Tulpule, S. | Search NASA

NASA NTRS1991

Model-based diagnostics for the SSME

This paper presents models to diagnose the condition of the Space Shuttle Main Engine (SSME). A qualitative physics based model derived from the thermodynamic processes and the flow characteristics underlying the SSME operation was developed to detect and isolate engine failures to the component level. This qualitative model was augmented with empirical models derived from the SSME test-stand data to rapidly detect faults which manifest themselves in engine parameter measurements as deviations from the nominal values. The empirical models integrated with the qualitative model offer the potential for building a complex modeling framework for performing comprehensive engine health monitoring.

Tulpule, S.↗

NASA NTRS1990

Health Monitoring System for the SSME-fault detection algorithms

A Health Monitoring System (HMS) Framework for the Space Shuttle Main Engine (SSME) has been developed by United Technologies Corporation (UTC) for the NASA Lewis Research Center. As part of this effort, fault detection algorithms have been developed to detect the SSME faults with sufficient time to shutdown the engine. These algorithms have been designed to provide monitoring coverage during the startup, mainstage and shutdown phases of the SSME operation. The algorithms have the capability to detect multiple SSME faults, and are based on time series, regression and clustering techniques. This paper presents a discussion of candidate algorithms suitable for fault detection followed by a description of the algorithms selected for implementation in the HMS and the results of testing these algorithms with the SSME test stand data.

Tulpule, S.↗