Acoustic Fluid Management Device

Parabilis Space Technologies is proposing the further development of a novel acoustic propellant manipulation device in response to solicitation Z5.06 Servicing and Assembly Applications; Refueling and Storable Fluid Transfer. The proposed innovation leverages momentum transfer from acoustic waves to bulk fluid (e.g. as “Echart streaming”) and acoustic radiation pressure to move liquid/gas within a propellant tank. This device will be capable of liquid gas or fluid phase separation in propellant tanks, ensuring that pneumatic pressurant gas can be vented free of liquid propellant during refueling operations. During Phase I, Parabilis completed computational analysis of the concept and designed test prototypes that will be suitable for microgravity experiments in this subsequent Phase II effort. The Phase I accomplishments significantly reduced technical risk and the effort required for prototype testing. During Phase II, Parabilis will complete more detailed analysis, fabricate developmental test articles, and perform testing to validate the technology. This will position the technology for rapid adaptation into a flight system during a subsequent Phase III.
Benefits: The projected market size for this device is substantial. This technology is applicable to refueling operations, cryogenic fluid management, propellant estimation, and propellant settling for both NASA and non-NASA missions. It is directly applicable to iSAM missions including OSAM. The proposed technology will be a significant boost to architectures for NASA’s lunar space station (Gateway). Efforts related to Gateway will likely leverage the use of advanced refuellable architectures g to minimize cost and maximize performance. The proposed technology applies to any mission that uses a bladderless liquid propellant tank. Besides NASA, customers will include government entities such as the DOD, larger companies such as Boeing, Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, and Maxar. Mid-size and smaller customers will include Astranis, Capella, Hera, LeoStella, Terran, York, and the SmallSat division of Sierra Space.