Two-Dimensional Suborbital Slosh Experiment

The aim of the project is to collect empirical data on contact line motion in vibrating tanks under zero-gravity (zero-g) conditions. This study is particularly focused on the behavior of current green propellants, which have a high contact angle compared to traditional stores like water. As a result, the non-linear contact line and angle is expected to have a significant impact on zero-g behavior. The thesis focuses on the dynamic experiment of developing an experimental payload designed to fly on Blue Origin\textquotesingle s New Shepherd suborbital flight. The data collected from this experiment will provide a benchmark case for developers of zero-g fluid dynamics simulations to compare or improve their simulation results. The results will also be useful for testing non-linear hysteresis contact line simulations.

The design of the experiment mainly focuses on conducting oscillatory motion in zero gravity to observe the contact line at varying speeds. Two different liquids are intended to be tested on the same payload. The liquid is to be filled so that the free surface has a height of 1 inch, and the vibration amplitude is to be 0.1 inches. The liquid chosen closely simulates the current green propellants under development or other poorly-wetting liquids. The purpose of each of the components used in the experiment is justified with respect to the given flight design constraints, along with how the constraints impacted the experiment. The experiment is designed to sustain the forces in case of hard landing during the flight and autonomous control of motion. The experiment is staged to be ready for flight on the New Shepherd, and any future works are mentioned. 

To meet these constraints, the experimental payload is designed with a variety of components, each chosen for its ability to perform under the given conditions. The payload includes a custom-built system, which generates the oscillatory motion necessary to observe the contact line behavior. The system is designed to be compact and lightweight, yet robust enough to withstand the forces of launch and landing. In addition, the payload includes a custom-built tank designed to hold the liquids being tested. The study of contact line motion in vibrating tanks under zero-g conditions is important in understanding the behavior of liquids in space. This study will provide crucial data that will help in the development of more accurate fluid dynamic simulations for future space missions.