Internal force transducer balance system for measuring aerodynamic interference forces
US11802803B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 30, 2021 |
| Grant date | Oct 31, 2023 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 28, 2041 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01L9/006
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
There is a need to develop new internal balance structures that allow for measurements of aerodynamic interference forces (e.g., powered descent forces) in addition to aerodynamic loads. For example, supersonic retropropulsion (SRP) is a technique involving thrusters in opposition to the oncoming airflow to decelerate an aircraft vehicle while traveling at supersonic speeds. SRP has been identified as a key entry, descent, and landing technology for future Mars missions and for reuse of rocket boosters on Earth. Because of the propellant and oxidizer mass required for the thrusters, currently proposed SRP configurations require a significant increase in performance and efficiency before considered an effective solution. The challenge is that this procedure may cause the air around the spacecraft to become unstable. Accordingly, the present disclosure describes systems and methods for measuring aerodynamic interference forces in addition to aerodynamic loads using an improved internal force balance or integral flow-through force transducer.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.