DYNAMIC DATA MEASUREMENTS FOR DELTA IV LAUNCH VEHICLE FIRST FLIGHT (AN UPDATE)

摘要

Boeing successfully launched its first Delta IV rocket, orbiting a European communications satellite in late November 2002. Prior to Delta IV first flight at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, the Boeing Evolved Expandable Launch Vehicle Organization Engineering Labs/Dynamics Technology Laboratory installed instrumentation to record liftoff environmental data. Dynamic data were acquired during terminal countdown through T+1 minute at the Boeing newly built Space Launch Complex 37B. The primary objective of these extensive data acquisition activities was to measure and record dynamic phenomena associated with the rocket launch. Studies and analysis of the data collected will lead to development of more robust launch vehicle structures and enhanced protection of on-vehicle avionics and payloads. In order to study and clearly characterize these environments, a unique data acquisition system was set up to record high-speed dynamic events during and shortly after launch. Boeing Dynamics Technology Laboratory applied a number of innovative methods to accomplish this goal. The implementation of this data system required thoughtful advanced planning and diligent hard work. Quality test data were acquired using this data acquisition system during launch. This paper discusses the results of the instrumentation and data acquisition efforts for the Delta IV first launch. Some specific approaches to acquire the required dynamic data as well as lessons learned are also discussed.