Abstract
Current microgravity propellant gauging technology is inaccurate and not universally applicable for use in future spacecraft. A new method of gauging propellant in microgravity environments that uses modal analysis is discussed. This method, Modal Propellant Gauging (MPG), measures the structural acoustic resonant frequencies of the tank to determine the added mass of the propellant. This is achieved by comparing the input white noise frequencies with the output resonant frequencies through a Frequency Response Function (FRF). From the FRF, the modal parameters of the tank can be determined and consequently, the amount of liquid in the tank. This method is discussed in the context of fluid transfer conditions to determine the success of MPG in a dynamic setting.
