Fuel Analysis: Methods, Techniques, and Calibration, SAWE PAPER No. 3233 Category No. 11

摘要

This paper describes a specific method that can be used for fuel volume analysis and it's associated mass properties. The fuel system for the X-47A Pegasus unmanned air vehicle, an experimental aircraft designed and built by Northrop Grumman Integrated Systems, is used as a specific example to demonstrate this approach early in the design phase. Fuel tank volume is derived from solid models then adjusted for design allowances that correct for ullage and ISS (Internal Structure and Subsystems) components to derive realistic usable volume. Fuel table generation and center of gravity travel plots, including pitch attitude variation, are also discussed. Fuel calibration test data and comparison to analysis are presented.