TEST STAND FOR PRECISE MEASUREMENT OF IMPULSE AND THRUST VECTOR OF SMALL ATTITUDE CONTROL JETS

摘要

A test stand which accurately measures the impulse bit and thrust vector of reaction jet thrusters used in the attitude control system of space vehicles has been developed by Ames Research Center. It can be used to measure, in a vacuum or ambient environment, both impulse and thrust vector of reaction jet thrusters using hydrazine or inert gas propellants.nThe ballistic pendulum configuration was selected because of its accuracy, simplicity, and versatility. The pendulum is mounted on flexure pivots rotating about a vertical axis at the center of its mass. The test stand has the following measure¬ment capabilities:impulse of 4XÍ0-5 to 4.4 N-sec (10-5to 1.0 lb-sec) with a pulse duration of 0.5 msec to 1 sec;static, thrust of 0.22 to 22 N (0.05 to 5 lb) with a 5-percent resolution;and thrust angle alinement of 0.22 to 22 N (0.05 to 5 lb) thrusters with 0.01° accuracy.