Search Results

A comparison of various numerical tools and techniques was performed for calculating the lightning indirect effects to composite structures and internal systems. This paper is a summary of the initial comparison results. Detailed results of each technique considered are given in additional separate papers presented during this conference. The modeling considered current distributions over and within composite surfaces and the coupling of current and voltages to internal systems such as wire bundle cables and hydraulic and fuel tubes. The models were compared to each other and to measured data from low level swept continuous wave (LLCW) tests performed on two test fixtures. Other features of the codes such as run time, ease of use, computer requirements, availability of documentation and technical support, etc. are compared as well.

Cyber-physical systems are joint instances of growing complexity and high integration of elements in the information and physical domains reaching high levels of difficulty to engineer an operate them. This happens with satellites, aircraft, automobiles, smart grids and others. Current technologies as computation, communication and control integrate those domains to communicate, synchronize and operate together. However, the integration of different domains brings new challenges and adds new issues, mainly in real time distributed control systems, beginning with time synchronization. In this paper, we present a discussion on time synchronization and their effects in distributed cyber-physical control systems. To do that, we review the literature, discuss some time synchronization techniques used in cyber-physical systems, and illustrate them via model and simulation of a system representative of the aerospace area.

One of the major problems faced in Extravehicular Activity (EVA) glove development has been the absence of concise and reliable methods to measure the effects of EVA gloves on human-hand capabilities. NASA has sponsored a program to develop a standardized set of tests designed to assess EVA-gloved hand capabilities in six performance domains: Range of Motion. Strength, Tactile Perception, Dexterity, Fatigue, and Comfort, Based upon an assessment of general human-hand functioning and EVA task requirements, several tests within each performance domain were developed to provide a comprehensive evaluation. All tests were designed to be conducted in a glove box with the bare hand, an EVA glove without pressure, an EVA glove at operation pressure. Thus, the differential effect on performance of the glove with and without pressure was tested. Bare hand performance was used to “calibrate” the effects. Ten subjects participated in the test setup as a repeated-measures experimental design.

This paper explores the efficacy and efficiency of a system for the effective location of electric gridlines during daytime and night-time by the onboard and offboard transceivers of UAV through vehicle to infrastructure communication. The usage of electric gridlines in urban areas helps to extend the range of the UAVs by charging the onboard battery using an extended arm. The same arm can also be used for direct propulsion of the motors onboard UAV, thereby minimizing the reliance on battery. UAVs with advanced Image processing algorithms are utilized in the inspection of the electric grid lines themselves in the Power industry. The camera based algorithms are not effective during night-time when the gridlines are near invisible. This can be mitigated by evaluating light in other spectral ranges, but this would add to the load of the UAV.

A Unit of Employment (UE) is the senior Army headquarters deployed to a theater. UE Command Element is responsible for all ground combat operations in the theater. Rapid deployment of ground combat units depends on the effective management of all resources available during early entry in a theater including electrical resources. Electrical power consumers on the future battlefield include complex command posts, vehicles, sensors, communication systems, and decision-making networks that rely on reliable mobile and portable sources of power and energy. With a need to reduce the Army logistics burden, shipping more power devices or fuel are not feasible options. The Army desires a solution replenishing high performance batteries as far forward as possible. Since nearly every C2 system requires electrical power in increasing levels of demand, new technologies and concepts are required to provide command and control systems with adequate electrical power.

Milestones of domestic air transportation in the past 50 years are highlighted. Many early innovations were of European origin. Lindbergh’s flight accelerated the use of airplanes as a means of domestic transportation. The DC-3, prior to World War II, achieved a high degree of standardization and established a foundation for future airline growth. After World War II, converted military transports were primary means of conveyance. Phenomenal growth of air travel is due to increased speed, safety, and comfort brought about by use of four-engine planes, automatic pilot, cabin pressurization, and improvements in electronic guidance systems. Basic problems such as over-capacity, need for greater standardization, better ground facilities, and efficient servicing of local air traffic face the airlines today.

A vapor-compression refrigerator/freezer with solar power and grid-backup power was tested at Johnson Space Center. The refrigerator was used to test three main energy saving devices: 1) solar power with grid-backup, 2) vacuum panel insulation, and 3) phase change material. Refrigerator power consumption and temperature were monitored while various configuration changes were made to the refrigerator. The testing of the refrigerator showed that the concepts had the potential to save energy although several drawbacks were discovered as a result of the tests.

A unique exercise facility has been developed and used to simulate orbital extravehicular activity (EVA). The device incorporates an arm ergometer into a mechanism which places the subject in the zero-g neutral body posture. The intent of this configuration is to elicit muscular, cardiovascular, respiratory, and thermoregulatory responses similar to those observed during orbital EVA. Experiments done with this facility will help characterize the astronaut's dynamic heat balance during EVA and will eventually lead to the development of an automated thermal control system which would more effectively maintain thermal comfort.

The recently created category of Light Sport Aircraft (LSA) in the United States of America (USA) opens up new perspectives and furthers the development of general aviation. Within this scenario, new enterprises are arising to meet the demand for more versatile airplanes. The ACS-100 SORA is a Brazilian response to the worldwide demand for a new generation of personal aerial transportation. This paper presents the most relevant parts of the engineering development and construction cycle of an all composite sport aircraft with high standard performance, comfort, safety and low cost.

All electrical and electronic signals within an aircraft are potential candidates for multiplexing, although the determination of whether or not they are multiplexed is a matter for individual system consideration. However, those signals that are selected for multiplexing preferably should conform to the characteristics included in this AIR.

HUMAN physiology and the inability of the human being to remain long at high altitudes without artificial provision of oxygen or pressure, or both, are emphasized in this paper. The author reports experience with the Boeing “Stratoliners” now in regular commercial service. Ventilation standards, he explains, have permitted bleeding a minimum of cabin air and recirculating a considerable portion of the pressurized air. Rate of pressure change, he announces, has been found of considerable importance. Even at low altitudes where pressurizing is not essential to flight comfort, he reveals that passenger comfort is increased if pressurizing is used to reduce the rate of change in air pressure while climbing or descending. The Boeing Stratoliner pressurizing system, and the test equipment with which it was developed is described in the latter part of this paper. Mr. Cooper also explains storm distribution geographically and by normal maximum altitudes.

A study is made in this paper of the fundamental requirements and methods associated with providing uncompromised air freshness, temperature conditioning, and humidity comfort for the passengers and crew of a typical large pressurized transport airplane, such as the Douglas DC-6, for flight under 30,000 feet. Investigation is made of the advisability of reclamation of cabin air through recirculation or by the use of counter-odorants. Special emphasis is given to the investigation and analysis of cabin air humidities. Air conditioning design recommendations for transport aircraft are made in the paper based on the charts and tables developed.

SAE EDGE Research Reports provide examinations significant topics facing mobility industry today including Connected Automated Vehicle Technologies Electrification Advanced Manufacturing

Removing an Inside Observer (IO) from an uncomfortable and potentially hazardous vacuum chamber while preserving the IO's “presence” in the chamber by way of a remotely operated robot arm and camera is evaluated. This approach is proving itself effective in performing non-invasive echocardiography during high-altitude Decompression Sickness (DCS) research. For robots in environmental isolation applications to be considered viable, it must be safe (especially when operating in proximity to humans), it should be easy and intuitive to operate, and it should be adaptable to meet changing operational needs. This paper describes the considerations involved, approach taken, and results obtained in this novel robotic engineering application.

DENSO International America, Inc. and the University of Iowa-Operator Performance Laboratory (OPL) have developed a series of new Multi-Modal Interface for Drivers (MMID) in order to improve driver safety, comfort, convenience and connectivity. Three MMID concepts were developed: GUI 1, GUI 2 and GUI 1-HUD. All three of the MMIDs used a new Reconfigurable Haptic Joystick (RHJ) on the steering wheel and new concept HMI Dual Touch Function Switches (DTFS) device. The DTFS use capacitive and mechanic sensing located on the back of the steering wheel as input operation devices. Inputs from the new controls were combined with a large TFT LCD display in the instrument cluster, a Head Up Display (HUD) and Sound as output devices. The new MMID system was installed in a Lexus LS-430. The climate control panel and radio panels of the LS-430 were used as a baseline condition to which the new designs were compared.

Potholes are a major cause of discomfort for riders and vehicle damage. The passive suspension systems which are used in the passenger vehicles are primarily reaction based. These can’t adapt to the changing road conditions which means the best ride quality and handling characteristics cannot be ensured for different driving situations. Passive suspension system also needs more maintenance due to its inability to reduce the impact of the road irregularities. In recent years, semi-active suspension systems have been developed to improve ride comfort and vehicle safety. This paper covers the integration of a semi-active suspension system with a road preview mechanism with a TATA car model to investigate its impact on ride comfort, handling characteristics and component loads in digital domain. A quarter car vehicle model is used to compare different active damping control strategies.

The Advanced ECS is under development for the purpose of saving fuel, improving safety, and cabin comfort. In FY2006 study, basic components (i.e. MDC, OBNOGS, desiccant units, and CO2 removers) have been improved and their performances evaluated including resistance to environmental condition (i.e. vibration). In addition, the suitable system configuration for a 90-seats aircraft has been considered to evaluate the feasibility of the system. In this paper, we show the results of the evaluated performances based on prototype components, and the analytical study of a revised system configuration.

This paper describes the advanced technologies introduced in the design and manufacture of the SAAB-Fairchild 340 Airliner. Among these are its aerodynamics, propulsion system, structural concept, materials, avionics and passenger seat. Advanced technology in the 340 design will result in a quality airliner better able to provide economical, reliable service with greater passenger comfort.