SBIR 95-1 SOLICITATION
PROJECT SUMMARY
Proposal Number:
Project Title:
ADVANCED REUSABLE LAUNCH VEHICLE SYSTEMS TECHNOLOGY
Technical Abstract:
The ascent plume induced base heating environment is an important design consideration for the RLV.
Significant TPS weight and vehicle turn-around costs can be reduced if the base heating environment is
well-known. In the past, scale model ground tests have provided environments which were scaleable
to flight conditions. Recent experience has relied on CFD to define the environment, but cost and
complexity have limited their success. Model testing is still a requirement, but better test methods are
needed.
Qualis proposes to develop improved base heating test techniques and model designs which will
enable RLV base heating tests to be more flexible, have quicker response time, and significantly lower
costs. Qualis' approach utilizes an innovative external (to the test cell) coiled loop propellant delivery
system which can accommodate various propellants and flow rate requirements. An integral
mixer/igniter combustion chamber and innovative combustion gas distribution system will offer
flexibility in the base geometry, number of engines, and gimbal limits.
A cold flow mock-up system will be demonstrated in Phase I to establish feasibility, test flexibility,
and preliminary costs. Tests parameters, model design and data requirements will be developed in
cooperation with contractor(s) selected for the RLV flight demonstration program.
Potential Commercial Applications:
The base heating test improvements will be utilized by the NASA/RLV contractor/Qualis cooperative
team to plan, implement, and conduct a low cost, quick response base heating test to assist the RLV
design. The improved techniques and spin-off hardware such as the improved propellant delivery
system will be commercially marketed to launch vehicle contractors worldwide.
Name and Address of Offeror:
Qualis Corporation
3225 Bob Wallace Ave., Suite K
Huntsville, Al 35805
Small Business Innovation Research Program (SBIR) &
Small Business Technology Transfer Program (STTR) Programs
Electronic Management System (EMS)
National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)
The SBIR/STTR EMS site is maintained by Steve
Hu, Hughes STX.
For comments and questions, contact
webmaster@sbir.hq.nasa.gov.
Updated: Feb. 7, 1996