7,428 research outputs found
Advanced Langmuir Probe (LP)
The dynamic response of the MK-2 version of the Langmuir probe amplifier was studied. The settling time of the step response is increased by: (1) stray node-to-ground capacitance at series connections between high value feedback resistors; and (2) input capacitance due to the input cable, FET switches, and input source follower. The stray node-to-ground capacitances can be reduced to tolerable levels by elevating the string of feedback resistors above the printing board. A new feedback network was considered, with promising results. The design uses resistances having much lower nominal values, thereby minimizing the effect of stray capacitances. Faster settling times can be achieved by using an operational amplifier having a higher gain-bandwidth product
A Dust-Penetrated Classification Scheme for Bars as Inferred from their Gravitational Force Fields
The division of galaxies into ``barred'' (SB) and ``normal'' (S) spirals is a
fundamental aspect of the Hubble galaxy classification system. This ``tuning
fork'' view was revised by de Vaucouleurs, whose classification volume
recognized apparent ``bar strength'' (SA, SAB, SB) as a continuous property of
galaxies called the ``family''. However, the SA, SAB, and SB families are
purely visual judgments that can have little bearing on the actual bar strength
in a given galaxy. Until very recently, published bar judgments were based
exclusively on blue light images, where internal extinction or star formation
can either mask a bar completely or give the false impression of a bar in a
nonbarred galaxy. Near-infrared camera arrays, which principally trace the old
stellar populations in both normal and barred galaxies, now facilitate a
quantification of bar strength in terms of their gravitational potentials and
force fields. In this paper, we show that the maximum value, Qb, of the ratio
of the tangential force to the mean radial force is a quantitative measure of
the strength of a bar. Qb does not measure bar ellipticity or bar shape, but
rather depends on the actual forcing due to the bar embedded in its disk. We
show that a wide range of true bar strengths characterizes the category ``SB'',
while de Vaucouleurs category ``SAB'' corresponds to a much narrower range of
bar strengths. We present Qb values for 36 galaxies, and we incorporate our bar
classes into a dust-penetrated classification system for spiral galaxies.Comment: Accepted for publication in the Astrophysical Journal (LaTex, 30
pages + 3 figures); Figs. 1 and 3 are in color and are also available at
http://bama.ua.edu/~rbuta/bars
Experimental investigation of reactor-loop transients during startup of a simulated SNAP-8 system
Primary loop transients during startup of Rankine cycle space power system in SNAP 8 simulato
Nonflammable, antistatic, and heat-sealable film
Antistatic, heat-sealable, nonflammable films prepared from polyvinylidene fluoride and polyvinylidene chloride resin
A Lie algebra that can be written as a sum of two nilpotent subalgebras, is solvable
This is an old paper put here for archeological purposes. It is proved that a
finite-dimensional Lie algebra over a field of characteristic p>5, that can be
written as a vector space (not necessarily direct) sum of two nilpotent
subalgebras, is solvable. The same result (but covering also the cases of low
characteristics) was established independently by V. Panyukov (Russ. Math.
Surv. 45 (1990), N4, 181-182), and the homological methods utilized in the
proof were developed later in arXiv:math/0204004. Many inaccuracies in the
English translation are corrected, otherwise the text is identical to the
published version.Comment: v2: minor change
Human-centered Explainable AI: Towards a Reflective Sociotechnical Approach
Explanations--a form of post-hoc interpretability--play an instrumental role
in making systems accessible as AI continues to proliferate complex and
sensitive sociotechnical systems. In this paper, we introduce Human-centered
Explainable AI (HCXAI) as an approach that puts the human at the center of
technology design. It develops a holistic understanding of "who" the human is
by considering the interplay of values, interpersonal dynamics, and the
socially situated nature of AI systems. In particular, we advocate for a
reflective sociotechnical approach. We illustrate HCXAI through a case study of
an explanation system for non-technical end-users that shows how technical
advancements and the understanding of human factors co-evolve. Building on the
case study, we lay out open research questions pertaining to further refining
our understanding of "who" the human is and extending beyond 1-to-1
human-computer interactions. Finally, we propose that a reflective HCXAI
paradigm-mediated through the perspective of Critical Technical Practice and
supplemented with strategies from HCI, such as value-sensitive design and
participatory design--not only helps us understand our intellectual blind
spots, but it can also open up new design and research spaces.Comment: In Proceedings of HCI International 2020: 22nd International
Conference On Human-Computer Interactio
Solar extreme ultraviolet sensor and advanced langmuir probe
For more than two decades, the staff of the Space Physics Research Laboratory (SPRL) has collaborated with the Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC) in the design and implementation of Langmuir probes (LP). This program of probe development under the direction of Larry Brace of GSFC has evolved methodically with innovations to: improve measurement precision, increase the speed of measurement, and reduce the weight, size, power consumption and data rate of the instrument. Under contract NAG5-419 these improvements were implemented and are what characterize the Advanced Langmuir Probe (ALP). Using data from the Langmuir Probe on the Pioneer Venus Orbiter, Brace and Walter Hoegy of GSFC demonstrated a novel method of monitoring the solar extreme ultraviolet (EUV) flux. This led to the idea of developing a sensor similar to a Langmuir probe specifically designed to measure solar EUV (SEUV) that uses a similar electronics package. Under this contract, a combined instrument package of the ALP and SEUV sensor was to be designed, constructed, and laboratory tested. Finally the instrument was to be flight tested as part of sounding rocket experiment to acquire the necessary data to validate this method for possible use in future earth and planetary aeronomy missions. The primary purpose of this contract was to develop the electronics hardware and software for this instrument, since the actual sensors were suppied by GSFC. Due to budget constraints, only a flight model was constructed. These electronics were tested and calibrated in the laboratory, and then the instrument was integrated into the rocket payload at Wallops Flight Facility where it underwent environmental testing. After instrument recalibration at SPRL, the payload was reintegrated and launched from the Poker Flat Research Range near Fairbanks Alaska. The payload was successfully recovered and after refurbishment underwent further testing and developing to improve its performance for future use
Compact electric heater
Forced convection electric heater heats inert gas flows to temperatures of from 1250 to 1650 deg F and tests Brayton power systems for advanced spacecraft. Heater has two basic components, a heat exchanger core and a containment vessel
- …