JetCat P100x Test Facility
Problem statement
The goal of this project is to design, build, and test a remotely-operable test facility to measure both forward (20 lbf) and reverse thrust (8 lbf) created by a JetCat P100x turbojet engine. A simple test facility was built and tested as part of a student project last year. However, the test-facility requires students to be in the test bay during operation and does not currently measure the thrust of the engine. This facility is used for the Aerospace Propulsion Outreach Program (APOP), which is now requiring the facility to be operated remotely and to measure both forward and reverse thrust. The facility must 1) collect and display all relevant engine data, including thrust data and video feeds, in real time and 2) provide real-time control, both standard and emergency, of the engine and data acquisition system from at least 20 feet away using a standard student laptop with USB connection. In addition to safety, the design should emphasize accuracy, reliability, and ease of use. The facility will support the testing of a reverse-thruster for the JetCat P100x designed by another senior design team as part of APOP, sponsored by the AFRL. Participation in this program is required as part of this project.
Team members
Aaron Moriarity – leader
Ethan Zoland – communicator
Cade Moffitt – accountant
Jonah Haspel – admin
Client
Michael Cheadle
Mechanical Engineering