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Articles 3541 - 3570 of 5699

Full-Text Articles in Engineering

Evaluation Techniques For Determining Damping Mechanisms On Titanium Plates, Kyle S. Allen Mar 2005

Evaluation Techniques For Determining Damping Mechanisms On Titanium Plates, Kyle S. Allen

Theses and Dissertations

High cycle fatigue (HCF) is the single largest cause of component failure for all modern military gas turbine engines. Hard coatings, such as magnesium aluminate spinel, have been found to provide significant damping properties. Past studies have had difficulties isolating the contributions of these hard coating damping layers from other damping mechanisms. This study explored techniques for assessing the contribution of different damping mechanisms on titanium plates during vibration testing. The study investigated 2nd bend and 2-stripe modes. Two different specimen sizes were tested in both a clamped-free-free-free and free-free-free-free condition. Specimens were tested at varying pressures. Increases in pressure …


Numerical Analysis And Optimization Of The Ultra Compact Combustors, Roger T. Greenwood Mar 2005

Numerical Analysis And Optimization Of The Ultra Compact Combustors, Roger T. Greenwood

Theses and Dissertations

In an effort to increase thrust per weight ratio and decrease pollutant emissions of aero-turbine jet engines, a circumferentially burning Ultra Compact Combustor (UCC) with a Cavity-in-a-Cavity design has been developed. A numerical analysis of this design has been conducted and compared with experimental results. The CFD model has been validated through a wide range of conditions and four alternative physical configurations of the UCC have been modeled. Emissions, combustor efficiencies, temperature and velocity profiles, and pressure drop values were used as comparison parameters. Numerical results indicate that increasing the outflow area will increase the pressure drop over the combustor …


Classification Of Battlespace Detonations From Temporally Resolved Mutli-Band Imagery And Mid-Infrared Spectra, Anthony N. Dills Mar 2005

Classification Of Battlespace Detonations From Temporally Resolved Mutli-Band Imagery And Mid-Infrared Spectra, Anthony N. Dills

Theses and Dissertations

The classification of battlespace detonations, specifically the determination of munitions type and size using temporal and spectral features, has been studied using near-infrared (NIR) and multi-color visible wavelength imagers. Key features from the time dependence of fireball size are identified for discriminating various types and sizes of detonation flashes. The five classes include three weights of trinitrotoluene (TNT) and two weights of an enhanced mixture, all of which are uncased and detonated with 10% C4. Using Fisher linear discriminant techniques, features are projected onto a line such that the projected points are maximally clustered for the different classes of detonations. …


Fuel-Air Injection Effects On Combustion In Cavity-Based Flameholders In A Supersonic Flow, William H. Allen Jr. Mar 2005

Fuel-Air Injection Effects On Combustion In Cavity-Based Flameholders In A Supersonic Flow, William H. Allen Jr.

Theses and Dissertations

The Air Force Research Lab, Propulsion Directorate, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio has studied several designs regarding cavity flameholding for supersonic RAMJET (SCRAMJET) applications. The most recent of these studies have concluded that direct injection of ethylene fuel into the aft cavity ramp produced an efficient, robust flameholder given specific freestream condition and fuel flow rate. The main goals of this experiment are: 1) study the effect on combustion of direct fuel and air injection in the main flameholding cavity and 2) characterization of the operational limits (i.e., sustained combustion limits) over a variety of fuel and air flow rates. …


Boundary Layer Flow Control Using Plasma Induced Velocity, Brian E. Balcer Mar 2005

Boundary Layer Flow Control Using Plasma Induced Velocity, Brian E. Balcer

Theses and Dissertations

An examination of the effects of plasma induced velocity on boundary layer flow was conducted. A pair of thin copper film electrodes spanned the test section, oriented at thirty degrees from normal to the free stream flow. An adverse pressure gradient was imposed over the electrode configuration using a pressure coefficient profile similar to that associated with suction side of a Pac-B low pressure turbine blade. In addition, suction was applied to keep flow attached on the upper wall, inducing separation over the electrode. The electrode is supplied by an AC source at three different power levels with the free …


Application Of Functionally Graded Materials In Aircraft Structures, William G. Cooley Mar 2005

Application Of Functionally Graded Materials In Aircraft Structures, William G. Cooley

Theses and Dissertations

A Functionally Graded Material (FGM) is a material which has a continuous variation of material properties through-the-thickness. This thesis will explore analysis of FGM flat plates and shell panels, and use FGM's unique characteristics to retrofit a cracked exhaust wash structure. FGMs are first characterized as flat plates under pressure and thermal loading. Next, FGM shell panels are characterized under thermal loading. Conclusions drawn from FGM characterization are used to develop a patch to retrofit a cracked aircraft exhaust wash structure. The exhaust wash structure is first analyzed to provide a baseline and then several FGM patches are evaluated on …


Entropy Generation As A Means Of Examining Continuum Breakdown, Christopher R. Schrock Mar 2005

Entropy Generation As A Means Of Examining Continuum Breakdown, Christopher R. Schrock

Theses and Dissertations

To quantify the validity and breakdown of the continuum equations of fluid flow, the concept of entropy generation is examined. This parameter is formulated utilizing statistical mechanics and kinetic theory to avoid the use of equilibrium assumptions. This analysis leads to expressions in terms of energy distribution functions. These results are applied to monatomic and diatomic molecules. A numerical procedure for computing these values using the Direct Simulation Monte Carlo Method (DSMC) is presented. Normal shock waves in argon and nitrogen were simulated at Mach numbers ranging from 1.2 to 10. Results are compared to Navier-Stokes predictions. The Navier-Stokes equations …


Analysis Of Computational Methods For The Treatment Of Material Interfaces, Minh C. Nguyen Mar 2005

Analysis Of Computational Methods For The Treatment Of Material Interfaces, Minh C. Nguyen

Theses and Dissertations

Rocket sled tests at the Air Force Research Laboratory's Holloman High Speed Test Track frequently approach velocities where gouging development becomes the limiting factor to achieving higher operating velocities. Direct observation of the gouging process is not possible so computational modeling is necessary to study the phenomenon. Since gouging development is dependent on the impact surface conditions, the method used to model material interfaces directly affects the accuracy of the solution. Three methods are available in the hydrocode CTH to handle material interfaces: 1) materials are joined at the interface, 2) a frictionless slide line is inserted, and 3) a …


Structures Of Angled Aerated-Liquid Jets In March 1.94 Supersonic Cross Flow, Dion R. Dixon Mar 2005

Structures Of Angled Aerated-Liquid Jets In March 1.94 Supersonic Cross Flow, Dion R. Dixon

Theses and Dissertations

The structures of aerated-liquid jets injected into a supersonic crossflow have been studied experimentally. Aerated-liquid injectors with diameters of 0.020", 0.040" and 0.060" were flush mounted on the bottom plate of a supersonic wind tunnel to provide normal and angled injection. Free stream Mach number and temperature were held constant at 1.94 and 500°F, respectively. Water at room temperature was used as the liquid injectant and nitrogen gas used as the aerating gas. Wide ranges of test conditions for injection angle (θ), injector orifice diameter (d0), jet-to-air momentum flux ratios (q0), and gas-to-liquid ratios (GLR), were …


Creep Behavior Of An Oxide/Oxide Composite With Monazite Coating At Elevated Temperatures, Sean S. Musil Mar 2005

Creep Behavior Of An Oxide/Oxide Composite With Monazite Coating At Elevated Temperatures, Sean S. Musil

Theses and Dissertations

This study focuses on experimental investigation of stress-rupture behavior (creep response) of an oxide/oxide composite in a cross-ply (0/90) lay-up at elevated temperature. The test material, Nextel 610/monazite/alumina composite, employs monazite, an oxidation-resistant interfacial coating designed to improve performance at elevated temperatures. The experimental program included monotonic tensile tests to failure and creep-rupture tests at elevated temperatures. Tensile tests served to establish an ultimate tensile strength (UTS) for the material. The ensuing creep-rupture tests involved stress levels at varying percentages of the UTS. Stress-rupture curves at 900 and 1100 degrees C were established. A family of creep curves for various …


Computational Aeroelastic Analysis Of Micro Air Vehicle With Experimentally Determined Modes, Joshua A. Stults Mar 2005

Computational Aeroelastic Analysis Of Micro Air Vehicle With Experimentally Determined Modes, Joshua A. Stults

Theses and Dissertations

A computational aeroelastic analysis of a micro air vehicle (MAV) is conducted. This MAV has a 24 inch wing span, and is designed for local area reconnaissance. Wind tunnel data for the MAV with a rigid carbon fiber wing and a flexible carbon fiber ribbed nylon wing are compared to CFD results incorporating static and dynamic deformations. We use laser vibrometry to determine the mode shapes of the flexible wing. From these shapes, CFD grid deformations are calculated as part of a closely-coupled aeroelastic solution method. The accuracy of MAV performance predictions using CFD with and without aeroelastic modeling is …


Fatigue Behavior Of A Functionally-Graded Titanium Matrix Composite, Scott R. Cunningham Mar 2005

Fatigue Behavior Of A Functionally-Graded Titanium Matrix Composite, Scott R. Cunningham

Theses and Dissertations

Functionally-graded Titanium Matrix Composites are an attempt to utilize the high-strength properties of a titanium matrix composite with a monolithic alloy having the more practical machining qualities. This work studied the mechanical characteristics of the joint region as a first step toward future evaluation of this material. The scope of this effort involved testing under monotonic tension and fatigue loading conditions. Mechanical properties and cyclic behavior were evaluated for the joint area and then compared to those of the parent materials. The results of this study found that the strength of the transition region was slightly higher than the unreinforced …


Dynamic Characterization Of Thin Deformable Pvdf Mirror, Eric M. Trad Mar 2005

Dynamic Characterization Of Thin Deformable Pvdf Mirror, Eric M. Trad

Theses and Dissertations

Methodology for the design and fabrication of 5 inch diameter membrane-like mirror structures is explored, resulting in test articles with areal densities as low as 1.57 kg/m2 and a thickness of 1.5 mm. Each optical structure has 7 control patches etched into the PVDF layer, which can be used as actuators. These test articles are utilized to demonstrate the capabilities of an acquisition system to make measurements of static and dynamic actuation of the mirror surface. Static deformations are analyzed statistically and determined to yield maximum deformations in the actuated regions of -2.1 micro with a standard deviation of 0.33 …


Effects Of Temperature And Shot-Peening Intensity On Fretting Fatigue Behavior Of Titanium Alloy Ti-6al-4a, Salman Albinali Mar 2005

Effects Of Temperature And Shot-Peening Intensity On Fretting Fatigue Behavior Of Titanium Alloy Ti-6al-4a, Salman Albinali

Theses and Dissertations

Effects of temperature and shot-peening intensity on fretting fatigue behavior of Ti-6Al-4A were investigated in this study. S-N curves were obtained for both room and elevated temperatures (260 C) for two different shot-peened intensities (4A and 10A). Stress relaxation behavior under both fretting fatigue at elevated temperature and temperature exposure only were also investigated after their measurements were calculated using X-ray diffraction method. The crack initiation location and the crack angle orientation along the surface were determined using optical and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Cracks initiated near the trailing edge of the tested specimens. Cracks initiated on the contact surface …


Validation Of Turbulence Models In The Beggar Code For Unsteady Flow, Kevin G. Storm Mar 2005

Validation Of Turbulence Models In The Beggar Code For Unsteady Flow, Kevin G. Storm

Theses and Dissertations

Validation of the turbulence models in the CFD code Beggar for unsteady turbulent flow are discussed. Six validation cases of the code are considered, three cases with the intent of validating the code without the turbulence model and three cases to validate the turbulence model itself. Finally, a more realistic simulation of a simplified store is examined. The turbulence models considered are the Baldwin-Lomax, Spalart-Allmaras, and a DES model. The conclusions made deal with necessary prerequisites to properly simulating unsteady turbulent flow and model selection. The prerequisites necessary in the Beggar code are a second order temporal discretization and the …


Characterization Of Upstream Mixing Cavities And A Downstream Combustion Cavity In Supersonic Flow, Adam P. Quick Mar 2005

Characterization Of Upstream Mixing Cavities And A Downstream Combustion Cavity In Supersonic Flow, Adam P. Quick

Theses and Dissertations

A key area of study in air-breathing hydrocarbon-fueled scramjet combustors is the characterization of cavity-based fuel injection and flame holding. One issue concerns oscillatory disturbances caused by trapped vortices in the main flame holder cavity as a fuel-air mixing enhancement technique. Previous research demonstrates that oscillatory disturbances can be carried downstream via the shear layer and alter the oscillatory characteristics of a downstream cavity. This study investigates the mixing effectiveness of three upstream direct-fueled mixing cavities as well as the effect on the oscillatory behavior of the downstream combustion cavity by the upstream mixing cavity. The three upstream mixing cavities …


The Use Of X-Ray Pulsars For Aiding Gps Satellite Orbit Determination, Dennis W. Woodfork Ii Mar 2005

The Use Of X-Ray Pulsars For Aiding Gps Satellite Orbit Determination, Dennis W. Woodfork Ii

Theses and Dissertations

This research proposes the use of an existing "signal of opportunity" - namely x-ray pulsars - to improve the accuracy and robustness of the GPS satellite and clock estimation algorithm. Improvement in satellite and clock accuracy results in a direct benefit to the user. A simulation has been developed to determine the effects of using x-ray pulsar measurements on the GPS Operational Control Segment. The epoch-specific position, velocity, and clock errors of all GPS satellites in the constellation were estimated using both pseudoranges and time-difference-of-arrival (TDOA) measurements from pulsars. The primary measure of accuracy is a constellation Signal-In-Space Range Error …


Maneuver Estimation Model For Relative Orbit Determination, Tara R. Storch Mar 2005

Maneuver Estimation Model For Relative Orbit Determination, Tara R. Storch

Theses and Dissertations

While the use of relative orbit determination has reduced the difficulties inherent in tracking geosynchronous satellites that are in close proximity, the problem is often compounded by stationkeeping operations or unexpected maneuvers. If a maneuver occurs, observations will no longer fit predicted data, increasing the risk of misidentification and cross-tagging. The goal of this research was to develop a model that will estimate the magnitude, direction, and time of a suspected maneuver performed by a collocated satellite in geosynchronous orbit. Relative motion was modelled using Hill's equations, and least squares estimation was employed to create both a linear non-maneuver model …


Weight Analysis Of Two-Stage-To-Orbit Reusable Launch Vehicles For Military Applications, Richard A. Caldwell Mar 2005

Weight Analysis Of Two-Stage-To-Orbit Reusable Launch Vehicles For Military Applications, Richard A. Caldwell

Theses and Dissertations

In response to Department of Defense (DoD) requirements for responsive and low-cost space access, this design study provides an objective empty weight analysis of potential reusable launch vehicle (RLV) configurations. Each two-stage-to-orbit (TSTO) RLV has a fixed payload requirement of 20,000 lbf to low Earth orbit. The propulsion systems considered in this study include pure rocket, pure turbine, rocket-based-combined-cycle (RBCC), and turbine-based-combined-cycle (TBCC). The hydrocarbon dual-mode scramjet (DMSJ) engines used in the RBCC and TBCC propulsion systems represent possible applications of the current research being performed in the U.S. Air Force HyTech program. Two sensitivity analyses were then performed on …


Biaxial Fatigue Behavior Of Niti Shape Memory Alloy, Daniel M. Jensen Mar 2005

Biaxial Fatigue Behavior Of Niti Shape Memory Alloy, Daniel M. Jensen

Theses and Dissertations

Nitinol is a shape memory alloy (SMA) capable of martensite-to-austenite phase transformations enabling shape-memory behavior. Shape-memory properties make Nitinol a strong candidate material for use in aircraft applications such as actuators. Structural integrity and reliability of torque tube actuators must be assured before this material can be used in flight-critical components. Thorough understanding of the fatigue response of the material is essential for a structurally-sound SMA actuator design. The present effort investigates pure torsion and combined tension-torsion fatigue behavior of Nitinol at room temperature. Monotonic tests in tension and torsion were conducted to typify uni-directional stress-strain behavior. Fully-reversed torsion fatigue …


A Numerical Analysis For Passive Attitude Stabilization Using A Tethered Balloon On A Gravity Gradient Satellite, Ernest Matias Maramba Mar 2005

A Numerical Analysis For Passive Attitude Stabilization Using A Tethered Balloon On A Gravity Gradient Satellite, Ernest Matias Maramba

Theses and Dissertations

This research effort analyzes the fundamental dynamics governing a satellite with a gravity gradient boom and a tethered balloon. Satellites that use gravity gradient booms for passive attitude control are characterized by undamped pitch oscillations and no roll control. The tethered balloon acts as a high drag device that accounts for the most drag on the satellite system. By attaching a drag device, the system resists rolling movements while also damping oscillations. This could potentially be a cost effective method for increasing satellite stabilization. The goal of this research is to model the dynamics and determine the feasibility of a …


Performance Study Of Staging Variable On Two-Stage-To-Orbit Reusable Launch Vehicles, James K. Nilsen Mar 2005

Performance Study Of Staging Variable On Two-Stage-To-Orbit Reusable Launch Vehicles, James K. Nilsen

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this research is to investigate the effects of staging variables on Two-Stage-To-Orbit reusable launch vehicles, specifically, the question of what measurable factors play important roles in staging performance. Three different configurations (Rocket-Rocket, Turbojet-Rocket and Turbine Based Combined Cycle-Rocket) were considered. The software, Program to Optimize Simulated Trajectories (POST), was used to analyze these configurations. Vehicle coasting time, staging dynamic pressure and staging Mach number were all varied to determine their influence on the final payload.


Experimentation And Analysis Of Composite Scarf Joint, Benjamin M. Cook Mar 2005

Experimentation And Analysis Of Composite Scarf Joint, Benjamin M. Cook

Theses and Dissertations

Composite bonded scarf repairs were examined by experimentally measuring and analytically predicting the residual curing strains and strains due to mechanical loading. To accomplish this a three prong approach was used: a full strain field through a repaired laminate's thickness was measured for both a loaded specimen and a specimen with the residual strain released, models were developed for comparison to both states, and data was collected for large tensile test specimens at various stages of being scarf repaired. A ~14:1 straight scarfed one-inch wide specimen was used to collect Moire interferometry data to calculate a full strain field due …


Creep-Rupture Behavior Of An Oxide/Oxide Ceramic Matrix Composite At Elevated Temperatures In Air And Steam Environments, Lee B. Harlen Mar 2005

Creep-Rupture Behavior Of An Oxide/Oxide Ceramic Matrix Composite At Elevated Temperatures In Air And Steam Environments, Lee B. Harlen

Theses and Dissertations

Oxide/oxide ceramic matrix composites (CMCs) are being considered for applications such as jet engine combustion chambers and afterburner flaps. Nextel™ 720/A (N720/A), an oxide/oxide CMC with an alumina matrix and no interphase at the fiber-matrix interface, was developed specifically to provide improved long-term properties and performance at 1200°C. This study focused on experimental investigation of creep behavior of N720/A [0/90] at elevated temperatures in laboratory air and in 100% steam environment. Monotonic tensile tests to failure were performed at 23, 1200, and 1330°C. Ultimate tensile strength (UTS) values were established and monotonic stress-strain curves were produced. Creep-rupture tests at 1200°C …


A Systems Architectural Model For Man-Packable/Operable Intelligence, Surveillance, And Reconnaissance Mini/Micro Aerial Vehicles, Cory A. Cooper, Matthew L. Ewoldt, Steaven A. Meyer, Edward W. Talley Mar 2005

A Systems Architectural Model For Man-Packable/Operable Intelligence, Surveillance, And Reconnaissance Mini/Micro Aerial Vehicles, Cory A. Cooper, Matthew L. Ewoldt, Steaven A. Meyer, Edward W. Talley

Theses and Dissertations

With the increase in both technology push and operational pull of mini/micro aerial vehicles (MAVs) within DoD organizations, an understanding of their interactions and capabilities is necessary. Many MAVs have already been developed for a specific usage and much speculation has been made on their future uses. Despite the growth of MAVs, there is currently no overarching systems architecture which would envelop and guide the DoD's MAV development efforts. The goal of this thesis is to apply sound systems engineering principals to develop a MAV architectural model describing their use in three separate but closely related mission areas: Over-the-Hill-Reconnaissance, Battle …


Modeling And Simulation Of Commercial Satellite Imagery Processes, David A. Shultz Mar 2005

Modeling And Simulation Of Commercial Satellite Imagery Processes, David A. Shultz

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this research was to develop a general, statistical model of order-to-delivery times for commercial satellite imagery. The research looked at the current four satellite providers with 3-meter or better imagers in the context of a generalized model of commercial imaging satellite operations. Existing methods use orbit analysis tools to determine the imaging time of a specified target based on defined satellite position and times, but can only develop shortest and longest times to an imaging opportunity. To address the general question of the time it takes to deliver an image for non-specific targets, this research develops a …


Timing Of Increasing Electron Counts From Geosynchronous Orbit To Low Earth Orbit, Kirk M. Olson Mar 2005

Timing Of Increasing Electron Counts From Geosynchronous Orbit To Low Earth Orbit, Kirk M. Olson

Theses and Dissertations

Under certain conditions, high energy electron fluxes can increase over short periods of time in the outer radiation belt and diffuse to low altitudes. Sudden increases of high energy electron densities at low altitudes can drastically damage unsuspecting low-earth-orbit satellites. The progression of electron flux increases from a geosynchronous orbit to low-earth orbit during an electron event is somewhat unknown. If the beginning of electron flux increases at low-earth-orbits could be anticipated, warnings could be issued to space system operators allowing time to take proper measures to protect and minimize satellite damage extending satellite lifetimes and space mission operations. The …


Electro-Optic Beam Steering Using Domain Engineered Lithium Tantalate, Daren J. Chauvin Mar 2005

Electro-Optic Beam Steering Using Domain Engineered Lithium Tantalate, Daren J. Chauvin

Theses and Dissertations

The operation of a 14-channel five stage electro-optic beam steering device was studied. Beam deflection scanned from 0° to 10.1° was demonstrated. The maximum angle is within 0.3% of design. Many laser systems in operation today implement mechanical beam steering methods that are often expensive in terms of cost, weight and power. They are slow and subject to wear and vibration. A non-inertial beam scanning mechanism, such as one based on the device studied in this research could enhance the performance of these systems. The device studied here is fabricated in LiTaO3 using micro-patterned domain reversal. The 14 channels …


Detection Of Residual Stress In Sic Mems Using Μ-Raman Spectroscopy, John C. Zingarelli Mar 2005

Detection Of Residual Stress In Sic Mems Using Μ-Raman Spectroscopy, John C. Zingarelli

Theses and Dissertations

Micro-Raman (µ-Raman) spectroscopy is used to measure residual stress in two silicon carbide (SiC) poly-types: single-crystal, hexagonally symmetric 6H-SiC, and polycrystalline, cubic 3C-SiC thin films deposited on Si substrates. Both are used in micro-electrical-mechanical systems (MEMS) devices. By employing an incorporated piezoelectric stage with submicron positioning capabilities along with the Raman spectral acquisition, spatial scans are performed to reveal areas in the 6H-SiC MEMS structures that contain residual stress. Shifts in the transverse optical (TO) Stokes peaks of up to 2 cm-1 are correlated to the material strain induced by the MEMS fabrication process through the development of phonon …


Lethality Of Bacillus Anthracis Spores Due To Short Duration Heating Measured Using Infrared Spectroscopy, Kristina M. Goetz Mar 2005

Lethality Of Bacillus Anthracis Spores Due To Short Duration Heating Measured Using Infrared Spectroscopy, Kristina M. Goetz

Theses and Dissertations

There are a number of analytical and semi-empirical models that describe the behavior of particulate matter in the atmosphere. Many of these require modification for all types of weather, dry versus wet deposition, and overall effects can be quite non-linear. Rainfall (rate, drop size, etc.), snowfall (rate, flake size, etc.), humidity, pressure, temperature, and combination of these greatly affect particle settling and washout rates. To that end, a method for tracking released constituents using the Regional Atmospheric Modeling System (RAMS) microphysics package is developed by modifying one of the hydrometeor categories (hail) in the microphysics package. The RAMS microphysics package …