Michael Ishida

One of the power conversion systems that the group is considering for the project is a two-phase space Rankine system. I am working on the thermodynamic analyses of space Rankine systems, developing a cohesive Rankine model that takes user inputs for key thermodynamic values of the system and outputs performance metrics. I am in the process of validating the equations and analysis methods by attempting to recreate the results of existing published papers about other proposed space Rankine systems. If unable to recreate results within a certain tolerance for varying input data assumptions, the model and equations will need to be adjusted to be more accurate. The model will be adjusted to reflect the research done by others in the group on different components of the system. Once that is complete, I will create a design for the possible Rankine system (picking a working fluid, operating temperature, radiator size, etc.) given the given mission constraints; the performance estimates of this optimal Rankine system will be compared to the performance estimates of other systems.

Back to top