Real-time sensor data validation for Space Shuttle Main Engine telemetry monitoring

Abstract

Real-time validation of rocket engine sensor data improves mission safety and reduces flight operations and ground test costs. NASA Glenn Research Center, in partnership with Expert Microsystems, Inc., has developed an innovative sensor validation software application enabling real-time, automated sensor failure detection for all types of mission critical systems. This technology is broadly applicable to any aerospace or industrial control and safety system where: 0 Time-critical, closed-loop control or safety monitoring depend on sensor input; e Unexpected process interruptions due to sensor failures or false alarms are unsafe or uneconomical. Testing performed to date has verified that these sensor validation algorithms enable highly reliable real-time data validation for mission critical Space Shuttle Main Engine performance sensors, including the turbine discharge temperatures on both turbopumps. In this paper, we describe the current development status of the Sensor Validation System software and its application to the production of an on-line Space Shuttle Main Engine telemetry data monitoring system.