HMS-Control-Interaction architecture for rocket engines

Abstract

In this article, an architecture addressing the interaction between the health monitoring and control modules for launcher’s rocket engines is proposed. The first module is responsible for the monitoring tasks (diagnosis, prognosis and decision), while the second for the control tasks (management, reconfiguration and sequencing). For launchers, these two modules are typically designed and implemented in an independent manner since,most often times, the rockets' controllers follow a set of limited and clear instructions (e.g. change operating set-point or perform engine shut-down) not requiring detailed monitoring information. The new generation of launchers is envisioned to utilize advanced controllers and monitoring modules that will allow optimizing the performance of the mission while improving the dependability of the system. In order to carry these modules on-board it is necessary to examine their interaction from a functional and architectural point of view. Such an interacting architecture is proposed and exemplified in this article as part of the technological investigations performed within the European Space Agency Future Launcher Preparatory Programme (FLPP).