Embedded Files
Purpose
The purpose of this project is to learn about the different functions of a rocket, and how each part effects the flight of the rocket for better or worse, as well as how to optimize these parts for the best possible flight.
Procedure
First we started from a NASA rocket simulator, where we came up with the basic design of our rockets (height, placement, etc). From the simulator, we began to plan out our rocket from given materials and traits such as different body lengths, balsa thickness, nosecone shape and size. We then cut out and attached our fins onto the rocket, then painted it. We then made the holder for our engine and put it into our rockets toward the bottom. From there we attached the parachute and holding cord to the nose cone to ensure the parachute slows the fall of the rocket after launch.
Simulation
Construction
Body: Cut the body tube to the correct length using a hand held cutter.
Fins: Used a pencil and exacto knife to measure out and cut the fins from a sheet of balsa wood. We had to be careful and make sure that the balsa wood grain was perpendicular to the body tube to provide more durability (so the balsa wouldn't chip off). We then used a fin mount to super glue the fins to the body tube, and strengthened the bond with a top layer of wood glue.
Parachute: We looped the parachute through a hook on the bottom of the nose cone, then stuffed the parachute into the rocket for storage. We also attached a holding cord (basically a large rubber band) to keep the nose cone and parachute attached to the rocket body after launch, and ensure a safe return.
Engine holder: The engine holder is basically a small cardboard tube which had rings around it to keep it inside of the rocket body. There is also a metal piece on the bottom to keep the engine inside of the holder.
Test
To locate the center of gravity for our rocket, we tied a string to the center of our rocket, and spun it in a circle. We placed the string in the correct place the first time we tried, so we didn't have to adjust the location of the string along the body. We then tested out rocket engines to see how they work. Below is the data we collected.
As you can see above, the forces on each engines graphs increase as you go from A to B to C, C being the most powerful. You can see in each graph where the initial thrust dies out, and goes to the slow burning sections. At the end there is a very small spike which indicates where the engines would pop the parachute.
Flights
Describe in great detail what you did at the flying field and what happened. Pics if you have them!
Conclusion
Explain your design decisions and why you made them. List any design challenges, how you handled them, and any recommendations for future designs, builds, and flights.
Report abuse