Electropneumatic Control Systems for Aerospace Nuclear Propulsion Applications

This paper describes recent advances in electropneumatic control systems for aerospace nuclear propulsion. The capabilities, limitations, and recognized problem areas are defined and reviewed, and reasons for the selection of this type of control systems are discussed. The potential of electropneumatic control systems for broader aerospace applications is discussed, where less emphasis may be placed on environmental restrictions but more emphasis on minimum weight, greatest hardware simplicity, integration and self-containment of the control system and power package, and long-term storage capability. The paper is concluded by outlining the further development effort required to realize the described potential.