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Dynamic considerations for control of closed life support systems.
P S Babcock1, D M Auslander, R C Spear
1Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, USA.
Advances in Space Research : the Official Journal of the Committee on Space Research (COSPAR)
|January 1, 1984
Summary
System reliability hinges on managing perturbations and failures. This study reveals how control schemes impact life support system stability, even with adequate buffering capacity, highlighting potential failure points.
Area of Science:
- Spacecraft life support systems
- Systems engineering
- Control theory
Background:
- Reliability of closed life support systems is critical for crewed space missions.
- System design must account for dynamic perturbations and equipment failures.
- Static design alone is insufficient; dynamic considerations are key.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine potential system failures in closed life support systems.
- To investigate failure possibilities despite sufficient storage capacity.
- To analyze the dynamic consequences of different control schemes on system reliability.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a simplified system flow model.
- Simulated responses to perturbations and component failures.
- Compared two distinct control schemes.
Main Results:
- Identified failure scenarios even with adequate buffer storage.
- Demonstrated that control schemes significantly influence system dynamics during failures.
- Showcased differing dynamic outcomes based on control strategy.
Conclusions:
- System reliability is not solely dependent on storage capacity.
- Control scheme selection is crucial for mitigating failure impacts in life support systems.
- Further research into dynamic control strategies is warranted for robust life support design.