Active Combustion Control

Active combustion control based on fuel vapor measurements has been demonstrated to improve fuel efficiency and reduce failures of engine operation. These successful demonstrations motivate further research and development of active combustion control using laser-based fuel sensors. The first key component of this research involves the improvement of sensor performance and sensing capability. The second key component focuses on improving optical engineering of the sensors and algorithms to interpret the sensing signals, so that the control scheme can be used reliably in practical combustion devices. This research work will also provide valuable insights and experience for active combustion control based on other species (oxidizer, combustion products, or emissions) using laser sensors.
 

Relevant Publications:

1. Mattison, D.W., Brophy, C.M., Sanders, S.T., Ma, L., Hinckley, K.M., Jeffries, J.B., Hanson, R.K.
Pulse detonation engine characterization and control using tunable diode-laser sensors.
Journal of Propulsion and Power 19: 268-572, 2003

2. Ma, L., Sanders, S.T., Jeffries, J.B., Hanson, R.K.
Monitoring and control of a pulse detonation engine using a diode-laser fuel concetration and temperature sensor.
Proceedings of the Combustion Institute 29 (1): 161-166, 2002
Also presented at the 29th International Symposium on Combustion; Sapporo