Summary of the NASA Lewis component technology program for Stirling power converters

An update is presented on the NASA Lewis Stirling component technology program. The component technology program has been organized as part of the NASA Lewis effort to develop Stirling converter technology for space power applications. The Stirling space power project is part of the High Capacity Power element of the NASA Civil Space Technology Initiative (CSTI). Lewis is also providing technical management of a DOE funded project to develop Stirling converter systems for distributed dish solar terrestrial power applications. The primary contractors for the space power and solar terrestrial projects develop component technologies directly related to their project goals. This Lewis component technology program, while coordinated with these main projects, is aimed at longer term issues, advanced technologies, and independent assessments. Topics to be discussed include bearings, linear alternators, controls and load interaction, materials/life assessment, and heat exchangers

Multidimensional Approach to Implementation of Continuous Process Improvement Utilizing Small Run Analysis in a Shipyard Environment

Nationally, both public and private shipyards are experiencing a high rework rate (over 40%) in the fabrication of plug connectors used for electronic systems onboard Navy vessels. The shipyard\u27s survival depends on acquiring the elements necessary to maintain a major industry in a position of continuous improvement that produces a better product than their competitors, at less cost, in a safe manner, and on schedule. This research addresses the complex problem of how to introduce quality control methodologies within a job shop environment that assists in identifying variables that influence the rework rate of plug fabrication process over a four year period at Norfolk Naval Shipyard. The research objective of implementing continuous process improvement in a job shop environment was addressed by: developing a multidimensional approach using nontraditional statistical procedures designated Small Run Analysis, Pareto Analysis, Deming methodologies, and Concurrent Engineering. A new system to implement continuous process improvement and to measure the results of the new system for cost effectiveness and improvement of quality was developed. The research has resulted in a successful pragmatic introduction of small run analysis in a job shop environment and lower rework rate through cooperation of both internal and external influences. Additionally, this research indicates that the system developed for continuous process improvement was not only cost effective but also transferable to public and private shipyards, leading to better understanding of information using data bases, automation, and networking in a shipyard environment