Simulating a jet gas turbine with an analog computer

Abstract

In the past several years heavy emphasis has been placed on all-digital or hybrid simulation techniques in the analy sis of dynamic systems. To some the unmodified analog computer might seem as anachronistic as the narrow-gauge steam locomotive. Often, however, the demon Economics steps in; at this time the analog computer presents a most satisfactory compromise between accuracy, flexibility and cost.

This article, Simulating a jet gas turbine with an analog computer, is a "case history" of such a dynamic system study. The prospect of an undetermined number of explo ratory runs, coupled with a limited foreknowledge of the system components, made the use of the analog computer (an EAI 31-R) attractive. With Battelle's current open-shop policy on analog computer use, the computer became, in effect, an extension of the engineer's slide rule. In spite of being Little Orphan Analog in a digital world, the machine performed admirably!