Pipeline-Integrated Thrust Measurement for Vector Force Decoupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional measuring devices for vector thrust in liquid attitude and orbit control engines suffer from low measurement precision due to high rigidity of propellant supply pipelines, large inter-directional interference, and inability to adapt to high-frequency alternating thrust measurements, with strain gauge sensors prone to high-temperature creep and drift.
Innovation Solution
A pipeline-integrated measuring device with a thrust fixed frame, integral moving frame, and strain spokes, incorporating propellant supply channels and sensors made via sputtering coating, along with a water-cooled shielding cover and calibration devices for dynamic and steady adjustments, coupled with a decoupling method using multiple linear regression analysis to eliminate constraints and improve precision.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a traditional vector force sensor is used to measure vector thrust, then the measurement can be performed, but the measurement precision is low due to the high rigidity of the propellant supply pipeline and complex mounting constraints
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the propellant supply pipeline with the measuring device by integrating the pipeline directly into the moving frame structure. The pipeline serves dual functions: supplying propellant to the engine and acting as a structural component of the measurement system. This integration eliminates the need for separate mounting brackets and constraint links, thereby reducing mounting complexity while improving measurement precision by removing sources of constraint interference.
Solution Approach 2:
The moving frame is designed to serve multiple functions simultaneously: it supports the engine, carries the propellant supply pipeline, provides mounting for sensors, and acts as part of the measurement system. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, simplifying the overall device structure while maintaining measurement accuracy.
2Measurement precision
If a strain gauge bonding technology is used in the vector force sensor, then the sensor can measure force, but the sensor is prone to high-temperature creep, fatigue and drift
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional strain gauge bonding technology with a piezoelectric sensor system. The piezoelectric effect provides a different mechanism for force measurement that is inherently more resistant to high-temperature effects. The piezoelectric crystals used in the sensor maintain their electrical properties and measurement capability in high-temperature environments where strain gauges suffer from creep and drift, thereby improving both measurement precision and reliability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the measuring device is designed for static measurement, then the structure can be simple, but it fails to adapt to high-frequency alternating thrust measurement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the measuring device with dynamic characteristics suitable for high-frequency measurement. The moving frame is connected to the fixed frame through flexible connections that allow dynamic movement, and the piezoelectric sensors are configured to respond to rapid changes in force. The system includes dynamic calibration capabilities and is designed to handle the high-frequency alternating thrust loads typical of liquid attitude and orbit control engine operation, thereby improving adaptability while maintaining reasonable structural complexity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution enhances measurement precision by integrating propellant supply channels within strain spokes, suppressing temperature drift, and decoupling vector thrust through structural and algorithmic means, thereby improving sensitivity and extending the device's service life.
Implementation Method 1
the measuring fixed frame and the measuring moving frame are connected by means of the plurality of radially arranged strain spokes uniformly distributed in a circumferential direction
Implementation Method 2
the first sensor strain resistor, the second sensor strain resistor, and the third sensor strain resistor are all made by a sputtering coating process
Implementation Method 3
a water-cooled shielding cover... for suppressing temperature drift
Data Source
AI summary
A pipeline-integrated measuring device includes a thrust fixed frame, a measuring fixed frame, a measuring moving frame and strain spokes. The measuring fixed frame is fixed on the thrust fixed frame and is connected to the measuring moving frame by means of the strain spokes. A first propellant supply connecting nozzle is arranged on the measuring fixed frame and is used to be in communication with a propellant supply pipeline on a test bench; propellant supply channels are arranged in the strain spokes; a second propellant supply connecting nozzle is arranged on the measuring moving frame and is used to be connected to an engine inlet pipeline; first sensors, second sensors and third sensors are arranged on the strain spokes; and the first sensors, the second sensors and the third sensors are arranged at maximum strain force positions in axial directions and lateral directions of the strain spokes respectively.