Project Racoon Rocket Team
Note
Project I and Project III are offered this semester.
Description
The description of real systems usually leads to nonlinear differential equations. Often, the analysis of the linearised equations already provides sufficient insight into the dynamics - nevertheless, there is a multitude of practically significant phenomena, which can only be uncovered and understood by the investigation of the nonlinear equations.
The lecture will give an introduction to common methods for the treatment of nonlinear oscillatory systems and demonstrate technically significant nonlinear phenomena. Connected to this is also an introduction to the basics of kinetic stability theory.
Beyond learning about nonlinear effects, only the study of nonlinear dynamics reveals the validity limits of linear analyses and thus allows an assessment of the validity limits of linear models.
Contents
- Calculation and design: Application of mechanical principles to define relevant performance parameters of the rocket - mathematical formulation, design and experimental validation.
- Design and construction: Development and optimization of the central components of the water rocket - application of construction technology, CAD and lightweight construction principles.
- Digitization and electronics: Integration of a boradcomputer into the rocket - programming of modules for data acquisition, data transmission and parachute control.
- Test flights: Carrying out test campaigns - experimental investigation of the performance and stability of the rocket.
- Evaluation and optimization: Systematic analysis of the test results - iterative further development and adaptation of the design.
- Data management: Structured preparation and archiving of the results - securing the project findings for internal evaluation and subsequent student generations.
- Competition: Participation in the rocket competition - demonstration of speed, precision and creativity in practical use.
In Project I, different rocket shapes are developed and discussed. A first prototype will be built in order to carry out various tests. Finally, a rocket launch is to be carried out.
The main milestones are
- Conception of different variants of rockets
- Construction of a first missile
- Construction of a test rig to carry out a pressure test
- Investigation of aerodynamics in the wind tunnel
- Performance of a rocket launch
- Presentation of the results and data archiving
In Project II, the rocket's on-board computer is being developed and implemented in order to collect telemetry data. Important sub-functions include parachute ejection for a structure-preserving landing, measurement data acquisition and its transmission.
The main milestones are
- Development of a board computer based on a microcontroller
- Development and production of a parachute system
- Performance of a pressure test
- Carrying out a rocket launch
- Presentation of the results and data archiving
Project III focuses on interdisciplinary collaboration. The aim is to jointly develop an optimized rocket that reaches a maximum flight altitude, records telemetry data and enables a non-destructive landing. To this end, the students work in teams on individual aspects of the rocket concept, which are then brought together to form an overall system.
The main milestones here are
- Optimization of the performance parameters
- Development and design of the nozzle, pressure vessel and rocket tip
- Development of a parachute system
- Development of an on-board computer
- Construction of a launch device
- Carrying out a rocket launch
- Presentation of the results and data archiving