Propellant Tank Pressure Control via Multi-Valve Feedback
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
In spacecraft propulsion systems, pressure regulation in propellant tanks is inadequate, leading to vacuum development and reduced engine thrust due to insufficient pressure, which existing technologies fail to address effectively.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for regulating pressure in pressure vessels connected to a pressure source through a plurality of valves, using pressure sensors and a valve controller to open or close valves based on predefined threshold values, ensuring optimal pressure levels within the tanks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing pressure regulation methods are used in propellant tanks, then the system structure remains simple, but vacuum development occurs and engine thrust is reduced due to insufficient pressure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback control system where pressure sensors continuously monitor the pressure in the propellant tank and send signals to the valve controller. The valve controller compares the measured pressure against threshold values and automatically adjusts the valve positions to maintain pressure within the desired range, preventing vacuum development and ensuring reliable engine thrust.
Solution Approach 2:
The pressure control system operates autonomously without requiring continuous manual intervention. The valve controller automatically regulates the valves based on real-time pressure feedback, making the system self-regulating and reducing the need for external control while improving reliability.
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple valves are used to connect the pressure source to the pressure vessel, then pressure control precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the pressure control function into multiple independent valves that can be individually controlled. Each valve can be independently actuated based on pressure threshold conditions, allowing for precise control of pressure increments while maintaining modular simplicity in the control logic.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts valve positions based on real-time pressure conditions. The valve controller can selectively open or close specific valves depending on the current pressure level and the rate of pressure change, enabling precise control without requiring all valves to be constantly active or complex mechanical linkages.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A
AI summary
Method and apparatus for controlling pressure in a pressure vessel. A plurality of valves between a pressure source and a pressure vessel can be selectively opened or turned off, singularly or in combinations, to control pressure in the pressure vessel. A maximum pressure threshold and a minimum pressure threshold can be established based on operating considerations of the pressure vessel. One or more of the valves can be turned on when the pressure in the pressure vessel reaches the minimum pressure threshold. One or more of the valves can be turned off when the pressure in the pressure vessel reaches the maximum pressure threshold.