Active Control of Scramjet Isolator Shocks (ACSIS)

ABSTRACT: Active control of the shock system in a scramjet engine isolator opens possibilities for enhanced engine performance and reduced engine weight by eliminating excess isolator design margin. A successful system will allow for maximum performance from a given engine configuration and will deliver range and efficiency that exceeds those possible using passive unstart control. Our approach is an innovative combination of high TRL components with commercial or scramjet flight test heritage into a control system that provides the response needed for both short duration and long time scale transients and disturbances. The integrated system is configured to operate with practical liquid fuelled scramjet engines currently under development. Through analysis and testing, Phase 1 will refine the specification of the components and begin integrated system design and performance assessment.; BENEFIT: An operational scramjet unstart control system offers a technological advantage for enhanced engine performance and will be in demand by scramjet engine suppliers developing propulsion solutions for time-critical weapons systems, strike/recennaissance vehicles, and space launch applications.