Design, Analysis, and Demonstration of a Multipurpose Fluid Tank Dynamics Characterization Platform

Abstract

The development of a highly versatile multiphase fluid tank characterization platform is essential to the analysis and improvement of propellant storage tanks. The performance of these tanks is highly critical to the safety and performance of their carriers, especially in the space industry where the propellant makes up the overwhelming majority of the mass of the vehicle. This thesis outlines the design and development of a linear stage used to test and validate the characteristic of multiphase fluids inside moving specific tanks. This document will walk through the steps taken to bring a new linear stage to life, from the development of effective requirements, through design and analysis to the demonstration of the final product. The final product is a powerfully yet precise piece of machinery that will add value to the area of fluids research for years to come.