Analysis on the Grounding Architecture of a Technology Demonstrator Vehicle

摘要

In launch vehicles, Inter system and intra system interfaces exist among various onboard avionic modules. In addition to that, the on-board systems are interfaced to ground checkout system also which is yet another complex system. Isolation of grounds is an important concept in launch vehicle avionics system integration and design. Understanding ground loops and chassis potential is essential for achieving accuracy in measurements and prevention of failure propagation. This paper is a study of the grounding architecture of a Technology Demonstrator Vehicle (TDV). For this purpose, simulation models of on-board and checkout systems have been generated in ORCAD PSPICE. An attempt is made to understand the causes of chassis potential and ground loops. Monitoring networks are analyzed to determine its robustness against ground potential lift. The paper also discusses the grounding-related issues faced during the testing TDV and the methods adopted to overcome them.