ABSTRACT
National Aeronautics and Space Administration aeronautical research is focused on a myriad of technologies including those that involve embedding high-performance sensing and control in gas turbine engine systems. This chapter discusses the use and potential of extreme environment electronics and their impact on associated sensor systems to enable more intelligent engine systems with a distributed control architecture resulting in improved engine capabilities. It describes two areas where high-temperature electronics can impact future systems: distributed engine controls and smart sensor systems. The chapter suggests that the capability to embed operational electronics in extreme environments is critical to revolutionary change and the key to bringing forth the next generation of complex, high-performance engines. The constant integration of new technologies has been responsible for the continuous evolution of gas turbine engine system capability. The core of a smart sensor system is the electronic microprocessor. The role of high-temperature electronics in aeronautic engine applications is fundamental toward the expansion of engine capabilities and performance.
