Design of a Small-Scale Experimental Model of the International Space Station Crew Quarters for a PIV Flow Field Study

Matei-Razvan Georgescu,Ilinca Nastase,Mihnea Sandu,Florin Bode,Amina Meslem,S.I Tanabe,M.C Gameiro Da Silva,J Kurnitski,H Zhang,C Inard,I Nastase,L Mazzarela,P Wargocki,G Cao

doi:10.1051/e3sconf/201911101045

Abstract

An attempt at improving the ventilation solution for the crew quarters aboard the International Space Station requires a thorough understanding of the flow dynamics in a microgravity environment. An experimental study is required in order to validate the numerical models. As part of this process, a small-scale model was proposed for a detailed study of the velocity field. PIV measurements in water offer high quality results and were chosen for the subject. Following certain similitude criteria, an equivalence can be found between the results of these measurements and the real ventilation scenario. This paper describes the development process of this small-scale model as well as its performance in the initial test runs. Details regarding the advantages and weaknesses of this first model are the core of the paper, with the intention of aiding researchers in their design of similar models. The conclusion presents future steps and proposed improvements to the model.

Highlights

Ventilation systems on the International Space Station (ISS) are of paramount importance for the well-being of the astronauts on board
Current results are not sufficient for the numerical validation intended in our initial research plan
The main reason is the distribution of the flow rate on the diffuser, which was initially assumed to be relatively evenly distributed, but has proved to be heavily biased towards the center going so far as to present unusual recirculation areas uphill of the grid

Summary

Introduction

Ventilation systems on the International Space Station (ISS) are of paramount importance for the well-being of the astronauts on board. In the absence of gravity, natural convection is not present due to density difference between hot and cold air not being a factor. This leads to issues regarding air stagnation, near the face of a stationary person. The general ventilation system aboard the ISS is adequate for the large majority of these situations, one case where this does not entirely apply is the sleeping quarters of the astronauts

Methods

Results

Conclusion