric plasticized vinyl and flame-retardant polyethylene with
selected conductive fillers.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Applications include floors for hospital operating
rooms, electronics laboratories, chemical processing plants, and photo laboratories.
Project Title:
Robotic Weld Path Programming
04.08-0960
Robotic Weld Path Programming
Mid-South Engineering, Inc.
3540 Dickerson Road
Nashville, TN 37207
Kristinn Andersen (615-865-0960)
MSFC -- NAS8-37629
Abstract:
For the application of robots to arc welding, constraints of weld position, weld
travel speed, and orientation of torch and wire guide (relative to each other and
relative to the joint) are considerations that must be dealt with in the path programming
task. The objective of this project is to demonstrate the feasibility of developing
algorithms for robotic, weld-path programming that are generic to any robot and positioning
system capable of accepting the kinematic transformation matrix, positioning system
axes, and velocity information from a host computer.
Key components of the proposed system were successfully developed, built, and demonstrated
in the Phase I research program. Investigation of commercial systems and other research
work was carried out, and the problems of welding using multiple robotic mechanisms
and redundant joints were addressed. A theory was developed into a formal algorithm,
coded in Fortran, and tested through simulations using equipment and work-piece models
from the Materials and Processes Laboratory at NASA-MSFC. The performance of the
algorithm was demonstrated by graphical simulations using the ROBOSIM package developed
jointly by NASA and Vanderbilt University.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: This innovation will be of significant value to
the commercial manufacturing industries for simplifying the task of programming multiple,
coordinated, robotic manipulators.
Project Title:
System Weld Control Through Expert Adaptive Interpretation
04.08-9955
System Weld Control Through Expert Adaptive
Interpretation
International Technical Associates (InTA)
2281 Calle de Luna
Santa Clara, CA 95054
Paul Lovoi (408-748-9955)
MSFC -- NAS8-37627
Abstract:
Automated welding has the potential to improve weld quality and reduce the scrap
rate. Numerically controlled (NC) welding can be successfully carried out using jigs
and fixtures to provide accurate positioning. Alternatively, adaptive, sensor-controlled
welding offers the promise of reduced tooling and part preparation costs, improved
quality, and reduced scrap rate over manual or NC welding. In addition, on-line quality
control of the weld can be implemented using the same sensors.
A rule-based expert system utilizing multiple sensors and a look-ahead capability
for real-time, adaptive welding was investigated in Phase I. This investigation conducted
welding tests using an available vision system designed to operate in a laser welding
environment on dark, nickel-based super alloys. Nonetheless, the vision system performed
well on the butt joint samples of the space shuttle aluminum external tank provided
by NASA. In almost every case the vision system software algorithms selected the
correct seam over near-by scratches. Modifications to the tracking software allowed
the system to detect and disregard tack welds and track on the remaining straight
seam. The plasma arc torch did not present an electro-magnetic interference problem
for the vision system or the electronics, but optical radiation from the arc was
significant. Two simple tests proved that more sophisticated filtering on a system
designed for plasma arc welding will eliminate any optical interference completely.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Automated welding systems in automotive, aerospace,
and industrial manufacturing and repair environments will be able to use this system.
Welding system suppliers will integrate the system into their end products.
Project Title:
Methods for Evaluating the Predictive Accuracy of Structural Dynamic Models
04.10-2551
Methods for Evaluating the Predictive Accuracy
of Structural Dynamic Models
Engineering Mechanics Associates, Inc.
3820 Del Amo Boulevard, Suite 318
Torrance, CA 90503
Timothy K. Hasselman (213-370-2551)
JPL -- NAS7-1020
Abstract:
Large space structures, such as the NASA Space Station, which cannot be fully tested
in a ground test laboratory, require both ground testing and on-orbit identification
of as-built structures. This project addressed ground-testing procedures which are
critical to the success of on-orbit identification. Innovative methods for evaluating
and improving the predictive accuracy of structural dynamics models were investigated
during the Phase I study. This effort identified a new methodology for evaluating
uncertainties in mass, stiffness, and damping and how these propagate forward and
backward in order to evaluate the accuracy of response predictions and the uncertainty
in physical parameters.
Three different methods for propagating uncertain-ties--first order statistics,
fuzzy set theory, and Monte-Carlo simulation--were examined. An approach which combines
the first two appears to be an efficient, cost-effective approach for bounding the
level of modeling uncertainty. Key elements of the methodology were demonstrated
using a realistic model of the NASA Space Station "Block 1" configuration. Experimental
error due to substructure and sub-scale testing were simulated and compared using
the above methodology.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Applications exist in all areas where analytical
models are relied upon to predict structural performance which cannot be directly
verified by testing. Examples include off-shore structures, nuclear power plants,
high-rise buildings, and numerous applications in the aerospace industry.
Project Title:
Reduced Weight Gondolas for Stratospheric Balloons
04.11-3200
Reduced Weight Gondolas for Stratospheric Balloons
Foster-Miller, Inc.
350 Second Avenue
Waltham, MA 02254
Joseph Boyce (617-890-3200)
JPL -- NAS7-1007
Abstract:
Stratospheric and research balloons carrying scientific instruments into the upper
atmosphere are very sensitive to payload weight. Reductions in balloon gondola weight
will allow a corresponding reduction in balloon volume required to reach a given
altitude and result in increased system reliability. Current gondolas are often open
frame structures of aluminum with sandwich panel platforms to support the instrument
and telemetry packages. Advanced composite materials with their high specific stiffness
and strength offer an opportunity to significantly reduce gondola weight. The greatest
benefit is derived by developing concepts and design approaches which are tailored
for composite materials to take full advantage of their high specific properties
while allowing for the unique designs necessary at joints and load introduction points.
The Phase I project has resulted in a lightweight gondola design made from advanced
composite materials. Current gondolas typically contribute one fourth of the total
system gross weight. This new gondola design is expected to account for one tenth
of the total system weight, with a corresponding increase in mission capability.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: The applications of a lightweight balloon gondola
are in research in the stratosphere.
Project Title:
Lightweight Advanced Composite Gondola for Stratospheric Balloons
04.11-8900
Lightweight Advanced Composite Gondola for Stratospheric Balloons
PDA Engineering
2975 Red Hill Avenue
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Donald C. Guichard (714-540-8900)
GSFC -- NAS5-30286
Abstract:
This innovation would provide a versatile, modular gondola for stratospheric balloons
that employs a light-weight structural configuration which takes advantage of an
improved composite material. The proposed design configuration, validated by the
Phase I design assessments, has three primary composite structural components: a
payload module, a suspension module, and a payload floor panel, all joined by a pre-loaded,
circumferential band clamp.
These modules all employ a sandwich construction locally stiffened in critically
loaded regions. Design features provide flanges that can withstand the loads induced
when captured by the steel band clamp for assembly of the modules. The proposed joining
method was validated by the Phase I assessments.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Applications are in a variety of balloon flight
missions and payloads.
Project Title:
Electrostatic Fractionation of Natural and Processed Lunar Solids in Space
04.12-8112
Electrostatic Fractionation of Natural and
Processed Lunar Solids in Space
Advanced Energy Dynamics
14 Tech Circle
Natick, MA 01760
Donald E. Heyburn (617-653-8112)
JSC -- NAS9-17928
Abstract:
This project explored the application of the firm's ultra-fine coal (UFC) electrostatic
separator technology for the separation and concentration of lunar-derived materials.
The innovation is in applying technology developed for use on earth to the vacuum
of space.
The Phase I effort showed that separation of lunar-derived minerals is technically
feasible and that the UFC separator may be a valuable tool in the recovery of minerals
from the space environment. Demonstrations included the separation of ilmenite from
basalt pulverized to 50% minus 50 micron and the separation of ice from pulverized
basalt on a UFC separator operating at -80 C. Theoretical analysis of the UFC separator
indicates that vacuum operation could greatly improve separator performance and capacity,
perhaps by a factor of 10 or more.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: The UFC separator can be used for dry separation
of many diverse solids including coal, talc, fly-ash, wheat flour, calcium carbonate,
and others. Vacuum operation is expected to be a space-only application, but the
theoretical understanding of the UFC separator in vacuum will greatly enhance terrestrial
performance.
Project Title:
Control Algorithm for Redundant Degree-of- Freedom Manipulators
05.01-0300A
Control Algorithm for Redundant Degree-of- Freedom Manipulators
Odetics, Inc.
1515 South Manchester Avenue
Anaheim, CA 92802
Steven M. Cohan (714-758-0300)
JPL -- NAS7-1006
Abstract:
Current manipulator control algorithms are often limited by their ability to resolve
singularities (when two or more joint rotation axes become aligned) as well as by
the inverse kinematics associated with six and higher degree-of-freedom (DOF) manipulators.
The goal of this project is to develop a control algorithm to drive a DOF arm while
keeping the arm's configuration away from avoidable singularities. The test-bed arm
for the project is one possible configuration of a modular, reconfigurable, redundant
arm being developed by the firm under an internal research and development program.
In the Phase I program, a control algorithm for a seven degree-of-freedom manipulator
was developed. This algorithm transformed six Cartesian command inputs into seven
joint command outputs while avoiding the manipulator's singularities. Phase I simulation
results also show that the algorithm's singularity avoidance feature improves arm
performance. With the singularity avoidance features inactive, the arm will move
close to or through singularities resulting in high joint velocity commands that
joint servos would not be able to track. With the singularity avoidance feature active,
the arm executes the commanded trajectories while avoiding these singularities. This
results in lower, achievable, and controllable joint velocities.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: The anticipated seven degree-of-freedom manipulator
will have applications in tasks where high strength, low weight, and human-like dexterity
are required. Commercial uses include nuclear facility maintenance and manufacturing.
Project Title:
Telepresence Sensor and Control Helmet
05.01-0300C
Telepresence Sensor and Control Helmet
Odetics, Inc.
1515 South Manchester Avenue
Anaheim, CA 92802
Timothy R. Larson (714-744-0300)
JPL -- NAS7-1019
Abstract:
The main purpose of this SBIR Phase I was to design a multi-purpose, telepresence
helmet that can easily adapt to many applications, including presence for telerobotic
control and display of three-dimensional, computer-generated images for "virtual
work station" applications. Along with multi-purpose capability, the helmet has a
wide field of view (180 degrees) and generates a "true" three-dimensional view by
accommodating and focusing to the viewer's area of interest. The helmet also has
a high resolution equal to that of the human eye (1 arc minute).
The Phase I study showed that it is feasible to build a helmet-mounted, wide-angle,
stereo display system that can match the biological performance of the human eye
in acuity, focus, and accommodation. Phase I research indicated that, for flexibility
of usage, the helmet system needs to be independent of the image source. This independence
was achieved in three steps. First, an intermediate image source was created. A helmet
system that uses this intermediate image as its source was designed. Second, transfer
equations to translate the real image source to the intermediate image were developed.
Finally, the digital electronics were designed to execute the transfer equations
at video rates (60 Hz) and then generate the displays to the intermediate image.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: This display system would have commercial applications
in the control of remote manipulators for nuclear power plants; underwater exploration
and inspection vehicles; and remote surveillance vehicles for security applications.
Project Title:
Spatial Planning for Mobile Articulated Vehicles and Dendritic Robotic Systems
05.01-0333
Spatial Planning for Mobile Articulated Vehicles
and Dendritic Robotic Systems
Scientific Research Associates, Inc.
50 Nye Road
PO Box 1058
Glastonbury, CT 06033
Alexander Y. K. Chen (203-659-0333)
JPL -- NAS7-1012
Abstract:
The new perspective of machine intelligence for multi-link, general-purpose manipulators
pursued in this project not only solves the inverse kinematic problem (IKP), but
also provides a potential self-correction mechanism to perform the assigned task.
The use of an IKP solving mechanism to determine the feasible motion trajectory either
by direct solution or with adequate modification is the basis for robot intelligence.
The unsolved decision-making procedure can be performed as teleoperation or automatic
planning. Due to the advantage of the decomposition technique, the articulation of
advanced robotic systems (e.g., redundant degrees of freedom and/or a reconfigurable
linkage structure) can be fully utilized.
A technique of implementing the spatial planning skill was developed and analyzed
in Phase I. The new IKP solving mechanism was activated on a Harris H700 mini-computer,
the computing system available to the company. Because the original software package
was incompatible with this computer, a new set of software was developed using FORTRAN
77. Specific emphasis was placed upon extending the original IKP solver to consider
mobile, dendritically configured robots.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Areas such as material handling operations in hazardous
environments, outer space or deep sea explorations can take advantage of such advanced
robotic systems.
Project Title:
Neural Network Controller for Adaptive Movement in Robots
05.01-2215
Neural Network Controller for Adaptive Movement in Robots
Neurogen Inc.
325 Harvard Street, Suite 211
Brookline, MA 02146
Michael Kuperstein (617-739-2215)
LaRC -- NAS1-18639
Abstract:
The biggest challenges in controlling autonomous robots today deal with self-organization
of sensory-motor coordination, novelty in the working environment, and processor
faults. To meet these needs, a model of a prototype neural architecture for the dynamic
coordination of a multi-joint robot arm and two stereo cameras was investigated by
extending the previous static model into a dynamic model which will be able to generate
adaptive trajectories. With this system, a multi-joint robot arm could adaptively
reach targets in three dimensions in real time. The system would self-organize and
maintain visual-motor calibrations and would tolerate internal noise, partial system
damage, and changes in the mechanical and optical parameters of the robot as they
occur during wear.
Phase I work showed proof-of-concept that a neural-network controller can be simulated
on a computer to learn adaptive motor control from its own experience. The adaptive
controller can learn to generate accurate stable movements of a robot link without
information about link mass, link length, and direction of gravity and requiring
only vague information about payload and actuator limits. It can move a link carrying
an unforeseen payload from any starting joint angle to any ending point at a specified
duration without end point oscillations.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: The controller will find applications in novel
working environments because of its ability to deal with unforeseen changes in the
mechanical plant and actuators.
Project Title:
Telerobotic Rendezvous and Docking Vision System Architecture
05.01-2878
Telerobotic Rendezvous and Docking Vision
System Architecture
Triangle Research and Development Corp.
PO Box 12696
Research Triangle Park, NC 27709
Benjamin T. Gravely (919-467-2878)
GSFC -- NAS5-30292
Abstract:
The innovation defined in this project is a microcomputer-based, vision-system
architecture which allows a robot system to identify an object, determine its range
and orientation, and access explicit structural data on the acquired object for mating
with other objects.
In the Phase I effort, under controlled image conditions, computer algorithms were
developed to decode identification markings and to determine the range and orientation
of the target object to high accuracy The average execution time of 3.6 seconds
was greater than the program objective of 0.25 to 0.50 seconds because of slow data
transfer in the prototype system and the use of BASIC programming language. The procedures
were used on a robot to demonstrate the capture and placement of objects.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Applications for autonomous or shared autonomous
operations are likely in space station operations, large-scale civil construction,
operations in hazardous environments (nuclear, underwater, fire fighting), identification
and retrieval of warehoused items and medical samples, and manufacturing components.
Project Title:
Telerobotic Digital Controller System
05.01-3319
Telerobotic Digital Controller System
The Navtrol Company, Inc.
9204 Markville Drive
Dallas, TX 75243
Richard J. Brown (214-234-3319)
GSFC -- NAS5-30283
Abstract:
The innovation addressed in this project is a small, light-weight, high capability,
multi-processor telerobotic controller system. The system consists of an interconnection
of several robotic joint controllers, end effector controllers, and a single master
controller communicating through a high-speed, serial communication bus. The master
controller controls communication with the various joint controllers in a time-multiplexed
manner and synchronizes their activity. Since the system is totally synchronized,
the time of occurrence for each measurement and controls application is known precisely
all through the system, allowing for compensation for any cross-coupling effects.
Both single and dual axis controllers can be developed. A single axis controller
would be about 3" x 4.24" and be almost totally self-contained. It will require only
28 V DC and a serial communication link as a tie in with the rest of the system.
The controller will control a three-phase, brushless motor requiring up to 20 amps
at 15 to 50 V DC. Algorithms utilizing modern control and estimation theory will
be included in the controller
The technical objective of the Phase I effort was to perform a conceptual design
of the telerobotic digital controller system and to provide a development plan. The
objective was further to demonstrate that the project was feasible. These objectives
were definitely met. The system is feasible and can be developed within time and
other constraints of this program.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: This telerobotic digital controller system applies
to robotics in general and should find many and varied applications in space and
on the ground. In addition, the joint controllers are actually very general servo-controllers
which could be utilized for pointing, tracking, and other control system applications
of all types.
Project Title:
Force-Reflecting Joysticks for Manipulator Control
05.01-3600
Force-Reflecting Joysticks for Manipulator Control
Meridian Corporation
4300 King Street, Suite 400
Alexandria, VA 22302
Mark D. Bryfogle (703-998-3600)
JPL -- NAS7-1024
Abstract:
A need exists for human control of manipulators in highly unstructured environments.
The joystick is a key element in the interface between man and machine. A primary
objective is to translate forces experienced by the manipulator as directly as possible
to the joystick; a direct relationship significantly increases efficiency. Several
force reflecting joysticks are in existence. This study dealt with a new, efficient,
low-priced, force-reflecting joystick by eliminating the deficiencies noted in the
existing mechanisms. This joystick is based upon the six degree-of-freedom Stewart
platform. High fidelity in force feedback will be achieved through the installation
of a force-measuring cell in the joystick handgrip.
Phase I research demonstrated a kinematic design which allowed translational motion
within a 25.4 cm cube and orientational capability of 45 degrees from center about
each of three coordinate axes. This motion capability occurs with no leg interference
or singularities and with reasonable actuator loadings. Phase I also demonstrated
real-time computational control capability.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Potential applications include the control of manipulators
in space, hot labs, hazardous waste sites, and interfacing with computer graphic
systems.
Project Title:
Development of Telerobot Hand Joint
05.01-3808
Development of Telerobot Hand Joint
Ross-Hime Designs, Inc.
1313 5th Street S.E., Suite 221
Minneapolis, MN 55414
Mark E. Rosheim (612-379-3808)
MSFC -- NAS8-37638
Abstract:
Telerobotic hands provide the grasping ability needed for telerobot arms designed
to replace or assist astronauts in the hazardous task of extravehicular activity.
This project deals with the construction and development of a highly anthropomorphic,
zero-backlash, telerobot hand-joint for use as knuckles and a wrist. A patent is
pending for this innovation. Applied as a wrist and knuckles, the telerobot hand-joint
features circumduction identical to the human hand. This pitch-yaw motion increases
dexterity, simplifies computer control, and is not found in other robotic hands.
In Phase I, a telerobot hand-joint was built and tested in the configuration of
a wrist and finger-head knuckle. An interconnecting palm was built as a bonus. The
project achieved the following results: a four inch-diameter telerobot hand- joint
having a 25-pound payload capacity with 90 degrees of pitch and yaw motion for use
as a wrist with very low backlash; a one-inch-diameter teleoperator hand-joint having
a 5-pound payload capacity with 90 degrees of pitch and yaw motion for use as a finger
and thumb knuckle; and a servo computer control for telerobot operation.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Applications include advanced, high-dexterity telerobot
for handling nuclear and chemically hazardous materials. Undersea robots would benefit
from this advanced telerobot hand technology by making them more dexterous and thus
more versatile.
Project Title:
Improvement of Range of Coherent Laser Radar
05.01-4910
Improvement of Range of Coherent Laser Radar
Digital Signal Corporation
8003 Forbes Place
Springfield, VA 22151
Frank Goodwin (703-321-9200)
LaRC -- NAS1-18640
Abstract:
A need exists for high speed, precise, and long-range imaging sensors for applications
to robotics, tele-robotics, and assembly and alignment of large space structures.
Precision three-dimensional range imaging with unambiguous range determination has
been demonstrated with a scanning, frequency-modulated, continuous-wave, coherent
laser radar (CLR) using frequency-modulated laser diodes and heterodyne detection.
However, the maximum range of the CLR is currently limited to less than five meters
by the coherence length of the laser diode. It is important to improve the maximum
range to 100 meters or more. Improvement is possible by narrowing the line-width
of the laser source with electronic feedback, thereby increasing the coherence length.
The line-narrowing technique has been demonstrated in the laboratory but has not
been confirmed with a CLR measurement.
Phase I of this effort demonstrated that line-width reduction of a frequency-modulated
laser is feasible once the laser tuning has been made sufficiently linear. An adaptive,
signal-processing technique was developed that automatically derives the modulating
wave-form necessary to produce a fixed tuning rate. Electronic feedback was used
to lock the tuning rate to a reference and to narrow the optical line-width. The
line-width was reduced by a factor of three in the Phase I effort. Greater reductions
are possible by reducing the time delay in the feedback loop.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Commercial applications of this work are possible
in the following areas: autonomous vehicles, remote measurement, collision avoidance,
and robotic control.
Project Title:
Integrated Fiber Optic-Coupled Proximity Sensor for Robotic End Effectors and Tools
05.01-4910A
Integrated Fiber Optic-Coupled Proximity Sensor
for Robotic End Effectors and Tools
Digital Signal Corporation
8003 Forbes Place
Springfield, VA 22151
Anthony R. Slotwinsky (703-321-9200)
JPL -- NAS7-1004
Abstract:
There is a need for fiber-coupled, proximity sensors with high speed and accuracy
for application to robot end-effectors and to automated inspection and quality control.
Fiber optic sensors have been demonstrated to have geometric flexibility. In the
case of phase modulated interferometric-type sensors, high sensitivity is demonstrated
as well. However, due to the sensitivity of single-mode diode lasers to back-reflected
light and due to the sensitivity of conventional, single-mode fibers to environmental
perturbations, problems such as corruption of the laser frequency spectrum and fiber
polarization fading are limiting factors.
The Phase I effort designed and demonstrated a fiber-optic sensor system that utilizes
multi-mode, diode lasers as an optical source in a coherent detection configuration
that eliminates the problem of environmental perturbations while retaining the sensitivity
of phase-modulated sensors. The design has the flexibility to multiplex a number
of miniature sensors mounted on robotic end effectors and tools to measure proximity,
tactile pressure (touch), force, and torque. The Phase I effort demonstrated the
feasibility of this sensor concept and provided a design incorporating three laser
sources and three separate sensors.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Expected applications are in factory automation,
machine tool sensors, robot sensors, process control, noncontact sensing, and gauging.
Project Title:
Tactile Telepresence System for Dexterous Telerobotics
05.01-5042B
Tactile Telepresence System for Dexterous
Telerobotics
Begej Corporation
5 Claret Ash Road
Littleton, CO 80127
Stefan Begej (303-973-5042)
JPL -- NAS7-1015
Abstract:
The objective of this project is to design and fabricate an innovative fingertip-shaped,
tactile telepresence system for dexterous robot systems. The principal tasks are:
design of various miniature, tactile stimulator elements, construction of a thin,
fingertip stimulator unit containing 35 elements, fabrication of an optical, fingertip-shaped
tactile sensor containing 35 sensor elements, and construction of an interface unit
that will couple the optical output from the tactile sensor to the fingertip stimulation
unit. The performance of the resulting tactile stimulation system will be qualitatively
evaluated using a simple, single-finger teleoperator test device.
Phase I demonstrated the feasibility of fabricating small tactile stimulator elements
and resulted in the construction and satisfactory demonstration of a low-resolution,
37-element tactile telepresence system for a single finger.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Primary application would be in the control of
dexterous robotic devices in space. Terrestrial applications include remote handling
operations in the nuclear, chemical, and ordnance industries.
Project Title:
05.01-5649
3-D Laser Imager
Daedalus Enterprises Inc.
PO Box 1869
Ann Arbor, MI 48106
Scott L. Strodtman (313-769-5649)
GSFC -- NAS5-30275
Abstract:
The goal of this project is to establish the feasibility of a new technique to
obtain three-dimensional imagery. The innovative concept is the implementation of
a non-mechanical optical scanning technique consisting of a modulated laser and a
compact, high-frequency video camera with no moving parts. The resulting three-dimensional
imager would be about one-tenth the size and weight and consume much less power than
comparable mechanically driven laser scanners. It would also be more rugged and have
higher reliability and lower production costs.
The Phase I feasibility study has shown that the design of an electronic scanning
sensor, using an image dissector photodetector, is possible and has provided a preliminary
optical, electronic, and mechanical design concept. Preparation of a system design
concept provided the means for predicting the performance of the sensor as well as
the size, weight, and power consumption estimates. This three-dimensional imaging
scanner would have performance suitable to satisfy the requirements of the NASA Goddard
Space Station Orbital Replacement Unit grasping task.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Applications of the three-dimensional sensor are
in enhanced autonomous robotic assembly and bin picking, quality control, mensuration,
vehicle guidance, and teleoperated robots used in hazardous environments including
hazardous waste, nuclear-contaminated sites, and bomb disposal.
Project Title:
High-Performance, View-Generated Database for World Model Definition and Update
05.01-8500
High-Performance, View-Generated Database for
World Model Definition and Update
KMS Fusion, Inc.
3853 Research Park Drive
PO Box 1576
Ann Arbor, MI 48106
Jerry L. Turney (313-769-8500)
JPL -- NAS7-1009
Abstract:
Geometric knowledge of the environment must be incorporated in both NASA's and
commercial applications. This knowledge is often referred to as a world model. Because
NASA intends to use this knowledge in CAD-based applications, a system is needed
that can create a CAD-compatible, world-model database from digital views of an object.
During Phase I, the firm determined the design specifications for a high-performance,
view-generated database that will allow the combining of multiple camera images of
an object to capture an accurate geometric computer model of the object complete
with surface detail. Specifically, innovative approaches were developed for combining
stereo images to reconstruct an object's surface and for determining the relationship
between different camera views of an object. A CAD-compatible, hierarchical database
for storing the surfaces of an object that will allow rapid access to surface data
at a variable level-of-detail was developed.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Significant commercial potential is possible in
at least three areas: in three-dimensional computer vision, in CAD/CAM systems,
and in commercial graphics.
Project Title:
Telerobot Collision and Obstacle Avoidance Based on Real-Time Proximity Sensors
05.01-9570
Telerobot Collision and Obstacle Avoidance Based on Real-Time Proximity Sensors
Robotics Research Corporation
5400 DuPont Circle
Milford, OH 45150
Jack M. Thompson (513-831-9570)
LaRC -- NAS1-18629
Abstract:
A critical technology required for future space telerobots is a practical, sensor-based,
real-time, obstacle avoidance system capable of preventing unplanned collisions between
the appendages of a telerobot and objects in the machine's working envelope. This
project sought to prove the concept of using arm-mounted proximity sensors and new
motion control algorithms to control the pose of a kinematically redundant manipulator
in such a way that the arm steers itself around objects encountered in the work space
while the operator "flies the hand."
In Phase I, proximity sensor technology was surveyed and evaluated for both earth
and space applications. The firm's K-2107HR dexterous manipulator and Type 2 motion
controller were outfitted with arm-mounted proximity sensors, and the control algorithms
were modified to cause the robot to steer its elbow around objects in the work space.
As a result of Phase I work, it was determined that surface mounted silicon photodiodes,
packaged with solid-state lasers operating in the near-infrared range, were the most
promising sensor candidates for space applications. A versatile mathematical approach
was developed for synthesizing sensor inputs which can be employed for redundant
robot systems of any kinematic configuration.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Applications of dexterous robots incorporating
20 to 30 degrees-of-freedom may play important roles in future space operations and
may also be used on earth in applications such as fire-fighting, forestry, and construction.
Project Title:
Adjustable Autonomy for Hazardous Robotic Operations
05.02-3912
Adjustable Autonomy for Hazardous Robotic
Operations
Advanced Decision Systems
1500 Plymouth Street
Mountain View, CA 94043
Marcel Schoppers (415-941-3912)
JSC -- NAS9-17926
Abstract:
For many tasks, partial automation is desirable but complete automation is out
of the question. Partial automation of robots raises this question: "How can robotic
software be made intelligent and flexible, yet subject to human control, without
becoming dependent on human input?"
Phase I has demonstrated a solution to this problem. Using universal plans technology,
the robot's control plan can be assembled automatically as needed, and human input
can be reduced to supervision of the planner's decisions about the current instant.
The prototype robot planner can accept and remember advice about what to do, what
criteria to use in deciding, how to decide what criteria to use, whether or not to
decide autonomously, whether to act or be controlled, etc. These pieces of advice
allow operators to adjust the robot's level of autonomy without having to reprogram
the robot. Phase I demonstrated software embodying this approach and left no major
problems outstanding.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: This work will be beneficial in all robotic applications
involving significant intelligence and risk or where human trust in a robot's competence
must be built up gradually. Examples are the extra-vehicular-activity retriever,
deep-space missions, nuclear reactor maintenance, and military uses of artificial
intelligence.
Project Title:
Architectures for Semi-Autonomous Planning
05.02-3912A
Architectures for Semi-Autonomous Planning
Advanced Decision Systems
1500 Plymouth Street
Mountain View, CA 94043
Daniel Shapiro (415-941-3912)
JSC -- NAS9-17927
Abstract:
The innovation addressed in this project is a computational architecture for reactive
planning, which is the task of controlling robot execution in unrestricted, or "real
world", environments. The domain of the problem is the task of NASA's EVA (extra-vehicular-activity)
Retriever: to find and return astronauts, tools, and other objects that may lose
tether to the Space Station. This problem involves a range of physical situations
which cannot be predicted in advance, multiple agents, natural processes which will
alter the environment outside the retriever's control, and actions that may fail
or introduce unwanted side-effects. In order to function reliably and safely in this
context, the retriever's control system must involve reactive planning.
In the Phase I, scenarios for EVA Retrieval were examined, reactive plan generation
and EVA Retriever problems were defined, and a high level architecture to solve these
technical problems was designed.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: This work has application in the EVA Retriever
program and in the development of all robot control systems for natural environments.
Project Title:
Toward Intelligent Control of Robotics for Space Station Maintenance
05.02-5172A
Toward Intelligent Control of Robotics for Space
Station Maintenance
UFA, Inc.
335 Boylston Street
Newton, MA 02159
Arthur Gerstenfeld (617-964-5172)
MSFC -- NAS8-37641
Abstract:
The purpose of this project was to show the feasibility of adding intelligence
to a telerobot. It builds on the firm's prior research done with the National Bureau
of Standards in having a robot use lettered blocks to spell certain words. During
that research, it was shown that a learning model can be built.
This project takes the step of robotic inspection and maintenance of the Space Station.
Its purpose was to demonstrate a system that could handle unexpected events. In Phase
I, the project simulated a satellite floating through space with an attached robot
performing a maintenance or replacement task. In the simulation, the satellite part
that needed replacement is not exactly where it was expected to be. Intelligence
in the robot is needed to guide the robot to the correct location. Through a demonstration
at the NASA MSFC, it was shown that the robot could use reasoning to direct itself
to a new location, illustrating how a robot could use intelligence and heuristics
to replan and find an alternate approach to locate the part.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Intelligent tele-robots could be used for inspection
and maintenance of nuclear reactors and associated equipment. They could also be
used in the aircraft industry for maintenance.
Project Title:
New Solution Method for Robot Kinematic Equations
05.02-5272
New Solution Method for Robot Kinematic
Equations
Advanced Control Technologies, Inc.
182 Edgewater Circle
Gallatin, TN 37060
Mary S. Waggener (615-256-5272)
MSFC -- NAS8-37616
Abstract:
All robots differ from their idealized mathematical models because of parametric
errors, link flexion, environmentally induced errors, etc. Because the resulting
equations are too complex, analytically derived models cannot include compensation
for such errors. Numerical models, however, can easily provide compensation.
During Phase I, the feasibility of providing compensation in a quasi-static situation
was demonstrated by deriving multi-dimensional, B-spline models of inverse kinematic
equations for a robot. These models were shown to be immune to certain parametric
errors, measurement noise, and the dimensionality of the functions. The partial derivatives
of the models also seem accurately to represent the true joint partial derivatives.
Some errors (payload induced link flexion, axes misalignment, etc.) are too complex
to simulate. However, if models are derived from measured end effector and joint
data, which include the effects of such errors, error compensation will implicitly
be included in the models.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Robot models that include error compensation can
be substituted for existing models in operational robots and are particularly appropriate
for controllers marketed for use with various robots. The modeling algorithm will
also make it possible to use flexible or imprecisely manufactured robots for precision
tasks.
Project Title:
Roller-Gear Drive for Robotic Manipulators
05.03-1391A
Roller-Gear Drive for Robotic Manipulators
Transmission Research, Inc.
Division of NASTEC, Inc.
10823 Magnolia Drive
Cleveland, OH 44106
William J. Anderson (216-231-6570)
LeRC -- NAS3-25282
Abstract:
Multi-roller, planetary traction drives offer a unique combination of compactness,
high efficiency, and high torsional stiffness in high ratio drives. They have the
added advantages of back-lash-free operation, low noise and vibration, no gear cogging,
and smooth torque transfer in bi-directional operation. Combining traction rollers
and gears yields further benefits in compactness (high torque capability) without
the sacrifice of the inherent advantages of roller-gear drives. A typical drive employs
a planetary arrangement of gears and rollers consisting of a sun roller gear, two
concentric clusters of stationary, roller-gear planets, and a ring gear. The low
torque, high speed input is supplied to the sun gear, and the high-torque, low-speed
output is taken from the ring gear.
Preliminary designs of three roller-gear and two roller drives were completed in
Phase I to assess their feasibility for use in a laboratory telerobotic manipulator.
These include a dual-input, pitch-yaw joint drive utilizing cone rollers and zerol
bevel gears, drives for a wrist-roll and hinge joint utilizing cylindrical rollers
and spur gears, and planetary roller drives for the wrist-roll joint and large gearhead.
The five roller-gear and roller drives examined in this program are technically feasible
for robotic positioning devices.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Roller-gear drives are ideally suited for both
terrestrial and space applications, for servo positioning devices, actuators, and
high-speed, compliant-motion robots being developed for manufacturing assembly tasks,
and in speed changers for office and other light duty commercial machines.
Project Title:
High-Resolution, Avalanche-Diode X-Ray Spectrometer for Planetary Exploration
05.05-1167
High-Resolution, Avalanche-Diode X-Ray
Spectrometer for Planetary Exploration
Radiation Monitoring Devices, Inc.
44 Hunt Street
Watertown, MA 02172
Gerald Entine (617-926-1167)
JPL -- NAS7-1018
Abstract:
The selection of the best samples to bring back to earth from the Mars planetary
exploration mission will require the development of analytical techniques compatible
with the unusual mission environment. X-ray fluorescence analysis techniques are
particularly attractive, and the new, avalanche-diode, x-ray spectrometer could help
provide the performance needed to make this technique applicable.
The Phase I project demonstrated the feasibility of making high resolution, avalanche-
diode detectors capable of the sensitivity and resolution needed for the Mars Lander
mission. Studies conducted to determine the underlying phenomena presently limiting
the spectral resolution of these devices under reduced temperatures clearly identified
the two primary limiting factors. Both of these factors were successfully addressed
during this project.
Phase I also resulted in the first reported X-ray fluorescence spectrum taken with
an avalanche photodiode of an element as light as sulfur. Furthermore, the noise
level of these diodes was lower than any previously reported for a non-cryogen-cooled
semiconductor detector.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: The applications are in X-ray fluorescence analysis,
an important analytical technique with many industrial, military and research applications.
This technology will reduce the cost significantly and also make portable field units
much more practical.
Project Title:
Asynchronous, Multi-Level, Adaptive Methods for Partial Differential Equations on Navier-Stokes Computer
06.01-4131
Asynchronous, Multi-Level, Adaptive Methods for
Partial Differential Equations on Navier-Stokes Computer
Colorado Research Development Corporation
621 17th Street, Suite 1620
Denver, CO 80293
Daniel J. Quinlan (303-293-8633)
LaRC -- NAS1-18606
Abstract:
NASA is currently supporting a project for development of a high-powered multi-processor
system, the Navier-Stokes Computer (NSC). While multi-level algorithms are being
studied for solving the elliptic discrete, incompressible Navier-Stokes equations,
no research has yet focused on locally adaptive schemes for this purpose. Having
such schemes is important because very large scale physical problems usually demand
local resolution to account for such things as boundary singularities, shocks, and
transition regions.
This Phase I project studied some promising multilevel methods developed recently
by the company. These methods exhibit a very high degree of parallelism and computational
efficiency and couple well with an effective load balance which was also developed
by the company. The plan was to develop a simple prototype and study its performance
on Poisson's equation, first in the NSC simulator, then on the NSC itself. Phase
I demonstrated the effectiveness of asychronous, multilevel methods for aerodynamic
model simulations involving both static and dynamic refinements. These methods were
coupled with a dynamic load balance that demonstrated marked effectiveness in efficient
management of the program tasks.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: The software produced by this project for solution
of aerodynamic simulation problems on the Navier-Stokes Computer should be important
to any business or institution that acquires this computer.
Project Title:
Structured Analysis and Generation of Requirements
06.02-3900
Structured Analysis and Generation of
Requirements
Applied Logic Systems, Inc.
PO Box 90
University Station
Syracuse, NY 13210
Kenneth A. Bowen (315-471-3900)
KSC -- NAS10-11465
Abstract:
This project addressed the construction of an automated support system for development,
verification, and maintenance of computer software. Its purpose was to overcome problems
created by an inadequate understanding of the target problem which often leads to
incorrect requirements and specifications for programming projects, especially for
distributed systems. Specifically, Phase I explored the feasibility of a system which
would generate a program to support experimentation with a model of the problem so
as to develop formal specifications for the desired software package.
The research in Phase I was carried out on Sun workstations. A windowing system
was used to provide a front-end to the firm's Prolog program to enable construction
and annotation of diagrams that represent a problem. Prolog captures an abstract
representation of the diagrams and transforms these into a set of Concurrent Prolog
clauses. The multiple window environment traces the execution of the Prolog program
together with animation of the structured analysis diagram. The prototype system
generated in Phase I demonstrated the feasibility of the proposed system.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: The proposed software development and support system
would be applicable for large-scale programming projects which occur widely in governmental,
commercial, and military activities.
Project Title:
An Automated Database Design Methodology
06.02-7701
An Automated Database Design Methodology
Datawise, Inc.
1915 E. Colonial Drive, Suite 22
Orlando, FL 32803
Kathryn C. Kinsley (305-894-7701)
LaRC -- NAS1-18621
Abstract:
Databases form the basis for computer-based applications by providing the structure
on which to maintain and manipulate data. The effectiveness of the application is
dependent, to a large extent, on the design of the database. The innovation addressed
in this project is an automated design tool for creating data bases which will reduce
the problems caused by poor design and loss of data integrity. This software tool
is a knowledge-based automated database design engineering tool (KADDET).
Phase I produced a prototype implementation of KADDET, a system that automates the
firm's database design methodology. This prototype supports the design methodology
through a knowledge base and an automated designer. The knowledge base contains a
number of common database designs. The automated designer enforces design rules and
merges database objects into a minimum set of entities and relationships.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: KADDET represents an important advance in the tools
that are necessary to produce valid, logical, database designs for increasingly complex
software applications.
Project Title:
Distributed Artificial Intelligence Representation Language Language
06.03-3635
Distributed Artificial Intelligence Representation
Language Language
Symbiotics, Inc.
875 Main Street
Cambridge, MA 02139
Bruce H. Cottman (617-876-3635)
KSC -- NAS10-11464
Abstract:
Distributed Artificial Intelligence (DAI) deals with the solution of complex problems
by networks of cooperating, autonomous computational processes, called agents. Development
of production-quality DAI applications has been impeded more by practical limitations
in current software development platforms than by serious theoretical difficulties.
During Phase I, the critical design requirements were investigated for a general
DAI development framework. It was found that they turn primarily on issues of integration:
of agents into logical organizations, of multiple, heterogeneous logical organizations,
and of existing heterogeneous database and knowledge base systems. The work resulted
in the design of SOCIAL, a development framework that will simplify the design, implementation,
and integration of DAI applications. SOCIAL's architecture partitions distributed
communications, agent and agent organization control, and knowledge and reasoning
into clearly separated building blocks. SOCIAL will allow non-intrusive integration
of existing database and stand-alone knowledge-base systems into DAI applications
responding to a real-world design constraint that is not addressed by most current
DAI research tools. In addition, SOCIAL's architecture conceals the mechanics of
implementing distributed communications and control in a modular and extensible language.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: SOCIAL represents a potential commercial product
that would greatly facilitate the development, maintenance, and enhancement of deployable
DAI applications.
Project Title:
Fault-Tolerant Distributed Knowledge Bases
06.03-8265
Fault-Tolerant Distributed Knowledge Bases
ISX Corporation
501 Main Street, Suite 214
Thousand Oaks, CA 91360
Scott Fouse (805-495-8265)
ARC -- NAS2-12777
Abstract:
As organizations have increased their dependency on computers, many databases have
been developed, and the computers containing the databases have been linked together
via networks. The innovative aspect of this project is to extend the capabilities
of a formalized, knowledge-representation substrate, which is capable of supporting
existing and developing knowledge representation techniques, to handle distributed
data storage and information processing. The project objectives are to create algorithms
to perform remote procedure calls, to access distributed databases, to maintain consistency
of distributed databases, and to balance the load of the processing activities of
a computer network.
Phase I has shown that the use of data-driven programming techniques is appropriate
for distributed processing applications. The proper method for maintaining both the
consistency and redundancy of information in a distributed environment is by using
demons that encapsulate a "behavioral law" which reacts to changes in the database.
There is no single appropriate method for distributing information in a network.
The use of a rule-based system is a good way to implement the load-balancing strategy
for a distributed database.
Note: ISX Corporation has acquired the rights to continue Phase II of this project
from Teknowledge Federal Systems, who received the Phase I award.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: A general software tool for the management of distributed,
fault-tolerant, intelligent systems is in wide demand for applications where reliability
is crucial and intelligent behavior is needed, e.g., Space Station and autonomous
systems.
Project Title:
Intelligent Evaluation System for Simulator Training
06.05-1165
Intelligent Evaluation System for Simulator
Training
Global Information Systems Technology
1800 Woodfield Drive
Savoy, IL 61874
Thomas T. Chen (217-352-1165)
JSC -- NAS9-17942
Abstract:
Flight simulation is a primary and critical form of training; however, simulators
have not been integrated with the technology of computer-based training. This project
proposes to integrate an existing computer-based training system with current flight
simulators. As a first step, an expert system will be applied to the evaluation of
a Shuttle Mission Simulator lesson using that simulator's capability to store data.
The results of the Phase I work demonstrated the feasibility of an intelligent,
computer-assisted instruction system to evaluate lesson performance on simulators.
The evaluator would be quite useful to improve the overall training operations especially
for complex lessons like rendezvous that require a great deal of instructor expertise
or for lessons that include specialized assessment as in fuel usage for maneuvering
spacecraft. Phase I produced the following: a procedural-network, knowledge structure
for representing both an expert and a student model of the simulator lesson; a strategy
for evaluating a student or crew's performance based on (mocked-up) data generated
by the simulator; and an initial methodology to explain student errors. Furthermore,
a great deal was learned about knowledge engineering in this domain and the most
pertinent issues for the NASA simulator environment and training.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: A list of potential commercial applications includes:
airline and aerospace simulators, military operations using simulators (e.g. missile
simulators), and commercial space operations.
Project Title:
CLIPS-Vbase Feasibility Study
06.05-2383
CLIPS-Vbase Feasibility Study
Ontologic Inc.
47 Manning Road
Billerica, MA 01821
Michael J. Vilot (617-667-2383)
JSC -- NAS9-17946
Abstract:
This project focuses on applying expert system technology to software systems for
mission planning and flight control by combining two state-of-the-art approaches:
an object-oriented database management system and an expert system. In Phase I, two
specific systems, the Vbase object-oriented database and the CLIPS C Language Production
System, were integrated. Vbase, a commercial product produced by the firm, addresses
the complex modeling and high performance needs of the CAD\CAM\CAE market. It is
portable (UNIX and VMS operating systems), has high performance, and is flexible.
CLIPS, an expert system tool developed at NASA-JSC, was designed to provide high
portability, low cost, and easy integration with external systems. Both are implemented
in the C programming language, giving them advantages in portability and performance
over traditional, LISP-based expert systems.
The Phase I study examined several ways to combine these two systems and concluded
that such an integration is feasible. The preferred approach adds hierarchical object
descriptions to the fact base and declarative rules as constraints to the database.
It also enhances the existing Vbase facilities, which provide an expressive, yet
efficient, software engineering platform for expert system development.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: The combined CLIPS-Vbase system could provide an
efficient and powerful expert system support tool and could substantially improve
the techniques for complex planning, monitoring, and process control tasks.
Project Title:
A Knowledge-Based Expert System to Coordinate CAD\CAE with Integration and Test
06.06-0929
A Knowledge-Based Expert System to Coordinate CAD\CAE with Integration and Test
Coherent Research, Inc.
100 E. Washington Street
Syracuse, NY 13202
Charles D. Stormon (315-426-0929)
JPL -- NAS7-1014
Abstract:
During computer-aided-design and computer-aided-engineering (CAD\CAE) phases of
spacecraft and mission development, a large and valuable database is created by the
design engineers and mission planners. This database may include system specifications,
schematic diagrams, simulations, and software. Currently, this data is seldom used
during the system integration, test, and operational phases. Instead, much of the
same information is manually reconstructed by engineers, adding many hours of effort
and many opportunities for error to each mission and system.
Alleviation of many of these problems may be possible by constructing a knowledge-based
expert system to coordinate the data produced using CAD\CAE tools and to make that
data suitable for use during system integration, test, and operation. The completed
Phase I study determined the feasibility of such an expert system and has resulted
in a working prototype which aids in fault diagnosis and operational simulation for
digital systems. This innovation makes use of state-of-the-art techniques in language
translation, expert system building, symbolic simulation, and diagnosis to provide
an end-to-end capability demonstrating the automatic transformation and effective
use of CAD knowledge through integration and test.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: While the specific system addresses aerospace uses,
the techniques are applicable to any large-scale engineering task where CAD tools
are used.
Project Title:
CAD\CAE Knowledge-Base Development Tool
06.06-4610
CAD\CAE Knowledge-Base Development Tool
Prospective Computer Analysts, Inc.
1800 Northern Boulevard
Roslyn, NY 11576
R. Glenn Wright (516-484-4610)
KSC -- NAS10-11458
Abstract:
CAD\CAE is commonly used in many aspects of spacecraft design and development.
However, once an assembly or system is designed and manufactured, the information
contained within the CAD\CAE files is no longer of use. This project investigated
a CAD\CAE knowledge-base development tool. Its purpose is to enable data contained
within the CAD\CAE files to be translated into a knowledge base for use throughout
the life cycle of the product. In addition, the tool will contain provisions for
knowledge capture to expand the knowledge base throughout the design, development,
simulation, testing, and deployment phases of the product. Natural-language processing
will be utilized to obtain knowledge from design, test, and operating personnel in
areas for which automated translation of a CAD\CAE file to the knowledge base is
not possible.
During Phase I, research was performed to define a software tool which would utilize
CAD\CAE files to develop a knowledge base for use the life cycle of the product.
The results of Phase I included a design specification for a CAD\CAE knowledge-base
development tool which incorporates model building and design knowledge capture provisions.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Commercial applications of the CAD\CAE knowledge
base development tool are many since such a product would provide a means for developing
knowledge-based systems for product support, diagnoses, repair, simulation and other
applications for any CAD\CAE-designed product.
Project Title:
System to Create Models of Fluid Flow Phenomena
06.07-2555
System to Create Models of Fluid Flow
Phenomena
Mathematical Research, Inc.
1120 NASA Road One, Suite 210
Houston, TX 77058
C. Lamar Wiginton (713-333-3912)
ARC -- NAS2-12796
Abstract:
Data representing certain fluid flow phenomena are frequently presented as three-dimensional
graphics displays on a computer screen. Such displays are inherently two-dimensional
and graphics techniques for visually portraying three-dimensional features are limited.
For example, depth perception, precise measurement, and data comparisons pose difficulties.
The objective of this project was to determine the technical feasibility of developing
a system that will produce a faithful three-dimensional model from a three-dimensional
graphics display of fluid flow data. Such a system would truly be an innovation in
that there is no currently available, inexpensive technique for model production
directly from a computer display.This effort centered around the use of a standard
personal computer with graphics capabilities, an electronic control subsystem, an
output mechanism, and control software. The results involve both good and bad news.
The good news is that the system constructed models; the bad news is that the accuracy
needs to be improved for precise measurement of fluid flow parameters.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: For applications where accurate modeling of functions
is not required, the system may find a wide range of applications, e.g., education
in mathematics and engineering, architecture, and commercial display and advertising.
Project Title:
Digital Storage Device Using Thin-Film, Shape-Memory Alloy
06.07-4109
Digital Storage Device Using Thin-Film,
Shape-Memory Alloy
TiNi Alloy Company
1144 65th Street, Unit A
Oakland, CA 94608
A. David Johnson (415-658-3172)
ARC -- NAS2-12797
Abstract:
The need for high-volume, high-speed digital data recording, storage, and retrieval
systems is growing rapidly. Magnetic media technology is approaching its practical
limits of capacity while existing work on optical media seems to be limited to magneto-optical
and WORM (Write Once, Read Many times) technology. There is a clear need to increase
the speed and capacity of mass storage systems, not only for routine science, engineering,
and business systems, but for existing and future supercomputers.
This innovation applies a thin film of shape-memory alloy such as Nitinol (nickel-titanium
alloy) as a medium for high-density, non-volatile, read-write digital information
storage. Small domains (approaching one micron in diameter) of shape-memory alloy
are selectively heated by fast, high-intensity, light pulses, causing the domains
to change their angle and/or amount of reflectance. Readout is accomplished by detection
of reflected pulses of light of lower intensity from the small domains.
Phase I clearly demonstrated the feasibility of sputtering micron-thick Ni-Ti film
which can be annealed to induce the shape memory property. Free-standing beams of
Ni-Ti film down to 5 microns thick displayed the mechanical shape memory effect when
bent in the cold state and allowed to warm. Experimentation with loads on the end
of the beam indicate recovery stresses of approximately 70 ksi. In effect, this work
has shown conclusively that the shape memory effect can be produced in sputter-deposited
films of nickel-titanium.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: If successful, this technology will be widely used
by defense, space, and commerce. "Spin-off" to the growing field of micro-mechanical
actuators will generate a secondary market.
Project Title:
Hardware for Parallel Asynchronous Focal Plane Image Processing
07.01-0888
Hardware for Parallel Asynchronous Focal Plane
Image Processing
Microtronics Associates, Inc.
4516 Henry Street, Suite 403
Pittsburgh, PA 15213
Darryl D. Coon (412-681-0888)
LaRC -- NAS1-18645
Abstract:
The project involves development of high performance systems which combine the
functions of image acquisition and image processing. The systems are based on a highly
novel, parallel, asynchronous processing approach which permits concurrent two-dimensional
image acquisition and two-dimensional image processing. The systems and algorithms
studied possess many features of natural vision systems. Silicon devices--which provide
a natural basis for parallel, asynchronous, focal-plane, image preprocessing--are
the innovation addressed in this project. The simplicity and novel properties of
these devices would permit an independent analog processing channel to be dedicated
to every pixel. Multi-spectral processing is possible because of compatibility with
the cryogenic environment of high performance infrared detectors.
Phase I results showed that the novel means of information coding to be employed
permits unusually high dynamic range (up to 107 with visible light) and very low
power dissipation (4 pJ/mm2/pulse). Information coding is accomplished through the
use of an integrate-and-fire mechanism in silicon diodes. The theory of the device
and network dynamics was also developed.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: The market is associated with industrial, robotic,
scientific, military, space, and other applications of interest to companies which
operate wholly in the private sector as well as NASA contractors and other government
contractors.
Project Title:
Optimizing the Camera and Positioning System for Telerobotic Work Station Viewing
07.01-5600
Optimizing the Camera and Positioning System
for Telerobotic Work Station Viewing
TeleRobotics International, Inc.
8410 Oak Ridge Highway
Knoxville, TN 37931
Paul E. Satterlee (615-690-5600)
LaRC -- NAS1-18627
Abstract:
A necessary component of tele-operated robotic manipulation is visual feedback.
The goal of this project is to provide an improved remote viewing capability by simply
moving the optical elements of the camera system rather than orienting the entire
camera. The elimination of mechanical components and motion sensing devices should
increase reliability while significantly reducing size, weight, and maintenance costs--all
key elements to future NASA implementation of telerobotic viewing systems.
In the Phase I effort, a miniature, omni-directional, prototypical camera was produced.
Considerable reductions in size and weight were realized in this feasibility demonstration.
A theoretical analysis was performed to develop a mapping algorithm to convert a
fisheye image into an undistorted object plane representation for use with digital
electronics. The resulting algorithm allows pan, tilt, and zoom functions to be accomplished
with a fixed camera and was validated experimentally in Phase I. An electronic hardware
concept was also created.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Applications are in the field of remote manipulation
in space missions, radioactive materials handling needs, remotely operated military
vehicles, and private sector surveillance and security systems.
Project Title:
Concept-Oriented Distributed Expert System for Spacecraft Control
07.02-1700
Concept-Oriented Distributed Expert System for
Spacecraft Control
Omitron, Inc.
6305 Ivy Lane, Suite 500
Greenbelt, MD 20770
David E. Simm (301-474-1700)
GSFC -- NAS5-30284
Abstract:
The innovation in this project is a prototype, distributed, concept-oriented, expert
system for application to spacecraft analysis, monitoring, and control. System functions
will be performed by semi-autonomous expert modules working together under the coordination
and control of a supervisory expert. Concept-oriented representations of both knowledge-base
and logical processes will be employed throughout the expert system, providing a
capability for abstract reasoning considered necessary to the feasibility of a distributed
system of this scope.
Phase I efforts demonstrated the feasibility of the concept-oriented approach by
the development and integration of a knowledge-base concept, processing kernel, and
supervisory expert functions with a software bus. This initial work also demonstrated
a method for effective representation and utilization of generalized knowledge. This
methodology was implemented in a system architecture specifically designed to support
a long-term strategy for development of large-scale, distributed-expert-system applications.
The completeness of the methodology was verified by implementation of a prototype
spacecraft analysis, monitoring, and control system.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Distributed expert systems will provide increased
capability and autonomy for analysis, monitoring, and control facilities based both
on earth and in space and will reduce both manpower requirements and operator errors.
Project Title:
Discrete Fourier Transform Algorithms for Bit-Serial, GaAs Processor Architectures
07.03-0081
Discrete Fourier Transform Algorithms for
Bit-Serial, GaAs Processor Architectures
Systems and Processes Engineering Corp.
1406 Smith Road, Suite A
Austin, TX 78721
Gary B. McMillian (512-385-0082)
GSFC -- NAS5-30291
Abstract:
An innovative array processor architecture for computing Fourier transforms and
other commonly used signal processing algorithms is under development. During Phase
I, an architecture was designed to extract the highest possible array performance
from state-of-the-art, gallium arsenide (GaAs) technology. The architectural design
features a high-performance, reduced-instruction-set-computer (RISC) processor implemented
in GaAs, a floating-point coprocessor, and a unique array communications coprocessor
also implemented in GaAs.
The architecture includes very high speed, low-gate-count, bit-serial arithmetic,
and communication units in the floating-point and communication coprocessors, respectively.
Utilizing the very high speed of GaAs, currently with clock rates in excess of 1
GHz, bit-serial units can be used to form the core of complex arithmetic and communication
units. A bit-serial architecture is, in fact, ideal for implementation of the communication
links between processors.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Potential applications are mainly in signal processing,
with possible application to computational physics and artificial intelligence. The
GaAs RISC processors will also find application in high-performance graphics work
stations.
Project Title:
Rapid Readout System for Solar Pointing Sensors
07.03-8442
Rapid Readout System for Solar Pointing Sensors
Applied Research Corporation
8201 Corporate Drive, Suite 920
Landover, MD 20785
Andrew S. Endal (301-459-8442)
GSFC -- NAS5-30267
Abstract:
The purpose of this project was to investigate a system for rapidly reading and
processing photometric data from linear charge-coupled-device (CCD) arrays used as
solar tracking sensors. For applications to pointing payloads, the system must determine
solar aspect angle with an accuracy of 0.4 arc-seconds with updates available at
4 millisecond intervals. Since tracking functions typically use a small subset of
the sensor pixels and the approximate location of this subset can be determined from
the previous scan, the read time can be reduced by clocking the unwanted pixels at
a very rapid rate. Therefore, circuits were designed to read the CCD array at two
rates: at a slow rate (13 kHz) for pixels near the solar edge and at a high speed
(3.3 MHz) for the remaining pixels.
The dual read-out rate scheme was tested during Phase I using a linear CCD array
illuminated by a helium-neon laser with a knife edge in the beam to simulate the
solar edge. These tests demonstrated the feasibility of the dual-rate, read-out technique
for solar edge tracking and show that the required update rate can be achieved with
low-power levels for control and data acquisition.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: The immediate application of this design is to
a fine-pointing system for spaceborne solar telescopes. It can also be applied to
tracking systems, robotic vision systems, and surveillance.
Project Title:
High Speed Packet Switching
07.04-2800
High Speed Packet Switching
Proteon, Inc.
Two Technology Drive
Westborough, MA 01581
Nathan K. Salwen (617-898-2800)
GSFC -- NAS5-30287
Abstract:
The growth of data networks has resulted from the ability to interconnect dissimilar
computers and workstations on a single network and to connect dissimilar networks.
The former is made possible by standard protocols, notably the Internet Protocol
Suite (also known as TCP/IP). Networks are interconnected by a packet switching element
called a gateway, which permits unified packet transport. A significant problem is
the throughput of gateways. The goal of this innovation is the development of an
Internet gateway that can process packets at a rate to match the capabilities of
an advanced LAN (local area network) or higher speed phone lines without compromising
the architecture of Internet.
The Phase I SBIR effort explored the character of LAN and wide-area-network traffic
to be expected in the early 1990's. Existing LAN hardware and software architectures
were investigated in detail to determine where bottlenecks and performance limitations
exist. Next, the added performance expected from new technology such as high-speed
RISC (reduced instruction set computer) microprocessing was evaluated for porting
critical sections of router code to these devices. Possible software modifications
were also analyzed for their potential effect on performance. The results of the
Phase I effort are embodied in a hardware and software methodology for implementing
a packet switch which can achieve performance in excess of 25K packets per second
and 300 Mbps.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Effective interconnection of high-speed networks
using a well-proven, existing protocol suite (e.g., TCP/IP) will greatly expedite
their deployment for high- data-rate applications.
Project Title:
Intelligent Data Abstraction and Analysis
07.05-3223
Intelligent Data Abstraction and Analysis
L.N.K. Corp.
6811 Kenilworth Avenue #306
Riverdale, MD 20737
Barbara A. Lambird (301-927-3323)
GSFC -- NAS5-30280
Abstract:
An innovative, ground-based, data management system is required for intelligent,
automatic, data cataloging and characterization that will combine several computer
technologies, including third-generation expert system tools, advanced data structures,
and spatial, graphical, and multiple scientific databases. Past and current science
research is generating enormous amounts of many different kinds of data that are
presently stored primarily on magnetic tape. Often, each data set is largely inaccessible
to all but the few scientists who designed and built the original instruments, and
even for them the data may be cumbersome to use.
The data management system investigated has two general purposes: first, to screen
the data to form an archive that is useful in terms of scientific goals and, second,
to provide a scientist with the ability to browse the archive in near real-time in
a domain-specific manner for potentially useful data sets. Its core is a planning
system which is used to initiate and operate the data archiving and characterization,
to plan the interactions with the scientists, and to monitor the state of the archiving
procedures. A rudimentary planning system and simplified versions of the required
knowledge bases were implemented and tested in Phase I.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: The planning aspects of this project are applicable
to a wide range of archival data retrieval problems and intelligent user interfaces.
Project Title:
Viewcache: An Incremental Database Access Method for Distributed Library Systems
07.06-3759
Viewcache: An Incremental Database Access
Method for Distributed Library Systems
Advanced Communications Technology, Inc.
1209 Goth Lane
Silver Spring, MD 20904
Hyunchul Kang (301-384-3759)
GSFC -- NAS5-30265
Abstract:
One of the problems facing NASA today is to provide scientists efficient access
to a large number of distributed databases. A pointer-based, incremental database
access method, Viewcache, provides such an interface for accessing distributed data
sets and directories.Phase I proved the suitability of Viewcache by means of a demonstration
employing three astrophysics databases (IRAS, IUE, and Einstein) and a master directory.
The compactness of the pointer structures formed during database browsing and the
incremental access method allows searching and inter-database cross-referencing with
no actual data movement between database sites. Once the search is complete, the
set of collected pointers indicating the desired data is cached. Extending Viewcache
to include spatial access methods for accessing image data sets was shown to be very
useful. It eased query formulations by referring directly to the image and provided
efficient search for objects contained within a two-dimensional window.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Viewcache will be a stand-alone software product
running on personal computers, work stations, and mainframes. It will provide an
inexpensive access to heterogeneous and distributed databases.
Project Title:
07.07-0094
EOS Workstation
Vexcel Corporation
2905 Wilderness Place
Boulder, CO 80301
Franz Leberl (303-444-0094)
JPL -- NAS7-1026
Abstract:
Development of an image processing and graphics work station is needed to support
remote sensing research prior to and during the era of NASA's Earth Observing System
(EOS) to assist scientific users of multiple image and collateral data sets. This
work station is defined as an integrated platform for using geographic and collateral
information with imagery and image processing functions. The work station would serve
to integrate the numerous existing software packages for image processing with a
geographic information system via a convenient user interface. The specific innovation
is in the domain of image processing for geometry and visualization of multiple data
sets, areas that require specific attention in the EOS era.
Phase I included a survey of user requirements concerning both functions and performance
combined with performance analyses of the major computationally intensive functions.
The result is a top level design.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Applications of this research will be by the scientists
using EOS data. It could lead to a widely available, novel, integrated, remote-sensing
work station suited mostly for land studies.
Project Title:
Symbolic Imagery Management System
07.08-8430
Symbolic Imagery Management System
Consultant's Choice, Inc.
8800 Roswell Road #130
Atlanta, GA 30350
Paul D. Lampru, Jr. (404-992-8430)
GSFC -- NAS5-30271
Abstract:
The innovation pursued in this project is a symbolic, imagery-management system
(SIMS) for use initially by NASA scientists and, subsequently, by remote-sensor scientists
external to NASA. Integrating image data with graphic data structures and feature
information is very difficult using traditional digital representations. Separate
image and feature information data bases are commonly used, but the analyst is required
to maintain two or more databases and to perform mentally the integration of the
information. This project applies an innovative digital-to-symbolic transformation
algorithm (DSTA) to NASA-supplied imagery. This innovation employs a technique that
represents gray-scale images symbolically in Lisp to develop software that allows
smooth integration of image data, graphic data structures, and feature information.
The user will be able to create and maintain such an integrated database, to embed
feature information directly into images, to integrate graphic data structures with
images, and to query the image database based upon information content.
Phase I successfully demonstrated the feasibility and potential of both DSTA and
symbolic image-analysis and, in addition, found that the use of artificial neural
systems provides a substantive increase in the efficiency and accuracy of image segmentation
and classification .
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Commercial applications may be for satellite imagery
and imagery dealing with manufacturing productivity and robotics.
Project Title:
Continuous-Wave Signal Detector for SETI
07.09-2140
Continuous-Wave Signal Detector for SETI
Silicon Engines, Inc.
955 Commercial Street
Palo Alto, CA 94303
Jerome F. Duluk (415-967-5544)
ARC -- NAS2-12808
Abstract:
The SETI (search for extra-terrestrial intelligence) approach for finding extra-terrestrial
artificial signals includes the detection of weak, narrow-band, continuous-wave (CW)
signals among a large number of noisy narrow-band channels. The CW signals may drift
slowly in frequency, and the many choices for frequency and drift make computation
an arduous task and CW detection difficult. A special computer architecture is proposed
as a solution to the CW signal detection problem in the SETI.
A key part of the innovation is a minimal-precision, matched-filter processor that
is ideally suited for custom, very large scale integration. This computer incorporates
a new concept in the design of a minimal-precision-filter (MPF) integrated circuit
devised in Phase I. A single MPF chip will contain approximately 200 filters and
perform 200 complex multiply-accumulate operations every 50 ns. A system using 2000
of these chips in parallel will perform 8 trillion complex multiply-accumulate operations
per second. Using this device as the CW detector computation engine alleviates the
computation bottleneck and replaces all competing alternatives in performance, size,
and cost.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: This technology may apply to radars capable of
providing simultaneous, ultra-high resolution in both velocity and range; digital
coding and encryption; and recovery and detection of spread spectrum transmissions.
Project Title:
Image-Quality Ultraviolet Interference Filters
08.01-7513
Image-Quality Ultraviolet Interference Filters
Barr Associates, Inc.
2 Lyberty Way
Westford, MA 01886
Thomas A. Mooney (617-692-7513)
JPL -- NAS7-1021
Abstract:
Present ultraviolet filters can have very high spectral performance, but the best
spectral performance generally requires materials and filter construction which are
not well qualified for use in space and have marginal image quality. The objective
of this effort is to improve this situation by reducing to a minimum the number of
substrates used and totally eliminating cement and color glasses. In order to do
this, more robust and spectrally stable filter coatings must be developed which can
be employed as open, unprotected filter elements. The bulk of this work involves
developing these coating materials and deposition processes and applying them to
space-qualified substrates. The primary deposition techniques are ion-assisted deposition
and reactive sputtering. Oxide and nitride materials are the prime coating material
candidates, with fluorides used where necessary at the shortest wavelengths. Aluminum
is expected to be the primary metal used.
Phase I results proved the feasibility of the proposed technique. Durable, stable,
unprotected filter coatings were produced on a single substrate.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Commercial applications exist in the clinical instrument
market where extremely long-life, service-free, stable filters are needed. Other
applications exist in process control or analytical instruments used in harsh environments
where servicing is difficult or expensive.
Project Title:
HYMOSSTM Signal Processing for Pushbroom Spectral Imaging
08.01-8211
HYMOSSTM Signal Processing for Pushbroom
Spectral Imaging
Irvine Sensors Corporation
3001 Redhill Avenue, Bldg 3 #208
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
David E. Ludwig (714-549-8211)
JPL -- NAS7-1008
Abstract:
Pushbroom spectral imaging (PSI) systems are frequently capable of generating much
more data than can be transmitted to the ground. Furthermore, extensive ground calibration
often impedes the full utilization of the data. These problems may be solved by application
of commercial, focal-plane-array technology which provides massively parallel processing
of each detector's signals. This processing can be programmable, occur in real time,
and include non-uniformity (gain and offset) calibration, digitization, and buffering.
The proposed innovation is a signal-processing, integrated circuit (IC) which will
enable PSI systems to generate higher data throughput and to be self calibrating.
The Phase I effort consisted of requirements definition, electronics specification,
IC design, control unit specification, and planning of future work. This work showed
the feasibility of placing gain compensation, offset correction, and automatic detector
and readout electronics calibration circuitry, anti-aliasing filtering, and analog-to-digital
conversion on the focal plane on a per-channel basis to provide high performance
remote sensing capabilities for PSI systems. Preliminary designs for the critical
integrated circuit components have been completed and were tested using computer
simulation software.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Applications are high-resolution IR spectrometers,
thermal imaging systems, environmental monitoring and analysis, forest fire detection,
and power line monitoring.
Project Title:
High Sensitivity Active Cavity Radiometer
08.02-0071
High Sensitivity Active Cavity Radiometer
The Radiometrics Corporation
PO Box 215
Altadena, CA 91001
Richard C. Willson
GSFC -- NAS5-30288
Abstract:
The Activity Cavity Radiometer Irradiance Monitor experiment on the Solar Maximum
Mission has demonstrated the state-of-the-art accuracy and precision for solar observations
of active cavity radiometer (ACR) sensors in space flight. The design and operational
advantages of the solar ACR sensors have been successfully applied to wide and medium
field of view earth-viewing sensors on the Earth Radiation Budget (ERB) experiments.
If the sensitivity of the solar ACR sensors were increased by between one and two
orders of magnitude, the advantages could be applied to the narrow field of view
observations of future ERB-type experiments, replacing the inaccurate and unreliable
scanning systems in current use. The objective of this project was to modify the
ACR solar sensor cavity design and electronics to achieve such an improvement in
performance without sacrificing accuracy.
During Phase I (not complete at this writing), the cavity of a new detector was
designed and procured, the electronic boards for the detector and the electronics
for testing were fabricated, and the software for test and analysis was developed.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Applications would include any optical radiation
measurement tasks that require state-of-the-art accuracy and precision at the irradiance
levels corresponding to 1 to 100 percent of the total solar irradiance (1368 watts/square
meter).
Project Title:
Low-Cost Doppler Micro-Radar Rain Gauge
08.02-1512
Low-Cost Doppler Micro-Radar Rain Gauge
Ophir Corporation
3190 S. Wadsworth Blvd., Suite 100
Lakewood, CO 80227
Loren D. Nelson (303-986-1512)
GSFC -- NAS5-30285
Abstract:
New NASA satellite remote sensing programs such as the Tropical Rainfall Measuring
Project, which intend to measure global precipitation, require "ground truth" calibration.
The overall goal of this project is a practical and inexpensive precipitation gage
based on miniature, frequency-modulated, continuous-wave Doppler radar technology.
It would be suited to shipboard or land use.
The Phase I effort was aimed determining which frequency band provided the best
overall characteristics for measuring rainfall. At X-band frequencies, conditions
for scattering are better met, and the water vapor in the atmosphere absorbs less.
On the other hand, droplet reflectivity is greater at K-band, making stronger Doppler
signals possible. Prototype equipment included both X-band and K-band transceivers
which permitted simultaneous observation of performance under identical environmental
conditions. Test results indicate that K-band offers the greatest overall advantages.
The stronger Doppler signal and lower error rate tip the scales in its favor.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Commercial uses would be to measure rainfall at
sea in order to improve the National Weather Service data base and to support the
NASA Tropical Rainfall Measuring Project to measure droplet-size distributions, cloud
ceiling height at airports, and present weather conditions.
Project Title:
Monolithic GaAs Digitizer for Space-Based Laser Altimeter Pulse-Spreading Effect
08.02-9388
Monolithic GaAs Digitizer for Space-Based Laser
Altimeter Pulse-Spreading Effect
Amerasia Technology, Inc.
620-1 Hampshire Road
Westlake Village, CA 91361
Binney Y. Lao (805-495-9388)
GSFC -- NAS5-30266
Abstract:
An innovative, miniature, low-power, GHz wave-form digitizer system for analyzing
space-based laser altimeter pulse spreading is under development. The system consists
of a 6-bit, monolithic gallium arsenide, flash analog-to-digital converter using
enhancement and depletion mode technology with latching comparators, a de-multiplexer
to reduce the output data rate, a surface acoustic wave 1 GHz oscillatorclock, and
a random-access buffer memory for interfacing with the 8-bit parallel bus of the
altimeter system computer. The advantages of the approach are the following: low
power consumption of the 6-bit converter (less than one watt), low voltages, component
production using existing foundry processes, ability to interface with low-speed
system processors, and a GHz surface-acoustic-wave clock that provides a stable reference
with low power consumption and small size.
In Phase I, the digitizer was designed to analyze the pulse spreading effects in
a space-based altimeter. This design is unique because it uses only inverters and
NOR gates for the converters and the encoder; hence, it can be fabricated by means
of existing, state-of-the-art processing techniques for gallium-arsenide.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Potential commercial applications are in high-speed
signal processing, medical electronics, scientific research, and microwave astronomy.
The firm intends to develop the digitizer system as a commercial product interfacing
with personal computers.
Project Title:
High-Resolution Remote Sensing for Earth Observation
08.03-4080
High-Resolution Remote Sensing for Earth
Observation
TS Infosystems, Inc.
4200 Forbes Blvd, Suite 100
Lanham, MD 20706
Warren A. Hovis (301-731-4080)
ARC -- NAS2-12815
Abstract:
The proposed effort was to design an optical sensor that would demonstrate the
capability of linear detector arrays, coupled with a suitable telescope, to provide
2.5 meter spatial resolution from spacecraft altitudes. The two most difficult problems
in building such a sensor are to arrange several detector arrays so that they appear
to be contiguous and aligned and to design a collector telescope to image a reasonably
wide swath width on the arrays with optical quality to match the required resolution.
The Phase I effort was to carry out the design, including the positioning of the
filters that will define the spectral bandpass, and to produce plans that could be
used to fabricate a breadboard for aircraft testing of the concept. Off-the-shelf
arrays, now being manufactured in the US, were to be used, and it was planned to
explore several options for the telescope. This project was terminated upon the departure
of the principle investigator from the company.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: The technique of butting several arrays could be
of use to industrial applications of detector arrays.
Project Title:
Ruby Crystal Chlorophyll Fluorometer for Measurements of Photosynthesis Rates
08.04-9500
Ruby Crystal Chlorophyll Fluorometer for
Measurements of Photosynthesis Rates
Aerodyne Research, Inc
45 Manning Road
Billerica, MA 01821
Paul Kebebian (617-663-9500)
ARC -- NAS2-12776
Abstract:
The goal of this project was to establish the feasibility of a spectral-line discriminator
for the measurement of chlorophyll fluorescence from plants. The spectral-line discriminator
operates on the oxygen absorption line at 693.6 nm, using the R1 line of ruby as
a tunable, narrow-band filter.
The line discriminator built to test this concept was able to detect the presence
of the absorption line in sunlight reflected from a non-fluorescent natural surface.
However, the signal-to-noise ratio of this particular instrument was not large enough
to detect, by reduction of the depth of the absorption line, the expected level of
fluorescence from plants. The signal-to-noise ratio could be improved by more efficient
collection of light from the crystals and by the use of crystals having a less strain-broadened
R1 line. Theoretical calculations predict a signal-to-noise ratio greater than ten
for an observing time of one second.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: The potential applications could be for large area
measurements of photosynthesis rates for NASA global biology studies, in the plant
biology and atmospheric research communities, and in commercial agricultural enterprises
for crop monitoring purposes.
Project Title:
Software Package to Compute the Incoming and Net Solar Irradiance at the Surface from
08.05-5049C
Software Package to Compute the Incoming and
Net Solar Irradiance at the Surface from
GOES-VISSR Data
Earth Space Research, Inc.
3840 Sequoia Street
San Diego, CA 92109
Frederick C. Mertz (619-273-5049)
JPL -- NAS7-1005
Abstract:
The objective of this work is to develop a commercial software system with the
capability of computing daily, short-term, mean incident, and net solar irradiance
at any location on the surface of the globe with a spatial resolution of 1 to 50
km. These computations will be based on existing methods and new techniques developed
within the scope of this project.
During Phase I, the firm converted the Gautier et al. (1980) shortwave algorithm
into a prototype, image-processing system for mapping earth-surface, solar irradiance
and photosynthetically active radiation from GOES/VISSR satellite data. The project's
major accomplishments were the design and construction of an integrated software
system under the NASA-developed Transportable Applications Executive and the Land
Analysis System image analysis package. This work included development of GOES data
ingestion and manipulation functions, enhancement and integration of shortwave processing
functions, and construction of display functions for Raster Technologies display
systems. The technical feasibility of the prototype solar energy mapping system was
established in Phase I.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Applications can be broadly placed into five areas:
agriculture, land management, weather services, energy production and land and ocean
research. These have markets both nationally and internationally.
Project Title:
Imaging Altimeter Using Imaging Doppler Interferometry
08.06-2035
Imaging Altimeter Using Imaging Doppler
Interferometry
Novatech, Inc.
1745 East 1350 North
Logan, UT 84321
Bruce R. Peterson (801-750-2035)
JPL -- NAS7-1016
Abstract:
This Phase I activity examined the feasibility of using imaging Doppler interferometry
(IDI) as a method of obtaining three-dimensional, high-resolution images of the earth's
surface via radar from aircraft. Although the IDI technology has been applied successfully
to other applications, this is the first attempt to use the technology for imaging
of the earth's surface. The radar technology which has been used until now for creating
images is called synthetic aperture radar (SAR). SAR provides very good resolution
in one dimension and moderate resolution in a second direction provided that the
surface being imaged is horizontal. The third dimension is not obtainable with SAR.
Briefly stated, this research coupled IDI technology with radar technology to produce
three-dimensional images.
At the end of Phase I, the technology investigated has been shown to be feasible
for providing three-dimensional representations of geological surfaces down to approximately
one meter of resolution in each of the three directions.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Applications of three-dimensional imaging of the
earth's surface include studies in geomorphology and earth resources, military reconnaissance,
cartography, weather observation, night-time and foul weather vision for pilots,
and planetary surface studies.
Project Title:
Portable Multispectral Thermal Infrared Camera
08.06-5649
Portable Multispectral Thermal Infrared Camera
Daedalus Enterprises, Inc.
PO Box 1869
Ann Arbor, MI 48106
Frederick G. Osterwisch (313-769-5649)
JPL -- NAS7-1010
Abstract:
The project investigated a field-portable, multi-spectral, thermal infrared camera
for use in the NASA Geology Program to characterize the compositional and textural
heterogeneity of undisturbed surfaces. The results are the preliminary design and
performance specifications for an instrument that will provide data which will greatly
expand the knowledge of spectral properties of heterogeneous natural surfaces. This
information will aid efforts to perform geologic mapping and mineral exploration
through the use of airborne and space-based, multi-spectral, thermal infrared instruments.
The effort in Phase I included the investigation of alternative techniques for dispersion
and detection of the thermal infrared spectrum, field-of-view optics, field display
techniques, and digital data recording. A significant portion of the effort addressed
packaging design and power limitations necessary to provide a rugged, field-portable
instrument. The results of the Phase I research have established that it is feasible
to design and fabricate a portable multispectral thermal infrared camera. Moreover,
the research predicts that the performance of this instrument will meet the desired
performance parameters and will have the capability to be improved by substituting
new components as technological advances occur.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: In addition to geological investigations, the multi-spectral,
thermal infrared camera could have commercial applications in industrial process
control and quality analysis for the deposition of thin films on substrates.
Project Title:
Stabilized Lasers as Spectro-Radiometric Standards for Ultraviolet Electro-Optic
08.07-2627
Stabilized Lasers as Spectro-Radiometric
Standards for Ultraviolet Electro-Optic
Detectors
Cambridge Research and Instrumentation, Inc.
21 Erie Street
Cambridge, MA 02139
Peter V. Foukal (617-491-2627)
GSFC -- NAS5-30269
Abstract:
The innovation pursued in this project is an improvement in the calibration accuracy
of ultraviolet spectrometers through use of intensity-stabilized UV lasers as precise
illumination sources and a helium-cooled cavity radiometer as an absolute irradiance
standard. A calibration system using a stabilized continuous-wave UV laser to alternately
illuminate the detector under test and an absolute radiometer will allow a radiometric
measurement to be made at the laser's wavelength. An absolute accuracy of 0.1 percent
is achievable with this method.
The main objective of Phase I was to determine the feasibility of constructing an
automated facility for the calibration and testing of electro-optic detectors in
the UV spectral region (200-400 nm) based on stabilized lasers. Phase I resulted
in the successful stabilization of a laser beam at 257 nm, the first time that laser
light in the UV region has been stabilized. Phase I also produced a computer-controlled
facility for the characterization of electro-optic detectors. Various test sequences
capable of determining a detector's linearity, hysteresis, etc. were implemented.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: The firm plans to introduce the laser-based facility
to the electro-optics industry as a new tool for more accurate automated and convenient
characterization of detectors and optical instruments.
Project Title:
A Method to Provide Lower-Cost Crystal Properties Study Samples
08.08-0438A
A Method to Provide Lower-Cost Crystal
Properties Study Samples
Scientific Materials Corp.
P.O. Box 786
Bozeman, MT 59715
Ralph L. Hutcheson (406-585-3772)
LaRC -- NAS1-18639
Abstract:
There is need for crystal samples in studies of new laser materials. Current crystal
growth systems are expensive, and hence the experimenter normally limits the test
variables. The flame-fusion crystal growth process was investigated as a means to
provide lower-cost study samples as compared to currently available commercial sources.
The Phase I work demonstrated a method to produce lower-cost spectroscopic study
samples and a method to provide accurate analytical data on these samples. It also
has shown the need to investigate four areas: causes of cracking and frothing in
YAG (yttrium-aluminum-garnet), improvements in the analytical methods to determine
accurately the deposition coefficient for dopants in common laser host materials,
extension of the growth methods to advanced laser materials, and the influence of
highly purified raw materials.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: The applications would be in providing lower-cost,
higher-perfection laser rods, new laser design data, and a source of new laser-rod
study samples at a reasonable cost.
Project Title:
New Four-Level All-Solid-State Laser Source Within the 1.5 to 4 Micron Range
08.08-7528
New Four-Level All-Solid-State Laser Source
Within the 1.5 to 4 Micron Range
Solidlite Corporation
16150 N.E. 85th Street #217 V
Redmond, WA 98052
Larry G. Deshazer (206-882-7582)
LaRC -- NAS1-18619
Abstract:
A novel, four-level, solid-state laser based on a new combination of rare-earth
ions was proposed for use in remote atmospheric sensing and space-based lidar systems
that require radiation sources in the near infrared (NIR). Operation of current NIR
lasers involves quasi-three-level lasers with associated problems of strong temperature
dependence with increased thresholds and reduced efficiencies at room temperature.
In the new four-level laser, one ion acts as the sensitizer selectively absorbing
the diode pump light. The sensitizer ion transfers the pump energy to the other rare-earth
ion which performs as the laser-active ion.
Phase I studied two oxide crystals co-doped, for the first time, with the selected
ion pair. Fluorescence, absorption, and excitation spectra were investigated. It
was learned that the host should be a crystal with low-energy phonons, such as yttrium-lanthanum-fluoride
(YLF), for the laser-diode-pumped NIR laser. In addition, YLF is an uniaxial crystal
giving polarized emission which would enhance by two-fold the laser gain coefficients
perpendicular to the optical axis and would reduce the problems concerning thermal
loading of the laser crystal.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Commercial applications would be in remote sensing
of atmospheric constituents and pollutants, sensing industrial leaks and spillage,
and providing new wavelength coverage for scientific and medical instruments. An
efficient eye-safe laser could be used in wind sensing, low power materials processing,
and remote bar code reading.
Project Title:
Automatic Scanning Lidar System to Map Upper Tropospheric Aerosols and Clouds
08.09-1894
Automatic Scanning Lidar System to Map Upper
Tropospheric Aerosols and Clouds
Science and Technology Corporation
101 Research Drive
Hampton, VA 23666
Geoffrey S. Kent (804-865-2065)
LaRC -- NAS1-18631
Abstract:
An innovative lidar system which will provide three-dimensional mapping of upper
tropospheric aerosols and clouds was studied. Its application would be for altitudes
up to about 15 km and ranges of 30 km. The instrument would provide alternative forms
of color-coded, real-time displays of aerosol backscatter and cloud position as well
as storage of data for subsequent study and analysis. The system would scan the complete
sky using either a bi-directional scanning or a unidirectional scanning technique
employing a multiple beam system. This dedicated, multi-wavelength lidar system for
the study of upper tropospheric aerosols and cloud employs state-of-the-art technology
for its scanning and electronic data processing systems as well as little-used techniques
for the optimization of detector performance. The design is modular and flexible,
permitting easy modification for alternative studies.
Phase I of this project was concerned with the establishment of the science requirements,
interpretation of these in terms of system parameters, a study of available technology,
and detailed conceptual design for a prototype system. In addition, a menu-driven
simulation program was written, and simulations of the anticipated performance of
alternative system designs were carried out. It was found that certain design conflicts
arose in the achievement of the science objectives, and compromises were required.
The final design, a flexible state-of-the-art system capable of making a wide range
of measurements, employs the latest available technology and has been shown to be
capable of achieving the project goals.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: This instrument applies to the scientific study
of upper tropospheric phenomena.
Project Title:
Miniaturized Tandem Mass Spectrometer for Manned Space Missions
08.10-2214A
Miniaturized Tandem Mass Spectrometer for
Manned Space Missions
Viking Instruments Corporation
103-B Carpenter Drive
Sterling, VA 22170
Russell C. Drew (703-689-2214)
MSFC -- NAS8-37643
Abstract:
Advances in electronics, microcomputers, computer-aided instrument operation and
data analysis, and the science of mass spectroscopy have all combined to make possible
the development of a new, powerful, and versatile analytical tool that is suitable
for manned spacecraft use. The innovation addressed in this project is an advanced
spacecraft tandem mass spectrometer (ASTMS) that combines the miniaturized, space-proven,
Viking mass spectrometer with a small, space-qualified second stage, an electro-optical
detector system, and a unique approach to inter-stage fragmentation to yield an instrument
with unprecedented performance in an extremely lightweight, rugged package.
The components of the system, defined and tested in Phase I, provide for the first
time an opportunity to bring the high selectivity of tandem mass spectrometer systems
to bear on the analytical tasks that will be required on advanced manned missions.
The ASTMS uses a highly automated operating system and performs multiple functions.
It will be capable of routine monitoring of the spacecraft atmosphere for trace contaminants,
providing rapid warning of hazardous conditions. In addition, it functions as a general
purpose analytical device using an alternate sample inlet to support the analytical
testing requirements of space biomedical, life sciences, micro-gravity, and scientific
investigations.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: A compact, portable, highly integrated system can
be used for field environmental monitoring, industrial process control, explosives
detection, and on-site biomedical testing.
Project Title:
On-Focal-Plane Processing for Atmospheric Measurements
08.10-8211
On-Focal-Plane Processing for Atmospheric
Measurements
Irvine Sensors Corporation
3001 Redhill Avenue, Bldg 3 #208
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
David E. Ludwig (714-549-8211)
MSFC -- NAS8-37628
Abstract:
A commonly used approach to the measurement and monitoring of atmospheric contaminants
is spectral finger printing of the suspect gases and other contaminants. A Fourier
transform infrared (FTIR) spectrometer simultaneously modulates each wavelength of
the transmission spectrum at different frequencies, which are superposed in the detector
output. Conventionally, a computer performs fast-Fourier transforms to generate the
spectra which are then analyzed. One of the major problems associated with this approach
is the large amount of data involved when the measurements are continuous and frequent.
The proposed innovation is to process spectra "on-the-fly" using signal processing
electronics integrated with the IR detector.
Successful completion of Phase I demonstrated that Z-plane technology for focal
plane architecture provides the space needed to implement on-focal-plane signal processing
and data reduction circuitry for a variety of atmospheric measurement instruments.
A baseline design was developed which includes a trans-impedance amplifier, band-pass
filter, threshold comparator, and event-driven multiplexer for each detector pixel.
The Phase I analysis indicates that realizing the level of circuit integration required
to achieve the original goals is low risk and within standard, commercial, radiation-hardened
foundry capability.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Applications may be found in security systems
and intrusion alarms, rapid-scan Fourier transform spectrometers, thermography, and
robot vision systems.
Project Title:
Automated Atmospheric Analysis for Manned Space Missions
08.10-9054
Automated Atmospheric Analysis for Manned
Space Missions
Mosaic Industries, Inc.
1260 L'Avenida, Suite B
Mountain View, CA 94043
Paul K. Clifford (415-961-9054)
MSFC -- NAS8-37630
Abstract:
A rugged and compact instrument is needed for identification and measurement of
contaminants in cabin atmospheres for manned space missions. Metal oxide semiconductor
(MOS) chemical sensors are well suited to the development of reliable, automated,
multi-gas analysis instruments. They are sensitive to a wide variety of toxic and
combustible gases and vapors at parts-per-million levels and are small, stable, rugged,
and long-lived. The principal drawbacks of presently available sensors are their
non-linear response and lack of selectivity; these have prevented their use in low-level
contaminant monitoring.
The Phase I effort took a chemometric approach to overcome these limitations by
augmenting arrays of semiconductor sensors with pattern recognition software. The
feasibility of pattern recognition techniques to identify selectively one of eight
representative contaminants based on measurements from arrays of as few as three
semiconductor sensors was demonstrated.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Commercial applications include multi-gas leak
detection, industrial hygiene monitoring, comprehensive in-plant chemical hazard
detection, hazardous waste management, indoor air quality assessment, and fuel spill
detection.
Project Title:
Free-Space Particulate Contamination Sizing and Counting System for Space Applications
08.11-3888A
Free-Space Particulate Contamination Sizing and
Counting System for Space Applications
SKW Corp.
1901 North Moore Street, #1204
Arlington, VA 22209
Scott J. Bartel (703-243-3888)
GSFC -- NAS5-30290
Abstract:
Spaceborne particles from either man-made or natural sources can cause undesirable
effects on spaceborne optical systems and micro-gravity manufacturing systems requiring
a "clean" vacuum. A system capable of making multiple, particle size and count measurements
in free space would be an asset for establishing the particulate contamination on
the STS Orbiter, the Space Station, and other spaceborne systems.
The innovation explored in this project, a particle imaging measuring system (PIMS),
will provide real-time engineering data regarding the size and frequency distribution
of particulate contaminants in the micro-gravity and vacuum environment of space.
The PIMS requires the following elements to perform this function: an illumination
source, a solid-state imager, and image processing hardware and software. The technique
investigated used a gated xenon strobe, macro-optical systems, a solid-state video
imager, and signal processing electronics to correlate backscatter with known particle
sizes. Additional work indicates that far better size correlation will be achieved
by using a scanned laser as an illumination source. What makes this approach interesting
is that it would be a relatively compact, low-cost instrument capable of continuous
monitoring of the particulate environment.
Phase I efforts successfully demonstrated the imager and image processing elements
by measuring back scatter from a test target. Phase I also revealed test and illumination
techniques which lead to the solutions proposed for possible future efforts.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: The instrument described in this abstract has the
potential to become a standard feature for space-borne optical and manufacturing
systems where absolute knowledge of the contamination environment is required.
Project Title:
Three-Stage Linear Split-Stirling Cryocooler with 1 to 2K Magnetic Cold Stage
08.12-3708A
Three-Stage Linear Split-Stirling Cryocooler with
1 to 2K Magnetic Cold Stage
APD Cryogenics, Inc.
1919 Vultee Street
Allentown, PA 18103
Ralph C. Longsworth (215-481-3708)
ARC -- NAS2-12643
Abstract:
This project is aimed at developing a cryocooler for space-borne, infrared astronomical
telescopes which require 50 mW or less cooling at 1 to 2 K. It consists of a linear-drive,
three-stage, split-Stirling cryocooler which will produce refrigeration at 8 K to
cool a niobium-tin, alternating-current, superconducting magnet and a magnetic cold
stage. During Phase I, the design of the refrigerator was studied to determine the
size, weight and power input. Specific areas of innovation include: warm and cold,
flexible, suspension means; a concentric, three-stage expander with clearance seals;
a new, cold regenerator geometry; cold heat switches; and a conduction-cooled 8 K
ac superconducting magnet.
The design studies confirmed the feasibility of the refrigerator concept to achieve
the desired goals in a practical design capable of achieving long life in space with
low noise and vibration levels. Results of the analysis show the cold end to have
a volume of about 6 liters and a weight of 22 kilograms while the compressor volume
is about 20 liters and weight is 64 kilograms. Total system power input is about
720 watts. Weights and power include magnetic shielding but not power supply components.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Applications are in cost effective refrigeration
systems for cryo-pumps and cryo-electronic devices, including computers. With the
magnetic cold stage, the refrigerator will offer a competitive way of liquefying
helium (e.g., cooling magnets) and providing low temperatures for basic research.
Project Title:
Microanalytical Characterization of Biogenic Components of Interplanetary Dust
08.13-4567
Microanalytical Characterization of Biogenic
Components of Interplanetary Dust
Charles Evans & Associates
301 Chesapeake Drive
Redwood City, CA 94063
Filippo Radicati Di Brozolo (415-369-4567)
ARC -- NAS2-12818
Abstract:
This project investigated the analysis of interplanetary dust particles (IDP) using
several microanalytical techniques. The analysis requires the development of non-contaminating
techniques for particle preparation and analysis, especially with respect to the
distribution of the biogenic elements H, C, N, O, P and S. Quantitative microanalysis
of the biogenic elements and of the organic molecules in IDP is necessary to improve
the understanding of the organic chemistry in the early solar system and in the interstellar
medium. Consistent with the ultra-fine grain size of IDP, quantitative analytical
methods with sub-micrometer lateral resolution were explored using Auger electron
spectrometry, secondary ion mass spectrometry with ion imaging, and laser microprobe
mass spectrometry. Improvements of these techniques were addressed for the chemical,
textural, and isotopic characterization of selected standard materials and IDP.
The Phase I research demonstrated the feasibility of producing microtome cross sections
of IDP analogs from particles embedded in non-contaminating metallic media and of
acquiring hydrogen-isotope-ratio images from an IDP. These are the first isotope-ratio
images ever produced for an IDP. Various organic microanalytical procedures using
a laser ionization microprobe were also tested, and new analytical methods for the
organic analysis of IDP were identified.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: A commercial particle characterization facility
with a complete range of analytical instrumentation will serve clients from the semiconductor,
magnetic storage media, biomedical materials, environmental analysis, and government
sectors.
Project Title:
A Magnetically-Controlled Power Distribution and Control System
08.15-2960
A Magnetically-Controlled Power Distribution and
Control System
C. T. K. Enterprises
PO Box 17879
Anaheim, CA 92817
Charles T. Kleiner (714-974-2960)
GSFC -- NAS5-30274
Abstract:
The innovation investigated involves the use of a vector-controlled magnetic power
distribution technique which promises the following benefits: high reliability, low
noise, inherent short-circuit limiting, ease in scaling for differing voltage and
current loads, circuit isolation, radiation hardness, producibility and repeatability,
and relatively low cost.
The Phase I results showed that the vector-controlled magnetic power distribution
technique operated as predicted. A breadboard was demonstrated at the NASA Goddard
Space Flight Center in May of 1988 followed by a demonstration of a combination of
a breadboard-brassboard version of the "point design" in July of 1988. Although these
were both preliminary versions, they nevertheless gave a strong indication that the
basic principles were sound and could be further perfected.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: This innovation is applicable to any power system
where weight, efficiency, reliability, and relatively low cost are key requirements.
Project Title:
Space Suit Thermal Control Using Non-Toxic Microencapsulated Two-Phase PCM Fluid
12.01-2878
Space Suit Thermal Control Using Non-Toxic
Microencapsulated Two-Phase PCM Fluid
Triangle Research and Development Corp.
PO Box 12696
Research Triangle Park, NC 27709
David P. Colvin (919-467-2878)
JSC -- NAS9-17952
Abstract:
An investigation was conducted of a novel latent cooling fluid containing microencapsulated
phase change materials (PCMs) for spacesuit liquid cooling garments. The PCM slurry
could provide enhanced thermal properties and crew comfort as well as thermal control
simplicity. Emphasis was placed upon development of a PCM slurry coolant system with
a passive control strategy.
The Phase I results indicated the technical feasibility for the approach and suggested
specific criteria for its implementation. Both single-PCM slurries and multiple-PCM
mixtures exhibited novel and enhanced thermal properties exceeding those for water.
Fluid thermal capacitance exceeded by 50 times that of water while the heat transfer
coefficient was enhanced by over 100 percent. Latent heat transport within the microencapsulated
PCM slurry was also seen to provide practically isothermal thermal management across
the circulating fluid system. A non-toxic and non-flammable coolant with microencapsulated
PCMs should provide enhanced heat transport in a liquid-cooled garment and improve
astronaut comfort. Current designs of liquid-cooled garments use water with a sophisticated
active control system. A PCM coolant requires a simpler passive control strategy.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Liquid-cooled garments can be used by fire fighters,
deep sea divers, Arctic workers, patients, and industrial and military personnel.
Project Title:
Extravehicular Mobility Unit Helmet-Mounted Display
12.01-4995
Extravehicular Mobility Unit Helmet-Mounted
Display
APA Optics, Inc.
2950 N.E. 84th Lane
Blaine, MN 55432
David E. Stoltzman (612-784-4995)
JSC -- NAS9-17929
Abstract:
Helmet-mounted-display (HMD) systems present many potential benefits in the use
of space suits for extravehicular operations. Phase I investigated the preliminary
optical and mechanical design of a new concept for incorporating an HMD system with
the extravehicular mobility unit (EMU), taking into consideration day and night operations.
The Phase I study was conceived initially as a conventional optics study. At NASA's
request, however, a preliminary evaluation of a holographic optics approach was conducted.
Phase I has shown that the requirements for an HMD for the EMU can be satisfied
by either a conventional or a holographic-based optical system using available cathode-ray-tube
technology. The conventional optical system can be fabricated with high confidence
and will meet or exceed requirements. The conventional optics design was completed
and a mock-up constructed to demonstrate the concept. The alternate optics design
concept using holographic elements has the potential for a smaller envelope and could
provide an improved operational system. Thus, this approach has been chosen as the
prime concept.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: The helmet-mounted-display unit can be used to
provide information in maintenance and repair operations in remote locations or restrictive
spaces and in situations involving use of protective clothing. Specific examples
are aircraft maintenance, all forms of nuclear operations, surgery, servicing during
inclement weather, construction, and commercial space operations.
Project Title:
Oxygen Extraction from Mars for Advanced Life Support and Power
12.01-8553
Oxygen Extraction from Mars for Advanced Life
Support and Power
Aquanautics Corp.
980 Atlantic Avenue #101
Alameda, CA 94501
Bruce D. Zenner (415-652-8553)
JSC -- NAS9-17931
Abstract:
For all advanced missions, in addition to oxygen supplies carried from earth, NASA
has a requirement for a system that either collects in-situ planetary oxygen or generates
it from plant growth chambers. Conventional oxygen separation techniques are not
capable of efficient extraction from a low concentration atmosphere such as Mars.
A system based on circulating-carrier oxygen-separation (CCOS) technology to extract
oxygen in such situations was explored. This technology is a spin-off from a five-year
Department of Defense program to develop an artificial gill. During Phase I, feasibility
was explored by performing a preliminary design of a base-case system to extract
oxygen from the Martian atmosphere. Estimated specific power, mass, and volume compare
favorably with other technologies. Feasibility was demonstrated by an experiment
that used a small-scale CCOS system to extract oxygen from simulated Martian atmosphere.
This technology may apply to advanced missions that require capturing the free oxygen
in-situ from the Martian atmosphere, recovering oxygen from the Martian or lunar
soil, or concentrating oxygen from plant growth chambers in planetary bases. The
technology may also be useful for recovering oxygen leaking from a cabin module.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: The company has several commercial, joint-venture
partners that are supporting the technology, including L'Air Liquide, the world's
largest industrial gas manufacturer.
Project Title:
A Variable Transmittance Electrochromic Space Suit Visor
12.01-9450
A Variable Transmittance Electrochromic Space
Suit Visor
EIC Laboratories, Inc.
111 Downey Street
Norwood, MA 02062
Stuart F. Cogan (617-769-9450)
JSC -- NAS9-17939
Abstract:
An astronaut in a space suit will experience sharp changes in direct and indirect
solar flux which can result in visual impairment. Present helmet assemblies are equipped
with a fixed transmittance sun-visor and opaque fiberglass eye shades that are manipulated
manually by the astronaut. The proposed innovation is a variable transmittance sun-visor
based on electro-chromic optical switching. The sun-visor would have a laminated,
thin-film structure that could be integrated into the protective visor of a spacesuit
helmet assembly. The visor would have an optical transmittance variable between
10 and 70 percent controlled by the astronaut or an automatic sensor. Selective modulation
of prescribed locations on the helmet is possible, allowing built-in peripheral eye
shading.
The Phase I program demonstrated electro-chromic switching in polycarbonate laminates
and near-neutral density optical modulation. Electro-chromic devices on glass substrates
have been tested for 20,000 full switching cycles without degradation, with typical
switching ranges between 15 and 65 percent transmittance (400-700 nm). Thus far the
program has emphasized an electro-chromic system based on thin films of amorphous
tungsten trioxide and amorphous iridium oxide which color and bleach synchronously
in a laminated structure.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Aerospace applications include sun-visors, space
vehicle windows, optical scientific equipment, and thermal management/glare control
coatings in aircraft transparencies. Terrestrial commercial opportunities include
eye-wear, automobile sunroofs, variable reflectance mirrors, optical equipment, and
some building window applications.
Project Title:
Removal of Contaminants from Experiment Waste Water Using Immobilized Enzymes
12.02-5202B
Removal of Contaminants from Experiment Waste Water Using Immobilized Enzymes
Umpqua Research Company
PO Box 791
Myrtle Creek, OR 97457
Gerald V. Colombo (503-863-5201)
MSFC -- NAS8-37642
Abstract:
Reverse osmosis and conventional adsorption methods do not remove some types of
organic contaminants from waste streams. Examples of such contaminants are ethanol,
methanol, and urea. Specific enzymes exist that catalyze reactions to convert these
contaminants to compounds that are efficiently removed. These enzymes, when immobilized,
can be used in a packed-bed configuration which can be integrated with water reclamation
units of current environmental closed life support systems (ECLSS).
Immobilized enzymes were demonstrated during the Phase I effort as highly efficient
biocatalysts to convert urea and alcohols to compounds that are efficiently removed
by existing technologies. Immobilized urease beds were successfully tested for a
continuous period of 80 days. When included in an adsorption system and challenged
with waste shower water, all measurable urea and its decomposition products were
removed.
Alcohol oxidase was shown to catalyze the oxidation of ethanol and methanol to the
corresponding aldehydes and was identified as a catalyst for oxidation of twelve
potential waste stream contaminants. One of the reaction products, hydrogen peroxide,
was found to inhibit enzyme function. Methods to decompose the H2O2 to water and
oxygen were identified but not developed under Phase I.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: The immobilized urease developed in this project
has applications in kidney dialysis and in treatment of wastewater containing urea,
e.g., municipal wastewater and effluents from slaughterhouses and urea manufacturing
plants. A stable alcohol oxidase preparation would be useful for elimination of alcohols
and formaldehyde from dilute aqueous solution.
Project Title:
Red Blood Cell Measurements Using Resonance Ionization Spectroscopy
12.03-1113
Red Blood Cell Measurements Using Resonance
Ionization Spectroscopy
Atom Sciences, Inc.
355 Paint Branch Drive
College Park, MD 20742
Larry J. Moore (301-454-7751)
JSC -- NAS9-17932
Abstract:
Astronauts and animals flown in micro-gravity have experienced a loss of red blood
cell mass, but mechanisms causing this phenomenon are not understood. Preparations
for in-flight hematology studies include a desire to eliminate radioactive tracers
and substitute safe, stable isotopes, while utilizing microliter volume blood samples
for making red cell measurements. Phase I studies have demonstrated the basic feasibility
of using stable isotopes of chromium and iron as tracers to measure red cell mass,
survival, and production in ten microliter blood samples from rats. Picogram and
femtogram sensitivities were demonstrated for the minor isotopes of iron and chromium,
respectively, using laser resonance ionization spectroscopy.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Possible applications are in diagnostic tests for
hematologic disorders, pediatric and neonatalogical monitoring, and general stable
isotope monitoring of physiological functions.
Project Title:
Medical Microbiology Test Station for Microgravity
12.03-1304
Medical Microbiology Test Station for
Microgravity
Austin Biological Laboratories, Inc.
6620-A Manor Road
Austin, TX 78723
Dennis Ray Schneider (512-928-1304)
JSC -- NAS9-17933
Abstract:
The purpose of this project was to develop a prototype comprehensive microbiological
system suitable for use in microgravity. A unique, thin-film system was investigated
which provides for the isolation and identification of bacterial, viral, and fungal
pathogens and, where appropriate, allows for determination of antibiotic susceptibility.
The film is stored in a desiccated state stable at room temperature for extended
periods and is rehydrated immediately prior to use. Only small amounts of liquids
are required, thus reducing the likelihood of infectious aerosol formation when in
use. Film size is 1 mm x 7.5 cm x 2.5 cm.
During Phase I testing of this system, 100 percent sensitivity and specificity was
obtained in the identification of various species of bacteria. The dry-film format
also proved to be effective in determining bacterial susceptibility to antibiotics.
Other research showed how this innovation could be applied in the detection of viruses.
The prototype system developed in this project is readily usable in an automated
reader or in visual analysis.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: A need exists for a reduced-space, modular, microbiology
work station in both the physician's office and third world hospital facilities.
Project Title:
Kinematic Data Gathering System for Determining Human Motion in Zero Gravity
12.04-1987
Kinematic Data Gathering System for Determining Human Motion in Zero Gravity
Phoenix Engineering & Computing, Inc.
3102 Watford Way
Madison, WI 53713
Rimantas Buinevicius (608-274-1987)
JSC -- NAS9-17947
Abstract:
A need currently exists to develop a kinematic data gathering system small enough
to allow free movement of subjects in both ground-based, zero-G simulation studies
and space-based shuttle missions. The system studied in this project measures kinematic
motion through the use of orthogonally mounted, linear accelerometers.
Initial results of the Phase I study of a five- segment model show that the use
of five, three-dimensional accelerometer units gives inaccurate results. At least
eight such units are needed for mounting points on the shoulder joints, the wrists,
the hip joints, and the ankles. A nine-segment model requires at least eleven accelerometers.
Here mounting would occur at the wrists, elbows, shoulder joints, waist, knees, and
ankles. Since each joint would be equipped with units containing three orthogonally
mounted accelerometers, motion of each limb segment would be measured by six accelerometers.
Phase I studies confirmed the technical feasibility of fabricating small, unobtrusive
measurement units which overcome the inhibiting effects of current kinematic measurement
systems. Size constraints are within bounds, required accelerometer response is achievable,
and software will allow real-time mapping of positional data.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: The system described would have commercial applications
in judging athletes' performance by graphical representation, in rehabilitation medicine,
in the science of kinesiology for monitoring prosthetic motion in real-time, and
in the science of epidemiology for monitoring habitual physical activity.
Project Title:
High-Resolution Electronic Photography
12.05-0298B
High-Resolution Electronic Photography
CCE - Robotics
PO Box 9315
Berkeley, CA 94709
M. J. Malachowski (415-848-0298)
JSC -- NAS9-17935
Abstract:
A reusable, photosensitive panel was proposed to capture images which can be used
to produce high-resolution electronic photographs. The technology involved parallels
that of xerography in copiers. Once the image is stored on the dielectric panel,
it can be "read" by stimulating a pixel region with laser light. Absorption or excitation
by the light is a function of the image intensity of the pixel. This value will be
measured by the monitoring photo luminescence charge. The photo current produced
is converted to a digital value. The digital image can be stored, manipulated, and
displayed using currently available computer imaging technology.
In Phase I, designs were prepared for two imaging plate configurations which have
the potential of meeting the criteria required for high-resolution, panchromatic
electronic photography. One would be assembled from commercially available components;
the second requires the custom fabrication of thin films produced by chemical vapor
deposition. Image resolution is proportional to size of the image plate.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: The electronic still camera has numerous applications
for space, scientific, industrial, commercial, and amateur photography. It is ideal
for long-term missions where resupply is difficult, e.g., lunar and Martian trips
and missions where microgravity makes wet processing difficult.
Project Title:
Space Laundry Cleansing Agent and Filter Development
12.05-5201
Space Laundry Cleansing Agent and Filter
Development
Umpqua Research Company
PO Box 791
Myrtle Creek, OR 97457
Gerald V. Colombo (503-863-5201)
JSC -- NAS9-17953
Abstract:
NASA's Space Station laundry facility requires a suitable cleansing agent and a
filter for treating laundry water before it is fed to a water reclamation system.
The laundry cleansing agent must be compatible with the cleansing agents developed
for the shower when the two waste streams are combined in the water reclamation system.
The filter must eliminate the fouling observed in waste treatment systems involving
shower and laundry water containing hair, lint, and epithelia. A disposable filter
has been developed for the shower which efficiently removes all particles larger
than 100 mesh and has been shown to dramatically increase the life of subsequent
finer filters. A similar filter is needed for the treatment of laundry water immediately
as it is generated to prevent fouling of pumps and separators and to provide compatibility
with the reclamation subsystems.
During Phase I, a laundry filter concept was evaluated. In this concept, a roll
of filter media unwinds from a spool, advances across a filter support, and is then
rewound onto a second spool. Candidate filter materials were tested with real laundry
water, and designs were projected for the Space Station application. In addition,
five cleansing formulations were developed that meet requirements of the Space Station
and were recommended for further evaluation.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: The cleansing agent may prove to be superior to
present available formulations. The automatic coarse filter should have a wide range
of industrial applications.
Project Title:
Modular Environmental Control Life Support System for a Mid-Deck Animal Habitat
12.06-1262
Modular Environmental Control Life Support
System for a Mid-Deck Animal Habitat
Down to Earth
2039 Shattuck Avenue, Suite 402
Berkeley, CA 94704
Richard C. Mains (415-548-1262)
ARC -- NAS2-12820
Abstract:
Existing holding facilities for animal specimens used in spaceflight life science
studies are inadequate for supporting long-duration experiments for the Space Station
and bioplatforms. New technologies are required to provide biological, gaseous, and
radioisotope isolation, specimen interchangability, and independent life support
for earth-to-orbit transport and on biosatellites. These new technologies will require
extensive ground and space-based testing with specimens. The goal of this project
was to assess the feasibility of developing a modular environmental control and life
support system (ECLSS) for an animal specimen habitat compatible with installation
in two shuttle mid-deck lockers. The system, the controlled environment animal habitat
(CEAH), is designed to require only power from the shuttle and to operate in a closed
mode for 14 days.
The work of Phase I indicates that the basic concept is feasible and accomplished
the following: identified essential life-support parameters for mice, rats, and squirrel
monkeys; specified which parameters are to be monitored and controlled; designed
and fabricated the CEAH; developed software for system control; conducted short-term
CEAH hardware tests and a seven-day system test with two rats; produced conceptual
designs of CEAH contained within two mid-deck lockers; and assessed the capabilities
of CEAH to accommodate mice and squirrel monkeys.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Applications will be in support of ground and in-flight
bioengineering testing for the Space Station or bioplatforms developed by US and
international commercial, space services companies.
Project Title:
Accelerating Seed Germination and Plant Growth through Manipulation of Atmospheric Pressure
12.06-3053
Accelerating Seed Germination and Plant Growth
through Manipulation of Atmospheric Pressure
Growth Systems, Inc.
PO Box 2214
Glenview, IL 60025
R. Louis Ware (312-446-3053)
KSC -- NAS10-11467
Abstract:
Research conducted a few years ago indicated that subjecting seeds and plants to
frequent changes in atmospheric pressure may shorten germination time, improve the
rate of growth of young plants, and cause more massive and rapid root growth. The
pressure changes were within the range of atmospheric barometric variations; hence,
an environmental chamber of relatively simple construction with air expelled and
ingested by a vacuum turbine could create the required pressure differentials that
may produce accelerated germination and growth. Coupled with control of other environmental
parameters, this concept, if successful, could benefit applications such as the NASA
Controlled Ecological Life Support System (CELSS).
In Phase I, test results showed some positive responses of accelerated and more
uniform seed germination with pressure cycling. Although the effects were species-dependent,
pressure cycling also produced positive effects on plant growth. The Phase I results
were less than satisfactory because the experimental apparatus could not maintain
desirable humidity levels of 90 percent rather than the 40 to 70 percent range experienced.
This project has explored a phenomenon that effects plant growth in a variety of
ways. Further research should be done in a laboratory with sufficient resources and
enough time to understand better the growth responses and apply the findings to intensive
cultivation.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Prospective applications include commercial greenhouses
requiring more intensive cultivation and faster yields, in particular, for high value
crops and seedling production, commercial pre-conditioning (pressure) of seeds for
faster germination, and seed company use for germination tests.
Project Title:
Cell Culture in Microgravity: An Instrument to Monitor Growth and Cell Markers
12.07-7670
Cell Culture in Microgravity: An Instrument to
Monitor Growth and Cell Markers
Optra, Inc.
66 Cherry Hill Drive
Beverly, MA 01915
Bruce Crary (617-535-7670)
KSC -- NAS10-11457
Abstract:
Existing methods in cell culture for monitoring population growth and for localizing
and quantifying cellular bio-molecules require harvesting of cells and extensive
handling which usually results in cell death. These limitations must be overcome
for microgravity environments if applications of cell culture are to be realized
in the manned space station. An automated instrument proposed for monitoring cell
cultures includes the capability to quantify such cellular probes as antibodies that
have been labeled with heavy-metal colloids. The principles of laser-light scattering
are the conceptual basis for this instrument.
A breadboard instrument for static light scattering was built and tested during
the Phase I contract. It was well-suited to studies of the angular spectrum of light
scattered by dead cells in a culture and morphological indices of common cell types,
but the instrument was not able to quantify the presence of cellular probes because
the cells could not be labeled with enough colloidal gold for such measurements.
The firm developed new technologies which improved the sensitivity of light scattering
measurements. This led to the creation of a second breadboard instrument with far
greater potential than the original design. This dynamic light scattering instrument
measures phase rather than the intensity of the interference patterns scattered from
cells, particles, and macro-molecules in a suspension.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: The expected applications are in scientific and
industrial research conducted both in space and on earth.
Project Title:
A Space-Rated Nutrient Delivery Root/Support System
12.07-8606
A Space-Rated Nutrient Delivery Root/Support
System
PhytoResource Research, Inc.
707 Texas Avenue, Suite 101-E
College Station, TX 77840
H. W. Scheld (409-693-8606)
KSC -- NAS10-11461
Abstract:
There is a growing understanding that the interaction of the plant root with its
environment is critical to plant productivity. In a microgravity environment, available
evidence indicates that the activity in the root zone may become the major limiting
factor. Understanding of the exchange of metabolic gases and nutrient uptake by roots
is, thus, a critical issue in the development of plant support systems employed in
space for life support or for basic research. To address this issue, this project
was aimed specifically at providing data and technology for support of plant root
systems in advanced space life support systems.
Several configurations of a root metabolic chamber were designed for studies of
the effects of aeration and gas exchange upon plant functions. The read-out of plant
function in this apparatus is a system for measurement of carbon-11 uptake and phloem
transport generally known as the short-lived isotope kinetics system, which allows
real time observations of effects of changing shoot or root environments upon the
allocation of carbon in growing plants. A prototype of a shuttle locker-sized, plant
growth flight experiment facility was developed consisting of computer-controlled
valves and pumps to allow the regulation of aeration and watering in six or more
small plant growth chambers within the plant growth facility.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: The applications are in the development of more
effective hydroponic systems for intensive greenhouse culture and for use in highly
controlled, compact, plant-growth systems for space applications. This information
is of significant value for terrestrial agriculture in environments that are waterlogged
or otherwise subject to poor aeration.
Project Title:
Fiber Sensors for High Temperatures and Pressures
13.01-0161
Fiber Sensors for High Temperatures and
Pressures
LaserGenics Corporation
PO Box 611330
San Jose, CA 95161
Richard G. Schlecht (408-433-0161)
JSC -- NAS9-17943
Abstract:
Ground operations and flight instrumentation for rocket engines as well as many
other NASA applications require sophisticated sensing devices for measuring temperature
and pressure on a continuous basis in an extremely harsh environment. Present-day
sensors do not operate reliably in this environment. Fiber-optic sensors offer a
possible solution, but present fibers of glass or silica are not able to withstand
the temperatures and pressures encountered in rocket engines. A novel approach using
single crystal fibers of sapphire and yttrium-aluminum-garnet (YAG) has been investigated
in Phase I. The results of the Phase I effort demonstrate that Nd:YAG has significant
potential for sensing high temperatures and pressures in a single fiber.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: This sensor system could find wide application
in process control in the steel, chemical, and semiconductor industries, in fossil
fuel and nuclear power generation plants, and in plasma, fusion, MHD, combustion,
and chemical research.
Project Title:
Surface Organic Contamination Sensor
13.01-4770
Surface Organic Contamination Sensor
Spectral Sciences, Inc.
99 South Bedford Street, #7
Burlington, MA 01803
Steven M. Adler-Golden (617-273-4770)
KSC -- NAS10-11459
Abstract:
A non-contact instrument that can determine the quantity of organic contamination
on metal surfaces is required for use in liquid oxygen systems. The instrument must
monitor surfaces as small as 0.04 square inch, fit into 1/4-inch pipe, extend at
least 5 feet, and be sensitive to 1 mg per square foot of organic contamination.
The purpose of this project was to provide proof-of-principle for a surface organic
contamination sensor (SOCS) employing a sensing scheme that uses excited gases generated
in a electric arc at atmospheric pressure. These gases should react with the contaminants
yielding products which emit ultraviolet and visible radiation providing, thereby,
a measure of surface contamination. Both clean and contaminated test surfaces were
tested. Excited nitrogen discriminated clean and contaminated surfaces. The presence
of contamination was indicated by an increase in the radiation characteristic of
the CN radical. For the Phase I test set-up, the limit of detection for mechanical
vacuum pump oil was about 2 mg per square foot.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: The SOCS sensor could be used for detecting organic
or other materials on surfaces in industrial as well as aerospace applications which
utilize liquid oxygen or other potentially explosive oxidizers.
Project Title:
Continuous Detection of Toxic Vapors Using a Field Domain Ion Mobility Spectrometer
13.01-6239
Continuous Detection of Toxic Vapors Using a
Field Domain Ion Mobility Spectrometer
Femtometrics
1721 Whittier Avenue, Suite A
Costa Mesa, CA 92627
Raymond L. Chuan (714-722-6239)
KSC -- NAS10-11456
Abstract:
Ion mobility spectrometry (IMS), under development for about 18 years, identifies
molecules by time-of-flight measurements. The technique is extremely sensitive, being
capable of detecting compounds in the low parts-per-billion and high parts-per-trillion
concentration range and doing so at atmospheric pressure. A new method was proposed
whereby, instead of measuring time-of-flight, a retarding electric field is used
to stop an ion from reaching the collector in a streaming gas mixture used to characterize
the ion. The purpose of Phase I was to demonstrate that a field-domain, ion-mobility
spectrometer (FDIMS) can be developed which will be smaller, simpler, faster, and
less power-consuming than the conventional time-domain ion mobility spectrometer.
The FDIMS concept has been verified through an experimental study under a Phase
I contract. The results, based on experiments with several test gases, demonstrate
that it is feasible to develop a compact, low-voltage, highly selective and sensitive
ion mobility spectrometer capable of the detection of toxic vapors in the parts-per-billion
concentration range. By using a varying electric field to control the drift velocities
of ions, rather than using drift times in a constant field (i.e., operating in the
field domain rather than time domain), it has been possible to reduce both the length
and voltage required to achieve mobility resolution.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: A compact, portable, easy-to-operate, and low-cost
toxic gas monitor with adequate sensitivity and specificity would be very valuable
at launch sites and in the environmental and industrial sectors.
Project Title:
13.02-2423A
Wireless Headset
Apeiron
P.O. Box 1006, Midstation 220
McKinney, TX 75069
Kurt K. Christensen (214-952-4616)
KSC -- NAS10-11462
Abstract:
This project involves the development of a wireless headset system. The system
is an application of digital, audio-encoding, packet switching, local area networking,
and time-address multiplexing techniques to form a network of personal headsets.
This innovation would allow many headsets on the same carrier frequency to operate
from a single base-unit or repeater with software controllable cross-talk, audio
mixing, and channel selection. Information on the network may be encrypted.
During Phase I, an architecture for a wireless headset network was investigated.
This demonstrated the feasibility of supporting a number of wireless headsets linked
to a network. Phase I results showed voice coding at both 15,625 bits per second
and 31,250 bits per second, packetizing of this data, and communication of this data
across a two million bit per second data link. Other digital data can be transmitted
simultaneously with full duplex voice. As a result of Phase I, concept feasibility
has been proven and supporting up to fifty fully digital headsets from a single base-station
was shown to be possible.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Application of this innovation can be found in
command, control, and communications, fire-fighters and rescue workers, security
systems, sports helmets, and law enforcement.
Project Title:
Microwave Fiber Optic Link for Satellite Communications and Antenna Remoting
13.02-3226
Microwave Fiber Optic Link for Satellite
Communications and Antenna Remoting
E-Tek Dynamics, Inc.
1885 Lundy Ave.
San Jose, CA 95131
J. J. Pan (408-532-6300)
KSC -- NAS10-11460
Abstract:
Microwave fiber optic links provide performance and cost advantages for antenna
remoting, microwave communications, and satellite earth terminals. Phase I activities
included a system level parameter investigation of a microwave fiberoptic link, analysis
of the use of a coherent detection system to improve performance, a vendor survey,
and the design, fabrication and test of a 12 GHz fiberoptic link. Both direct and
external modulation were demonstrated. The conclusions of this effort are that microwave
fiberoptic links for antenna remoting are viable and have many advantages.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Applications are expected in SATCOM systems, for
interconnecting microwave towers and control rooms, for radar and communication terminals
on shipboard and aircraft, and in replacing expensive waveguides.
Project Title:
Human Envelope Manipulator
13.04-2060
Human Envelope Manipulator
SEES, Inc.
11020 Solway School Road
Knoxville, TN 37931
R. L. Andrews (615-483-2060)
KSC -- NAS10-11463
Abstract:
The tasks for robots in support of ground-based shuttle operations may involve
such functions as opening and closing doors, turning wheels, pulling levers, pushing
buttons, turning rotary switches, moving toggle switches, and handling equipment
modules. Robots may be used on some of the existing hazardous and repetitive shuttle
and payload processing activities such as loading and unloading hypergolic propellants,
handling cryogenic fluids, and connection and disconnecting electrical power, fibre
optic communication, and data transmission systems. Since all of these functions
are currently being accomplished using humans, a robot device with similar reach
abilities would allow it to perform these tasks with minimum hardware change. The
focus of project is a human envelope manipulator (HEMan), a prototype, two-armed,
end effector that can perform support of shuttle ground processing operations and
that mimics human reach and movement. It will be attached to a heavy lift robot.
Force, tactile, proximity, range, and vision information is provided in a sensor
package to assist in actual applications.
In Phase I, sensors were identified. The vision sensor is the major sensor that
can provide large amounts of data. A conceptual design was evolved during Phase I.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: The resulting end effector will have superior manipulative
and sensory ability for performing tasks in common applications for robots.
Project Title:
Laser Doppler Velocimeter for Flow Rate Measurement in Thermal Control Fluid Systems
13.06-1512
Laser Doppler Velocimeter for Flow Rate
Measurement in Thermal Control Fluid Systems
Ophir Corporation
3190 S. Wadsworth Blvd., Suite 100
Lakewood, CO 80277
Gregory J. Fetzer (303-976-1512)
MSFC -- NAS8-37631
Abstract:
A non-intrusive flow measurement system is required for small-diameter, low-flow-rate,
and low-pressure-differential fluid systems for thermal control functions. This innovation
utilizes a continuous-wave, diode-based laser Doppler velocimeter (LDV) which captures
scattered radiation from minute (10.0 m) inert particles suspended in the flow medium.
The particulates may occur naturally as impurities in the coolant or may be mixed
in the coolant at the time of a system fill. Theoretical calculations indicate that
the system will provide flow measurement capabilities at flow rates as low as 10.0
lbs/hr for Freon-12 and deionized water cooling systems in pipe diameters of 1/8
to 1/2 inch with accuracies of 0.5 percent or better.
The prototype device tested in Phase I was an optical heterodyne system which measures
a Doppler-induced frequency shift. Results of these tests indicate that the LDV concept
is both feasible and practical for flow measurement in small diameter tubing. It
is particularly well-suited to low-pressure-differential systems designed for laminar
flow and applies as well for turbulent flows. The use of a diode laser allows for
an inexpensive, compact, rugged device which exceeds the performance objectives of
this project.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: An accurate flow measurement system for small-volume,
low-differential-pressure systems has applications in process control, fuel-flow
control, bioengineering, and other areas.
Project Title:
Double-Pulsed, Phase-Sampled, Laser-Speckle Interferometric Metrology for Non-Destructive
13.07-0463
Double-Pulsed, Phase-Sampled, Laser-Speckle
Interferometric Metrology for Non-Destructive
Testing
McMahan Electro-Optics, Inc.
2160 Park Avenue N.
Winter Park, FL 32789
Robert K. McMahan (305-645-0463)
LaRC -- NAS1-18643
Abstract:
A novel non-destructive testing and evaluation system based on double-pulsed, phase-sampled,
laser-speckle metrology is the focus of this project. The potential of this technology
is, in an industrial context, the determination of static and temporal deformation
of both materials and assemblies without contact and with a resolution of spatial
displacement of 0.25 m and resonance mode frequencies approaching 50,000 Hz. The
method will be capable of resolving both the absolute and gradient in-plane and out-of-plane
surface displacements and the dynamic and resonant behavior of objects under test.
In Phase I, theoretical models and engineering designs were prepared for the development
of the proposed double-pulsed, phase-sampled, laser-speckle interferometry method
for non-destructive testing and evaluation.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Areas of commercial application include the characterization
of: composite delamination, vibration analysis, thin weld inspection, stress, strain,
and finite-element analysis, hydraulic strain, and others.
Project Title:
Thermoelectric Assessment of Precipitation- Hardening Stainless Steels
13.07-6498
Thermoelectric Assessment of Precipitation-
Hardening Stainless Steels
QCI, Inc.
PO Box 1067
Oak Ridge, TN 37831
Roger W. Derby (615-483-6498)
LaRC -- NAS1-18641
Abstract:
Field experience and preliminary laboratory data have shown that the techniques
of thermoelectric sorting could become a valuable tool in the assessment of precipitation-hardening
stainless steels. The Phase I investigation involved heat-treating a variety of carefully
controlled specimens and correlating their thermoelectric characteristics with heat-treating
variables.
The thermoelectric characteristics of five different types of precipitation-hardening
steels were found to be strongly correlated with both Rockwell hardness and with
time and temperature of aging. A similar situation was discovered to exist for the
nickel-based, heat-resistant alloy, Inconel 718. The results of these tests along
with several instrument improvements, particularly for small specimens, suggest the
feasibility of developing new thermoelectric instruments for the assessment and study
of a wide variety of precipitation-hardening alloys. Of particular interest are their
use for testing heat-affected zones around welds and studying damage or reduced service
life in components subjected to high service temperatures. Further, a specialized
instrument can be built for non-destructive examination of a wide variety of miniature
specimens ranging from research materials to precious metals to samples used in forensic
investigations.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Primary uses are in the assessment of the condition
of both precipitation-hardening stainless steels and heat-resistant, nickel-based
alloys commonly used in the aerospace industry. Other applications include precious
metal control, materials research, and forensic investigation.
Project Title:
Kennedy Space Center Atmospheric Boundary Layer Experiment
13.08-4122
Kennedy Space Center Atmospheric Boundary
Layer Experiment
ENSCO, Inc.
445 Pineda Court
Melbourne, FL 32940
Gregory E. Taylor (305-254-4122)
KSC -- NAS10-11466
Abstract:
In order to reduce the interference of weather on critical launch operations, NASA
has a great need for detailed meteorological data and analyses of the three-dimensional
structure of the planetary boundary layer at Merritt Island/Cape Canaveral. A phased
project, Kennedy Space Center Atmospheric Boundary Layer Experiment (KABLE), has
been designed to provide NASA with a cost-effective, innovative method of obtaining
a data set which will help improve its short-term weather forecasting for phenomena
such as thunderstorms and low-level wind shear. The data collected during KABLE will
also be used to evaluate the transport and diffusion algorithms in models (e.g.,
Emergency Dose Assessment System and the Rocket Exhaust Effluent Diffusion Model)
used operationally at KSC and Cape Canaveral Air Force Station and will lead to the
development of new and more accurate models for atmospheric circulation.
The major result of the Phase I effort was the development of a detailed, well-organized
experimental plan employing several different data collection systems to study the
planetary boundary layer in the Merritt Island and Cape Canaveral area. KABLE is
unique because it will be the first consolidation of meteorological data in this
area over an extended period. New data collection systems such as acoustic sounders
and wind profilers have never been used over an extended time period in conjunction
with other existing systems. The final data set acquired by KABLE will benefit future
meteorological research at the Kennedy Space Center.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: The data set collected will be useful to researchers
who are working with meteorological problems at or near the Merritt Island and Cape
Canaveral area. This data will be particularly helpful to industries that are involved
with atmospheric transport and diffusion studies for power plants located near land-water
interfaces.
Project Title:
Programmable Rate Digital Modem Utilizing Digital Signal Processing Techniques
14.01-3900A
Programmable Rate Digital Modem Utilizing
Digital Signal Processing Techniques
Multipoint Communications Corporation
1284 Geneva Drive
Sunnyvale, CA 94089
Robert Wallace (408-734-3900)
LeRC -- NAS3-25336
Abstract:
A programmable-rate, digital modem operating in the burst or continuous mode has
several potential applications in future communication satellite systems. This project
studied the design of a low-cost, robust modem capable of supporting burst and continuous
transmission modes. The preferred implementation is an all-digital one which uses
as much digital signal processing as possible.
The Phase I design study addressed nine significant aspects of the design of a variable
rate modem. These were transmit data filtering, transmit clock generation, carrier
synthesizer, receive automatic gain control, receive data filtering, radio-frequency
oscillator phase noise, receiver carrier selectivity, carrier recovery, and timing
recovery. The studies addressed and examined various techniques for achieving viable
circuit designs and resulted in specific design recommendations.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Application would be for satellite earth stations
to support point-to-point or interactive, full-mesh networks for both digitized voice
and data traffic.
Project Title:
High Speed Optoelectronic Switch
14.01-4995B
High Speed Optoelectronic Switch
APA Optics, Inc.
2950 N.E. 84th Lane
Blaine, MN 55432
Lynn D. Hutcheson (612-784-4995)
LeRC -- NAS3-25424
Abstract:
High-speed switches and switching systems are needed for efficient high- and low-data-rate
FMD and TDM communications in a large network in which data from many processors
and sensors must be transmitted and routed at tremendous rates for effective decision
making. The large band-width of the data from certain sources (GHz rates) mandates
the use of optical communication technology. To address these needs, an effort was
focused on the critical component of high-speed, optoelectronic switches and switching
networks using total internal reflection in a GaAs-AlGaAs material system. This concept
promises very high speeds because the technique minimizes electrode area and capacitance.
In addition, this switch can be made very small, will consume little power, can be
scaled to large switching networks, and is compatible with monolithic integration.
The Phase I project was focussed on epilayer growth and processing for a GaAs/AlxGa1-xAs
total-internal-reflection (TIR) switch including low-loss, well-confined, channel
waveguides and p-type and n-type ohmic contacts. Waveguide structures were successfully
fabricated for 0.83 and 1.3 m operation, and their electrical and optical characteristics
measured. Electro-optic coefficient for the switch structure was measured using a
Bragg cell. Rudimentary TIR switches have been fabricated and currently are undergoing
evaluation.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: The company wants to offer the TIR switch as an
off-the-shelf component to the fiber optics telecommunications industry. The device
also has numerous applications for high-speed data transmission in advanced computer
systems.
Project Title:
30 GHz Reflection Mode FET Solid State Power Amplifier
14.01-7111
30 GHz Reflection Mode FET Solid State Power
Amplifier
LNR Communications, Inc.
180 Marcus Boulevard
Hauppauge, NY 11788
Eric Ng (516-273-7111)
LeRC -- NAS3-25339
Abstract:
This project investigated a low-cost, high-performance alternative to an IMPATT
(impact avalanche transit time) solid-state amplifier for the 30 GHz uplink transmitter.
This alternative is a Ka-band solid-state power amplifier (SSPA) employing a cascade
of circulation-coupled, Ku-band or K-band field-effect transistor (FET) amplifier
stages, each operating in the one-port negative resistance, reflection-amplification
mode. Use of the reflection-mode FET in lieu of an IMPATT amplifier in the Ka-band
uplink transmitter provides the advantages of greater input/output linearity and
potentially lower large quantity costs.
In the completed Phase I study, the feasibility of implementing 30 GHz reflection-mode
FET power amplifier "building block" stages providing 0.5 W (min) RF output power,
7 dB gain, 1 GHz band width, and 16 percent power added efficiency has been demonstrated
by detailed analysis and limited experimentation. These results were used in the
design of a 16-way, corporate-combinatorial, 8 W, 30 GHz SSPA with 16 percent efficiency
and 1 GHz minimum band width.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: The 30 GHz-reflection mode FET SSPA will provide
a low-cost alternative to other candidate uplink transmitter amplifiers.
Project Title:
Evaluation of CDMA System Capacity
14.02-4288A
Evaluation of CDMA System Capacity
Spread Spectrum Systems, Inc.(S3I)
5225 Pooks Hill Road #1629N
Bethesda, MD 20814
Patrick O. Smith
JPL -- NAS7-1027
Abstract:
A specific, innovative, direct-sequence, pseudo-noise (DS/PN), code-division, multiple-access
(CDMA) mobile satellite (MSAT) system was proposed. Proponents of CDMA claim that
increased system capacity, reduced mobile terminal cost, increased flexibility in
service offerings, interference suppression, and increased MSAT operator profitability
are achievable. Detractors claim that the required mobile terminal sophistication
is too costly, that the system capacity is not increased relative to frequency-division,
multiple-access (FDMA) systems, and that the existing technology base is immature.
This project evaluated the capacity of a baseline DS/PN CDMA MSAT system under some
simplified assumptions.
The Phase I results show that an overall, equivalent spectral efficiency per fixed
spot beam of near unity is achievable with a BER of 10-3 and received Eb/No of 10
dB. This spectral efficiency figure includes the resource sharing effect associated
with an all-voice traffic scenario with voice-activated modem operation. Specific
innovations that can further significantly increase the spectral and power efficiencies
of candidate CDMA designs alternates were outlined for future developments.
(Note: Spread Spectrum Systems, Inc. has acquired the rights to Phase I data from
Techno-Sciences, Inc., who submitted the original proposal.)
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: The firm intends to design and manufacture mobile,
hub, and NMC equipment for use in DS/CDMA mobile satellite systems for domestic and
international markets.
Project Title:
High-Efficiency, Low-Cost GaAs Monolithic RF Module for SARSAT Distress Beacons
14.03-6642
High-Efficiency, Low-Cost GaAs Monolithic RF
Module for SARSAT Distress Beacons
Microwave Monolithics Inc.
465 East Easy Street, Unit F
Simi Valley, CA 93065
Wendell C. Petersen (805-584-6642)
LeRC -- NAS3-25403
Abstract:
World-wide deployment and widespread use of the SARSAT rescue system depends critically
on the development and commercialization of high-performance, low-cost beacons. In
Phase I, the firm has identified that a bi-phase modulator and an ultra-high-efficiency
power amplifier chain are key components of the emergency beacon which, when implemented
on gallium-arsenide, monolithic microwave integrated circuits (MMICs), will provide
substantial production cost and technical performance improvements.
Measurement of existing GaAs power amplifiers (FETs) during Phase I under not yet
optimum conditions yielded performance clearly indicating the technical feasibility
of these devices for the critical power amplifier application. Small signal measurements,
computer simulations, and detailed cost analysis further demonstrated the feasibility
of applying GaAs integrated circuit technology to the SARSAT beacon modulator and
power amplifier. GaAs MMICs operating at frequencies well below their performance
limits are expected to result in high-yield production due to relaxed geometric constraints,
thus further insuring the cost effectiveness of the proposed approach.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Each performance improvement attained for the SARSAT
beacon via advanced technology opens new segments of the government, commercial,
and eventually even the private sector to world-wide rescue beacon coverage.
Project Title:
Switched Hemispherical Antenna
14.04-8080
Switched Hemispherical Antenna
Technical Research Associates, Inc.
410 Chipeta Way, Suite 222
Salt Lake City, UT 84108
Stephen Peterson (801-582-8080)
JSC -- NAS9-17951
Abstract:
A switched hemispherical antenna was proposed for use on space transportation systems,
space stations, and satellites. The antenna, operating in the Ku band, would be able
to scan over 2 pi steradians, sample signal strength from a beacon, and route data
to the appropriate sector. An on-board computer would serve as an interface to an
inertial reference frame to allow a controller to compensate for satellite spin.
Two such antennas would cover 4 pi steradians; the gain of an individual unit antenna
would be approximately 16 dB; and the system would support circular polarization.
Because the antenna would be under software control, diverse and flexible operation
should be possible.
Phase I evaluated different, low-profile antennas for use in a switchable array;
designed and evaluated two different, pin-switch configurations; designed and built
a 5-unit directional coupler, and designed a microprocessor-driver for the prototype
pin switch. Hardware was produced but was not completely effective. The general conclusions
of this project are that it appears impossible to provide the necessary band-width
with a dielectric-loaded, patch-type antenna. The firm believes that two antenna
types, the cavity mounted helix and the flat, cavity-backed spiral, would meet (or
come close to) the specifications for a 16-unit antenna array and that either of
these two antennas might work in an 8-unit array if mated with a diverging dielectric
lens.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: The applications would be in switched microwave
antennas for aircraft, ships, and vehicles, especially for automobile-to-satellite
communications links.
Project Title:
Microstrip Multiple Function Antenna Feed
14.05-6070
Microstrip Multiple Function Antenna Feed
Scientific Technology, Inc.
2 Research Place
Rockville, MD 20850
Ting-I Wang (301-948-6070)
JPL -- NAS7-1017
Abstract:
This project involves development of a multi-layer, micro-strip, circularly polarized,
multiple-function, focal-point feed for MMII deep-space-probe, high-gain antennas.
The feed will illuminate a 1.47-meter diameter reflector for generating a high-gain
beam and also serve as a low-gain antenna. The low-gain beam is directed along the
axis of the high-gain beam and has a wide spread pattern. The feed is capable of
being switched to transmit and receive simultaneously in either the high-gain or
low-gain mode of operation or transmit in high gain while receiving in low gain.
Phase I feasibility studies including theoretical analysis and laboratory experiments
indicated that the proposed feed assembly using multi-layer, micro-strip techniques
meets the requirements of the low-gain antenna as well as the focal point feed of
a MMII deep-space-probe, high-gain antenna. This assembly is able to cover a dual-band
(7.1 and 8.4 GHz) in circular polarization. Its low profile, light weight, and well-behaved
radiation pattern is ideal for deep-space communications.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: This antenna feed technique may apply to many communication
systems in spacecraft, earth stations, and terrestrial links.
Project Title:
Effect of Gravity on Foam Decay
15.01-0156
Effect of Gravity on Foam Decay
H & N Instruments, Inc.
PO Box 955
104 E. Shields Street
Newark, OH 43055
Gary M. Nishioka (614-927-0156)
MSFC -- NAS8-37625
Abstract:
Foams are used in many industries, yet the mechanisms that control foam stability
are not well understood. The decay of foam is controlled largely by Ostwald ripening
of large foam cells at the expense of small foam cells. The decay mechanism is complicated
by gravitational effects. A novel method to measure foam stability was proposed.
By measuring head-space pressure over a foam in a closed, thermostatically controlled
chamber, the area decay of the foam can be computed. The measurement of foam decay
in low gravity, the ultimate objective of the proposed work, will result in novel
information that will aid theoretical understanding of foam decay and Ostwald ripening
mechanisms.
The Phase I research demonstrated the feasibility and usefulness of a space flight
experiment to measure foam stability. The required temperature control, space, and
power for the experimental apparatus are easily attainable in a flight experiment.
A foam generation procedure and some model systems were found that give reproducible
foam decay.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: An instrument and a low-gravity facility for measuring
foam decay may find use by industries interested in foam.
Project Title:
A New Method for the Measurement of Surface Tension
15.01-0156A
A New Method for the Measurement of Surface
Tension
H & N Instruments, Inc.
PO Box 955
104 E. Shields Street
Newark, OH 43055
Gary M. Nishioka (614-927-0156)
MSFC -- NAS8-37626
Abstract:
Surface tension is a fundamental property of all liquids. The surface tension of
liquids during processing affects the properties of a variety of high performance
materials, i.e.: alloys, ceramics, composites, and polycrystalline materials. Surface
tension is not routinely measured for most experimental new materials because no
simple, accurate, yet versatile commercial instrument exists. Measurement of surface
tension for viscous liquids or liquids at high temperatures or pressures is particularly
difficult. This project studied the bubble-period method to determine surface tension.
The technique measures the average period of bubbles formed under well-defined conditions
and has the potential to be simple, accurate, and versatile.
The Phase I research demonstrated the feasibility of the bubble counting method
to measure surface tension. Accurate values of surface tension were obtained for
a wide variety of liquids once corrections for viscous and detachment errors were
applied. The bubble counting method appears to be reasonably accurate (10 percent)
for measuring surface tension. Its chief advantage is that it may work under conditions
where more accurate methods do not. There are two concerns with this technique. First,
viscous effects can interfere with the measurement, and, second, wetting effects
were found to affect the measurement critically.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: A versatile and simple instrument for measuring
surface tension would find wide a wide range of applications and may lead to a commercial
facility for the measurement of surface and interfacial tension and wetting characteristics
of materials.
Project Title:
Active Magnetic Micro-G Isolator for Space Station
15.01-0540
Active Magnetic Micro-G Isolator for Space
Station
SatCon Technology Corporation
71 Rogers Street
Cambridge, MA 02142
Bruce G. Johnson (617-661-8942)
MSFC -- NAS8-37639
Abstract:
Systems will be required to isolate the experimental payloads from inherent Space
Station vibrations. The vibration requirements can best be met by active isolation
systems that have the capability to adjust to differing vibration environments, changes
in payloads, and changes in desired isolator dynamics. Magnetic suspensions are an
extremely promising approach to implementing these active isolation systems. Their
desirable characteristics include high band-width, linearity, stability, high efficiency,
multi-axis capability, and ease of integration with electronic control systems.
Phase I of this research program developed typical vibration isolation requirements
for Space Station. A magnetic suspension system capable of meeting these requirements
was then designed. This design features six-degree-of-freedom actuation in a single
compact unit.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Vibration isolation systems may be used in commercial
applications as well as in Space Station, e.g., precision pointing and tracking systems,
inertial instrument test tables, crystal growth, and optical benches.
Project Title:
Miniaturized Fiber-Pulling Apparatus for Producing Single-Crystal-Core Glass Fibers in
15.01-0760
Miniaturized Fiber-Pulling Apparatus for
Producing Single-Crystal-Core Glass Fibers in
Microgravity
Crystal Research
1441 Sunnyside Terrace
San Pedro, CA 90732
Paul J. Shlichta (213-831-0760)
LeRC -- NAS3-25400
Abstract:
Production of crystalline-core fibers will satisfy unmet needs in low-loss infrared
fibers, superconductor filaments, and infrared image converters. Gravity adversely
affects the pulling of glass fibers because sagging severely restricts feasible glass
viscosities during pulling. This effect is especially troublesome for the pulling
of single-crystal-core glass fibers, where the requirement of matching the thermal
expansion of the glass and crystal versus the core melting point dictates pulling
at glass viscosities that are too low to be feasible at one g. In this project, the
goal of producing crystal-core glass fibers in micro-gravity for various applications
was explored. As a means toward this goal, a miniaturized prototype fiber-drawing
apparatus was designed during Phase I. This apparatus embodies several novel design
features for compactness, easy fiber removal and storage, and automation.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: The proposed apparatus could facilitate the drawing
of new kinds of glass fibers during spaceflight missions and thereby open a new area
for space commercialization.
Project Title:
Temperature Measurement by Noncontact Method for Czochralski-Type Crystal Growth
15.01-3855
Temperature Measurement by Noncontact Method
for Czochralski-Type Crystal Growth
Electro Design Manufacturing, Inc.
PO Box 2569
Highway 31 South
Decatur, AL 35602
Robert D. Young (205-353-3855)
MSFC -- NAS8-37622
Abstract:
In the growth of crystals from melting materials using the Czochralski method,
a good technique of accurately controlling the process does not exist. Thermocouples
are largely used at present, but they do not provide adequate information such as
the thermal gradient across a single large crystal. The use of charge-coupled devices
to measure and control crystal growth using the Czochralski method is the innovation
being studied in this project. Arrays of charge-coupled devices and photovoltaic
detectors detect temperature variations of a surface area. These detectors can be
adapted to monitor the temperature measurements within the crystal growth ovens and
provide feed-back control to regulate the oven.
During Phase I, the work concentrated on testing sensor types and researching the
various components of a control system. It was concluded that charge-coupled devices
were sufficiently uniform to be used as a thermal sensor above 200 C.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: This product could be applied in control of steel
production and heat treating, evaluation of electronic circuit boards for out-of-specification
temperature conditions, and in the medical field for examining inflamed areas of
the human body.
Project Title:
Digital, Active Materials Processing Platform Effort
15.01-8371
Digital, Active Materials Processing Platform
Effort
Applied Technology Associates, Inc.
1900 Randolph S.E.
Albuquerque, NM 87106
John Gniady (505-247-8371)
LeRC -- NAS3-25362
Abstract:
This project explored active isolation for the creation of ultra-stable platforms
specifically designed for materials processing in space. Phase I work was successfully
completed. A preliminary assessment of isolation requirements was performed, and
a concept for a unique, fully inertial approach to active, platform isolation was
devised.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: The resulting materials-processing platform could
be applied to exploit fully the micro-g environment for development and manufacture
of alloys, crystals, polymers, micro-electronic components, and optical processes.
Project Title:
Computational Methodologies for Convection- Diffusion Phase Change Problems
15.03-2620
Computational Methodologies for Convection-
Diffusion Phase Change Problems
CHAM of North America, Inc.
1525-A Sparkman Drive
Huntsville, AL 35816
C. Prakash (205-830-2620)
LeRC -- NAS3-25331
Abstract:
The objective of this project was to develop numerical methodologies for analyzing
solid-liquid phase change problems involving multi-component materials such as binary
mixtures and alloys. The potential NASA interest for this work stems from materials
science applications in space, e.g. crystal growth.
The aim of Phase I was to define a framework for development of a general purpose
computer program by examining both single- and two-phase models. The single-phase
model equations are relatively easy to solve but require a prescription of the solid
phase-velocity and other assumptions for computing the local mass fractions of the
phases. The two-phase model does not have these shortcomings but needs data on interfacial
exchange coefficients which require further research. The problem of freezing in
a square 2was studied to illustrate the use of the single- and two-phase models.
The conclusion drawn from this work is that a general purpose code for binary solid-liquid
phase change problems must include both single-and two-phase options.
Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Application: Solutions to problems of convection-diffusion,
multi-component, phase change would reduce the need for experiments and would supplement
space materials processing research.