Investigation of Stability Predictions of Fluid-Jet Amplifier Systems

The first interim report under a contract with NASA describes the goal of a systematic approach toward the synthesis of fluid jet amplifiers and similar components into systems. The first step in the process is to measure the properties of the complex system components with adequate completeness. Two procedures are discussed: an admittance measuring approach which has been developed and operated, and a wave-scattering approach which is being planned. The second step is to use the component information to predict the dynamic response and stability. The emphasis herein is on stability; criteria are derived and applied to a few systems, two of which are checked experimentally. Finally, of course, one makes appropriate decisions, in the light of the predictions, regarding the system design.