Thrustmeters for Engine Management and Control Systems

A simplified display which shows real-time thrust reduces pilot workload and increases safety in jet aircraft. Engine thrust, one of the more important engine parameters, is not currently measured, but is estimated from various sensor readings, such as EPR (Engine Pressure Ratio), spool speed, fuel flow, and turbine inlet temperatures. This project will demonstrate the advantages of using a system that computes net thrust by measuring gas flow in the engine exhaust and exhaust sections to calculate net thrust. The thrust will be presented on a unique color pictorial display, the Engine Control and Management System (E-MACS) developed by NASA. Real-time thrust gives the pilot an instant snapshot of engine health, improving reaction time during critical flight regimes such as take-off and landing. These measurements provide valuable information for adjusting each engine to optimize performance and efficiency.