Abstract

Satellite-delivering rockets share a common problem—the dependency of pneumatic systems on electric networks driven by onboard computers that can fail and cripple/render the rocket inert. One such example is the propellant tank’s pressurization system. This article presents a novel approach entitled the Cascade Tank Pressurization Method, that solves this problem by iteratively discharging in a domino effect a cluster of composite overwrapped pressure vessels triggered in series. A Piping & Instrumentation Diagram is available. One-dimensional pneumatic analysis conducted on various size clusters show a fine control—of ullage pressure to a predefined target bandwidth—without any computer controls. Ultimately, a disruptive fully-pneumatic self-regulated tank pressurization system is presented, enabling the option for a more computer-decoupled rocket architecture.

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