Collection and analysis of leak spectral signatures for application to the ISS

Abstract

Pressurized space vehicles of all types are at risk of depressurization due to leaking air. This project addresses the issue of leak detection by analyzing airborne noise through Fourier Decomposition and Singular Spectrum Analysis (SSA). Based on the leaking material, size of the leak, and pressure gradient, different sounds will be produced. Once a large amount of these sounds have been recorded, we will use the resulting database for the detection of leaks and identification of the leaking material. This leak database will include aluminum, steel, fabric, rubber, and plastic.