Recovery System
Model rocket flights can be divided into different flight states [1]:
- Launch
- Powered Flight
- Coasting
- Recovery
This project will be used for the recovery state. Model rockets are designed to be reused. At or shortly after the apogee the recovery system (usually a parachute) shall be activated. At this time the velocity of the rocket is minimal an the opening shock of the parachute should be minimal. If the parachute is opened at a higher velocity it will be damaged or lost leading to an uncontrolled decent and possible destruction of the rocket. On the other side, if the parachute is opened at the maximum height the wind drift of the rocket hanging from the parachute will be maximal.
A two stage recovery system shall be designed. A drag chute is deployed at the apogee allowing for rapid decent with minimal drift. At a certain height the main parachute is deployed to slow the decent fro a smooth touchdown.
Requirements
- Fit into the 50mm Ariane 6 model rocket
- Open drag chute at minimal velocity
- Open main parachute before touchdown
Student skills
- embedded electronics (redesign of rocket PCB)
- embedded software (parachute control software)
- mechanical design (mechanical deployment two chutes)
Group Size
Ideally the project shall be carried out by a group of 3 students.