NASA is reviewing various propulsion technologies for exploring space. The requirements are examined for one enabling propulsion technology: Integrated Controls and Health Monitoring (ICHM) for Chemical Transfer Propulsion (CTP). Functional requirements for a CTP-ICHM system are proposed from tentative mission scenarios, vehicle configurations, CTP specifications, and technical feasibility. These CTP-ICHM requirements go beyond traditional reliable operation and emergency shutoff control to include: (1) enhanced mission flexibility; (2) continuously variable throttling; (3) tank-head start control; (4) automated prestart and post-shutoff engine check; (5) monitoring of space exposure degradation; and (6) product evolution flexibility. Technology development plans are also discussed.
Integrated Controls and Health Monitoring for Chemical Transfer Propulsion
1990
12 pages
Report
No indication
English
Rocket Engines & Motors , Manned Spacecraft , Unmanned Spacecraft , Chemical propulsion , Component reliability , Engine design , Exposure , Functional design specifications , Technology assessment , User requirements , Closures , Degradation , Emergencies , Orbit transfer vehicles , Throttling , Valves