#60: The development of a semi-empirical analytical model for the Modal Propellant Gauge project — Presentation Detail — Celebration of Scholars

Additional Information

More information is available at carthage.edu/celebration-scholars/. The following are members of the Research, Scholarship, and Creativity Committee who are eager to listen to ideas and answer questions:

Thomas Carr
Katherin Hilson
Kim Instenes
John Kirk
Sarah Terrill

#60: The development of a semi-empirical analytical model for the Modal Propellant Gauge project

Name: Kassia Schraufnagel
Major: Physics
Hometown: Waukesha
Faculty Sponsor: Kevin Crosby
Other Sponsors:
Type of research: Senior thesis
Funding: WSGC

Abstract

Current microgravity propellant gauging technology is inaccurate and a solution is needed for future spacecraft. A new method of gauging propellant in microgravity environments that uses modal analysis is discussed. This method, Modal Propellant Gauging (MPG), measures the structural acoustic resonant frequencies of a tank to determine the added mass of the propellant. MPG is discussed in the context of fluid transfer conditions to determine its success in dynamic settings. MPG works by comparing input white noise frequencies with output resonant frequencies of a fuel tank through a Frequency Response Function (FRF). From the FRF, the modal parameters of the tank can be determined and consequently, the amount of liquid in the tank. An analytical method is also developed and compared to the data, so that the resonant frequencies can be determined by the fill fraction of the tank and vice versa.

Poster file

Submit date: March 27, 2024, 7:23 p.m.