DLNET Learning Object

A computer model is under continuing development at NASA Glenn Research Center that enables first-order assessments of space power technology. The model, an evolution of NASA Glenn's Array Design Assessment Model (ADAM), is an Excel workbook that consists of numerous spreadsheets containing power technology performance data and sizing algorithms. Underlying the model is a number of databases that contain default values for various power generation, energy storage and power management and distribution component parameters. These databases are actively maintained by a team of systems analysts so that they contain state-of-art data as well as the most recent technology performance projections. Sizing of the power subsystems can be accomplished either by using an assumed mass specific power (W/kg) or energy (Wh/kg) or by a bottoms-up calculation that accounts for individual component performance and masses. The power generation, energy storage and power management and distribution subsystems are sized for given mission requirements for a baseline case and up to three alternatives. This allows four different power systems to be sized and compared using consistent assumptions and sizing algorithms. The component sizing models contained in the workbook are modular so that they can be easily maintained and updated. All significant input values have default values loaded from the databases that can be over-written by the user. The default data and sizing algorithms for each of the power subsystems are described in some detail. The user interface and workbook navigational features are also discussed. Finally, an example study case that illustrates the model's capability is presented.

Id	DLNET-11-15-2002-0114
Title	A Systems Model for Power Technology Assessment
Author(s)	David J. Hoffman
E-mail(s)	david.j.hoffman@grc.nasa.gov
Department	John H. Glenn Research Center
Organization	National Aeronautics and Space Administration
Description	A computer model is under continuing development at NASA Glenn Research Center that enables first-order assessments of space power technology. The model, an evolution of NASA Glenn's Array Design Assessment Model (ADAM), is an Excel workbook that consists of numerous spreadsheets containing power technology performance data and sizing algorithms. Underlying the model is a number of databases that contain default values for various power generation, energy storage and power management and distribution component parameters. These databases are actively maintained by a team of systems analysts so that they contain state-of-art data as well as the most recent technology performance projections. Sizing of the power subsystems can be accomplished either by using an assumed mass specific power (W/kg) or energy (Wh/kg) or by a bottoms-up calculation that accounts for individual component performance and masses. The power generation, energy storage and power management and distribution subsystems are sized for given mission requirements for a baseline case and up to three alternatives. This allows four different power systems to be sized and compared using consistent assumptions and sizing algorithms. The component sizing models contained in the workbook are modular so that they can be easily maintained and updated. All significant input values have default values loaded from the databases that can be over-written by the user. The default data and sizing algorithms for each of the power subsystems are described in some detail. The user interface and workbook navigational features are also discussed. Finally, an example study case that illustrates the model's capability is presented.
Keywords	Computer Programs, Spreadsheets, Spacecraft Models, Spacecraft Power Supplies, Electric Power
Classification	Aerospace Aeronautical Engineering/ Combustion and Propulsion/ Propulsions (Gas-turbines, Rockets, Advanced)
Date of Creation	2002-07-01
Resource URL	Not Available

Format	Portable Document Format (.pdf)
Size	361 KB
Requirements	Application Program: Adobe Acrobat Reader
Interactivity Type	EXPOSITIVE: Information flows from resource to learner only
Resource Type	Narrative Text
Interactivity Level	LOW: Minimal to zero interaction/input required from learner
Intended Audience	Learners,Teachers
Context of Use	Professional Formations, Vocational Training, Continuous Formations
Learning Duration	1 hour