Welcome to your Digital Edition of NASA Tech Briefsassets.techbriefs.com/EML/2017/ntb_digital/NTB0517.pdfCov ToC + – Intro A Intro Cov ToC + – A Welcome to your Digital Edition

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May 2017 www.techbriefs.com Vol. 41 No. 5

NASA’s Innovative Conceptsfor the Future

Intelligent Robotics Safeguarding

Shuttle Fastener TechnologyRevolutionizes Golf Clubs

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May 2017 www.techbriefs.com Vol. 41 No. 5

NASA’s Innovative Conceptsfor the Future


Shuttle Fastener TechnologyRevolutionizes Golf Clubs

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2 www.techbriefs.com NASA Tech Briefs, May 2017

Contents

May 2017 • Vol. 41 No. 5

Features8 Products of Tomorrow

12 Intelligent Robotics Safeguarding

64 NASA Spinoff: Fastener Threading for Golf Clubs

Solutions16 Technology Focus: Data Acquisition

16 Automation System Manages Critical Gas Distribution Process

20 AutoSurvey™ Software System

20 Method Improves Accuracy of Imaging Data

22 SpinDx™ Lab on a Disk

22 Low-Power, Special-Purpose Chip for Speech Recognition inElectronics

24 Ultra-High-Speed Fiber Optic Sensor Detects Structural Damage in Real Time

25 Authenticated Sensor Interface Device

26 Materials & Coatings

26 Polyimides Derived from Novel Asymmetric BenzophenoneDianhydrides

26 Highly Porous and Mechanically Strong Ceramic Oxide Aerogels

27 Asymmetric Dielectric Elastomer Composite Material

28 Method of Creating Micro-Scale Silver Telluride Grains Coveredwith Bismuth Nanoparticles

29 Nanotubular Toughening Inclusions

30 Mechanical & Fluid Systems

30 Robust, Highly Efficient Oxygen-Carbon Monoxide Cogeneration System

31 Low Solidity Vaned Diffuser (LSVD) Design for Improvement of Pressure Recovery

32 Tangential Wrap Rib Deployable Reflector

34 Sensors

34 Low-Cost RFID Torque and Tension Sensing Tag System

34 Piezoelectric Field Disturbance Sensing System and Method

35 Photo-Acoustic Chemical Detector

36 Floating Ultrasonic Transducer Inspection System and Methodfor Nondestructive Evaluation

38 Aeronautics

38 Multi-Functional Annular Fairing for Coupling Launch AbortMotor to Space Vehicle

38 Turbofan Engine Acoustic Liner Design and Analysis Tools

40 In-Situ Load System for Calibrating and Validating Aerodynamic Properties of Scaled Aircraft in Ground-BasedAerospace Testing Applications

42 Propulsion

42 Multi-Thruster Propulsion Apparatus

42 Magnetically Conformed, Variable-Area Discharge Chamber forHall Thruster, and Method

Departments6 UpFront

10 Who’s Who at NASA

62 NASA’s Technology Transfer Program

63 Advertisers Index

New for Design Engineers58 Product Focus: Test Instruments

59 New Products/Software

Product of the MonthSpectrum Instrumentation Corp.(Hackensack, NJ) introduced DN6.44x high-speed LXI-based digitizers.

(Solutions continued on page 4)

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43 Propellant Distributor for a Thruster

44 Green Monopropellant Secondary Payload Propulsion System

45 Flame Holder System

46 Communications

46 Cellular Reflectarray Antenna and Method of Making Same

46 Polarization-Dependent Whispering Gallery Modes (WGMs) inMicrospheres

47 Ad Hoc Selection of Voice Over Internet Streams

48 Deep-Space Positioning System

48 9-Meter Slaving System

49 GPS Satellite Geometry Analysis Tool (GPSGEM)

50 Environment

50 Methods for Purifying Enzymes for Mycoremediation

50 WX Subsystem Weather Station

51 Unleashing RAPID

52 Land Cover Viewer

52 Obs4MIPS.py

53 System, Apparatus, and Method for Liquid Purification

54 Information Technology & Software

54 Representation and Analysis of System Behavior UsingMonotonic Signals

54 RAYGUN Fast Generic Geometry Raycasting Tool

55 Human Factors Analysis Support Tool (H-FAST) v 2.0

56 Open Mission Control Technologies (Open MCT) Web

56 iOrca Code Release

57 LTAS Source Slaving Selector (LS3) Analyzer

On the coverNASA is preparing for a future that could includetechnologies that so far have been limited to therealm of science fiction. The NASA InnovativeAdvanced Concepts (NIAC) portfolio of 22 early-stagetechnology proposals includes innovations such as softrobotic spacecraft with flexible surfaces, and an artificialgravity device. Other pioneering new technologies includean automaton rover, and a method to purify andenrich Mars soil. Learn more on page 6.(Image montage: Joel Sercel, Jay McMahon, Siegfried Janson, Adam Arkin, Jonathan Sauder, John Lewis, and Chris Mann)

Contents

The U.S. Government does not endorse any commercial product, process, or activity identified in this publication.

This document was prepared under the sponsorship of the National Aeronautics andSpace Administration. Neither Associated Business Publications Co., Ltd. nor theUnited States Government nor any person acting on behalf of the United StatesGovernment assumes any liability resulting from the use of the information containedin this document, or warrants that such use will be free from privately owned rights.

Permissions: Authorization to photocopy items for internal or personal use, or the internal or personal useof specific clients, is granted by Associated Business Publications, provided that the flat fee of $3.00 per copybe paid directly to the Copyright Clearance Center (222 Rose Wood Dr., Danvers, MA 01923). For thoseorganizations that have been granted a photocopy license by CCC, a separate system of payment has beenarranged. The fee code for users of the Transactional Reporting Service is: ISSN 0145-319X194 $3.00+ .00

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NASA Invests in Visionary Exploration Concepts NASA is preparing for a future that

could include soft robotic spacecraft withflexible surfaces that can anchor to anasteroid, and an artificial gravity device forlong-duration deep space missions. Theseand 20 other early-stage technology pro-posals have the potential to transformfuture human and robotic exploration mis-sions, introduce new exploration capabili-ties, and significantly improve current approaches to building and operating aero-space systems.

The 2017 NASA Innovative Advanced Concepts (NIAC) portfolio includes newtechnologies in propulsion, imaging and spectroscopy, robotics, asteroid mining, andspacecraft design. NASA selected the projects through a peer-review process that eval-uated innovativeness and technical viability. All projects are still in the early stages ofdevelopment, and most require 10 or more years of concept maturation and technol-ogy development before use on a NASA mission.

For more information about NIAC and a complete list of the selected proposals, visit www.nasa.gov/niac.

Electric Eyeglasses Flex to FocusEngineers from the University of Utah, funded by the National Institute of

Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering (NIBIB), have developed glasses with liquid-based lenses that “flex” to refocus on whatever the wearer is viewing. The glassesmimic the behavior of the eye’s natural lens, flexing to focus on wherever an individ-ual is looking, whether near, far, or in between.

The central technology of the glasses is lensesmade of glycerin sandwiched between flexible mem-branes. The lenses are mounted into frames that havean electromechanical system that causes the mem-branes to bend to adjust their focus, allowing the sin-gle lens to act like multiple lenses.

The glasses are designed to work for most people ata wide range of distances through a computer algo-rithm that works with two critical variables: the eye-glass prescription that the user enters into the systemusing an attached mobile app, and where the user islooking — specifically, how far away. This informationis provided by a sensor mounted in the bridge of theglasses that uses pulses of infrared light to identify

where the user is looking and provide the precise distance. Theoretically, they would be the only glasses a person would ever have to buy

because they can correct the majority of focusing problems. Users would just inputtheir new prescription as their eyesight changes. A startup company, Sharpeyes, hasbeen created to move toward commercialization with the aim of making the glassesavailable on the market in about three years.

Watch a demo on Tech Briefs TV at www.techbriefs.com/tv/smart-glasses.


facebook.com/NASATechBriefs linkedin.com/company/tech-briefs-media twitter.com/NASATechBriefs

Connect with NTB

UPFRONT Linda Bell

Editorial Director

Editor’s ChoiceA photo-acoustic chemical detector

senses sub-part-per-billion (ppb) levels ofambient trace gases and chemical species,with an order of magnitude more sensitiv-ity than similar technologies. The chemi-cal sniffer can detect hazardous or toxicchemical species in the vicinity of IEDs,explosives, or other chemical agents. Insuch an application, the sensor coulddetect chemical species hidden insideclosed containers, bags, or car trunks.Find out more on page 35.

Future Engineers Mars MedicalChallenge Winners Chosen

NASA and the American Society ofMechanical Engineers (ASME) Foun -dation selected two winners for theirnational Future Engineers MarsMedical Challenge for students K-12.The Dual IV/Syringe Pump won theTeen Group, and the Drug DeliveryDevice was the winner of the JuniorGroup. Participants were invited to cre -ate a digital 3D model intended to be3D printed and used for medical needsincluding diagnostic, preventative,first-aid, emergency, surgical, and/ordental purposes.

The winners will receive a grand-prize trip to Houston, which includes atour of NASA’s Johnson Space Centerto learn about space medicine andhuman exploration of space.

Visit www.futureengineers.org.

Next Month in NTB

The June issue will include special cov-erage on Design for Manufacturability,including how new software and 3Dprinting techniques combine to enablefaster, more accurate, and cost-effectiveproduction of products.

The prototype contains the electri-cal components, mechanical actua-tors, an infrared sensor on the eye-glass bridge, rechargeable batter-ies, and Bluetooth capability.(Carlos H. Mastrangelo, Universityof Utah College of Engineering)

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https://www.nasa.gov/niac

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► Process ProducesRenewable Car Tiresfrom Trees and Grasses A team of researchers, led by the University of

Minnesota, has invented a technology to produce iso-prene, the key molecule in car tires, from naturalproducts like trees, grasses, or corn. The new processbegins with sugars derived from biomass, and com-bines them with biological fermentation usingmicrobes with conventional catalytic refining that issimilar to petroleum refining technology. Bio-sourcedisoprene has the potential to expand domestic pro-duction of car tires by using renewable, readily avail-able resources instead of fossil fuels. This discoverycould also impact many other technologicallyadvanced rubber-based products.

Contact: Rhonda Zurn, University of Minnesota College ofScience and EngineeringPhone: 612-626-7959E-mail: [email protected]://twin-cities.umn.edu/

► Amorphous Wire Pressure SensorThe US Department of Energy’s Y-12 National Security Complex has developed the

Amorphous Wire Pressure Sensor, a passive, wireless sensor for determining the inter-

nal pressure of a sealed container without the need for penetrations of the container

for power or data acquisition. The sensor can be embedded inside a container and its data read through the

wall by an external detector. Changes in pressure are detected based on changes in the magnetic switching

characteristics of the ferromagnetic metal when subjected to an alternating magnetic field caused by the

change in the tensile stress. The inductive signals can be detected through a variety of materials. Applications

include sealed waste containers, gas cylinders, and for measuring tire pressure.

Contact: Y12 National Security Complex, US Department of EnergyPhone: 865-241-5981E-mail: [email protected]://www.y12.doe.gov


► Low-Cost RFIDTorque- and Tension-Sensing Tag System

NASA’s Johnson Space Center has developed a low-cost RFID-based torque and tension sensor for high-performance fasteners, such as bolts, that are used inhigh-tech equipment and systems. It offers the abilityto remotely and quickly verify that a given fastener istorqued properly, resulting in potential cost savingsover the life of the fastener and its host system. Thesystem replaces traditional designs by using standardbolts in conjunction with an RFID ring integrated cir-cuit (IC), antenna layers (top and bottom), a flatwasher, and a spring washer. A new level of sensortelemetry is possible due to the system’s ability to readlonger ranges than present systems. Applicationsinclude aerospace, automotive, shipbuilding, com-plex construction such as bridges, and heavy equip-ment manufacturing.

Contact: Johnson Space CenterPhone: 281-483-3809E-mail: [email protected]://technology.nasa.gov/patent/TB2016/MSC-TOPS-49

This column presents technologies that haveapplications in commercial areas, possibly creating theproducts of tomorrow. To learn more about eachtechnology, see the contact information provided forthat innovation.

Products of Tomorrow

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Who’s Whoat NASA

Nick Krotkov,AtmosphericScientist,Goddard SpaceFlight Center,Greenbelt, MD

U sing data from NASA’s EarthObserving System Aura satellite,

launched in 2004, a team led by MichiganTechnological University created a globalmap of volcanic emissions. Scientist NickKrotkov will use the information to refineclimate models and better understandthe human and environmental healthrisks of erupted gases like sulfur dioxide.

NASA Tech Briefs: How do youmake these maps of volcanicemissions?

Nick Krotkov: First, we use anOzone Monitoring Instrument (OMI)on the NASA Aura satellite, which is ahyperspectral ultraviolet (UV) and vis-ible spectrometer. The OMI spectrom-eter measures the spectra of solar radi-ation backscattering from the Earth’satmosphere and the surface. On theway through the atmosphere, the lightgets absorbed by ozone and otherminor gases that have characteristicabsorption features we analyze withretrieval algorithms. Specifically, welook for the characteristic UV spectralabsorption lines of sulfur dioxide(SO2) gas, which volcanoes emit.

NTB: What is the Aura satellite?

Krotkov: The Aura satellite is in alower-Earth orbit, and measures everyplace on Earth once a day, in earlyafternoon, and moves with the Sun.We can see SO2 degassing from volca-noes if clouds do not obscure it. SO2

absorption lines have different spec-tral shapes compared to those forozone, so we can separate these gasesusing hyperspectral UV instruments suchas the OMI and the operational OzoneProfiling and Mapping Suite (OMPS)

onboard the NASA-NOAA Suiomi Na -tional Polar Partnership (S-NPP) weath-er satellite.

NTB: Why are these maps important?

Krotkov: They are very importantfrom an atmospheric composition pointof view. It’s very important to monitorthe natural and anthropogenic SO2

sources globally. The SO2 gas that isemitted from volcanoes interacts withwater vapor to convert to tiny sulfate par-ticles, which scatter back solar radiationand can cool the climate. The SO2 gas isa pollutant, which is harmful to breatheand can cause irritation of the respirato-ry system. SO2 causes acidification of theenvironment, like you see in the deadforests near the volcanoes.

With the satellite, you have a consis-tent worldwide view of the sources of vol-canic gases and anthropogenic pollu-tion. We can now do a “global catalog” ofthe largest persistent SO2 emitters. Man-made emissions of SO2 can be reducedwith technologies and regulations, butvolcanoes always will be present, so weneed to know accurately what the back-ground is of the volcanic emissions to beable to separate it from the manmadeSO2 pollution.

NTB: What did you learn from theOMI measurements?

Krotkov: Overall, OMI measured vol-canic degassing emissions. OMI meas-urements have shown that manmadeSO2 emissions were reduced greatly inNorth America, Europe, and East Asia,mainly because of flue-gas desulfuriza-tion devices installed on coal-fired powerstations and smelters. At the same time,SO2 emissions have increased in someregions such as northeast India.

Once you get to work with real data,you find something new and unexpect-ed that you didn’t know you couldmeasure from space.

To learn more, read a full transcript, orlisten to a downloadable podcast, visitwww.techbriefs.com/podcast.

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Traditional robot applications lim -it operator access to hazardsthrough hard-guarding and pro-tective devices that either detect

and stop the hazard, or prevent accessinto the safeguarding space until thehazard no longer exists. The introduc-tion of power- and force-limited robotsused in collaborative applicationschanges this environment. Reduced ornonexistent hard-guarding, along withcontinuous motion and interactionbetween the robot and the operator,makes the environment inherentlydynamic and uncertain. Methods toreduce risks to a tolerable level includelimiting forces and speed, but thesemeasures can yield unacceptable pro-duction rates.

Traditional robotic safeguarding stopshazardous system motion regardless ofthe operator’s intent or task. A collabora-tive robot application limits motion to alevel where inherent safety designs havetime to respond and stop motion if con-tact with an operator is made. Currently,collaborative robot application speed islimited by its most hazardous task, eventhough the risks for different tasks mayvary. To maintain a safe environment forthe operator while optimizing a robot’sspeed, size, and capability, machine safe-guarding must transition from tradition-al preventative procedures to emergingpredictive concepts.

Predicting Human BehaviorsSafety applications determined by

human behaviors are based on previousexperience and translated into appropri-ate standards. The preferred method toreduce interaction risk is to design a sys-tem so it is inherently safe. Safeguarding isthen only required to keep the operatoraway from the hazards when the designcannot reduce the risks to a tolerablelevel. Administrative controls such aswarning signs, barriers, and training makeoperators aware of the hazards, but theyalso rely on the operator’s willingness tofollow the guidelines. With this methodol-ogy, the robot’s reaction is primarily basedon the operator’s current behavior.

Power- and force-limited robots mayhave inherently safe design throughfeatures such as low-inertia servomo-tors, elastic actuators, and collisiondetection. These features may reducethe need for additional safeguarding incollaborative applications. While ad -min istrative controls make the operatoraware of expected robot paths andshared workspaces, risks remain.

Robot applications are programmedto complete a predetermined path ormake an adjustment based on infor-mation from sources such as sensors,barcode readers, and vision systems.Rigid programming stops the robot’smotion while an operator is in itspath. This behavior can encourage anoperator to bypass safety to meet pro-duction expectations.

Production could potentially beincreased if the robot was able to workaround the operator. Applying conceptsfrom other sectors, along with data col-lection, may provide solutions for opti-mizing safety and enhancing produc-tion. An example is automated intelli-gent vehicles (AIVs) that adapt to theirenvironment. They scan the mappedarea and adjust their direction if anoperator is in its path, or slow downwhen the operator is in close proximity.

This gives them the flexibility to adjustbased on the operator’s movement with-in a dynamic environment.

Reducing Risk by DesignTraditional robot structures are de -

signed to withstand harsh environmentsand accidental collisions with othermachinery. During normal operation,the operator is not exposed to hazardsassociated with the robot system thatmay include fixtures, parts, and end-effectors; however, these risks must beevaluated and changes implementedwhen an operator will be exposed to haz-ards in a collaborative application. Riskscan be minimized in a collaborativeapplication by “softening” the potentialimpact areas. This approach includesusing softer and more compliant materi-als for the structure; for example,padding or spring-based protective cov-ers can absorb some of the force, edgesand corners can be smoothed androunded, and wider surface areas can beused to reduce impact effects.

The operator’s perceived safety isimportant when designing a collabora-tive system. Traditional robot systemsnormally have a detectable boundarydue to hard-guarding and other visibleprotective devices. In a collaborative

Figure 1: Commonly used intrusion-detection sensors for robotic applications include safety mats.

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NASA Tech Briefs, May 2017 www.techbriefs.com 13

application, safeguarding may bepart of the inherent design andnot visible to the operator. Ifoperators do not trust the safetyof the system and cannot visualizeits boundaries, they may adjusttheir tasks to fit their own conceptof what is safe and how it shouldbe implemented.

Safeguarding boundaries mustbe defined for all robotic systemsto reduce risks to a tolerable level.This process is done with a riskassessment that evaluates theprobability of an occurrence andthe severity of harm if the opera-tor comes into contact with a haz-ard. Direct safeguarding methods createa physical separation between the opera-tor and the robot. They are inefficient interms of time, floor space, and re -sources, and place limits on the types oftasks that can be performed. Indirectsafeguarding methods detect and initi-ate when a boundary is violated. Whilethey allow the operator to have moreconvenient access into the safeguardedsystem when hazards are not present, astop may be triggered by an unknownobject, and it may be difficult to evaluatethe source.

Zones permit operators to access lim-ited areas of the robot’s workspace whenno hazards are present, while the robotoperates in another area. One designmethod enables maintenance and oper-ator tasks to be completed in one areawithout stopping the robot. One difficul-ty with multiple zones is designing thesafeguarding so it efficiently accountsfor operator transition between zoneswithout sacrificing the cycle time of theprocess. Events such as an operator’ssudden change of movement to quicklyre-enter a zone he or she just exitedneed to be accounted for in the design.

Sensors detect system changes andprovide status information. For a safetysystem, activating a protective devicechanges its state so the signal is sentand the system can respond before theoperator enters the hazardous area.Commonly used intrusion-detectionsensors for robotic applications includelight curtains, single-beam safety sen-sors, safety area scanners, and safetymats (Figure 1). Collecting data when asensor was activated and locating theactivated devices was typically only use-ful with safety area scanners, whichhelped to isolate the intrusion trigger-ing the event.

In the past, the costs of additional sen-sors for collecting data provided mini-mal benefit. But sensors are getting bet-ter, smaller, cheaper, and easier to inte-grate. Computing resources for analyz-ing sensor data also are becoming moreeffective and affordable. With thesechanges, sensor systems are now capableof storing and managing detailed datathat can be used in future applicationsfor predictive collaborative robotic safe-guarding. Without sensors or vision sys-tems, robots cannot adapt to unknownor unpredictable environments.

Most collaborative robot applicationsdefine the robot’s path based on therequired task. The environment couldchange and not affect the robot’s path,but the change could affect how theoperator interacts within the collabora-tive system. Future robot applicationswill need a way to adapt path planningso they can avoid collisions. One featurethat could make collision avoidance eas-ier is adding a seventh axis that wouldincrease flexibility, allow the robot awider range of motion, and facilitatemovement around an operator.

When to Predict the FutureCurrent protective safety devices

detect the moment an operator entersthe hazard zone, but they cannot deter-mine what part of the operator’s bodytriggers the protective stop. With a safe-ty area scanner, a slight intrusion by afoot could trigger an unintentional stopsince boundaries are not clearly visible.A control station too close to a safetylight curtain could also trigger uninten-tional stops, but on a more consistentbasis. When triggered stops have a regu-lar pattern, it could be a sign of anupcoming maintenance issue, designdiscrepancy between its intended func-

tion and its actual use, or an issuewithin the process such asjammed parts caught on a sharpedge of a conveyor.

Vision-based methods usingcameras work reasonably wellwhen people are well separated,minimally occluded, and in neu-tral poses. Pose estimation meth-ods can detect when people arebending over or reaching out.The background and the robotare explicitly modeled, whichenables the detection of people,even in changing environments.For people to work safely in theproximity of industrial robots,

their positions within the system mustbe constantly monitored, regardless ofwhat they are wearing or doing. Sincepeople are not predictable, estimatingtheir detailed body poses is a challeng-ing problem.

It is possible to use a vision-basedprotective device (VBPD) and vision-based protective device stereovisiontechniques (VBPDST) to monitor user-configured 3D volumes. Stereo imagingdetects how and at what height theoperator action triggers a stop. It usestwo cameras to capture two images of ascene from two viewpoints. The loca-tions and optical parameters of eachcamera use a triangulation method todetermine the correspondence be -tween pixels in each image. The rela-tive depth of each point is inversely pro-portional to the differences in the dis-tance of the corresponding points andtheir camera centers.

Figure 2 shows a system using cameraimages to capture the event that trig-gered a stop. Since stereo imaging cancompute the depth of each point, thesystem could also provide height andlocation information, which is useful indifferentiating between actual andfalse activations. Safeguarding is some-times bypassed when it impedes pro-ductivity. If operators have differentperceptions about how the system isdesigned to work and it produces var-ied results, training could become aneffective tool to establish consistencyand improve quality.

When a Robot Makes its OwnDecisions

An industrial robot requires exten-sive safeguarding because it does exact-ly what it is programmed to do. Anycapability to make a decision depends

Figure 2: Detecting intrusion using stereo imaging.

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on information given to the robot byanother source, such as a switch, visionsystem, or sensor. The robot cannot dis-tinguish between correct and incorrectdata, which is why a safety system isrequired to monitor and shut down thesystem when an operator enters thehazard zone.

A power- and force-limited robotchanges this scenario by using detectionand sophisticated algorithms to makethe robot inherently safe. Safeguardingcan be reduced if there are no other haz-ards in the area; however, to avoidimpacts strong enough to cause opera-tor injury, the speed and payload of apower and force robot must be limited.

After inherently safe design, the nextstep is to give the robot artificial intel-ligence (AI) or machine intelligence soit can distinguish between good andbad data and formulate its action.Types of AI proven to be useful withsensor systems may include knowledge-based systems, fuzzy logic, automaticknowledge acquisition, neural net-works, genetic algorithms, case-basedreasoning, and ambient intelligence.AI combines a wide variety of advancedtechnologies to give machines the abil-ity to learn, adapt, make decisions, anddisplay new behaviors.

Knowledge-based systems are comput-er programs that facilitate problem-solv-ing related to a specific domain.Knowledge is expressed as a combina-tion of if/then rules, factual statements,frames, objects, procedures, and cases.The systems receive and send input andoutput signals through external connec-tions to the outside world. They may beuseful in collaborative applicationswhere data is known and parameters canbe defined.

Fuzzy logic uses a level of human rea-soning instead of a true or false value.This approach may be used in applica-tions where the operator does not knowthe process and the sequence canchange, as when using indicator lights tolet an operator know the next step in aprocess. Neural networks obtain implicitknowledge through training. They canbe trained by being presented with typi-cal input patterns and the correspond -ing expected output patterns. Thisapproach may be suitable for applica-tions such as a process where similarsized parts are arranged and assembledin the same order.

In a facility where solutions for knownproblems are defined, case-based rea-

soning may be applicable. New situa-tions adapt solutions from previousproblems into solutions for currentproblems. The solutions represent theexperience of human specialists that arestored in a database. When a new prob-lem occurs, the system compares it toprevious cases, and selects one that isclosest to the current problem.

Ambient intelligence gathers infor-mation and knowledge from sensorswithin the environment to optimizeprocesses. It creates a seamless interac-tion between people and sensor sys-tems to meet actual and anticipatedneeds. This method could be used in apackaging facility where the rate andtype of product change and automatedintelligent vehicles may be deployed todifferent stations.

ConclusionPower- and force-limited robots have

paved the way for machines andhumans to work together, but safelyimplementing a collaborative applica-tion currently limits productivity dueto reduced speed and payload. Toaddress these issues, new methods ofpredicting an operator’s approach,speed, and direction need to be fur-ther developed.

Using zones and sensors to collectdata such as entry location, time with-in the collaborative workspace, andexit location can be used to design sys-tems, change the operator’s existingtasks, or modify the robot’s path plan-ning so potential collision can be min-imized. This data also can be used toindicate potential maintenance issuesby sending alerts when access into thecollaborative workspace becomesmore frequent, and by monitoringusage and wear of the components.

On a dynamically changing system,intelligent robotic safeguarding can beused to predict the operator’s actionsand adjust the path of a power- andforce-limited robot. This method wouldimprove productivity by allowing therobot to anticipate and avoid collisionswhile operating at higher speeds andpayload levels.

This article was adapted from SAETechnical Paper 2017-01-0293 authored byTina Hull of Omron, Hoffman Estates, IL.To obtain the full technical paper and accessmore than 200,000 resources for the aero-space, automotive, and commercial vehicleindustries, visit the SAE MOBILUS site athttp://saemobilus.sae.org.


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AIntro



Technology Focus

Data Acquisition

Automation System Manages Critical Gas Distribution Process

Part of the TDK group of companies,Headway Technologies (Milpitas,CA) is a semiconductor manufactur-

er of memory and drive head technolo-gies, and designs and manufacturesrecording heads for high-performancehard disk drives.

In Headway’s manufacturing process-es, industrial gases are used extensivelydue to the cleanliness demands of theirhigh-density semiconductor products.A valve-manifold box (VMB) distributesgas from a single supply point to up toeight production tools (Figure 1). Asthe gas is distributed through multiplelegs, with one leg per process tool, thegas pressure is monitored constantly atmultiple points. Many of these gases arehighly toxic, corrosive, and/or flamma-ble. The VMB not only monitors gasdelivery, but also provides multiplepurge and maintenance functionswhen the gas manifolds, gas deliverylegs, or components need to be main-tained or replaced.

The Purging ProcessWhen gas delivery is active, which is

most of the time, an automatic gascontrol (AGC) system is monitoringfrom two to five gas pressure transduc-ers and multiple gas flow switches toensure that sufficient pressure andflow are maintained. Pressure decreas-es indicate a possible leak or a deplet-ed source, and pressure increases indi-cate a blockage from a failed valve orclosed manual valve. Pressure is moni-tored constantly, and the response to apressure out of limits must beaddressed immediately.

When gas delivery is not active, apurge routine can be executed to facil-itate replacement of transducers, regu-lators, valves, etc. As many of thesegases are toxic, flammable, or both, avery detailed purge routine is requiredto first ensure all process gas is removedfrom the lines. A purge process cantake hours to ensure all gasses havebeen evacuated.

Once the maintenance work is com-plete, a similar purge process is requiredto ensure the gas lines are free of con-taminants. Then, the process gas is care-fully reintroduced into the gas lines, andall transducers are checked to make surethey are within proper operating limits.

These detailed purge routines andprocedures create the greatest demandfor an AGC system. Gas delivery alonecould be accomplished in a manual orsemi-automatic fashion; however, to pro-vide the greatest safety for the equip-ment and personnel involved in themaintenance of the equipment, theAGC and VMB with advanced controllerand automatic functions is the routemost manufacturers prefer.

A Reliable Gas SupplyHeadway Technologies has seven

VMBs located in cleanroom cores nearproduction equipment. Gas leg-specificand general alarm conditions are con-tinually monitored, including leg emer-gency gas off, jacket leaks, leg high pres-sure, excess flow, high temperatures,seismic activity detector status, andsmoke and fire detector status. Alsomonitored are low, high, and high/highdelivery pressures along with manyother critical parameters. These sevenVMBs are critical to the safe and reliabledelivery of numerous process gases tothe production tools. Disruptions in gasdelivery can lead to lost productiontime and scrapped lots, so continuedoperation of these units is critical.

Due to a series of large power spikes,many of the current AutomationDirectDL205 WinPLC CPUs in the plant weredamaged, although the I/O for thesePLCs remained intact. Headway decidedto upgrade the automation controllers.KCC Software, a system integrator inHuntsville, AL, was selected due to itsfamiliarity with the original AGC andVMB systems. KCC also has extensiveexperience with the PLCs, with dozensof systems developed and deployed.

Figure 1. This AutomationDirect C-more Touch Panel graphic screen shows how the AGC and theVMB distribute gas from a single supply point to up to four production tools through multiple legs.(Photo: KCC Software)

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AIntro

pickering Pickering Interfaces

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AIntro



Technology Focus

Data Acquisition

The Gas Delivery SystemAfter reviewing the situation at

Headway, KCC recommended the exist-ing automation system be retrofittedwith a new AutomationDirect Do-moreH2 Series Programmable Logic Con -troller CPU. Selecting this newer PLCCPU provided Headway with a systemoffering more than 10 years of serviceand support. Costs were minimizedbecause the new CPU worked with theexisting I/O (Figure 2).

The mechanical components of theVMBs were still in good condition, sothere was no need to replace them.But in addition to the PLC CPU, theexisting 12-year-old human/machineinterface (HMI) had to be replaced aswell because it did not have a driverfor communications with the newCPU. Replacing the existing HMIwould simplify integration with theCPU, and would allow for addition ofnew features, along with extendingservice and support. Because the newPLC works with the existing Auto -mationDirect DirectLOGIC DL205hardware, no I/O modules in any slotsof the CPU base had to be changed,and all wiring remained intact. Thisbackward compatibility between thenew CPU and the existing I/O greatlysimplified the upgrade, reduced costs,and expedited the entire project.

In addition to the PLC and the HMI,the AGC automation system includesexisting 32-point and 16-point discreteoutput modules, and an 8-point relaymodule. It also includes a 16-point dis-crete input module, a 32-point discreteinput module, and two 8-channel analoginput modules. All I/O modules aremounted in a 9-slot base with the CPU.The system has five modes of user interac-tion: configuration mode, setpoint mode,manual mode, maintenance mode, andauto mode.

Due to safety concerns, a high level ofpassword protection and security is pro-vided for all five modes of user interac-tion. Entry into any mode of operationrequires a password. The AGC operateson three password-protected access lev-els: operator, maintenance, and engi-neering. Operator access allows automode functions only. Maintenanceaccess allows all modes except for con-figuration. Engineering access allows allmodes of operation.

Because of the wide variety of special-ty gases the AGC can distribute, a con-

figuration mode allows the user to con-figure the system by selecting from var-ious options available, and by definingthe operating ranges of the transduc-ers. Users can select pressure and gasdetector transducer ranges.

The setpoint mode allows the userto specify operating parameters basedon the gas being distributed by theVMB. Although each VMB is built thesame, the amount of time each valveremains open during purge and ventcycles, and the number of cyclesdemanded, typically are determinedby the gas in use. Considering the dif-ferences between ammonia and argon,for example, a purge control pageallows the user to define the nature ofthe purge and the vent controls used.Only a trained user with passwordaccess may use the manual mode toopen and close valves.

Maintenance mode provides thefunctions and management toolsrequired to maintain the VMB cabinet,including a variety of purge and evacu-ation functions. Auto mode is the pri-mary operating mode of the VMB.Once this mode is initiated, the gason/off button starts gas delivery to thetools, or stops delivery to tools whenthe tool interface is not in use.

ResultsKCC developed the new PLC and

HMI software applications, and installedthe new hardware and software at

Headway Technologies’ facility in Marchof 2016. The new application was testedand verified in less than three days, withHeadway’s equipment and maintenancestaff assisting in the verification of thenew system.

With the installation completed forthe first three AGC systems, Headway isextremely pleased with the results. Inaddition to duplicating the verydetailed and critical purge functions,KCC made the new HMI screens moreattractive and easier to read, andadded many new capabilities to pro-vide improved management of theVMB processes.

Headway has scheduled the pur-chase of the necessary hardware to runthe same applications on four moreVMBs, and KCC will assist with theseupgrades as required. Headway hasalso asked KCC to quote similarupgrades to non-VMB systems runningat their facility. Headway is already dis-cussing an IT upgrade to their facilityto make good use of the Auto -mationDirect C-more HMI’s capabilityto send emails at critical points in theprocess. This would allow the mainte-nance staff to respond in a timely man-ner while still being able to performother work during lengthy purgeprocesses.

For more information on the Auto -mationDirect products used in this appli-cation, visit http://info.hotims.com/65851-122.

Figure 2. None of the existing I/O modules or wiring from the modules to field devices needed tobe replaced when the existing PLC was upgraded to the AutomationDirect Do-more PLC. (Photo:KCC Software)

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AIntro


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Technological highlights: network analysis

frequency converters without LO access

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AIntro




Technology Focus

Data Acquisition

Method Improves Accuracyof Imaging Data

Research by the University of Chicagoprovides scientists looking at singlemolecules or into deep space a more

accurate way to analyze imaging data cap-tured by microscopes, telescopes, andother devices. The method, known as sin-gle-pixel interior filling function (SPIFF),detects and corrects systematic errors indata and image analysis used in manyareas of science and engineering.

Various imaging devices are used tolearn about objects on scales rangingfrom the very small (nanometers) to thevery large (astrophysical scales). Thisoften includes tracking the movement ofsuch objects to learn about their behav-ior and properties.

Many imaging systems and image-based detectors consist of pixels, such as

with a megapixel cellphone. Particletracking allows researchers to deter-mine the position of an object down toa single pixel, and even explore sub-pixel localization to better than one-tenth of a pixel accuracy. With an opti-cal microscope’s resolution of about 250nanometers, and an effective pixel sizeof about 80 nanometers, particle track-ing allows researchers to locate the cen-ter or location of an object to within afew nanometers, provided enough pho-tons are measured.

Such sub-pixel resolution depends onalgorithms to estimate the position ofobjects and their trajectories. Usingthese algorithms often results in errorsof precision and accuracy due to factorssuch as nearby or overlapping objects in

the image and background noise. SPIFFcan correct the errors with little addedcomputational costs.

Sub-pixel data analysis can bebiased by subtle features of the image-formation process, and these biasescan shift a trajectory’s apparent posi-tion by as much as half a pixel relativeto its true position. For sensitivemeasurements of delicate physicalprocesses, that shift is unacceptable.The SPIFF method detects and cor-rects biases in the outputs of particle-tracking experiments.

The SPIFF approach is based on thehistogram of estimated positions withinpixels. The deviation of the SPIFF froma uniform distribution is used to test theveracity of tracking analyses from differ-

Technology Focus

Data Acquisition

AutoSurvey™ Software System

The U.S. Navy has devel-oped a software systemthat optimizes the col-

lection of data for hydro-graphic surveys. The auton -omous survey system, calledAuto Survery, is an easy-to-implement, real-time adap-tive software system for thecollection of swath-type datathat minimizes survey timewhile maintaining data quali-ty and ensuring the desiredcoverage.

AutoSurvey is applicable to all swath-type surveying systems with fixed angu-lar footprints, and where the quality ofthe swath edge data can be monitoredby real-time sensors. The software deter-mines the effects of the environmentand system per formance on the collect-ed data by grouping the data collectioninto a series of modules — data collec-tion and error detection, data georectifi-cation, data quality validation, swath-edge fit, next-line waypoint generation,and autopilot. All of these processes areimplemented in near real time, allowingunfettered survey progress. The data isapplied directly between processes, pro-

viding operator-independent systemoperation; the AutoSurvey system direct-ly controls the survey vessel via theautopilot.

Through real-time data acquisition,the system provides automation of theoperator quality and coverage assess-ment tasks, and also provides quantifieddata. The operator can adjust the systemoperating parameters to compensate forambient conditions, and to determinesubsequent navigation waypoints as afunction of the specified survey criteria.

The operator designates the surveyarea polygon, percent of sensor cover-age desired, and starts the system. The

software automatically determines theoptimum path for the next survey line inreal time using the edge of the currentsurvey line. The output of the softwaresystem can be used for automatic con-trol of the survey vessel if desirable. Thesoftware is particularly advantageous forperforming surveys in highly variableconditions such as rough terrain.

Applications include side scan sonar,multibeam bathymetry, laser bathyme-try, synthetic aerial radar (SAR), air-borne LIDAR, and multi- or hyperspec-tral systems.

For more information, visit http://techlinkcenter.org.

AutoSurvey determines the effects of the environment and system performance on the collected data by group-ing the data collection into a series of modules.

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AIntro

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ent algorithms. Unbiased SPIFFs cor-respond to uniform pixel filling,whereas biased ones exhibit pixellocking, in which the estimated parti-cle positions concentrate toward thecenters of pixels. Although pixellocking is a well-known phenome-non, SPIFF goes beyond that to cor-rect errors. SPIFF aggregates statisti-cal information from many single-particle images and localizations thatare gathered over time or across anensemble, and this information aug-ments the single-particle data.

SPIFF was applied to experimentaldata on solids (i.e., colloidal spheres)suspended in a liquid, but theresearchers have now applied themethod to many other datasets,including nanoscale features of cells(e.g. vesicles), metallic nanoparticles,and even single molecules. TheSPIFF method is applicable to alltracking algorithms, and could helpdetermine and correct errors in star-tracking data.

For more information, visit https://news.uchicago.edu.

NASA Tech Briefs, May 2017 21Free Info at http://info.hotims.com/65851-771

Technology Focus

Data Acquisition

Scientists studied the motion of insulin-containing vesicles (small green spheres) that contain thou-sands of insulin molecules within an insulin-secreting cell. Short trajectories (color) are superimposedon a subset of the vesicles to indicate representative localization and short-time motion. (Image: Prof.Norbert Scherer)

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AIntro


Automatic speech recognition is onthe verge of becoming the chiefmeans of interacting with com-

puting devices. To address this, MITresearchers have built a low-power chipspecialized for automatic speech recog-nition. Whereas a cellphone runningspeech recognition software mightrequire about 1 Watt of power, the newchip requires between 0.2 and 10 milli-watts, depending on the number ofwords it has to recognize. That probablytranslates to a power savings of 90 to 99percent, which could make voice controlpractical for relatively simple electronicdevices, including power-constraineddevices that harvest energy from theirenvironments, or go months betweenbattery charges.

“Speech input will become a naturalinterface for many wearable applica-


Technology Focus

Data Acquisition

A low-power chip specialized for automatic speech recognition features power savings of 90 to 99percent, making voice control practical for relatively simple electronic devices. (Image: Jose-LuisOlivares/MIT)

Low-Power, Special-Purpose Chip for Speech Recognition in Electronics

SpinDx™ Lab on a Disk

Currently, when a patient arrives atthe hospital or doctor’s office feel-ing ill, they are first examined by

the doctor, sent to a blood lab wherevials of blood are taken, and then senthome to wait for results. This approachoften means patients must wait days orweeks to get results. During that waitingperiod, they are not receiving treat-ment, which can be a critical factorfor cancer, heart attack, or strokepatients.

Quantification of biomolecules in -cluding proteins, nucleic acids, andothers from patient samples is animportant area of research and com-mercial development. Assays for bio-molecules (also referred to as bioas-says) may be conducted to diagnosediseases, manage chronic conditions,and monitor the overall health ofpatients.

Researchers from Sandia NationalLaboratories have developed technolo-gy that can test and diagnose up to 64assays on a single disc within 15 min-utes of sample collection. This technol-ogy requires significantly less blood

(less than a pin-prick) than the currentlaboratory blood draw. Besides the inher-ent portability of the testing device, theassay discs cost less than ten cents to man-ufacture, making this an affordable optionfor both small and large practices, with thepotential to drive down the cost of testingand visits, and shorten time to treatment.

The device conducts assays using sedi-mentation. The system involves layering amixture on a density medium, subjectingsedimentation particles in the mixture tosedimentation forces to cause the sedi-mentation particles to move to a detec-tion area through a density medium, anddetecting a target analyte in a detection

region of the sedimentation channel.The sedimentation particles and label-ing agent may have similar charges toreduce non-specific binding of thelabeling agent and sedimentation par-ticles. The density medium is providedwith a separation layer for stabilizingthe assay during storage and opera-tion. The sedimentation channel mayhave a generally flat sedimentationchamber for dispersing the particlepellet over a larger surface area.

This technology has broad applica-tion beyond medical diagnostics. Itcan be broadly applied across foodsafety, environmental monitoring,bioterrorism detection, and commer-cial drug testing.

For more information, visit http://techportal.eere.energy.gov.

The SpinDx™ Lab on a Disk can test and diagnose up to64 assays on a single disc within 15 minutes of samplecollection.

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AIntro

http://techportal.eere.energy.gov/

tions and intelligent devices,” saidAnantha Chandrakasan, the VannevarBush Professor of Electrical Engi -neering and Computer Science at MIT,whose group developed the chip. “Theminiaturization of these devices willrequire a different interface than touchor keyboard. It will be critical to embedthe speech functionality locally to savesystem energy consumption comparedto performing this operation in thecloud.”

Today, the speech recognizers thatperform best are based on neural net-works, much like other state-of-the-artartificial intelligence systems. These vir-tual networks of simple informationprocessors are roughly modeled on thehuman brain. Much of the new chip’scircuitry is concerned with implement-ing speech recognition networks as effi-ciently as possible.

But even the most power-efficientspeech recognition system would quicklydrain a device’s battery if it ran withoutinterruption. The chip includes a sim-pler “voice activity detection” circuit thatmonitors ambient noise to determinewhether it might be speech. If the answeris yes, the chip fires up the larger, morecomplex speech recognition circuit.

In tests, the chip had three differentvoice activity detection circuits withdifferent degrees of complexity and,consequently, different power de -mands. Which circuit is most power-efficient depends on context, but intests simulating a wide range of condi-tions, the most complex of the threecircuits led to the greatest power sav-ings for the system. Even though itconsumed almost three times as muchpower as the simplest circuit, it gener-ated far fewer false positives; the sim-pler circuits often depleted their ener-gy savings by spuriously activating therest of the chip.

Neural networks consist of thou-sands of processing nodes capable ofonly simple computations, but denselyconnected to each other. In the type ofnetwork commonly used for voicerecognition, the nodes are arrangedinto layers. Voice data are fed into thebottom layer of the network, whosenodes process and pass them to thenodes of the next layer, whose nodesprocess and pass them to the nextlayer, and so on. The output of the toplayer indicates the probability thatthe voice data represents a particular

speech sound. A voice recognition net-work is too big to fit in a chip’sonboard memory, which is a problembecause going off-chip for data is muchmore energy-intensive than retrievingit from local stores. The new designconcentrates on minimizing theamount of data the chip has to retrievefrom off-chip memory.

A node in the middle of a neural net-work might receive data from a dozenother nodes and transmit data to anoth-

er dozen. Each of those two dozen con-nections has an associated “weight” — anumber that indicates how prominentlydata sent across it should factor into thereceiving node’s computations. The firststep in minimizing the new chip’s mem-ory bandwidth is to compress theweights associated with each node. Thedata are decompressed only after they’rebrought on-chip.

With speech recognition, waves ofdata must pass through the network.


Technology Focus

Data Acquisition

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AIntro



Technology Focus

Data Acquisition

Ultra-High-Speed Fiber Optic Sensor Detects Structural Damage in Real Time

Aresearch group includ-ing members fromTokyo Institute of Tech -

nology (Tokyo Tech) andJapan Society for the Pro -motion of Science has devel-oped a real-time, fiber-optic,distributed sensing systemfor strain and temperature.The system requires lightinjection from only one endof the fiber, and can achievea sampling rate of 100 kHz,an improvement of morethan 5,000 times the conven-tional rate.

Aging degradation and seis-mic damage of civil infrastruc-ture pose a serious problem.One promising technology formonitoring the condition ofstructures is optical fiber sens-ing. By embedding long optical fibersinto a structure, strain and temperaturedistributions along the fibers can bedetected. Among the various types ofoptical fiber sensors, distributed strainand temperature sensors based onBrillouin scattering have received muchattention due to their high sensitivityand stability. In particular, Brillouin opti-cal correlation-domain reflectometry(BOCDR), which operates based on thecorrelation control of continuous lightwaves, is known to be an intrinsicallyone-end-access distributed sensing tech-nique with high spatial resolution (<1cm). However, the highest sampling ratereported for BOCDR was 19 Hz, result-ing in a relatively long total time of dis-tributed measurement (from severaltens of seconds to several minutes).

In all Brillouin sensors, the strain andtemperature dependence of theBrillouin frequency shift (BFS) is

exploited to derive strain and tempera-ture. In conventional BOCDR, the BFSis obtained by performing a frequencysweep over the whole Brillouin gainspectrum (BGS) using an electricalspectrum analyzer. Thus, the sweepspeed of the spectrum analyzer limitsthe sampling rate to 19 Hz. By insteadsweeping the frequency spectrum usinga voltage-controlled oscillator, theresearchers achieved a higher-speedacquisition.

Deriving the BFS from the BGS stilllimited the sampling rate. To speed upthe system further, the BGS was con-verted into a synchronous sinusoidalwaveform using a bandpass filter,allowing the BFS to be expressed as itsphase delay. Then, using an exclusive-OR logic gate and a low-pass filter, thephase delay was subsequently convert-ed into a voltage, which was directlymeasured.

A strain sampling rate of up to 100kHz was experimentally verified bydetecting a 1-kHz dynamic strainapplied at an arbitrary position alongthe fiber. When distributed measure-ments were performed at 100 pointswith 10 times averaging, a repetition rateof 100 Hz was verified by tracking amechanical wave propagating along thefiber (see figure). Thus, the researchersachieved one-end-access, real-time dis-tributed Brillouin sensing.

The sensing system is anticipated tobe of benefit in monitoring the health ofvarious structures, ranging from build-ings and bridges to windmill blades andaircraft wings. The system also haspotential applications in robotics, actingas electronic “nerves” for detectingtouch, distortion, and temperaturechange.

For more information, visit www.titech.ac.jp/english.

Tracking of a propagating mechanical wave shows the measured temporal variation of the strain distribution.

The incoming audio signal is split upinto 10-millisecond increments, eachof which must be evaluated separately.The new chip brings in a single nodeof the neural network at a time, but itpasses the data from 32 consecutive 10-millisecond increments through the

node. If a node has a dozen outputs,then the 32 passes result in 384 outputvalues, which the chip stores locally.Each of those must be coupled with 11other values when fed to the next layerof nodes, and so on. The chip ends uprequiring a sizable onboard memory

circuit for its intermediate computa-tions. But it fetches only one com-pressed node from off-chip memory ata time, keeping its power require-ments low.

For more information, visit http://news.mit.edu.

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http://news.mit.edu/

http://www.titech.ac.jp/english/

Researchers at the Savannah RiverNational Laboratory (SRNL) havedeveloped a device to read data,

encrypt the information, and distrib-ute it electronically to multiple loca-tions, providing a one-way data path-way that segregates each destination toprevent cross-party data manipulation.Previous “data diode” devices em ploycomputer-based communication chan-nels such as fiber-connected data cardsbetween the sender and receiver. Nointegrated data authentication is per-formed, and data is sensitive to exter-nal attack and manipulation.

The Authenticated Sensor InterfaceDevice (ASID) has minimal intrusionpoints and robust data privacy. TheASID permits authentication, transmis-sion, and sharing of data collected frommany industrial processes, sensors, mon-itors, or data collection devices securelyand at low cost due to operating-system-free embedded micro pro cessors. Withinput types to include digital datastreams, voltage levels, 4-20 mA, RTDsand thermocouples, and various others,this device has uses in any field requiringdata sharing in business-sensitive oragency oversight applications such asprocess or material monitors, electricalpower grid data sharing and usage, net-work backbone throughput, and cost-sharing data sources.

The ASID allows for the secure collec-tion of data using electrically isolated cir-cuitry and accepted methods of authen-tication and encryption. One-way com-munication from the sensor interfacecomponents to the data transmissioncomponents reduces the vulnerability to

outside influence to the collected sensordata. Authenticating the sensor datatakes place within the sensor interfacecomponents — before the one-way com-munication to the data transmissioncomponents — further securing the datafrom external attack.

The ASID utilizes opto-isolated datadiode, encryption, authentication, and

a tamper-indicating enclosure (TIE) toprovide for a secure means of collect-ing data from a trusted sensor andtransmitting it securely into a systemthat secures the information fromexternal attack.

For more information, visit http://srnl.doe.gov/tech_transfer/tech_briefs.htm.

NASA Tech Briefs, May 2017 25

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http://srnl.doe.gov/tech_transfer/tech_briefs.htm

NASA’s Glenn Research Center (GRC)has developed and produced ultra-

lightweight polymer cross-linked aerogels(X-Aerogels). These mechanically robust,highly porous, low-density materials arethree times denser than native aerogels,but more than 100 times stronger. Aero gelsare ultra-lightweight glass foams withextremely small pores (on the order of10 to 50 nanometers). These materials areextremely good thermal insulators, withR values ranging from 2 to 10 times high-er than polymer foams. Unlike multilayerinsulation, aerogels do not require a highvacuum to maintain their low thermal con-ductivity, and can function as good ther-mal insulators at ambient pressure. In addi-tion, they are good electrical insulators andhave low refractive indices, both ap -proaching values close to air. Aerogels arealso excellent vibration-damping materi-als. Tra ditional aerogels, however, suffer fra -gility and poor environmental durability.

This approach significantly improvesthe mechanical properties and dura bilityof aerogels without adversely affecting their

desirable properties. This approach in -volves coating conformally, and cross-link -ing the individual skeletal aerogel nanopar-ticles with engineering polymers such asisocyanates, epoxies, polyimides, and poly-styrene. The mechanism of cross-linkinghas been carefully investigated, and ismade possible by two reactions: a reactionbetween the cross-linker and the surfaceof the aerogel framework, and a reactionpropagated by the cross-linker with itself.

By tailoring the aerogel surface chem-istry, this approach accommodates avariety of different polymer cross-linkers,including isocyanates, acrylates, epoxies,polyimides, and polystyrene, enabling cus-tomization for specific mission require-ments. For example, polystyrene cross-linked aerogels are extremely hydropho-bic, while polyimide versions can be usedat higher temperatures. Recent work hasled to the development of strong aerogelswith better elastic properties, maintainingtheir shape even after repeated compres-sion cycling. By tailoring the internal struc-ture of the silica gels in combination with

a polymer conformal coating, the aero -gels may be dried at the ambient condi-tion without supercritical fluid extraction.

NASA is actively seeking licensees to commercialize this technology. Please con-tact the Technology Transfer Office [email protected] to initiate licensing discus-sions. Follow this link for more information:http://technology.nasa.gov/patent/TB2016/LEW-TOPS-20.


Materials & Coatings

Polyimides Derived from Novel AsymmetricBenzophenone DianhydridesJohn H. Glenn Research Center, Cleveland, Ohio

NASA’s Glenn Research Center invitescompanies to license or establish part-

nerships to develop its patented high-tem-perature, low-melt imide resins for fabrica-tion of automotive components. Producedby a solvent-free melt process, these resinsexhibit high glass transition temperatures(Tg = 370 to 400 °C), low melt viscosities(10 to 30 poise), long pot-life (1 to 2hours), and can be easily processed bylow-cost RTM and vacuum-assisted resintransfer molding (VARTM). These RTMresins melt at 260 to 280 °C, and can becured at 340 to 370 °C in 2 hours withoutreleasing any harmful volatile compounds.

This technology was developed tomake polyimide resins from novel asym-

metric dianhydrides (a-dianhydrides)and kinked diamines to achieve low meltviscosities that are amenable to low-costRTM and VARTM, while retaining high-temperature finished product perform-ance above 300 °C. The RTM imideresins can be injected into fiber pre-forms under pressure (200 psi) or vacu-um (VARTM). The resins also can bemade into powder prepregs with lengthyout-time by melting the resin powders sothat they fuse onto fibers.

RTM imide resins display high soften-ing temperatures (370 to 400 °C) andexcellent toughness, as evidenced bythe RTM370 resins’ open-hole compres-sion strength. The resins also possess

significant thermo-oxidative stability bylong-term isothermal aging at 288 °C(550 °F) for 1,000 hours. The uniquemelt process without a solvent providesa manufacturing advantage over theexpensive high-boiling solvents previ-ously needed to produce oligomers.This process also eliminates the needfor tedious and high-cost solventremoval.

NASA is actively seeking licensees to commercialize this technology. Please contact the Technology Transfer Office [email protected] to initiate licensing discus-sions. Follow this link for more information:http://technology.nasa.gov/patent/TB2016/TOP3-404.

Highly Porous and Mechanically Strong Ceramic Oxide AerogelsThese materials provide improved environmental durability and elasticity for aerospace andterrestrial applications.John H. Glenn Research Center, Cleveland, Ohio

AM0103-13 8.0kV 6.0mm x 100k SE(M) 7/1/2008 500nm

The mesoporous structure is maintained aftercross-linking.

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https://technology.nasa.gov/patent/TB2016/TOP3-404

https://technology.nasa.gov/patent/TB2016/LEW-TOPS-20


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Asymmetric Dielectric Elastomer Composite MaterialThis material has applications in artificial muscle and hearts, physical therapy/rehab devices,morphing aircraft, robotics, and sensors.Langley Research Center, Hampton, Virginia

This electronic active material convertsa voltage input to a mechanical force

and mechanical displacement output. Ascompared to prior dielectric elastomer(DE) systems, the material has reducedelectrode spacing, which lowers significant-ly the required operating voltage. In addi-

tion, the inclusion of a combination of con-ducting and/or non-conducting reinforc-ing fibers greatly enhances the strengthof the material, without weight penalty.

The technology is a means of fabricat-ing DE composite materials, i.e., materi-als that respond mechanically to applied

voltage with displacement or force, withimproved characteristics compared tocurrently available materials. By coatingelectrodes with uncured elastomer in liq-uid form, and thereafter assembling theelectrode components, the electrodescan be woven into a fabric or fabricatedin sheets. The result is a DE material thatcontracts upon activation, much likemuscle tissue, rather than expands likeconventional DE materials. Actuatorforces are also greater than were possiblepreviously. Moreover, the more precisecontrol over electrode spacing leads tolower operating voltages.

NASA is actively seeking licensees to commercialize this technology. Please contact The Technology Gateway at [email protected] initiate licensing discussions. Follow this link for more information: http://technology.nasa.gov/patent/TB2016/LAR-TOPS-150.Perspective view of an assembly of elastomer-coated conductors.

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Materials & Coatings

Method of Creating Micro-Scale Silver Telluride GrainsCovered with Bismuth NanoparticlesPotential applications include power generation and waste heat recovery, and refrigerationand cooling.Langley Research Center, Hampton, Virginia

NASA Langley ResearchCenter has developed a

novel thermoelectric (TE)material utilizing micro-scale silver telluride grainscovered with bismuthnanoparticles. These materi-als have unique advantagesin directly converting anylevel of thermal energy intoelectrical power and solid-state cooling by a reversemode. Although thermo-electric devices are regardedadvantageously with theirhigh reliability, their lack ofmoving parts, and their ability to scale toany sizes, the devices’ energy conversionefficiency remains generally poor.

This invention is for a TE materialwith high-performance energy conver-

sion. The material is created by sur-rounding crystalline semiconductorswith nanoparticles by contacting a bis-muth telluride material with a silversalt under a substantially inert atmos-

phere and a temperatureapproximately near thesilver salt decompositiontemperature, and recover-ing a metallic bismuthdecorated material com-prising silver telluridecrys tal grains. The materi-al’s performance has beenvalidated in the lab, andmanufacturing should bestraightforward.

NASA is actively seekinglicensees to commercialize thistechnology. Please contactThe Technology Gateway at

[email protected] initiate licensing discussions. Followthis link for more information: http://technology.nasa.gov/patent/TB2016/LAR-TOPS-160.

(a) (b)

(a) Graphical expression of material, and (b) SEM image of actual material.

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https://technology.nasa.gov/patent/TB2016/LAR-TOPS-160

NASA’s Langley Research Center hasdeveloped an extensive technology

portfolio on novel methods for effectivedispersion of carbon nanotubes (CNTs)in polymers. The technology portfolio ex -tends from making stable dispersions ofCNTs in polymer resins to processes formaking composite CNT/polymer filmsand articles. The technologies apply to arange of polymer types, enable low or highCNT loadings as needed, and can be usedwith a variety of standard polymer process-ing methods, including melt processing.Currently, the technology is being usedcommercially for electrically conductivepolymer films for components in electron-ic printers and copiers.

The technology portfolio includes sever-al methods for dispersion and processingof CNTs in polymer resins and composites.CNT/resin systems with high dispersionand long-term stability are provided bythree general approaches. One methodrelies on mechanical dispersion by sonica-tion simultaneous with partial polymeriza-tion to increase the resin viscosity to main-tain dispersion and enable further poly-mer processing of the CNT blend intofilms and other articles. Another approachrelies on what is termed donor acceptorbonding, which essentially is a dipolebond created on the CNT/resin interfaceto maintain dispersion and stability of theCNT/resin blend. This dispersion methodalso provides advantages in mechanicalproperties of processed composites due tothe interface characteristics. A range ofpolymer types can be used, including poly-methyl methacrylate, polyimide, polyethyl-ene, and others.

An additional dry blending approachprovides advantages for a variety of ther-moplastic and thermoset systems. Use ofball mill mixing achieves effective blendingand dispersion of the CNT, even at highloadings. Further processing steps usinginjection molding or similar melt process-ing methods have yielded CNT/polymercomposites with a range of useful electron-ic, optical, and mechanical properties.

Potential applications include conduc-tive plastics; displays; solar cells; conduc-tive inks; static control materials includingfilms, foams, fibers, and fabrics; polymercoatings and adhesives; high-perfor-mance polymer composites and prepregs

for exceptional mechanical strength andtoughness; polymer/CNT compositefibers; and lightweight and antistaticmaterials for use in space structures.

NASA is actively seeking licensees to commercialize this technology. Please

contact The Technology Gateway at [email protected] initiate licensing discussions. Follow this link for more information: http://technology.nasa.gov/patent/TB2016/LAR-TOPS-5.


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Nanotubular Toughening InclusionsThis technology is used for making stable resin dispersions and composite plastic films, andfor standard polymer melt processing.Langley Research Center, Hampton, Virginia

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Robust, Highly Efficient Oxygen-Carbon MonoxideCogeneration SystemThis system can be used for greenhouse gas reduction, and in the steel, medical, andwelding industries.John H. Glenn Research Center, Cleveland, Ohio

Oxygen, water, and fuel are of para-mount importance to human life.

As a leading concept, the solid-oxideelectrolysis cell (SOEC) is a very power-ful technology, especially in aidingNASA’s endeavors to pursue extraterres-trial exploration missions. This workfocused on developing a robust, long-lifeSOEC technology that efficiently cogen-erates oxygen and CO fuel directly fromCO2, and is superior to the state-of-the-art Oxygen-Generation System (OGS)technologies. The principal objective ofthe project was to develop the system tosupport Mars exploration missions aspart of In-Situ Resource Utilization. Thekey problem characteristics were theSOEC performance and longevity undervarious operating conditions. The priorart was built on a thick electrolyte-sup-ported SOEC using precious metals aselectrodes. Due to the nature of SOECoperating mechanisms, high pressuresmay build up at the interfaces of the pos-itive electrode and the electrolyte,resulting in electrode delamination andlong-term stability issues. The state-of-the-art SOEC technology also faced thescaling up and stack sealing issues.

To overcome the limitations of thestate-of-the-art SOEC technologies foroxygen production directly from carbondioxide (i.e. electrode delamination, lowperformance, long-term durability, andhigh cost issues), an advanced concept of

a robust and highly efficient O2-COcogeneration system was developed thatwas built upon a Tubular, NegativeElectrode-supported Solid-Oxide Elec -trolysis Cell (Tune-SOEC) technology.

The nature of tubular design enablesthe assembly of tubes in modules of aconvenient size in a lightweight fashionwith minimum concerns over sealability.A further increase in capacity could beachieved through electrical connectionof multiple modules. In this way, systemsfor a wide range of applications and/orscales could be assembled, and the relia-bility of large installments could be quitehigh since single modules could be serv-iced or replaced as needed. Thus, thedesign of the prototype O2-CO cogener-ation system was refined, and key ele-ments were identified for the construc-tion of cogeneration bundles.

Tune-SOECs were constructed usingproprietary electrode current collectors,which were proven for conducting currentat low voltage losses. The tubes were evalu-ated on a standard testing fixture at 800 ºCand cogenerating O2-CO directly from abottled CO2 gas. A four-probe configura-tion with two voltage and two current leadswas used. As a baseline, cells were testedinitially in SOFC mode to characterize thepower generation using a fuel includingH2 and diluted CO by CO2, after whichthe cell underwent CO2 electrolysis char-acterization. Effects of CO2 concentrations

on the cell performance were evaluated.During tests, the total cell potential wasmeasured and recorded as a function ofcurrent (density). AC impedance spec-troscopy was used to measure selected cellpolarizations, with the Solartron frequen-cies varying from 0.01 Hz to 1 MHz.

The technology development integratedthe most promising degradation-resistantceramic materials with the unique cell/bundle design. Performance im prove mentwas realized through the refinement of thekey cell materials, and the developmentand implementation of an electrocatalystinfiltration process. With a unique bundledesign, the Tune-SOEC technology wassuccessfully scaled up from individual cellsto a bundle comprising multiple tubes,which was proven experimentally for pro-ducing 0.411 kilograms of oxygen daily.

The Tune-SOEC system did not requireany in-plane sealing, and can withstandhigh pressure, making it potentially suit-able for pressurized operation. A tubularSOEC was more rigid than the conven-tionally adopted planar cell that requireda mechanical compression load (likelygenerated stresses, in turn causing weak-ening of ceramic cells); thus the Tune-SOEC would have high tolerance to vibra-tion during payload launching/landing.

No metallic interconnects/gas separa-tors were needed for the proposed Tune-SOEC system, resulting in less weightand high gravimetric power densities,and high thermal shock resistances. TheTune-SOEC platform offered muchmore resistance to long-term degrada-tion than a planar architecture due tothe “cell imbalance” failure mechanism.

This work was done by Greg Gege Tao andDevin McGlochlin of Materials and SystemsResearch Inc. for Glenn Research Center.NASA is seeking partners to further developthis technology through joint cooperativeresearch and development. For more infor-mation about this technology and to exploreopportunities, please contact http://technology.grc.nasa.gov. LEW-19344-1

CO-CO2

inlet tube

CO- CO2 exhaust

plenum w/ gas diffuser

Tune-SOECsCO- CO2 exhaust manifold

O2 exhaust tube

Interconnect assembliesO2 chamber

O2 flow pass ceramic baffle plate

This oxygen-CO cogeneration module for 1 kg/day oxygen production via CO2 electrolysis consists ofmultiple Tune-SOEC tubes closed on one end. The open-ended side is supported at the inlet by an elec-trically insulating ceramic header, and is sealed to another electrically insulating ceramic baffle plate.

Mechanical & Fluid Systems

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Low Solidity Vaned Diffuser(LSVD) Design forImprovement of PressureRecoveryMarshall Space Flight Center, Alabama

Many pump vaned diffuser designs are based on existingairfoil designs, with little attention given to the vane lead-

ing edge. There is a need for a vaned diffuser leading edge thathelps resist flow separation and the resultant poor diffuser pres-sure recovery. Diffusers in pumps are often working with anincompressible fluid that makes potential flow methodologies— which have incompressibility as a boundary condition —attractive. The potential flow-based free-streamline analysismethods have been known to improve the aerodynamics of var-ied components at high incidence angles, such as diffusers, jetengine nacelles, and liquid rocket engine turbopump inducers.

The present innovation is based on the Stripling-Acosta free-streamline wake methodology. This method is applicable onlyto diffusers in a high-solidity (solidity >1) cascade, and expandsthe applicability of the free-streamline method to isolated air-foils such as those found in LSVDs.

A defining characteristic of the LSVD is the absence of a trueaerodynamic throat. To simplify the analysis, it is assumed thatthis lack of a throat permits the diffuser vane to be modeled asa single, isolated airfoil. The Stripling and Acosta free-stream-line wake theory assumes a cascade of infinitely long blades(and therefore infinite solidity). The theory may be applied toLSVDs, however, as the infinitely long blade assumption wasmade for ease of computation, eliminating the need for a non-linear potential solution that describes cavity closure and thelaborious algebra that results. The key mathematical term thatdescribes the potential flow into the vanes is the cascade vortexand source strength. This term may be modified such that itdescribes a single airfoil as opposed to an infinite rectangularcascade, allowing the parameters of leading edge conditionsand LSVD geometry to be input, thus producing the shape ofthe free-streamline at the leading edge. The shape of the free-streamline may then be used as the LSVD leading edge con-tour, providing a shape that is resistant to flow separation.

This analysis method is similar to the linear free-streamlineanalysis developed by Stripling and Acosta for the design of tur-bopump inducers. The premise is that there exists a free-stream-line flow for cavitation number values below incipient wherevapor exists on one side and liquid on the other. By shaping theblade leading edge to be at or below the thickness of the free-streamline contour, the suction performance is improved overblades with leading edge thicknesses that exceed the free-streamline height. Because the Stripling and Acosta free-stream-line method predicts a free-streamline contour and has beenimplemented by the primary investigator in previous work, it isdesired to explore if the theory may be adapted to the design ofLSVDs as well.

This work was done by Scott Sargent of Barber Nichols for MarshallSpace Flight Center. NASA is seeking partners to further develop thistechnology through joint cooperative research and development. Formore information about this technology and to explore opportunities,please contact Ronald C. Darty at [email protected]. MFS-33370-1

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Mechanical & Fluid Systems

Tangential Wrap Rib Deployable ReflectorThe reflector does not use complicated deployment mechanisms.NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Pasadena, California

There is a need for a large deployablereflector of 2-meter diameter or

greater so smaller launch vehicles can beused. Common issues with going from alarge solid reflector into deployablestructures are the structural stiffness anddeployable structure complexity.

The hybrid reflector design in thisreport stems from the desire to have a 2-meter-class reflector that compactlystows in small launch vehicles, but alsohas the capability to accommodate alarge range in RF frequencies. Thisreflector needs to work with frequenciesfrom 6.8 to 183 GHz. To be effective atthe high frequencies, the design utilizesa solid precision center on the order of70 cm in diameter. This solid precisioncenter will be for the specific frequen-cies of 23.8 to 183 GHz. In order toaccommodate the longer wavelengthchannels, the reflector has a deployablecollar that surrounds the hard center.

This deployable collar, when combinedwith the hard center, makes up the full2-meter diameter for the specific fre-quencies of 6, 10, and 18 GHz.

Because of the hybrid style of thereflector, with a large central hub area,an obvious initial design concept fordeployment of the 2-meter diameter wasa wrapped rib configuration. Several ini-tial analyses were performed on thereflector design. The first was a strainanalysis of the stowed reflector configu-ration. In this reflector concept, inher-ent strain energy from the wrapped ribsallows them to deploy. Therefore, theribs need to be sufficiently thick to pro-vide enough energy for a robust deploy-ment of the reflector. However, the ribscan’t be too thick, because then theirstowed strain and resulting stress wouldbe too large. A simple geometric straincalculation was used to size the thicknessof the ribs. Using this formula and calcu-

lating several resulting strain rates yieldsa range of potential rib thicknesses.

The reflector does not use complicateddeployment mechanisms. It contains aprecision solid center for high-frequencyRF channels and a deployable mesh col-lar for lower-frequency RF channels. Thishybrid design allows the reflector to becapable of a wide range of RF frequen-cies. As designed, it would cover 6 to 183GHz. Support of the mesh is provided bya simple network of cable stays and sup-port ribs, which provide the strain energyfrom stowage to deploy the reflector.

This work was done by Vinh M. Bach,Phillip E. Walkemeyer, Mark W. Thomson,Shannon T. Brown, William A. Imbriale,and Zensheu Chang of Caltech for NASA’s JetPropulsion Laboratory. NASA is activelyseeking licensees to commercialize this tech-nology. Please contact Dan Broderick [email protected] to initiatelicensing discussions. NPO-49671

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Sensors

Low-Cost RFID Torque and Tension Sensing Tag SystemThe system has applications in shipbuilding, aerospace engine construction, and otherhigh-tech equipment.Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center, Houston, Texas

This technology is a low-costRFID-based torque and ten-

sion sensor for high-performancefasteners, such as bolts, that areused in sophisticated high-techequipment and systems. It offersthe ability to remotely and quick-ly verify that a given fastener istorqued properly, resulting inpotential cost-savings over thelife of the fastener and its host sys-tem. The technology is alsoextremely low-cost compared tocurrent torque sensing wrenchesand comparable technologies.This asset management tooloffers performance and safetyimprovements as well. The moti-vation behind this invention wasthe catastrophic event in which aNOAA satellite sustained heavy damageafter falling from a Turn-Over-Cart (TOC).The root cause was a configuration changein which 24 bolts had not been securedproperly to the TOC. With this NASAinvention, the quality assurance, tensionmonitoring, and configuration manage-ment associated with proper torqueing offasteners will be largely automated, there-fore providing a higher degree of safety.

The NASA-developed RFID torque andtension sensing tag system replaces tradi-tional designs by using standard bolts inconjunction with an RFID ring integrat-ed circuit (IC), antenna layers (top andbottom), a flat washer, and a spring

washer. The antenna, RFID ring, andspring washer comprise a sensor tag thatcan be remotely interrogated. When suf-ficient torque is applied to the bolt, theRFID circuit is enabled, allowing it tocommunicate with remote RFID inter-rogators (typically 3 to 30 feet away,depending on the tag antenna design).A new level of automation and sensortelemetry is now possible due to thistechnology’s ability to read longerranges than the present systems. Thissystem’s cost saving has the potential torevolutionize the asset managementindustry, allowing for more products tobe monitored for torque and tension.

This is a passive device,meaning that even when theRFID ring circuit is complete,it will only provide an RFresponse when activated byan external reader. The RFIDIC chip is a standard EPCGlobal Class 1, Gen 2 designthat is commercially availableand routinely employed intracking and supply chainlogistics applications. Fortorque applications (not nec-essarily for tension monitor-ing applications), the designmust be tailored to the opera-tional concept and possibly tothe environment in which thefastener will be used. Forexample, the distance from

which the signal must be read impacts thetag antenna design, and the environmentimpacts characteristics of the spring wash-er. The system can also be used to monitortension on a fastener over time.

Potential applications include use inautomotive systems, shipbuilding, com-plex construction, and heavy equipmentmanufacturing.

NASA is actively seeking licensees to commercialize this technology. Please con-tact Michelle P. Lewis at [email protected] to initiate licensing discus-sions. Follow this link for more information:http://technology.nasa.gov/patent/TB2016/MSC-TOPS-49.

This drawing represents one configuration of the technology in which thebolt is inserted into the base with an RFID-based torque sensor. The sen-sor is in the “off” state.

GroundMetallization

Insulating Substrate

AntennaCircuit Layer

Spring Washer

Flat Washer

RFID Circuit

Piezoelectric Field Disturbance Sensing System and MethodThis technology provides a lightweight, cost-effective solution for structural measurements.Stennis Space Center, Mississippi

The invention developed is a piezoelec-tric stimulus-response quantification-

based gravimeter (PEG). The PEG takes acompletely innovative approach towardsutilization of the piezoelectric element —quantifying the gravitational effects onthem. In this way, the piezoelectric ele-

ment can: (1) generate an electric chargein response to mechanical deformation,and (2) be mechanically deformed byapplying electric charges. This is knownas the converse-piezoelectric effect.Piezoelectric elements can be used to pre-cisely inject energy for exciting vibratory

frequencies within the element and hous-ing, enabling the element to be used forquantifying subsequently produced elec-trical output. The gravimeter is capable ofmeasuring numerous other types of physi-cal quantities such as thermal, magnetic,electrical, electromotive, electromagnetic,

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https://technology.nasa.gov/patent/TB2016/MSC-TOPS-49

NASA Tech Briefs, May 2017 www.techbriefs.com

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and electro-static fields, and provide staticand structural information.

Conventional gravimeters typicallymeasure the amount of the opposingforces required to suspend an object, or bymonitoring an object’s freefall rate. Thisinnovative technology uses piezoelectricinstrumentation in a completely new way,reversing their role. The piezoelectrictransducers are provided with excitationenergy, causing a highly reproducibleresponse across a full frequency spectrum.This is known as the piezoelectric stimulus-response effect. This allows the piezoelec-tric transducer to take static measure-ments, as opposed to the conventional uti-lization of piezoelectric devices thatrequire a dynamically changing quantity.

When the pull of gravity is introduced,the original element characteristics areimmediately changed along with the fluc-tuations in gravity. These types of transduc-ers are specifically designed to maximizethe gravitational effects of the element’svibratory characteristics. The resultantcharacteristics are automatically quanti-fied and temperature compensated

through vector analyses and data reduc-tion algorithms into gravitational units.This stimulus-response process is highlyrepeatable, which produces a near exactresponse or measurement from each col-lected reading, completely revolutionizingthe precision and accuracy achievable.

In addition to structural sensing, thePEG could be used by prospectors andgeologists to locate mineral or shelldeposits, as well as by construction workersto locate deep underground piping. Itsmany commercial applications includesatellites, supercolliders, crustal motionmonitors, seismology monitors, geophysi-cal examination, surveying equipment,petroleum prospecting, mineral prospect-ing, security monitoring, motion detectors,altitude detectors, underground infrastruc-ture detection, and tide prediction.

NASA is actively seeking licensees to com-mercialize this technology. Please contactDuane Armstrong at [email protected] to initiate licensing discussions.Follow this link for more information:http://technology.nasa.gov/patent/TB2016/SSC-TOPS-7.

Three piezoelectric shear elements with an embedded charge amplifier (left). The small-packagepiezoelectric sensor is used for quantifying gravitational forces (right).

NASA’s Langley Research Centerhas developed a photo-acoustic

sens ing- based laser vibrometer for themeasurement of ambient chemical

species. The technology allows for detec-tion of sub-part-per-billion (ppb) levelsof ambient trace gases and chemicalspecies, with an order of magnitude

Photo-Acoustic Chemical DetectorThis technology could be used for the detection of explosivesand hazardous or toxic chemicals.Langley Research Center, Hampton, Virginia

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https://technology.nasa.gov/patent/TB2016/SSC-TOPS-7

more sensitivity than similar technolo-gies. Among other applications, thetechnology could be used for the detec-tion of explosives and hazardous or toxicchemicals.

The system includes a high-repetition-rate pulsed laser module that is spectrallytuned to a desired chemical species. Thephotons from the laser are ab sorbed bythe target chemical, creating an acoustic

vibration that impacts a diaphragm(which acts like a speaker). A highly sensi-tive photo-emf detector is then used tomeasure the magnitude of the vibration,which corresponds to the concentrationof the target chemical. The technology isbeing developed for NASA’s trace-gasmeasurement needs for validation andground truth studies to support airborneand space-based LIDAR operations. Thetechnology has application as a chemicalsniffer to detect hazardous or toxic chem-ical species in the vicinity of IEDs, explo-sives, or other chemical agents. In such anapplication, the sensor could detectchemical species hidden inside closedcontainers, bags, or car trunks.

NASA is actively seeking licensees to commercialize this technology. Please contact The Technology Gateway at [email protected] initiate licensing discussions. Follow this link for more information: http://technology.nasa.gov/patent/TB2016/LAR-TOPS-214.

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Floating Ultrasonic Transducer Inspection System andMethod for Nondestructive EvaluationThe design allows a probe to easily move over surfaces being inspected without using aliquid couplant.Langley Research Center, Hampton, Virginia

NASA’s Langley Research Center hasdeveloped a Floating Ultrasonic

System for improved nondestructive test-ing. Most ultrasonic scanners re quire an

external liquid coupling agent (e.g.,water, gel, oil) to make a good contactbetween the probe and the surfacebeing scanned; however, some surfaces

are sensitive to moisture and/or con-tamination created by these agents.NASA created the Floating UltrasonicSystem to address this issue. NASA’s

A schematic of the chemical detector technology.

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Chemical species

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AIntro



technology is based on a momentarytouching scheme where a vibratingprobe comes in contact with the struc-ture for fractions of a second while per-forming measurements, giving theprobe the appearance of floating acrossa surface. The design allows for the easymovement of the probe over surfacesbeing inspected without the use of a liq-uid couplant between the probe and thesurface. Initial test results have alsoshown NASA’s system to have perform-ance comparable to that of liquid-cou-plant-based ultrasonic scanners.

The Floating Ultrasonic System in -cludes a transducer assembly with aflexible membrane tip made of nitrilerubber. A small amount of gel couplantis layered between the transducer andthe inside of the membrane; the gel isfully contained inside the probe anddoes not come into contact with sur-faces being inspected. The transducerassembly is mounted to a voice-coilmotor that acts as an actuator.Electrical current sent to the motormoves the transducer up and downover the surface being inspected. Thevibrating, or floating, transducer designprovides two critical functions. First, itapplies a small force that enables cou-pling of the ultrasonic energy from thetransducer to the surface being inspect-ed. Second, it facilitates movement ofthe transducer across the surface.NASA has constructed a benchtop unitthat has undergone successful testing.

The researchers are working on addi-tional refinements to the technology,including improving resolution, andplan to develop it into a handhelddevice. The technology will be used for

the in-situ inspection of compositeaerospace parts that are undergoingfatigue testing.

Potential applications for this tech-nology include inspecting manufac-tured or in-service aerospace parts,inspecting structural health of aviationvehicles, assessing durability and dam-age tolerance of metallic or compositeparts in automobile applications, imag-ing soft tissues such as internal organs

and muscles, and inspecting pipelinesand other oil and gas distribution/stor-age infrastructures.



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The Floating Ultrasonic System does not use aliquid couplant between the probe and thesurface.

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Aeronautics

Multi-Functional Annular Fairing for Coupling LaunchAbort Motor to Space VehicleAn efficient aerodynamic shape reduces drag and enables increased payload and mass to orbit.Langley Research Center, Hampton, Virginia

NASA’s Langley Research Center hasdesigned a Multifunctional Boost

Protective Cover (MBPC) for a LaunchAbort System (LAS). In the event of acrewed launch, the innovation providesa redundant means of saving the crew,and for an unmanned launch, it pro-vides the means for recovering a veryexpensive, sensitive, and/or dangerouspayload. In addition, costs are reduced

by minimizing insurance premiums andcostly delays to fabricate new, complexsatellite systems in the event of a failedlaunch. NASA is seeking developmentpartners and potential licensees.

The current design enables thisincreased redundancy with no detri-mental impact on mass-to-orbit capa-bility and, in effect, can increase thepayload-to-orbit capability of the space-

craft by enabling the firing of thelaunch abort motor (LAM) duringnominal missions to produce anincreased delta-velocity or increasedmass-to-orbit capability. The inventionenables the launch abort function, andminimizes the generation and trans-mission of acoustic pressure to the pay-load and/or crew. In addition, thedesign accommodates inertial, struc-tural, and thermal loads.

The innovation also reduces the struc-tural mass of the crew or payload mod-ule by transferring the load-carryingstructure to a multi-functional boostprotective cover that is jettisoned earlyin the launch trajectory (prior to reach-ing the orbital velocity), thus reducingmass to orbit. The MBPC also has a veryefficient aerodynamic shape thatreduces drag and enables increased pay-load/mass to orbit.


The NASA team has defined the best alternate launch abort system configurations for ascent per-formance, crew exploration vehicle abort controllability, and acoustic loads.

Turbofan Engine Acoustic Liner Design and Analysis ToolsStatistical- and graphical-based software tools are used to design and analyze turbofanacoustic liners.Langley Research Center, Hampton, Virginia

NASA Langley Research Center hasdeveloped two tools for turbofan

engine acoustic liner design and analy-sis. The first is a statistical approach forbroadband liner design and assessment;the second is graphical software todesign and analyze resonant channels inacoustic liners.

The first invention, the StatisticallyBased Approach to Broadband LinerDesign and Assessment, is a statistical

approach to liner design when detailedfan source noise information is not avail-able. This invention uses a statistical rep-resentation of the fan source with a ductacoustic propagation and radiation codeto determine the optimum impedancespectra for acoustic liners embedded inthe walls of the engine nacelle. This opti-mization may be based on predicted in-duct or far-field acoustic levels. Acousticliner models are then used to identify

geometric liner parameters needed toproduce impedance spectra that mostclosely match these optimum spectra,and therefore provide maximum fannoise reduction.

The simulated statistical fan sourcemodel accounts for the variation of thefan’s sound spectrum as the flight con-ditions change, and provides the addedbenefit of generating confidence inter-vals for the predicted liner perform-

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ance. Increased weightingmay be applied to specificfrequencies and/or operat-ing conditions within theliner design. Thus, the entirebroadband frequency spec-trum may be targeted simul-taneously. This can offer amajor advantage over cur-rent liner design approachesthat focus on narrow-bandattenuation spectra (i.e., tar-get individual fan tones), andare generally not broadbandin character.

The second invention,the Graphical AcousticLiner Design and AnalysisTool, is a graphical toolthat allows real-time designand analysis of acoustic lin-ers to achieve optimized broadbandacoustic liners. It takes advantage ofrecently improved manufacturing tech-niques to allow implementation of lin-ers in unconventional locations. Oneexample is liners mounted in the bodyof fan exit guide vanes to reduce

engine fan noise. Referred to as ILIAD,the software uses a point-and-clickinterface to graphically create acousticchambers within a 2D representation ofthe liner design space while predictingthe resulting acoustic parameters.Variable-depth chambers are accommo-

dated to maximize the num-ber and length of chambersthat can be put in the avail-able space. At the same time,the software computes all ofthe modeling predictions ofthe acoustic characteristics tomaintain performance levels.

Designers will see theacoustic effects of geometrychanges instantly. Althoughthe prediction capability isrelatively well known, theability to perform this calcu-lation in an interactive de -sign environment is new.ILIAD enables the explo-ration of numerous linerdesign possibilities quicklyand efficiently.

NASA is actively seeking licens eesto commercialize this technology. Pleasecontact The Technology Gateway [email protected] initiate licensing discussions. Follow this link for more information: http://technology.nasa.gov/patent/TB2016/LAR-TOPS-185.

The software technologies address the reduction of fan noise in aircraftengines.

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The in-situ load system (ILS) providesthe ground-testing community with a

comprehensive tool that permits system-level calibration and validation of forcemeasurement systems in a test-like envi-ronment. It was developed to improvetesting accuracy, repeatability, time intunnel, and many aspects of the calibra-tion process. The key innovations arethat ILS enables a system calibration(rather than independent subsystem

and component calibrations) by usingthe one-force-vector calibration ap -proach and a statistically defensible esti-mate total force measurement uncer-tainty. ILS may be applied in any windtunnel facility, private or government.

During wind-tunnel testing, a balanceis used to obtain high-precision measure-ments of the aerodynamic loads on anaircraft model. Most balance calibrationsare conducted in a laboratory environ-

ment where most of the nuisance vari-ables — such as temperature, electricalnoise, and vibrations — can be con-trolled. When the instrumentation istransferred to the test environment, thenuisance variables change. To ensurethat the calibration of the balance is stillvalid for the change in environment, val-idation checks are conducted in the windtunnel. Currently, multi-component testenvironment validation checks aremechanically complex, introduce uncer-tainties in the applied loads, and aretime-consuming.

This technology is designed to addressthe challenge of evaluating wind-tunnelmodel system performance during testpreparation activities. ILS is based on theforce-vector concept where a single dead-weight load is used to apply up to six loadssimultaneously through changing theorientation of the wind tunnel model sys-tem relative to gravity. As the orientationof the force balance changes relative togravity, the applied load vector that is pro-duced imparts varying load combinationsand magnitudes. During typical force-bal-ance checkout, multiple-component loadsare not applied even though researchersand wind tunnel customers expect thesetypes of complex loadings during testing.In addition, axial force (aerodynamicdrag), which is the aerodynamic compo-nent of highest interest, is rarely checkedduring the checkout process.

ILS permits a more robust evaluationof the laboratory calibration duringcheckout as opposed to current ap -proaches that are used. Furthermore,becase the ILS uses a single load and thedesign is mechanically simpler than thecurrent checkout hardware, manysources of systematic error are removedfrom the process.



Lower BearingMount

Bearing Cross

Upper BearingMount

ILS Mount

AMS

ILS

Calibration Fixture(Balance Inside)

In-Situ Load System for Calibrating and ValidatingAerodynamic Properties of Scaled Aircraft in Ground-Based Aerospace Testing ApplicationsILS improves testing accuracy, repeatability, time in tunnel, and many aspects of thecalibration process.Langley Research Center, Hampton, Virginia

The in-situ load system (ILS) device.

Aeronautics

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Propulsion

Multi-Thruster Propulsion ApparatusThis device switches between ion- or Hall-thruster mode, depending on whether theprincipal need is efficiency or thrust power.John H. Glenn Research Center, Cleveland, Ohio

Two different types of electrostaticthrusters are used to propel space-

craft: ion thrusters and Hall-effectthrusters. Ion thrusters have the benefitof relatively high exhaust velocities withhigher overall thrust efficiencies. Hall-effect thrusters typically offer higherthrust-to-power ratios, but they operatesomewhat less efficiently than ionthrusters. To take advantage of boththrusters’ strengths, innovators atNASA’s Glenn Research Center havedeveloped what is essentially a dual-thruster propulsion system. Thispatented electric propulsion deviceoffers the ability to switch a spacecraft’spropulsion system to ion-thruster modeor Hall-thruster mode, depending onwhether the principal need is efficiencyor thrust power. In addition, Glenn’snovel technology allows the dualthruster to operate in burst mode, withone thruster acting as an ion thrusterand one as a Hall thruster. This capabil-ity can be valuable to facilitate smoothtransitions between operating modes orto raise total thrust level (for short peri-ods) beyond what either mode canachieve on its own.

Ion thrusters and Hall-effect thrustersboth generate beams of ions to create

thrust. The main difference between theion thruster and the Hall-effect thrusterlies in the extraction system for the ions.The ion thruster uses two or three multi-aperture grids, in which the ions areaccelerated due to the difference inpotential between the first (screen) andsecond (accelerator) grids. Like the ionthruster, the Hall-effect thruster createsthrust by ionizing propellant within anelectric field; however, instead of a grid,the Hall thruster has an electron plasmaat the open end of the thruster. Becauseof the counter-flowing electron and ioncurrents in the Hall-effect thrusterchannel, a greater ion flux can beachieved compared to the ion thruster.For this reason, the Hall thruster yields ahigher thrust-to-power ratio, whereasthe ion thruster can produce higherexhaust velocities with higher overallthrust efficiencies.

Glenn’s design has several noteworthyadvantages. Having the neutralizer cath-ode assembly (NCA) in a central posi-tion eliminates the cantilevered-out-board NCA that most conventional ionthrusters use. In addition, the ion opticsallow the ion thrusters to be scaled tovery high power by permitting very largebeam areas with relatively small elec-

trode spans. These flat ion optics elec-trodes also improve thrust-to-powerratios and efficiencies compared tomore conventional, spherically domedelectrodes. Finally, the increased anode-surface area for electron collectionmeans that the engine can operate athigher discharge currents, and there-fore higher input power levels. All ofthese advantages add up to an electricpropulsion device that combines theefficiencies of an ion thruster with thethrust-to-power capacity of a Hall-effectthruster. Glenn’s technological advance-ment enables spacecraft to travel farther,faster, and more cheaply than with anyother propulsion technology.

Potential applications include station-keeping on communications satellites,controlling the orientation and positionof orbiting satellites, providing the mainpropulsion on deep space probes, anduse on geosynchronous earth orbit(GEO) communications satellites.


Magnetically Conformed, Variable-Area DischargeChamber for Hall Thruster, and MethodNASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Pasadena, California

NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory hasdeveloped a Hall thruster with a

variable-area discharge chamber thatimproves the performance and lifetimeof the thruster. Conventional Hallthrusters have poor ionization efficiency,which limits the thrust-to-power ratiothat can be achieved with the thruster.JPL’s novel Hall thruster has a variable-area discharge chamber that conformsto the curvature of the local magnetic

field and optimizes the ionization effi-ciency of the thruster and, therefore, sig-nificantly improves the power-to-thrustratio that can be achieved. This innova-tive device decreases spacecraft costsand enables fast, efficient orbit transfers.

The discharge chamber of a Hallthruster includes an ionization zone, atransition region, and an accelerationregion. With the variable-area dischargechamber, the channel is wider through

the acceleration region than through theionization zone, effectively forming adiverging nozzle. This enables highthrust-to-power ratio at relatively low dis-charge voltages because the high-densityionization zone increases ionization effi-ciency, the low-density acceleration regionincreases efficiency and decreases walllosses, and the transition region smoothlyconnects the two. Note that the locationof this transition region is important for

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Propellant Distributor for a ThrusterJohn H. Glenn Research Center, Cleveland, Ohio

Innovators at NASA’s Glenn ResearchCenter have developed several new

technological innovations to improvethe capability of Hall-effect thrusters,which are used primarily on Earth-orbit-ing satellites and can also be used fordeep-space robotic vehicles. Hallthrusters are susceptible to dischargechannel erosion from high-energy ion impingement, which can reduceoperational thruster lifetimes. Glennresearchers have developed severalapproaches to mitigate this problem.One is a magnetic circuit design that minimizes discharge chamber ionimpingement. Another successful im -provement developed by Glenn is ameans of replacing eroded dischargechannel material via a channel wallreplacement mechanism. A third inno-vation is a propellant distributor thatprovides both a high degree of flow uni-formity, and shielding from back-sput-tered contamination and other potentialcontaminants. All of these advanceswork toward increasing the operationallifetime and efficiency of Hall thrusters.

Glenn’s novel design for the plasmaaccelerator addresses the problems creat-ed by radial magnetic fields at the dielec-tric discharge chamber wall. Conven -tional magnetic circuits may allow high-energy ions to cause erosion in theceramic discharge chamber. This erosioncan ultimately damage the surroundingmagnetic system and shorten the opera-tional lifespan of the thruster. The NASAdesign relies on an azimuthally symmetricconfiguration that minimizes radial mag-

netic fields at the discharge chamberwalls, which shield the high-energy plas-ma ions from the walls of the dischargechamber. With this design, the lifetime ofthe Hall thruster can be extended wellbeyond 10,000 hours.

With regard to discharge channel wallreplacement, an actuator can be config-ured to extend the discharge chamberalong the centerline axis. The actuatorcan be either mechanical, set to extendthe sleeve a particular distance for a par-ticular duration, or programmable, setto monitor operating conditions andextend the sleeve when suitable. Ineither case, the sleeve can be extendedwhile an upstream portion of the dis-charge chamber remains stationary,thereby preventing plasma exposure.

For propellant distribution, multipleoutlets can be configured to distribute aflow of propellant to an ionization zoneof a thruster discharge channel, often inconjunction with a plenum chamber, toequalize pressure for more even distri-bution of the propellant.

This technology could potentially beused in propulsion systems for space,military, and commercial satellites; mate-rial processing applications such as ionimplantation and ion etching; and high-energy physics.


proper operation of the device. Choosingthe downstream boundary of the transi-tion region such that the magnetic fieldhas reached about 80% of the maximumcenterline magnetic field strength en -sures that the benefits of the narrow-areaportion of the channel are realized.

During operation, a magnetic fieldforms within the discharge chamberhaving a converging plasma lens config-uration such that the field lines are con-cave and symmetric across the dis-charge chamber. This configurationimproves performance and thermalmargin, decreases plume divergence,and in creases lifetime because it

decreases the plasma flux to the wallwhile focusing the ions such that theirradial velocity is minimized.

The discharge chamber can be usedin aerospace applications such as sta-tion-keeping, orbit transfers, and inter-planetary missions; and in semiconduc-tor applications such as materials pro-cessing, thin films, and implantation.

NASA is actively seeking licensees to com-mercialize this technology. Please contactMark W. Homer at [email protected] to initiate licensing discussions.Follow this link for more information:http://technology.nasa.gov/patent/TB2016/NPO-TOPS-40.

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Propulsion

Green Monopropellant SecondaryPayload Propulsion SystemJohn H. Glenn Research Center, Cleveland, Ohio

Small satellites, launched as secondarypayloads, are increasingly being

fielded. Advances in liquid rocketpropulsion that enhance the on-orbitmaneuverability, increase the on-orbitlife, and decrease the time betweenidentified need for and deployment ofsuch spacecraft are of great value.Replacing the nearly ubiquitous yettoxic hydrazine propellant with AF-M315E produces higher specific impulseand density specific impulse, resulting inimproved overall velocity change capa-bility and increased on-orbit life.

Ultramet had previously demonstratednearly 1,000 restarts with repeatablepulse performance and steady-state burncharacteristics using AF-M315E mono-propellant and a novel electrically heat-ed foam-based ignition system. The goalof this current NASA work was to scalethe igniter and thruster technology toenable sizing of propulsive capability to alevel appropriate for secondary payloadsatellites, i.e., 5-N and 1-N green mono-propellant engines.

A 5-N workhorse thruster was de -signed and constructed out of Inconel625 to serve as a testbed for the foam-based ignition system. Refractory siliconcarbide foam was fabricated and ma -chined to fit within the combustionchamber. The remainder of the igniterwas built out by metallizing with iridiumand performing wire bonding. Theigniter was integrated with the combus-tion chamber and injector, and subject-ed to hot-fire testing with AF-M315Emonopropellant.

Scalability of the resistively heatedigniter was positively demonstrated atthe 5-N level, and no technical hurdlesare foreseen with scaling to a size appro-priate for a 1-N thruster. Additionalwork is needed to arrive at a satisfactorysolution for the high-temperature-capa-ble, hermetic dielectric power feed -throughs, and additional thermal mass isneeded in the catalyst bed to enable sus-tained propellant reaction.

The ignition system consists of open-cell foam made of refractory materialsthat can be heated resistively. Thisapproach yields significant electricalpower savings compared to traditionalbed heaters. With the foam being heat-

ed resistively, coupling of the thermalenergy directly to the propellant streamcan initiate decomposition more effi-ciently and impart more energy to thepropellant than a conventional bedheater. Higher preheat temperaturesare possible for the same power used, ora smaller power source can be em -ployed for the same preheat tempera-ture. Even at lower power consumptionlevels compared to conventional bedheaters, catalyst bed preheat tempera-tures of well over 1100 °C are obtainedin less than 2 seconds. The ability togenerate that amount of thermal ener-gy, combined with the short ramp time,translates to reliable fast ignition thatmay be applicable to rapid responseuses, such as liquid divert and attitudecontrol systems, in addition to space-craft and satellite propulsion. Even on aspacecraft, where rapid response maynot be a priority, the resultant shortduration of applied power means thatoverall bed heater energy usage can bequite small. Energy-saving operation isalways an asset for spacecraft.

In a more straightforward designapproach, the monolithic foam catalystcan be used as a drop-in replacement forgranular catalysts in conjunction with atraditional bed heater. The refractorynature of the materials used means thatthe bed volume will not shrink as it doeswith the current state-of-the-art AF-M315E catalyst, thereby eliminatingdead space, propellant pooling, and det-onation.

Ultramet’s open-cell foam-based ig -niter technology is truly crosscutting inthat it can be applied to many differentprograms to enhance the life and Vcapabilities, and/or reduce the mass ofmyriad spacecraft. The foam-based igni-tion system represents an enabling tech-nology that will accelerate the imple-mentation of this high-performancepropellant and significantly enhancethe capabilities of virtually all futurespacecraft using monopropellant pro -pulsion systems.

NASA applications for the thruster-igniter system include orbit transfer,maneuvering, station keeping, and atti-tude control for satellites and interplan-etary spacecraft. It can be used in a

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Flame Holder SystemPotential applications include jet engine simulation, andtorches for forging, casting furnaces, and pottery kilns.Langley Research Center, Hampton, Virginia

NASA’s Langley Research Center isseeking to improve upon stock stain-

less steel flame holders. Researchers atNASA Langley have developed a newceramic design with a service temperatureof 4000 °F. The combination of highstrength and high temperature capability,and a twist lock mounting method to thesteel burner, sets this flame holder apartfrom existing technology.

The high-output flame holder wasdeveloped in support of the U.S. Navy’sefforts to design a jet engine simulator forinfrared plume studies. Previous tests hadshown that off-the-shelf componentswould melt or burn up in a short time.Given these design and performance crite-ria, NASA developed a ceramic flameholder that has a much longer lifecycleand can be used with a variety of torches orburners. Where the stainless flame holdersshowed signs of oxidation and flaking afteronly three hours of testing, NASA’s ceram-ic flame holder has more than 150 hoursand 200 cycles of use in a casting furnace,and soot marks are the only signs of use;there are no signs of deterioration.

NASA expects the new technology tohelp enhance safety through increased

reliability and flame control. Addi -tionally, the total cost of ownership is lessdue to decreased maintenance andimproved efficiency. The technologyenables roughly double the torch outputwithout damaging the torch, operatingat a higher temperature (4000 °F) thandoes stainless steel (1600 °F). In addi-tion, the torch can be optimized for dif-ferent applications (e.g., may use a mix-ing nozzle or a supersonic nozzle), andthe technology can be used with eitherventuri or blown burners. The flameholder is easily replaceable without tools,and operates without the torch and hold-er rusting together after use. The designpermits a modified torch to still use aconventional flame holder. Potentialapplications include use in jet enginesimulation, and torches for forging, cast-ing furnaces, and pottery kilns.


The new design uses a twist lock attachment (an improvement over set screws), and has a service temper-ature of 4000 °F. The flame holder slides onto the torch, and roll pins engage the bayonet fitting grooves.

number of other commercial and mili-tary applications, including attitudecontrol and apogee engines for com-mercial and military satellites.

This work was done by Matthew J. Wrightof Ultramet for Glenn Research Center. NASA

is seeking partners to further develop thistechnology through joint cooperativeresearch and development. For more information about this technology and toexplore opportunities, please contacthttp://technology.grc.nasa.gov.LEW-19408-1

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Communications

Cellular Reflectarray Antenna and Method of Making SameA simple-to-install design for satellite and communications applications solves the problemsassociated with traditional parabolic reflectors.John H. Glenn Research Center, Cleveland, Ohio

NASA’s Glenn Research Center invitescompanies to license a new concept

design for terrestrial satellite dishes andcommunications systems. The Cel lularRe flectarray Antenna (CRA) has beendeveloped and tested for use with next-generation Ka-band satellites, al though itcan be used with all bands of satellitecommunication. The design’s flat, planarconfiguration all but eliminates the wind-loading problems associated with largerparabolic reflectors for dish systems. Thetechnology also offers unique featuresthat provide ease of installation andimproved signal reception, while deter-ring piracy and theft of subscriptionsatellite services.

The CRA is a unique design alternativeto conventional parabolic reflectors. Theword cellular in the title of the designrefers to a geographic cell of operation.Specifically, the CRA is designed toreceive satellite signals for next-genera-tion satellite television and communica-tions services within a specified geo-graphic area, or cell. Each cell comprisesapproximately 1,500 square miles. TheCRA for any given cell operates by beingaligned with its index pointing to mag-netic north while the surface of the CRAis level to the ground. The CRA’s flat

configuration makes this orientationstreamlined and simple. The cellularnature of the CRA offers inherent securi-ty because it will not operate beyond itsdesignated cell space, helping to deterpiracy of subscription satellite services.

In the example of a subscription satel-lite television service, a CRA would beprovided to a subscriber in a kit that alsocontains a simple compass for alignmentpurposes. The subscriber requires knowl-edge only of magnetic north from theoperation location, which can easily beascertained using the compass. Oncepositioned, a collimated antenna beam inthe direction of a geostationary satellite isformed using a circular polarizationmethod unique to Glenn’s design. Inaddition, the CRA aperture can operateat two distinct frequencies due to thechoice of substrate thickness and materi-als, enabling both reception and transmis-sion of signals. The materials used enableinterlacing of high and low bands whilemaintaining only one main antennabeam for strong signal.

This technology can be used in broad-band satellite communications such asresidential and business entertainment;first-responder applications and emer-gency communications for disaster re -

sponse and recovery situations, includ-ing military; and backup communica-tions for large events, concerts, conven-tions, and sporting events.

NASA is actively seeking licensees to commercialize this technology. Please con-tact the Technology Transfer Office [email protected] to initiate licensing discus-sions. Follow this link for more information:http://technology.nasa.gov/patent/TB2016/TOP3-408.

A first-generation Cellular Reflectarray Antennain an RF test chamber.

Polarization-Dependent Whispering Gallery Modes(WGMs) in MicrospheresWGMs can benefit sensors used in aerospace vehicle control, health and performancemonitoring, optical communications, and biological applications.John H. Glenn Research Center, Cleveland, Ohio

Dielectric microspheres are opticalstructures that exhibit resonant

properties, meaning they can be used toselect very narrow wavelengths of anincoming light beam’s spectrum for fur-ther manipulation and processing. Theoptical resonances of a microsphere arefrequently called morphology depen -dent resonances (MDRs) or whispering

gallery modes (WGMs). Innovators atNASA’s Glenn Research Center havedeveloped a method of separating low-level modes propagating in an opticalfiber through the use of WGMs in spher-ical resonators. The unusually high qual-ity factors (Q-factors) that can beachieved by side coupling of light intothe dielectric spheres allow for measure-

ment sensitivities that may far exceedthose of more conventional sensors.Whispering gallery modes’ high sensitiv-ity to environmental conditions andtheir small size make them good candi-dates for a wide range of sensors.

NASA Glenn’s whispering gallerymodes enable new ways to utilize themorphology-dependent resonances in a

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AIntro



SIM970 ... $1495 (U.S. List)

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The SIM970 makes precision DC voltage measurements with excellent long-term accuracy. Four voltage ranges from ±199.999 mV to ±19.9999 V can be autoranged or manually selected. An external trigger input allows synchronization of voltage readings on all four channels. A BUSY output provides a TTL signal (logic high) when readings are being taken.


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The high sensitivity of Glenn Research Center’s whispering gallery modes makes them good candi-dates for a wide range of sensors.

sphere or other body of revolution. Inthis innovation, the incident light deliv-ered to the microsphere is manipulatedbefore it reaches the destination. Thatmanipulation could be achieved byeither changing the geometry or physi-cal properties of the waveguide, orchanging the parameters of the lightitself. Different propagation modes maybe selected for coupling into the opticalresonant cavity by changing the polariza-tion of light introduced to the systemthat contains the optical fiber and thebody of revolution that functions as theoptical resonator. Selection of theparameters of light introduced to theoptical fiber (which is adjacent to theoptical resonant cavity) produceschanges in the mode of propagationthat is allowed to couple to the sphere asa morphology-dependent resonance.

Benefits of this technology include itssmall size — with typical sphere sizes inthe range of 100 to 1,000 micrometers, a

large number of different types of sen-sors can be packed inside a small vol-ume. In addition, the unique fiber cou-pling approach allows for the develop-ment of distributed sensors with multi-ple spheres on a single optical fiber.Unusually high Q-factors offer very highsensitivity; Q-values as high as 109 can beachieved.

This is an early-stage technologyrequiring additional development.Glenn welcomes co-development oppor-tunities. Potential applications includeaerospace vehicle control sensors, healthand performance monitoring sensors,optical communication sensors, and bio-logical sensors.


Ad Hoc Selection of Voice OverInternet StreamsThis flexible system is applicable to a wide variety of systems,including office communications and telemedicine.Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center, Houston, Texas

NASA seeks interested parties to licensethe Ad Hoc Selection for Voice Over

Internet (VoIP) Streams technology devel-oped by engineers at Johnson SpaceCenter. This technology features the abilityto select specific audio streams from one ormore sources and then convert them into

a multicast to the user’s audio player. Thisselection ability benefits the user by allow-ing a wide range of information and/ordata to be monitored from a remote loca-tion using existing network technologies innear real time. For example, a user with apersonal computer equipped with special-

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AIntro



Communications


purpose audio player software first needsto launch the program and provide anidentification and a password. Once bothaccess control checks are completed, theaudio software graphic is displayed, includ-ing audio stream and volume control but-tons. The user can now select up to 21streams to monitor simultaneously.

This technology was initially developedto broadcast multiple audio streamsthrough the NASA Mission ControlCenter (MCC) VoIP system. The technol-ogy has provided significant benefits toNASA by enhancing situational awarenessamong flight-support personnel and man-agement who are located outside of theMCC, and it has excellent potential toprovide similar benefits in commercialapplications. The innovation allows multi-ple users to monitor the activities taking

place at various locations by integratingmultiple audio streams into a singlesource in real time. The technology offersexcellent sound reproduction, and addsusers automatically for networks support-ing multicast traffic. It does not requirededicated connections, and the total data-processing load on the distribution systemis relatively minimal, allowing for wideand secure distribution at low cost.

The audio distribution process beginswith feeding the audio signals to analog-to-digital converters. These converterscreate digital streams of MP3 VoIP audiopackets. Using a user datagram protocol(UDP), the resulting digital streams aresent through an audio Intranet to a serv-er that converts them to encrypted mul-ticast data packets. These packets thenare routed throughout the network to

provide access to one or more audiostreams concurrently on personal com-puters of authorized users.

The technology features real-timeencrypting of the multicast audio streamsfor privacy, the ability for users to individ-ually control volume, and high fidelitywith excellent reproduction of voice.Applications include audio multicastingand monitoring, air-traffic training, EMScommunications and telemedicine, andstock exchange and other informationand data sharing.

NASA is actively seeking licensees to com-mercialize this technology. Please contactMichelle P. Lewis at [email protected] initiate licensing discussions. Follow thislink for more information: http://technology.nasa.gov/patent/TB2016/MSC-TOPS-31.

Deep-Space Positioning SystemNASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Pasadena, California

NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory(JPL) has developed a compact,

low-power, self-contained instrumentthat provides the equivalent of GPSthroughout the solar system without theaid of an artificially provided infrastruc-ture. The state-of-the-art X-ray naviga-tion instrument is also able to determinethe position of a spacecraft anywhere inthe solar system, but it cannot providethis information relative to the Earth,the Sun, or any other remote targetbody (the equivalent of GPS providing auser’s position relative to a vehicle, a sec-ond user, or any other moving target).JPL’s uniquely capable deep-space posi-tioning system determines the positionand the target-relative position of aspacecraft anywhere in the solar systemusing optical navigation, which makes itideally suited for any spacecraft requir-ing deep-space navigation services.

JPL’s deep-space positioning system(DPS) consists of narrow- and wide-anglecameras, a coelostat, an S- or X-bandreceiver and patch antenna, and a centralprocessor that hosts the navigation com-putations and controls the coelostat. TheDPS instrument determines the locationof the hosting spacecraft via images ofsolar system objects and, optionally, viaone-way radio to the Earth or anotherknown object from which Dopplerobservables are extracted. To make theinstrument as small and lightweight aspossible, a single mechanism combinesthe pointability of the coelostat with thatof the antenna. Additional mass and vol-ume are saved because the wide-anglecamera is placed behind the secondaryreflector of the narrow-angle camera.That way, the wide-angle camera sharesthe precise field of the narrow-angle cam-era, and can provide accurate pointing

information for the narrow-angle camera.The DPS is also advantageous because thecoelostat can be used to relieve the point-ing requirements of the host spacecraftwith respect to navigation imaging andradiometric link closure. Most missionsrequire either a reorientation of thespacecraft or a cessation of science activi-ties in order to obtain navigation datawhen the desired science and navigationtargeting are different.

The DPS can be used in deep-spacenavigation instruments, asteroid recon-naissance and mineral prospecting mis-sions, and the human missions to Mars.

NASA is actively seeking licensees to com-mercialize this technology. Please contactMark W. Homer at [email protected] to initiate licensing discussions.Follow this link for more information:http://technology.nasa.gov/patent/TB2016/NPO-TOPS-26.

9-Meter Slaving SystemGoddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, Maryland

The objective of the 9-Meter SlavingSystem is to transmit Launch Trajec -

tory Acquisition System (LTAS) datafrom one of multiple incoming datastreams to the 9-Meter antenna controlunit using a synchronous serial modem.

The data stream is determined by a 9-Meter telemetry operator’s selection via agraphical user interface (GUI).

The 9-Meter Slaving System consists ofsoftware and hardware that allow the 9-Meter telemetry operator to acquire LTAS

data via either network User DatagramProtocol (UDP) packets and/or synchro-nous serial modem from multiple sources,select one of these data streams, and trans-mit LTAS data to the 9-Meter antenna con-trol unit via a synchronous serial modem.

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https://technology.nasa.gov/patent/TB2016/NPO-TOPS-26


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The system contains the followingsoftware and hardware: LTAS SourceSlaving Selector (LS3) software; Uni -versal Translate, Record, and Analyze(ULTRA) system; LTAS Source SlavingSelector (LS3) Analyzer software; a vari-ety of supporting non-NASA applica-tions such as 7-Zip, Adobe Reader,Anaconda Python, FileZilla, JRE, MozillaFirefox, Notepad++, OpenOffice, Py -thon, and Wireshark; NetAcquire serverfor the ULTRA system; and rack-mountPC computer with Microsoft Windows 7operating system for the rest of the soft-ware.

The LS3 application acquires LTASpackets via a UDP network to thentransmit LTAS data via the UDP net-work. For the other sources that supplyLTAS data via a synchronous serialmodem, the ULTRA is used to convertand retransmit this data to the LS3application via the UDP network. Forslaving LTAS data, the LS3 applicationwill transmit data to the ULTRA via the

UDP network; the ULTRA will thenconvert and transmit it to synchronousserial data for the 9-Meter antenna con-trol unit. The LS3 Analyzer applicationis used to convert recorded data, whichis in binary format generated by theLS3 application, to human-readablefiles. The Network Countdown TimeProtocol (NCTP) is used for time syn-chronizing in the LS3 application. TheNCTP is generated and provided by theULTRA system using timing informa-tion from the IRIG-B and Pseudo-IRIG-B (Inter-Range Instru mentation Group,format B).

This work was done by Nathan Riolo,Woong Seo, and Walter Wehner of NASAWallops Flight Facility for Goddard SpaceFlight Center. NASA is seeking partners tofurther develop this technology through jointcooperative research and development. Formore information about this technology andto explore opportunities, please contact ScottLeonardi at [email protected]

GPS Satellite Geometry Analysis Tool(GPSGEM)Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center, Houston, Texas

The purpose of the GPS SatelliteGeometry Analysis Tool (GPSGEM) is

to evaluate GPS satellite geometry for agiven Earth-fixed location or for a provid-ed trajectory. The tool will generate a list-ing of all satellites in view, the best satel-lite combination defined by the mostoptimum Geometric Dilution of Pre -cision (GDOP), the GDOP profile ex -pected if all satellites are available, andthe worst-case GDOP profile when one ortwo satellites are removed from the avail-able constellation. The tool will providethe navigation controller with insight intothe expected performance of the GPSconstellation, and allow an assessment ofthe implications to onboard navigationperformance for the ascent, orbit, abort,and entry phases of flight.

GPSGEM reads an ephemeris of pro-jected vehicle positions through to land-ing. Satellite positions are calculatedfrom a GPS almanac for every satellitefor every time step of the ephemeris,and the GDOP (a measure of robustnessof GPS constellation geometry) calculat-ed. At the direction of the software user,the program can also calculate the

resulting GDOP assuming single or dou-ble satellite failures that would cause thegreatest degradation of GDOP. Resultsover any desired time interval are aggre-gated, and any continuous periods withpoor geometry are reported.

Using the output of GPSGEM, an ana-lyst can assess whether GPS constellationgeometry can support vehicle GPSreceiver state solutions accurate enoughfor a safe landing, even if one or twosatellites fail. The GPS constellation hasenough satellites to provide a goodgeometry in nearly all circumstances, sogeometry analysis is much more usefulwhen possible satellite failures are takeninto account.

The basic algorithms implemented inthis software are applicable for supportingany use of GPS navigation critical enoughthat it would be worthwhile to project con-sequences of GPS satellite failures.

This work was done by Timothy Wegnerand Guadalupe Cardona of United SpaceAlliance for Johnson Space Center. This soft-ware is available for use. To request a copy,please visit https://software.nasa.gov/software/MSC-24625-1.

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https://software.nasa.gov/software/MSC-24625-1


Environment

Methods for Purifying Enzymes for MycoremediationAmes Research Center, Moffett Field, California

This process applies to remediationand restoration of soils contaminated

by fuel, polychlorinated biphenyl wastes,etc. While there can be a general beneficialeffect of microbial communities, individ-ual plant-fungus combinations can vary intheir efficacy in removal of pollutants fromthe environment. Selection of the mosteffective combination of plants and fungiis very important for achieving the desiredbenefits. Not all fungi are created equal, assome die off in contaminated soils. Havinga set of enzymes from fungi specificallyadapted to conditions in contaminated soilsand use of native plant/fungal combina-tions is a huge advantage. Ectomycorrhizal(EM) mediated remediation of phenolic-based contamination through use ofspecifically adapted soil and enzymes uti-lizes plant/fungal combinations that arespecifically adapted to conditions createdby phenolic application to soils, and the

abilities of EM fungi to oxidize these com-pounds. This platform can be adapted toother ecosystems through field assessmentsof the EM community in each new site.

The technology builds on the existingnotion that establishment of trees in con-taminated soils can be enhanced throughthe use of EM fungi. The fungi impartresistance to soil extremes such as hightemperature, high acidity, and heavymetal contamination. The process takesadvantage of the ability of native fungi toupregulate enzyme genes in response tochanges in host physiological conditions,and hence enhance natural phenolic oxi-dation in soils up to fivefold. EM fungi inthe genera Russula and Piloderma reactwith positive growth responses to pheno-lic-based soil contamination. The activi-ties of enzymes that oxidize these com-pounds increase fivefold when the hosttree is partially defoliated, which in turn

imparts an increase in phenolic oxidationin soils by a similar amount. Defoliation isdone by pine needle removal, where 50%of the needles are removed. This defolia-tion is performed each year on newgrowth to maintain defoliation.

This remediation process using nativeplant/fungal combinations has a fastresponse, enables high selectivity, and iscost-effective and low-maintenance. It canbe used for environmental remediation,phytoremediation, enzymatic bioremedia-tion, cleanup of soil contamination byspills of solvents (including diesel fuels),habitat restoration, and land remediation.

NASA is actively seeking licensees to commercialize this technology. Please con-tact the Technology Partnerships Office [email protected] to initiatelicensing discussions. Follow this link for moreinformation: http://technology.nasa.gov/patent/TB2016/TOP2-135.

The WX Subsystem Weather Station wasdesigned for use as part of the Weather

Instrumentation (WX) Sub system for theConstellation Program (CxP) to be imple-mented in the Launch Complex 39B atKennedy Space Center. The weather sta-tions need to be rugged, robust, and reli-able. Although this equipment is not to belocated in hazardous zones, it is stillrequired to withstand harsh environmen-tal conditions typical of the launch envi-ronment. Health management considera-tions are incorporated in the design sothe user can be notified remotely whensensors, power supplies, dataloggers, etc.require service or maintenance.

The weather station measures, acquires,and transmits meteorological data descrip-tive of its surrounding environment (i.e.wind speed, wind direction, temperature,relative humidity, etc.). It is a modular sys-tem that can be set to operate according to

the user’s requirements. The use of com-mercial off-the-shelf (COTS) products inthe design of the weather station adds ver-satility to the system since most compo-nents have been tested to operate in harshenvironmental conditions. The station isaccessed remotely in order to retrieve thecollected data and verify the health of theprocessing unit. The auto-monitoring fea-tures of the station provide tools to auto-matically schedule service requests, allow-ing automation of maintenance efforts.Battery backup operation mode allows forlocal data acquisition and storing for limit-ed periods of time during power outages inthe station.

The station consists of a power supplyunit, a data acquisition system, and a seriesof meteorological sensors. The data acqui-sition system is the processing unit of theweather station, and is in charge of acquir-ing, storing, and transmitting the data

from the sensors. The power supply unitprovides the power protection and signalconditioning needed to operate the mete-orological instrumentation and relatedequipment. Both the power unit and thedata acquisition system are housed insideseparate weatherproof enclosures thatprovide protection against harsh outdoorenvironments and electromagnetic inter-ference (EMI). The enclosure with thepower unit is known as the MeteorologicalPower Box, whereas the enclosure con-taining the data acquisition system is theMeteorological In strumentation Box.

The input of the MeteorologicalPower Box is a single-phase, 120-VAC sig-nal. At the power unit, this signal is con-verted and conditioned to provide 12VDC, 24 VDC, and an optional backed-up 12 VDC to the instrumentation box.A surge protective device (SPD) is usedat the input of the unit to mitigate the

WX Subsystem Weather StationThis instrument can be used by any organization that needs to monitor weather or theeffects of weather.John F. Kennedy Space Center, Florida

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RAPID model setup time is measured in mere seconds for large numbers of river reaches.

effects of excessive system voltages andcurrents caused by electrical events suchas lightning, load switching, and others.

Every measurement in the weather sta-tion is terminated inside the Mete -orological Instrumentation Box at thedata acquisition system, which is a COTSdatalogger. The datalogger converts theacquired measurements to engineeringunits and stores the data in its internalmemory. Data can be transferred fromthe datalogger to a remote workstationvia serial communication protocol (RS-232), or through a TCP/IP network. Anoptional Ethernet media converter canbe used to connect the datalogger to aremote workstation via fiber-optical link.Also, an Ethernet surge protective deviceis used for applications that require cop-per links (i.e. CAT 5 or CAT 5e) betweenthe remote workstation and the datalog-ger. The datalogger and the meteorolog-ical sensors are powered up through ter-minal blocks that receive their powerfrom the Meteorological Power Box.

The sensors connected to the datalog-ger describe the surrounding environ-

ment as well as the internal status of theMeteorological Instrumentation and thePower Boxes. The meteorological meas-urements acquired by the MeteorologicalInstrumentation Box are wind speed, winddirection, relative humidity, temperature,and rain precipitation. These measure-ments are acquired by sensors containingnon-moving parts, which allows extendedoperating time. This translates into longercalibration cycles and less maintenance.The datalogger also acquires the tempera-ture and relative humidity inside bothenclosures, and monitors the output volt-age of the sealed lead acid battery and thestatus of the AC-to-DC converters insidethe Meteorological Power Box.

This work was done by Emmanuel Navedo,Tatiana Bonilla, and Carlos Mata of ASRCAerospace Corp. for Kennedy Space Center.NASA is seeking partners to further developthis technology through joint cooperativeresearch and development. For more infor-mation about this technology and to exploreopportunities, please contact [email protected]. KSC-13291

R²=0.99927

R²=0.99999

R²=0.98038

R²=0.99914

0.01

0.10

1.00

10.00

100.00

1,000.00

10,000.00

100,000.00

1,000 10,000 100,000 1,000,000

Setu

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(s)

Number of river reaches

RAPID setup time (s)

rapid-20140709

rapid-20150129

rapid-20150228

rapid-20150309

Power (rapid-20140709)




The Routing Application for Parallelcomputation of Discharge (RAPID,

http://rapid-hub.org) is a river routingmodel. Given surface and groundwaterinflow to rivers, this model can computethe flow and volume of water everywhere

in river networks made out of many thou-sands of reaches. The design of RAPIDallows it to be adapted to any river network,if given basic connectivity information.RAPID uses a matrix version of theMuskingum method, and has an automat-

Unleashing RAPIDNASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Pasadena, California

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AIntro



Environment

ed parameter estimation procedure thatallows finding optimal model parametersbased on available gauge measurements.

This model uses the Fortran program-ming language and can be run on per-sonal computers, as well as on massivelyparallel supercomputers, with demon-strated fixed-size parallel speedup.RAPID has the ability to run and/oroptimize model parameters on any sub-basin included in its computing domain.If major manmade infrastructures arepresent on the river network, RAPIDallows users to easily substitute upstreamflows measured by gauges within its sim-ulations of river flow and its optimiza-tion of parameters. If information con-cerning water withdrawals or returnflows is available, RAPID can remove oradd the corresponding flows from itscomputations as well.

The most unique feature of RAPID isits ability to use mapped water bodies(that accurately describe surface hydrog-

raphy) as computational elements, com-pared to a more classic and coarserapproach that uses a gridded represen-tation of river networks. Such mappedhydrographic datasets were historicallybased on maps created by governmentsurvey agencies from in-situ observa-tions, and are now increasingly generat-ed from remotely sensed observations.Other features that make RAPID singu-lar include its efficient use of parallelcomputing and its automated parameterestimation procedure. Additionally,RAPID has been open-source frominception, which has motivated increas-ing community use, and allowed forsteady growth of its user base.

The development of RAPID has beenongoing for almost a decade. The mainimprovement made here (see figure)over previous versions of the software arein code modifications, allowing for thedecrease of model setup time from hoursto mere seconds when addressing conti-

nental-scale applications. This means thatRAPID can now start producing resultsvirtually instantly after launching the exe-cutable. The lengthy setup times had pre-viously been a major impediment tolarge-scale applications (continental toglobal simulations) of RAPID.

In essence, RAPID is designed to helpwith water management, particularly dur-ing periods of flood or drought that arekey to water management in many parts ofthe world, including the western U.S. Thecapacity to simulate the flow of water inlarge river networks in a timely mannerhas implications for water management atcontinental to global scales.

This work was done by Cédric H. David of Caltech for NASA’s Jet PropulsionLaboratory. This software is available forlicense through the Jet PropulsionLaboratory, and you may request a licenseat: https://download.jpl.nasa.gov/ops/request/request_introduction.cfm. NPO-49809

Land Cover ViewerMarshall Space Flight Center, Alabama

Obs4MIPS.pyGoddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, Maryland

The Land Use Land Cover Viewer is anonline visualization tool that enables

users to view land use land cover maps.The maps were developed under theLand Cover Mapping for Green HouseGas (GHG) Inventories project, whichsought to enable SERVIR Eastern andSouthern Africa countries to have datato report on GHG inventories as re -quired by UNFCCC. The countries forwhich land cover maps are available areMalawi, Rwanda, Zambia, Namibia,Botswana, Tanzania, Ethiopia, Uganda,and Lesotho. The viewer has maps for allnine countries for different epochs.Each country for each epoch has four tosix maps based on two different classifi-cations: country-specific and EPA. Inaddition to the viewer having the basiconline map elements (legend, zoom,etc.), it has statistics modules that dis-

play the basic statistics of the displayedmap based on a selection by the user.

Following development of the landcover maps, a dissemination workshopwas done for each country to createawareness on the availability and accessof the maps. However, the countrieslacked a proper platform from which awider audience and the general publicwould view and obtain the data. Only those who attended the dissemina-tion workshops would get copies of the data. To alleviate this problem,RCMRD/SERVIR Eastern and SouthernAfrica decided to develop the onlineland cover viewer. All the developedmaps for all the countries would beuploaded to the viewer, and users wouldalso be able to download the data sets inaddition to viewing basic statistics fromthe countries.

The land cover viewer consists of aStatistics module that displays the basiccountry’s statistics in a graph. This allowsfor more information about the selectedcountry’s land cover that cannot be esti-mated by simply viewing the map. Eachclass of land cover is quantified as a per-centage, and one can assess the landcover type covering the largest or small-est area of a country.

This work was done by Phoebe Oduor, EricKabuchanga, Maungu Oware, and JafferAbabu of the Regional Centre for Mapping ofResources for Development for Marshall SpaceFlight Center. NASA is seeking partners to fur-ther develop this technology through jointcooperative research and development. Formore information about this technology and toexplore opportunities, please contact RonaldC. Darty at [email protected]

The Obs4MIPS.py software package isa front end to an existing free soft-

ware package written by LawrenceLivermore National Lab, called “ClimateModel Output Rewriter” (CMOR2), and

reads in a multitude of standard data for-mats such as netcdf3, netcdf4, Grads con-trol files, MATLAB data files, or a list ofnetCDF files. The software prepares EarthScience Observational (obs4MIPs) data or

Climate Modeling Reanalysis (ana4MIPs)data for publication in the NASA Centerfor Climate Simulation (NCCS) EarthSystem Grid Federation system (ESGF). Itconverts the data into a netCDF file follow-

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AIntro

https://download.jpl.nasa.gov/ops/request/request_introduction.cfm


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Scientists at NASA’s Glenn ResearchCenter have developed a unique

water purification method that can beused for water recycling or point-of-useapplications. Originally developed as ameans to recycle water in space, thistechnology has applications in industrialwater treatment, water recycling, andwater purification for military bases, dis-aster sites, and regions without easyaccess to clean water. Relying on onlyelectrical energy, this technology usesplasma-generated reactive species todecompose organic contaminants, rang-ing from submicron particles to watersoluble organics like glycol, ethanol, andindustrial dyes.

Highly oxidizing water treatments,like ozonation and UV-ionization, haveproven useful in removing organicsfrom water, but they require high capitalcosts and large amounts of wasteful energy consumption. Glenn’s approachto water purification uses high-voltage,nanosecond-pulsed non-equilibriumplasma to treat water. The pulsed electri-cal discharge destroys micro-organismsin liquid, essentially sterilizing the water,without the use of toxic chemicals or fil-ters. The plasma creates highly reactiveOH radicals (e.g. hydroperoxl, hydro-gen peroxide, super oxide O2) thatbreak down organic contaminants intocarbon dioxide and water. The nano-pulses ensure that only enough energy isproduced to destroy the contaminantwithout heating up the water, eliminat-

ing the need for cooling loops or down-time that is associated with otherprocesses (such as UV-ionization).NASA’s water purification technologyrelies only on electricity and can bescaled to meet a wide range of needs,from small portable units that purifydrinking water in disaster relief, to mil-lion-gallons-per-day industrial applica-tions. This technology is simple, straight-forward, and low-cost, with virtually noconsumables or byproducts. Further -more, the plasma pulse technology canfunction as a standalone purificationprocess, or as an add-on to existing solu-tions as a polishing step.

The technology provides clean wateron demand; accommodates large-vol-ume, high-throughput applications; andworks with in-volume and in-line waterfeed systems. It operates without filters,which can often become fouled or punc-tured, and is housed in a self-containedunit. Applications include wastewatertreatment; pharmaceutical, food, andbeverage water treatment; pretreatmentof contaminants; point-of-use drinkingwater; groundwater treatment; EPASuperfund site cleanup; and hydraulicfracturing water reuse.


System, Apparatus, and Method forLiquid PurificationJohn H. Glenn Research Center, Cleveland, Ohio

ing the Climate and Forecast (CF) meta-data convention as specified by ClimateModel Inter comparison Project (CMIP5).Obs4MIPs.py addresses the differencesin input data format, variable definition,and Global Attribute requirements thatexist within observational and re-analy-ses datasets.

The program reads an input file,identifies the input format, makes thenecessary unit conversions for eachvariable if needed, performs timeaggregation, creates a netCDF file fol-lowing the CMIP5 standard outputrequest, and sets the filename anddirectory path as requested by the user.

Time aggregation can also be doneautomatically using an input list ofnetCDF files or using a Grid Analysisand Display System (GRaDS) datadescriptor file.

The Obs4MIPS.py code is run fromthe command line on a system with therequired supporting libraries and inputdata files. While all code was written atGoddard Space Flight Center, it is writ-ten using Python, a freeware program-ming language.

This work was done by Denis Nadeau of GoddardSpace Flight Center. This software is available foruse. To request a copy, please visit https://software.nasa.gov/software/GSC-16848-1.

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https://software.nasa.gov/software/GSC-16848-1



Information Technology & Software

Representation and Analysis of System Behavior UsingMonotonic SignalsAmes Research Center, Moffett Field, California

NASA has developed a new methodfor analyzing complex system

behavior that also may be viewed as atype of data visualization and decisionsupport tool. Large complex controlsystems may have thousands or evenmillions of sensors, each providingsome type of signal that ultimately inte-grates into a larger organization. Foreach signal, behavior is represented bya sequence of pairs, with each pair con-taining a change value (monotonic)and a time interval length over whicheach of these changes occurs. Signalamplitudes and first derivatives serve asmarkers for these time intervals. Thisapproach permits a finer scale charac-terization of the signal(s). The noveltyof this approach is in using humanvisual interpretation in combinationwith computer signal analysis to moni-tor the behavior of complex systems inan enhanced manner.

This technology is a software methodfor performing visual and/or numericalcomparison of behavior of a system usingdecomposition of a function of boundedvariation as sums and differences of mono -tonic functions. It takes the output of themonotonic signal analysis and feeds it intoanother part of the algorithm that trans-lates the data into a graphic symbol lan-guage that finally becomes a set of imagesmeaningful to human interpretation. Thistechnology is used to determine if a sys-tem is behaving normally or is varying intoabnormalities through comparisons withreference values. Using this decomposition,the signal may then be transformed intoa fixed-size collection of graphic symbolsthat may in turn be combined into a largervisual representation. The fixed-sizealphabet of symbols also allows easy neu-ral net pattern recognition if desired.

The conversion into visual displayinformation is a key aspect of the inven-

tion, since it takes advantage of thehuman skill of visual pattern recognitionthat exceeds computer capabilities.Using human visual recognition in com-bination with numerical computeranalysis provides a new level of systemmonitoring capability that can recognizefaults at the sub-threshold level, and pro-vide early warnings as well as intelli-gence towards reaction. Another uniqueattribute of the technology is its ability toreverse the visual translation and pro-vide access to the underlying data. Thismay allow a user to dig deeper into aproblem if an anomaly is detected.

This work was done by Charles Jorgensen ofAmes Research Center. NASA is seeking part-ners to further develop this technology throughjoint cooperative research and development.For more information about this technologyand to explore opportunities, please contactAntoinette McCoy at [email protected] or 650-604-4270. ARC-17128-1

RAYGUN Fast Generic Geometry Raycasting ToolLyndon B. Johnson Space Center, Houston, Texas

When performing spacecraft simula-tions, developers sometimes need

to feed the simulation with a distancebetween two objects along a certaindirection vector. For example, if a space-craft is approaching an asteroid andneeds to simulate a laser rangefinder,the simulation would need to detectwhat part of the asteroid the laser wouldintersect, and then calculate the dis-tance from the rangefinder to the sur-face. For an asteroid with a very complexgeometry, the search for the intersectingtriangle can be very costly in terms ofcompute time. This scenario presenteditself with the MMSEV spacecraft simula-tion approaching the asteroid “Itokawa.”

RAYGUN is a standalone utility as wellas a development library that can beused in other programs, and that per-forms a time-optimized raycast against a

generic geometry definition describedby a list of triangles. Two vectors, sup-plied as inputs to the library, provide theorigin and the direction of the ray. Also,a file is provided that gives the entire tri-angle list against which to be searched.After processing the inputs, the code willthen generate a bounding volume hier-archy to sort the triangles for quicksearching. The specific hierarchy used atthe moment is known as an “octree,” butthe code can be extended to use otherhierarchies as well.

Once the hierarchy has been generat-ed into memory, raycasts can be per-formed very quickly using any ray originand ray direction as the inputs. Also, aspecial cache file of the hierarchy can besaved to disk to avoid having to constructa hierarchy for future runs that use thesame geometry to be tested.

In practice, this utility can be run onthe command line with a geometry defini-tion filename (or cache from a previousrun); the ray origin X,Y,Z; and the raydirection X,Y,Z. When used as a library,the code can very easily be included intoan existing C or C++ program, or com-piled into a shared library that can belinked into an existing program. Oneadvantage is that this software does nothave any major software dependencies. Itis written in pure C without the need forany external libraries, and therefore canbe used by developers who want to pull ina raycasting solution without dependen-cies on other software.

This work was done by Frank Graffagninoof Metecs for Johnson Space Center. This soft-ware is available for use. To request a copy,please visit https://software.nasa.gov/software/MSC-25668-1.

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Human Factors AnalysisSupport Tool (H-FAST) v 2.0Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center, Houston, Texas

Large-scale systems engineering projects involve multipleteams of engineers working in parallel. These projects typically

include numerous human factors challenges, many of which firstbecome evident during the integration stage. Human factorsevaluations are essential in gathering human performance dataand analyzing the usability of new design concepts. These evalu-ations are generally carried out by human factors experts due tothe level of expertise required. However, many projects may nothave a dedicated human factors expert available for consultationthroughout all design phases. In these cases, non-human-factorsengineers could derive value from a tool that locates relevanthuman factors design resources, and guides them through con-ducting simpler, formative human factors evaluations to gatherfeedback earlier in the process. The challenge for the designengineer is in finding the appropriate human factors designguidance relevant to a specific project.

There is a considerable body of human factors knowledge atNASA in the form of design standards, handbooks, referencedocuments, and lessons learned that has built up over time.Much of this human factors knowledge is very useful, but existsin various departments and in different forms (e.g., electronicand hardcopy). In the end, many design engineers are over-whelmed with the corpus of human factors knowledge. In addi-tion, they are not sure of when and how to consult with ahuman factors specialist, so they often do not get the neededhelp until later in the design process when components areevaluated in an integrated test environment. This challengeoften leads to costly rework.

To help solve this problem, the Human Factors AnalysisSupport Tool (H-FAST) was developed as a research and devel-opment effort to increase human factors awareness amongdesign engineers, facilitate communication between human fac-tors engineers and design engineers, and promote the applica-tion of human factors best practices earlier in the design cycle.H-FAST also provides detailed guidance regarding human fac-tors evaluations, and the capability to store data and providefeedback on the results of these evaluations.

H-FAST improves the engineering design process by providingengineers with easy access to detailed human factors methods,relevant research, and subject matter expert contact information.This will empower engineers to create more usable systems, thusreducing the number of design iterations and resulting in high-er-quality products.

Design Aids will be tagged against multiple taxonomies, eachwith its own perspective. The goal is to provide a common lan-guage that can be shared between human factors specialists andengineers. An engineer will choose which pieces of each taxono-my apply to their design project, providing context to filter thefull catalog of Design Aids. Lessons learned can be captured byengineers as they apply human factors principles to their designs.Human factors specialists can synthesize this information intonew Design Aids, creating a positive feedback loop.

This work was done by Douglas Wong of Johnson Space Center, andTerence Andre, Rod Ford, and Ryan Meyer of Tier 1 PerformanceSolutions. This software is available for use. To request a copy, pleasevisit https://software.nasa.gov/software/MSC-25653-1.

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NASA Tech Briefs, May 2017

Featured Sponsor Video:Precision Tools, Gages, and InstrumentsThe Starrett Company offers a variety ofprecision tools, gages, instruments, andsaws and hand tools. Starrett handmeasuring tools and other precisionproducts are used by manufacturingcompanies of many types and sizes toensure the quality of their products.techbriefs.com/tv/Starrett

“Smart Glasses”Automatically Adjustto Your EyesUniversity of Utah engineers have created“smart glasses” with liquid-based lensesthat can automatically adjust the focus onwhat a person is seeing, whether it's faraway or close up. A distance meter in thebridge of the glasses measures thedistance from the glasses to an object viapulses of infrared light.techbriefs.com/tv/smart-glasses

Wind Tunnel Generates 230-Mph WindsUniversity of Florida researchers aredeveloping a “Terraformer” wind tunnelto help engineers better understand thehigh-wind storms that batter coastlinecommunities. The new tool can dial up anytype of terrain in 90 seconds, and asecond high-speed simulator can generatewinds of over 230 miles per hour.techbriefs.com/tv/Terraformer

Astrobee Will Buzz Around the InternationalSpace StationNASA’s Astrobee — a robotic cube filledwith sensors, cameras, computers, and apropulsion system — is designed to helpISS astronauts with a variety of tasks. Fortesting on the ground, Astrobee ismounted on top of a sled that uses a jetof carbon dioxide to create an air bearingabove a flat block of granite.techbriefs.com/tv/Astrobee

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Information Technology &Software

Open Mission ControlTechnologies (Open MCT)WebAmes Research Center, Moffett Field, California

The fundamental idea behind the Mission ControlTechnologies (MCT) project is to build software from pieces

that can be assembled by end users to create integrated visualiza-tions. Applications are eliminated in favor of compositions oflive data objects that can be combined in different ways for dif-ferent users and missions as required, in contrast to the moretraditional software development method of pre-determiningfunctionality and building a monolithic application. This newapproach has the potential to change how users design, deploy,and maintain mission system software.

Current software, built as monolithic applications, is inflexibleand difficult to modify, leaving users to adapt to software prob-lems and create operational workarounds. Functions are dupli-cated across applications, and monolithic architecture makes itdifficult to re-factor existing software to meet needs. There isalso a high cost to reconfigure or change current software.

MCT presents users with an environment of composable dataobjects for integration and display. A data object is a visualizationof a domain object. Examples include telemetry, activities, proce-dures, and images. Data objects may be assembled and combinedinto cross-domain displays. The Desktop version of MCT wasreleased as open-source software in 2014. Core objectives of theopen-source effort are to enable collaboration, open up the soft-ware to outside innovation, and stimulate a community of open-source mission operations participants and contributors. Makingthe software open-source has enabled collaborations not previ-ously possible. Open MCT Web is a new release designed fordeployment and use as an online Web application. The code maybe found on Git Hub at https://github.com/nasa/openmctweb.

This work was done by Jay Trimble, Victor Woeltjen, Charles Hacskaylo,Pete Richards, Andrew Henry, and Mark Shirley of Ames ResearchCenter. This software is available for use. To request a copy, please visithttps://software.nasa.gov/software/ARC-15256-1A. ARC-15256-1D

iOrca Code ReleaseAmes Research Center, Moffett Field, California

The iOrca outlier detection algorithm is based on the K-nearest neighbors approach. It calculates the distances across

the dataset to determine if data points are near or far away fromtheir set of neighbors. If a point has an unusually large distance toits neighbors, it is considered an outlier and of interest to the user.Calculating the full set of distances is computationally expensive.

The original Orca code introduced a pruning technique usedto cut down the number of operations, and make the algorithmmore efficient and run in near-linear time. iOrca builds upon thisalgorithm by introducing an indexing scheme before runningthe Orca algorithm, and reordering the data to reduce the timecomplexity. iOrca’s indexing scheme reorders the data to analyzethe most anomalous examples first, thus increasing the cutoffvalue earlier. The cutoff value affects the pruning techniqueimplemented in the original version of Orca. If the cutoff value

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http://www.techbriefs.tv/

http://www.techbriefs.com/tv/Terraformer

http://www.techbriefs.com/tv/smart-glasses

http://www.techbriefs.com/tv/Starrett

http://www.techbriefs.com/tv/astrobee

https://github.com/nasa/openmct

https://software.nasa.gov/software/ARC-15256-1A


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is increased earlier, the pruning becomes more effective andtherefore the runtime is greatly reduced.

The key algorithmic improvements made to the code include1) building an index upon the data to allow the algorithm tomore efficiently process data points and converge to the resultsmuch quicker than the previous version of the code, and 2) usingthe index distances to determine a stopping criteria for early ter-mination. During the indexing process, an initial set of distancesis already calculated for all points, and since the data is orderedin descending order, the remaining distances are guaranteed tobe smaller. Thus, if a known distance for a given point is less thanthe cutoff, it is not necessary to calculate the rest of the pointsbecause they are guaranteed not to be outliers and therefore thealgorithm can complete early.

This work was done by Bryan Matthews of SGT Inc. and KanishkaBhaduri of Mission Critical Technologies, Inc. for Ames Research Center.NASA is seeking partners to further develop this technology through jointcooperative research and development. For more information about thistechnology and to explore opportunities, please contact AntoinetteMcCoy at [email protected] or 650-604-4270. ARC-16976-1

LTAS Source SlavingSelector (LS3) AnalyzerGoddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, Maryland

The objective of the Launch Trajectory Acquisition System(LTAS) Source Slaving Selector (LS3) Analyzer application is

to convert recorded data files — which are generated by theLTAS Source Slaving Selector (LS3) application in binary format— to human-readable text files as per a variety of options set bythe user via a graphical user interface (GUI).

The LS3 application writes each time-tagged data packet tofiles in binary format for performance reasons. These binaryfiles will be read by the user for a post-mission analysis purpose.However, these files are not necessarily human-readable; hence,the LS3 Analyzer was developed to address this.

The LTAS Source Slaving Selector (LS3) Analyzer software is astandalone application running on Microsoft Windows 7. Thissoftware was developed using C/C++ programming language withQt for the integrated development environment (IDE), Qtlibraries, and Microsoft Visual Studio 2013 or MinGW for thecompiler. The LS3 Analyzer application is generally built usingthe model-controller-view design pattern by grouping the sourcecode into two categories: logic and graphics. The logic portion isresponsible for collecting a list of available recorded data, collect-ing metadata for a selected recorded data, and converting thebinary files into human-readable text files per the user’s requestwith specified settings, if any, via the graphics. The graphics por-tion displays a list of recorded data and metadata for the recordeddata on the GUI. The GUI is used to select recorded data, setoptions such as output format, start/end times, and which streamsto convert, and initiates the converting task. The output formatsinclude spaced and CSV (comma-separated values).

This work was done by Nathan Riolo of NASA Wallops FlightFacility for Goddard Space Flight Center. NASA is seeking partnersto further develop this technology through joint cooperativeresearch and development. For more information about this tech-nology and to explore opportunities, please contact Scott Leonardiat [email protected]. GSC-17408-1

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New on the

MARKETProduct of the Month

Spectrum Instrumentation Corp., Hackensack, NJ, introduced the DN6.44x, a range of 12 high-

speed, 14- and 16-bit LXI-based digitizers with up to 24 fully synchronized channels. The 16-bit ADC

models offer sampling rates of either 130 MS/s or 250 MS/s, and the 14-bit units feature sampling rates

of 500 MS/s. The units are suitable for applications where arrays of receivers, sensors, detectors, recti-

fiers, antennas, and other electronic devices are to be used and tested. Each channel is equipped with

its own front-end amplifier that features six input ranges (from ±200 mV to ±10 V full scale), switchable

input impedance (50 Ω and 1 MΩ), and programmable positive input offset for unipolar signals. Analog

bandwidth is as high as 250 MHz (for 500 MS/s models), enabling the units to capture electronic signals

in the DC to 200-MHz frequency range. The instruments are equipped with onboard acquisition memory of 512 MSamples per channel, and fea-

ture an industrial chassis with integrated cooling, a replaceable dust filter, and low-noise power supplies.

For Free Info Visit http://info.hotims.com/65851-120

Bit Error Rate Test and Analysis Tektronix, Beaverton, OR, introduced

the BSX series BERTScope 32-Gb/s proto-

col-aware bit error rate test and analysis sys-

tem that characterizes the receiver in Gen3

and Gen4 devices. The system’s protocol-aware functions enable

users to visualize and control the handshaking and link training

process for devices running up to 32 Gb/s. Available with maximum

data rates of 12.5 Gb/s, 24 Gb/s, and 32 Gb/s.


Spectrum AnalyzersThe Spectrum Master MS2760A mil-

limeter-wave spectrum analyzers from

Anritsu, Morgan Hill, CA, verify high-fre-

quency designs, including those used in

5G and E-band applications. The analyz-

ers conduct measurements such as spec-

trum analysis, channel power, adjacent channel power, spurious

emissions, and occupied bandwidth. They allow measurements to be

taken directly at the device under test, and can conduct sweeps from

9 kHz to 110 GHz. Models are available to support 32-, 44-, 50-, 70-,

and 110-GHz frequencies.


DurometerThe PosiTector SHD Shore Hardness Durometer from Paul N.

Gardner Co., Pampano Beach, FL, is a handheld

electronic instrument that measures the inden-

tation hardness of non-metallic materials.

Models are available for Shore A and Shore D

hardness. The durometer continually dis -

plays/updates average, standard deviation,

min/max hardness, and number of readings while measuring. It

features a USB port, PosiSoft USB drive, and software.


Measurement SoftwareHexagon Manufacturing Intelligence, North

Kingstown, RI, released PC-DMIS 2017 RI meas-

urement software that includes enhanced appli-

cation performance to speed everyday tasks like

opening and executing measurement routines, copy and paste, and

file importing. The release includes a new Path Optimization tool

that uses multithreading on multicore PCs. QuickMeasure tools are

extended to basic scanning operations, and a new measurement

strategy for AutoFeature Plane allows discrete point selection.


Digital ThermometersOMEGA Engineering, Norwalk, CT, offers

HH911T and HH912T digital thermometers that

are compatible with Type K, J, T, or E thermocouple

probes. They provide temperature measurements

from -250 to 1372 °C (-418 to 2502 °F). They offer

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RNG, and STDEV (standard deviation) provide process information

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processes on-the-fly to make immediate adjustments.


Thermocouple MeasurementMeasurement Computing, Norton, MA,

introduced the E-TC Ethernet-based, 8-

channel thermocouple measurement device

that features eight 24-bit differential thermo-

couple (TC) inputs with TC channel-to-host

isolation, 4 S/s per channel maximum sample

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Product Focus: Test Instruments

The U.S. Government does not endorse any commercial product or service identified in this section.

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Wireless Foot SwitchesSteute Industrial Controls, Ridgefield, CT,

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Self-Clinching Steel LocknutsPennEngineering®, Danboro, PA offers

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Pump Monitoring SystemProphecy Sensorlytics, Baltimore, MD, released

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Data AcquisitionDataforth Corp., Tucson, AZ, released the

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BI-DIRECTIONALFIBER OPTICSWITCHESLiteway, Inc. offers a

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Upcoming...

Webinars

Please visit www.techbriefs.com/webinar433

Technical Webinar Series from theEditors of Tech Briefs: Integrating Motion

Control for Safe Robot OperationWednesday, May 10, 2017 at Noon U.S. EDT

Presenter:

Joe FalcoEngineer, Intelligent SystemsDivision, National Institute of Standardsand Technology

This 30-minute Webinar includes:• Live Q&A session • Application Demo • Access to archived event on demand

Robots and autonomous systems are used in more and more applications every day — many in safety-critical settings. Designingrobots for these safety-critical applications requires careful consideration of all aspects of the system, including proper motion controltechnologies that enable robots to maneuver in tight spaces originally designed for humans.


Top 3 Myths of Injection MoldingTuesday, May 16, 2017 at 2:00 pm EDT

Presenter:

Tony HoltzEngineer, Proto Labs


Rapid injection molding has changed the way product developers and design engineers use manufacturing. No longer is injection molding lim-ited to traditional methods that are time-consuming, expensive, and only ideal for larger part quantities. Learn how rapid injection can be imple-mented into development cycles to save valuable production time and money.


High-Performance Long Fiber-ReinforcedComposite Materials

Tuesday, May 9, 2017 at 2:00 pm U.S. EDT

Presenter:

Steve OuendagBusiness DevelopmentManager, PlastiComp


Long fiber-reinforced thermoplastic composites are the go-to material for structural components in applications that push the envelopeof what plastics can do, even replacing metals. In this Webinar, you will learn about long fiber’s tougher, stronger, and lighter perform-ance benefits.

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http://www.techbriefs.com/webinar437



Presenter:

Paul WebbSales and Marketing Manager,Autosport, Aerospace,Defense, and Marine,TE Connectivity


Racing cars are unique; niceties like suspension travel are sacrificed for speed, yet all other parts must withstand a tough environment.

In this Webinar, learn how we took military standards and designs as a starting point, and launched into another world where camou-flage is replaced by brightly colored sponsor logos, but under the bodywork, electronics see a harder life than in a fighter jet.


Please visit www.techbriefs.com/mentorgraphics12

Inside the Cockpit: How TE Brings FighterJet Technology to Race Cars

Wednesday, May 17, 2017 at 11:00 am U.S. EDT

Presenters:

Jeff MillerLead Strategist and Manager, Tanner’s Analog and MixedSignal Product Lines, Mentor Graphics

Phil BurrSenior Product MarketingManager, CPU Group, ARM


Custom SoCs are the new vogue: Analog is becoming smart, and there is a new wave of custom SoCs integrating analog and digital to createsmaller, lower-cost products. During this webinar, you will learn how custom SoCs are helping OEMs and analog silicon providers alike, andhow to use Tanner AMS tools to combine an analog sensor with an ARM Cortex-M0 processor to create a custom SoC.

How to Make Custom SoCs Smart

Available On Demand!

From discoveries in basic science to the development of next-generation commercial technology, high-throughput multiphysics and multiscalesimulations are needed to study complex and coupled phenomena that span multiple length and time scales.

In this Webinar, we will demonstrate high-performance modeling and simulation using the COMSOL Multiphysics® and COMSOL Server™ soft-ware that are used in the University at Buffalo’s Center for Computational Research (CCR), a leading academic supercomputing facility.


High-Throughput Multiphysics andMultiscale Simulations in COMSOL®

Thursday, May 25, 2017 at 2:00 pm U.S. EDT

Presenters:

Ed Furlani, PhDProfessor, University at Buffalo, SUNY

Viktor SukhotskiyPhD Candidate, University at Buffalo, SUNY

Valerio MarraMarketing Director, COMSOL


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Publisher........................................................ Joseph T. PrambergerEditorial Director............................................................Linda L. BellEditor, Photonics & Imaging Technology.................Bruce A. BennettDigital Editorial Manager................................................Billy HurleyAssociate Editor........................................................ Edward BrownManaging Editor, Tech Briefs TV.................................. Kendra SmithProduction Editor......................................................... Lisa MaliniakProduction Manager.................................................Adam SantiagoAssistant Production Manager..................................Kevin ColtrinariCreative Director...........................................................Lois ErlacherSenior Designer......................................................Ayinde FrederickMarketing Director.................................................Debora RothwellMarketing Communications Manager.......................... Monica BondDigital Marketing Coordinator................................. Kaitlyn SommerAudience Development Director.........................Marilyn SamuelsenAudience Development Coordinator........................... Stacey NelsonSubscription Changes/[email protected]

NASA tech briefs are provided by the National Aeronauticsand Space Administration, Innovative Partnerships Program:Acting Administrator...............................................Robert LightfootChief Technologist....................................................David W. MillerTechnology Transfer Program Executive.................... Daniel Lockney

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NASA’s TechnologyTransfer Program

NASA’s R&D efforts produce a robust supply of promising technologies with applications in many indus-tries. A key mechanism in identifying commercial applications for this technology is NASA’s national net-work of laboratories and business support entities. The network includes ten NASA field centers, anda full tie-in with the Federal Laboratory Consortium (FLC) for Technology Transfer. To explore technologytransfer, development, and collaboration opportunities with NASA, visit technology.nasa.gov.

NASA’s Technology Sources

Ames Research CenterSelected technological strengths: InformationTechnology; Biotechnology; Nanotechnology;Aerospace Operations Systems; Rotorcraft;Thermal Protection Systems.Antoinette McCoy(650) [email protected]

Armstrong Flight Research CenterSelected technological strengths:Aerodynamics; Aeronautics Flight Testing;Aeropropulsion; Flight Systems; ThermalTesting; Integrated Systems Test andValidation.Laura Fobel(661) [email protected]

Glenn Research CenterSelected technological strengths:Aeropropulsion; Communications; EnergyTechnology; High-Temperature MaterialsResearch.Harvey L. Schabes(216) [email protected]

Goddard Space Flight CenterSelected technological strengths: Earth andPlanetary Science Missions; LIDAR; CryogenicSystems; Tracking; Telemetry; RemoteSensing; Command.Nona Cheeks(301) [email protected]

Jet Propulsion LaboratorySelected technological strengths: Near/Deep-Space Mission Engineering; Microspacecraft;Space Communications; Information Systems;Remote Sensing; Robotics.Dan Broderick(818) [email protected]

Johnson Space CenterSelected technological strengths: ArtificialIntelligence and Human Computer Interface;Life Sciences; Human Space Flight Operations;Avionics; Sensors; Communications.John E. James(281) [email protected]

Kennedy Space CenterSelected technological strengths: Fluids andFluid Systems; Materials Evaluation; ProcessEngineering; Command, Control, and MonitorSystems; Range Systems; EnvironmentalEngineering and Management.David R. Makufka(321) [email protected]

Langley Research CenterSelected technological strengths:Aerodynamics; Flight Systems; Materials;Structures; Sensors; Measurements;Information Sciences.Kathy Dezern(757) [email protected]

Marshall Space Flight CenterSelected technological strengths: Materials;Manufacturing; Nondestructive Evaluation;Biotechnology; Space Propulsion; Controlsand Dynamics; Structures; MicrogravityProcessing.Terry L. Taylor(256) [email protected]

Stennis Space CenterSelected technological strengths: PropulsionSystems; Test/Monitoring; Remote Sensing;Nonintrusive Instrumentation.Duane Armstrong(228) [email protected]

NASA HEADQUARTERS

Daniel Lockney, Technology TransferProgram Executive

(202) [email protected]

Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) &Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR)ProgramsRich Leshner, Program Executive(202) [email protected]

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Allied Electronics.......................................... COV IV................................................ thinkallied.com

AllMotion, Inc...............................................14.............................................. www.allmotion.com

ARM Ltd....................................................... 10........................................ developer.arm.com/ds-5

ASM Sensors, Inc......................................... 36.......................................... www.asmsensors.com

AutomationDirect..........................................15................ www.automationdirect.com/air-cylinders

Bird Precision................................................ 59..........................................www.birdprecision.com

Century Spring - MW Industries.................... 32........................................ www.centuryspring.com

COMSOL, Inc......................................... 7, 59................................ comsol.com/products

COMSOL Conference.................................... 41.......................................... comsol.com/conference

Concept Group, Inc....................................... 28............................................ conceptgroupinc.com

Cornell Dubilier............................................ 3............................................cde.com/MLSHSlimpack

Create the Future Design Contest.................. COV III.............................. createthefuturecontest.com

Dataforth Corporation.................................. 23........................................................ dataforth.com

Digi-Key Electronics.............................. COV I, COV II................................ DIGIKEY.COM

EPLAN Software & Service............................ 39.............................................. www.eplanusa.com

Heatron, Inc................................................. 37.......................................................... Heatron.com

Imagineering, Inc................................. 1.......................................... www.PCBnet.com

Indium Corporation of America......................27, 55................................ www.indium.com/NTB49

Integrated Engineering Software.................. 31................................................ integratedsoft.com

Keystone Electronics Corp............................. 29..................................................www.keyelco.com

Liteway Inc................................................... 59................................................ www.foswitch.com

Master Bond Inc................................... 57, 59.......................... www.masterbond.com

Measurement Computing Corp............ 21.............................................. MCCDAQ.COM

Micro-Epsilon Messtechnik GmbH................ 35........................................ www.micro-epsilon.com

Mini-Systems, Inc......................................... 59.................................... www.Mini-SystemsInc.com

Morehouse Instrument Company.................. 4.................................................. www.mhforce.com

National Reconnaissance Office.................... 11........................................https://acq.westfields.net

Newcomb Spring Corporation...................... 44..............................................newcombspring.com

OLC.............................................................. 57.................................................. www.olc-inc.com

PhotoMachining, Inc.....................................59.................................... www.photomachining.com

Pickering Interfaces...................................... 17.......................................... pickeringtest.com/radio

Proto Labs, Inc............................................. 9.......................................... go.protolabs.com/TB7JA

R.M. Young Company.................................. 55.............................................. www.youngusa.com

Rohde & Schwarz GmbH & Co. KG........19.......... www.rohde-schwarz.com/ad/sat/nwa

SEMICON West............................................ 33....................................WWW.SEMICONWEST.ORG

Stanford Research Systems Inc.......................43, 45, 47....................................www.thinkSRS.com

Tech Briefs TV................................................56.................................................. www.techbriefs.tv

Tech-Etch, Inc............................................... 49, 51, 53.................................. www.tech-etch.com

The L.S. Starrett Company............................ 25.................................................. www.starrett.com

ZEMAX LLC............................................5................................ Zemax.com/Transformed

Photonics & Imaging Technology

4D Technology............................................26...................................... www.4dtechnology.com

Aerotech, Inc...............................................COV IV........................................www.aerotech.com

Alluxa........................................................ 1.................................................... www.alluxa.com

Data Image Corp. USA................................ 27...................................... www.dataimagelcd.com

e2v Technologies........................................ 23..................................................e2vanafocus.com

Edmund Optics.......................................... 11....................www.edmundoptics.com/ruggedized

Evans Capacitor.......................................... 6.............................................. www.evanscap.com

Forth Dimension Displays, Ltd..................... 19..........................................................forthdd.com

GPD Optoelectronics.................................. 16, 28............................................ www.gpd-ir.com

GT Advanced Technologies..........................21............................................................ GTAT.com

Lumenera Corporation................................ 3, 29........................................ www.lumenera.com

Master Bond Inc................................. 26................................www.masterbond.com

New Imaging Technologies........................ 9.................... www.new-imaging-technologies.com

Photon Engineering.................................... 2............................................ www.photonengr.com

Rocky Mountain Instrument Co................... 5, 28.............................................. www.rmico.com

Siskiyou Corporation.................................. 21................................................www.siskiyou.com

Spectrogon US Inc.......................................19.......................................... www.spectrogon.com

Universe Kogaku America, Inc..................... 27.............................................. UniverseOptics.com

Vision Research, Inc................................... COV II..................................phantomhighspeed.com


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More than 30 years after a re -searcher at NASA’s Goddard

Space Flight Center tested and demon-strated the significantly improved fasten-ing ability of an altered screw-threading,the design has helped Cobra Puma Golfachieve the lowest-ever center of gravityin a golf club.

An enduring problem with threadedscrews is that vibration can eventually jarscrews and bolts loose. Few fastenersexperience more intense vibration thanthose in a rocket engine. In the early daysof the Space Shuttle Program, NASA tookan interest in fasteners that could endurethe vibrations of repeated liftoffs, as wellas extreme temperature variations thatcause metals to expand and contract.

That was when NASA came across aninvention by Horace Holmes of HolmesTool Company known as Spiralockthreading, a slight alteration to tradi-tional threading that promised consider-ably stronger joints.

Threading in female nuts and boltholes had always precisely mirrored thatof the male bolts that screwed into them,allowing them to perfectly follow eachother’s contours. The result, however,was that there was little if any pressurefor most of the length of the connection,with about 80 percent of the clamp loadbeing carried by the first two threads.Holmes’ idea was to blunt the trough ofthe female thread with a 30-degreewedge ramp. The result was that most ofthe length of a bolt’s threading ridgewould be forced against the wedge inthe nut, causing a more even distribu-tion of the load along the length of theconnection, with the first two threadsnow carrying just 25 percent of the load.

It wasn’t until the 1984 publication ofa lengthy study by Goddard researcherJames Kerley that Spiralock began to beused more widely. Kerley found thatSpiralock nuts could withstand doublethe vibrations that would loosen a stan-dard nut, and for 10 times as long. Theydidn’t lose clamping power after a boltand nut combination was torqued on

and off 50 times, far exceeding NASA’sdemand for a fastener that could bereused at least 15 times. Shortly there-after, Spiralock was applied to morethan 750 tube clamps, joints, and brack-ets in a set of space shuttle main engines,where it easily withstood further testing.The design soon was incorporated intomissiles, diesel engines, oil wells, seismicvibrators, broadband fiber-optic net-works, human joint implants, pacemak-ers, and many other systems.

In early 2013, employees of theCenter for the Advancement of Sciencein Space (CASIS), which manages theInternational Space Station’s (ISS) U.S.National Laboratory, began a partner-ship with Cobra Puma Golf. Before long,the company was consulting withemployees of various NASA field cen-ters, and by September 2014, CASIS hadsecured Cobra Puma Golf a slot as a cus-tomer for a research payload to the ISS.The company sent up 20 tiny spaceportdoors, modeled after the ISS cupola, fora one-month experiment testing thehypothesis that silver would depositmore uniformly and with larger crys-talline growth in zero gravity, resultingin higher durability.

The door was to be a unique feature ofCobra Puma Golf’s KING LTD Driver, but

an unforeseen problem had arisen. Thespaceport door turned out to be in anextremely high-vibration, high-load envi-ronment. After hitting golf balls over andover, the portal — which screws into thebottom of the club’s head — began tocome unscrewed, much like a bolt in arocket engine after repeated use. CobraPuma Golf researched NASA’s use of fas-teners in high-vibration environmentsand came upon Spiralock threading,which was incorporated around the space-port door to help alleviate the effects ofvibration occurring during impact.

To cut the thread into the clubs, thecompany acquired a licensed cutter andgauge from Spiralock, now part of StanleyEngineered Fastening. The spaceportsnow hold fast, and the company startedselling the drivers in November 2015. Thedoor gives access to the inside of the golfclub. Normally a finished driver head is justunder its target weight — typically around200 grams — because it’s easier to addweight than to subtract it. Then, justenough hot melt — a sticky substance thatdoubles as weighting material and debriscatcher — is injected through a small holein the sole of the club. Instead, with thespaceport door in the KING LTD Driver, atungsten weight can be inserted. The metalcan be filed to the precise weight necessaryfor each club before it’s locked in place.The aluminum door itself, which featuresa polycarbonate window into the club’sinterior, also serves as a 16-gram weight.

All this has helped Cobra Golf makewhat it believes is the first zero-center-of-gravity golf club, meaning the center ofgravity for the entire club is on the neu-tral axis, an imaginary line extendingback from the center of the club’s face,maximizing the transfer of energy fromclub to ball. The door to the club’s inte-rior also allows the company to makecustom clubs, adjusting the size andposition of the tungsten weight to suitindividual golfers’ styles.

Visit https://spinoff.nasa.gov/Spinoff2017/cg_2.html.


SPINOFFSpinoff is NASA’s annual publication featuringsuccessfully commercialized NASA technology. Thiscommercialization has contributed to the developmentof products and services in the fields of health andmedicine, consumer goods, transportation, public safety,computer technology, and environmental resources.

Novel Threading Enables New Approach to Golf ClubsFastener threading technology used on shuttle engines reduces vibration in golf clubs.

Cobra Puma Golf wanted a “spaceport door” toscrew into the bottom of its KING LTD Driver. Thevibration of repeated drives, however, wouldcause the little portal to come unscrewed. Thecompany came upon Spiralock threading, whichnow holds the doors firmly in place.

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https://spinoff.nasa.gov/Spinoff2017/cg_2.html

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Documents

Welcome to your Digital Edition of NASA Tech Briefsassets.techbriefs.com/EML/2017/ntb_digital/NTB0517.pdfCov ToC + – Intro A Intro Cov ToC + – A Welcome to your Digital Edition