A Modular Sensor Suite for Propulsion Testing

En’Urga Inc. will evaluate the feasibility of utilizing a modular sensor suite as general purpose combustion diagnostic for rocket propulsion systems. The two key issues that will be addressed during the Phase I research work are: (1) the feasibility of configuring a modular tomographic sensor suite that can be used measure path integrated properties in high speed turbulent reacting flows, and (2) the feasibility of obtaining spatially and temporally resolved information from these measurements. Three tasks are planned to be completed during the Phase I work to address the feasibility of the modular tomographic suite. The first task is to design and integrate a breadboard version of the modular tomographic suite to measure path integrated extinction and emission from reacting flows. The second task is to develop a configurable algorithm to obtain relevant spatially and temporally resolved information from the measurements. The third task is to evaluate the system using laboratory scale experiments. It is anticipated that at the end of the Phase I project, the feasibility of obtaining relevant local information from path-integrated measurements using a modular tomographic suite will be demonstrated conclusively. For Phase II work, a prototype and customized modular tomographic system will be fabricated and delivered to NASA for use at the Stennis Space Center. The customization for the Phase II prototype will incorporate specific spatial, temporal, and species measurement needs from Stennis Space Center. The prototype system can be readily incorporated into the Stennis Space Center's test facilities.

The modular tomographic system will provide planar temperature, gas concentration, and particulate volume fraction with high temporal and spatial resolution. The primary NASA application for the proposed modular tomographic suite is to provide validation data for rocket propulsion systems. The Phase II customized prototype instrument that will be delivered to NASA can be directly utilized in the propulsion test facility at NASA Stennis Space Center. The proposed system can also be used for the quality assurance of rocket engines and nozzles.

The primary commercial application of the modular sensor suite will be to obtain data in rocket and aircraft engines and exhaust plumes. Such data is required to develop advanced propulsion systems. Potential customers include both the commercial and the military aerospace propulsion and aircraft engine organizations. A secondary market is to study combustion studies in research laboratories.

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 6) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.

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