Development of a framework for truss-braced wing conceptual MDO

The paper describes the development of a multidisciplinary design optimization framework for conceptual design of truss-braced wing configurations. This unconventional configuration requires specialized analysis tools supported by a modular and flexible framework to accommodate different configurations. While the previous framework developed at Virginia Tech was a monolithic Fortran-77 code, the need for more flexibility for complex truss-braced wing configurations was addressed by the development of this new framework, which is based on Phoenix Integration ModelCenter^TM environment. The framework uses updated structural and aerodynamic design modules that enable a more general geometry definition. The new framework, thus, provides a foundation for future design concepts, especially multi-member truss-braced wing configurations. The fuel saving potential of these truss-braced wing configurations is presented by comparing different truss designs with gradually increased level of complexity.     

A transfer matrix model of large deformations of curved rods

Transfer matrix models have been frequently used to analyze the structural behavior of rods, including curved and pretwisted ones. The advantages of these models include their relative simplicity, numerical efficiency and ease of implementation. Previous investigations did not include nonlinear analyses of curved rods that undergo large deformations. The present paper describes a nonlinear transfer matrix model of curved and pretwisted rods, which is capable of analyzing very large spatial deformations. The rod is divided into segments. A body system of coordinates is attached to each segment. This system translates and rotates with the segment during the deformation. If the segments are kept small enough, the local deformations of each segment, relative to its body system of coordinates, are small. The segments’ systems of coordinates rotate relative to their neighbors and if this rotation is dealt with properly, large rotations and displacement of the curved rod can be analyzed. In spite of its nonlinear nature, the model remains relatively simple and efficient. The new model is used to solve a few problems and the results show very good agreement with other analytical, finite-element, and experimental results.     

Numerical solution of constrained non-linear algebraic equations

The numerical solution of n non-linear algebraic equations with n unknowns, when any or all of the variables are subjected to constraints, is discussed. Distinction is made between physical and absolute constraints. It is shown, using a set of test problems, that solution of constrained equations does require a special approach. It is found that the step length restricted Newton's method performs best for problems with absolute constraints. Physical constraints can be best handled using a continuation method or penalty functions.     

Highly Efficient Ge-Rich Ge<Subscript><Emphasis Type="Italic">x</Emphasis></Subscript>Pb<Subscript>1−<Emphasis Type="Italic">x</Emphasis></Subscript>Te Thermoelectric Alloys

The search for alternative energy sources is presently at the forefront of applied research. In this context, thermoelectricity for direct energy conversion from thermal to electrical energy plays an important role. This paper is concerned with the development of highly efficient p-type Ge _x Pb_1−x Te alloys for thermoelectric applications, using spark plasma sintering. The carrier concentration of GeTe was varied by alloying of PbTe and/or by Bi₂Te₃ doping. Very high ZT values up to ~1.8 at 500°C were obtained by doping Pb_0.13Ge_0.87Te with 3 mol% Bi₂Te₃.     

A Newton type linearization method for solution of nonlinear equations

Convergence properties of a new iterative method for solution of non-linear equations are investigated. It is shown that for a system of equations which contain mixed linear equations and homogeneous functions of degree n, the convergence of this method is equivalent to the convergence of Newton's method. In contrast to the latter, this new method does not require evaluation of the vector of function values at every iteration.     

Watermarks encrypted in a concealogram and deciphered by a modified joint-transform correlator

We describe an electro-optical method of deciphering a watermark from a recently invented encoded image termed a concealogram. The watermark is revealed as a result of spatial correlation between two concealograms, one containing the watermark and the other containing the deciphering key. The two are placed side by side on the input plane of a modified joint-transform correlator. When the input plane is illuminated by a plane wave, the watermark image is reconstructed on part of the correlator's output plane. The key function deciphers the concealed watermark from the visible picture only when the two specific concealograms are matched. To illustrate the system's performance, both simulation and experimental results are presented.     

Solution of steady state reactor models using the continuation method and feasible starting point

The solution of steady state chemical reactor models, using classic numerical methods, (like Newton-Raphson, Quasi-Newton, etc.), is often very difficult.

It is proposed to select constraints for the independent variables as the first step of the solution, then to use a combination of the Newton-Raphson and continuation methods, to obtain the solution, starting from a feasible initial guess.

Several methods for the solution of steady reactor models are compared. It is shown that the proposed method is the most reliable and efficient for locating the solution.