Innovative Methods to Determine Thermal Capacity of Remaining Fuel Quantity Heat Sink in Real Time

PCKA has developed a dynamic, real-time thermal capacity algorithm and gauge for predicting current and anticipated fuel heat sink capability on a fifth-generation tactical aircraft. Relevant internal and external sources and sinks are tracked with prognostics and adaptive intelligence designed to anticipate future thermal constraints. Net heat transfer, available range, and time until potential thermal constraint are supplied to the pilot in a compact, visual gauge. Prior to this technology development, all mission heat loads were modeled post design to create flight limitations that predict an estimated mission time limit. The effect of dynamic, real-time conditions and deviations were unknown, leading to potential thermal constraints. The ability of the war fighters to determine true mission capability will be greatly enhanced by the successful insertion of PCKA's algorithm and gauge with the ability to accurately predict fuel thermal capacity in flight. Mission capability will be optimized while avoiding thermal constraints.