A Simplified Dynamic Model of the Space Shuttle Main Engine

This paper presents a simplified model of the space shuttle main engine (SSME) dynamics valid within the range of operation of the engine. This model is obtained by linking the linearized point models obtained at 25 different operating points of the SSME. The simplified model was developed for use with a model-based diagnostic scheme for failure detection and diagnostics studies, as well as control design purposes. This simplified model was tested by designing an input signal which covers the whole range of operating points considered and then comparing the responses of linked model and the nonlinear simulation. The comparison indicated good agreement between these responses.