Present thrust sensing methods on rocket engine ground test stands either have insufficient resolution and time response, are costly to install, calibrate and replace or result in/require significant added structural compliance. A revolutionary method of accurately sensing small forces applied to rigid members has been discovered by camtech. It involves attaching or implanting a unit called a mih-cell module into or onto the structural member. In addition to being designed for high sensitivity, the mih-cell is also designed for zero thermal drift. The objectives of phase I are to (1) establish through analysis minimum test stand structural stiffness requirements for reliable static and dynamic measurements over a 30,000 pound range using the sensor (2) develop a general approach for designing mih-cells for modular attachment onto or into the engine mount structure of a rocket engine test stand, (3) design a mih-cell based thrust sensor and recommend structural improvements for a designated rocket engine test stand (4) develop a test procedure for evaluating the sensors performance when mounted to a structure similar to that of the designated test stand (5) develop installation and checkout procedures for mounting the mih-cell module on the designated rocket engine test stand and transmitting the sensor signals to a receiving and monitoring station.
