Advanced Sensor and Packaging Technologies for Intelligent Adaptive Engine Controls

摘要

The development of a pressure/temperature multi-sensor based on a combination of micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) sensor technology, novel ceramic materials, high temperature electronics, and advanced harsh environment electronics packaging is discussed. The pressure/temperature multi-sensor enables unprecedented monitoring of propulsion, energy generation and industrial systems. Multi-sensor approach will reduce control system weight and wiring complexity, design time and cost. Multi-sensor control strategies do better than the single-sensor strategy on the basis of both to raise the accuracy and fault tolerance ability effectively. The resulting sensors and packaging can be manufactured at low cost and operate in corrosive environments, while measuring temperatures up to 2552°F (1400°C) with simultaneous pressure measurements up to 1000 psi. The combination of a high-temperature, high pressure-ratio compressor system and adaptive engine technologies enable high thrust and efficiency. The multi-sensor approach will potentially provide an opportunity for sensor level fusion where multiple sensors measuring correlated parameters. In-situ deployment of these sensors enables advanced compressor and combustor control schemes for prognostics and active control that facilitate environmentally responsible aviation. Current efforts include: combining the sensor technology with high temperature electronics to produce 'smart' sensors for distributed engine controls, capacitive transducer elements with increased dynamic bandwidth, and advanced sensor packaging technologies. The key technologies of intelligent engines are active controls, advanced diagnostics, and prognostics which require smart sensors. The ability to sense the current engine operating condition and state and react with adaptive controls requires robust sensors. It is essential that these sensors are tested in a relevance environment. In this paper, some testing will be reported. Additional engine testing is planned through the NASA Vehicle Integrated Propulsion Research (VIPR) and Air Force Small Component and Engine Structural Assessment Research (S-CAESAR) Engine Demonstrator programs.