Detecting smoke and fire
When a hazard in the air is detected, a quick and sensible response can save lives. Scientists at the Glenn Research Center are developing this instrument for determining the air quality of the International Space Station, MPASS (Multi-Parameter Aerosol Scatter Sensor). Keeping in mind. Recently, they have found other uses for this sophisticated optical sensor: Identify particles suspended in the air and their properties.
Because the MPASS sensor is lightweight and compact, researchers are considering using it for respiratory health monitoring in first-aiders, miners, disaster relief services, and other environmental workers.
Predict aircraft icing risk
When the plane is flying in the blue sky, the situation becomes very dangerous if it encounters icing conditions. In view of this, the Glenn Research Center has developed a new tool to help people understand the risk of icing.
LEWICE3D is a software program that integrates state-of-the-art fluid flow solutions with 'Computational Fluid Design Software' to calculate parameters related to icing risk.
LEWICE3D's 3D modeling capabilities and proven effectiveness through extensive icing database make it the most accurate technology available today for analyzing aircraft icing sensitivity, designing anti-icing systems, aircraft, gyroplanes, drones, Jet engine, probe and detector design and aircraft certification.
Users can download the LEWICE3D software usage agreement for free from the 2017/2018 NASA software catalog.
Metal with memory
Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) is a metal alloy with memory that can be stretched and deformed at low temperatures or under stress and restored to its original shape upon heating or application of load.
SMA can be used in a variety of applications. Scientists at the Glenn Research Center have developed a groundbreaking approach that uses SMA to separate rock formations without the use of explosives, hydraulic systems or anything that can damage the surrounding environment. .
In addition, they have developed SMA tires, which are used to explore other planet rover vehicles. In addition, they are still testing SMA components, which can be used on aircraft wings, in flight Fold it up.
The researchers pointed out that the new generation of SMA technology can completely change the oil drilling, hydraulic fracturing, mining, civil engineering, automotive, aerospace, medical equipment, actuators and search and rescue industries.
Sandwich solar cell
As solar energy gradually expands into the homes of ordinary people, scientists at Glenn Research Center are working hard to improve the efficiency of solar energy products. Engineer Jeffrey Landis designed a highly efficient multi-junction solar cell that uses a thin layer of selenium as a Bonding material between wafers.
The transparency of selenium allows light to penetrate the top of the cell and reach the bottom of the silicon-based battery substrate. Since selenium is also a semiconductor, the efficiency of the battery is significantly improved.
The battery with selenium sandwiched provides more efficient solar cells for space exploration and commercial applications. Commercial applications include solar aircraft, drones, electric vehicle charging stations, auxiliary power equipment, power plants and solar roof tiles. Film and so on.
In addition, other advantages of this solar cell include ease of manufacture, low cost, etc.
Extreme electronic equipment
When the Venus lander reaches the surface of the planet, they don't last long—electronic equipment can only work for hours at temperatures near 460°C.
But scientists at the Glenn Research Center recently completed a technical demonstration that will allow the new Venus exploration science mission to last longer. The team developed a very durable silicon carbide semiconductor integrated circuit and the ultimate environment on Earth. It was tested in the device.
The circuit lasted more than 1400 hours under simulated Venus surface temperature and atmospheric conditions, extending more than 700 times longer than the previously demonstrated Venus detection mission electronics.
Engineer Phil Newdeck said: 'We exposed the two integrated circuits to the physical and chemical environment simulating the surface atmosphere of Venus for a long time. The chips did not cool or protect the chip package. After the test, the two integrated circuits were completed. Still valid. '
These electronic devices that can withstand extreme environmental conditions can have a major impact on a range of earth applications, including use in the hot areas of energy-efficient aero engines.
The researchers pointed out that the above-mentioned innovative technologies are only a small part of the innovative technologies they are pushing in the process of reshaping tomorrow's world, innovating future space exploration and space tourism.