Prognostic Health Assessment System for Aircraft Engine Nozzles

Impact Technologies, in collaboration with Luna Innovations proposes to further mature and demonstrate the Prognostics Health Monitoring (PHM) technologies developed in Phase I for on-board PHM of the Three-Bearing Swiveled Module (3BSM) of the Joint Strike Fighter (JSF). On the Short Take-off and Vertical Landing (STOVL) variant of the JSF, the adjustable 3BSM at the rear of the engine redirects thrust downward to assist in STOVL maneuvers. The 3BSM is a dynamic system susceptible to degradation and faults. A robust PHM system would enable diagnosis and prognosis of these faults, thus reducing maintenance cost and risk. The PHM prototype developed during Phase I consisted of algorithms and models for fault detection, usage monitoring, and remaining useful life prediction for bearings, lubricant, hot section duct, motors and valves. During Phase II Impact proposes to further develop, enhance and verify the Phase I algorithms. As part of this effort, Impact proposes to provide near real-time monitoring of the JSF 3BSM in a test cell environment whenever such opportunities exist. This monitoring capability will employ advanced high temperature sensors and the aforementioned PHM models and algorithms for fault detection of critical 3BSM components. Upon completion of the proposed Phase II effort, Impact will validate the developed software/hardware package on available operational data and test stands.