Launch Systems Projects
LS1: Fill Systems
All hybrid rockets use an oxidizer so the fuel can burn and create thrust. We use nitrous oxide, which needs to be supplied to the rocket safely and remotely. The Fill Systems project designs and maintains the hardware that fuels the rocket with this oxidizer and remotely disconnects the plumbing before launch. This includes quick disconnects, plumbing panels, bottle flipping jigs, and supporting infrastructure that ensure safe and reliable oxidizer transfer. Team members work on both mechanical design and fluid systems, bridging the gap between precision engineering and safe launch operations.
Joining this project gives recruits the chance to experience the full engineering design process: from concept development and CAD design, to prototyping, manufacturing, testing and final implementation at launch.
LS2: Testsite Infrastructure
We are lucky enough to have a permanent testsite near Mac campus that allows for year round testing of our engines. This project is all about improving the testsite to allow for better, easier, and safer testing. For example, we are currently creating a new thrust stand that will allow us to test more powerful engines.
As a member of this project, you will gain valuable engineering experience in a variety of areas. You will learn to use CAD software to design and modify parts, and to validate your work through hand calculations and FEAs. You will also get a lot of hands-on experience by helping with the manufacturing, assembly, and construction of our projects. Best of all, you’ll have the chance to come to the test site to see and take part in preparing for hotfires! Trips to the testsite are always a super fun experience and a fantastic opportunity to learn.
LS3: Solar Panel Power Supply
At SPPS, we try to keep the Lorax™ happy and offset the greenhouse gases output by the team throughout the year.
Our two main missions are:
- Replace the groundstation generator at the test site with solar panels - this is a continuation of work I did over the summer. You'll have the chance to cut some metal and drill some holes before assembling a solar stand. This will be more hands-on and intensive, and will give you chances to visit the test site which is always a good time
- Research and Design Solar Panel Tents - this is a brand new idea that would contribute substantially to the team's well being during practice rehearsals and competition. It's as simple as it sounds - you'll have creative liberty to design a tent which can generate it's own power. This will be more theoretical and research focused at the start of the year while the logistics are figured out.
LS4: DAQ Research and Development
Think of the data acquisition system (DAQ) as the rocket’s nervous system: sensing, reacting, and sending information to the brain. It is a crucial part of the rocket as it helps its operators know all sorts of information about the rocket like its temperature or pressure thanks to the multiple sensors that it has. In this new launch system’s project, the mission is to create a new DAQ system that will be lower cost and flexible to use compared to the old one.
As a member, you’ll test your problem-solving skills while gaining hands-on experience in electronics, software, and rocket engineering. No matter in which program you are or what level of expertise you have, what is required is a bit of imagination and the will to learn.
LS5: Launch Systems Structures
The rocket is a powerful machine that requires a strong structure to support it during launch! Our project aims to make improvements on the current tower to allow the team to launch bigger rockets! The current structure allows operators to raise the rocket with minimal physical effort through the use of an electric winch and many rigging components. The rigging components are essential in guiding the tower during raising and lowering, and help to minimize stresses caused by vibrations.
As a member of this project, you will gain invaluable experience in design validation through FEAs and using CAD software to modify parts and create assemblies. Additionally, this project will allow you to gain hands-on experience through manufacturing and physical testing.
We lift lots of heavy things, so If you’re down for some physical labour and an awesome time, I fear we may just be the project for you!
LS6: DAQ Operations
Rockets are dangerous; so we must be able to launch them from a safe distance, with a control station that can run through safety procedures with information from sensors on the launch pad.
DAQ (Data acquisition) is the part of the launch system infrastructure which deals with the stream of information from sensors to the rocket and the fill system. It is responsible for processing electrical signals from the various sensors, i.e. pressure transducers or thermocouples, into usable data to graph on the computer’s control panel. This is done with a network of electrical components and PCB’s (printed circuit boards), which act as the relay between the computer and the rocket.
Think of it like the rocket’s nervous system, responsible for sending and receiving signals. It is also responsible for sending the commands to the rocket, like controlling valves in the fill system, or of course pressing the red button and launching the rocket!
Though we are the electrical wizards of the launch systems, anyone would want to join, no matter the engineering background.
In this project you will:
- Learn how the launch pad functions and interfaces with other projects,
- Work with PCBs: Soldering, debugging, and designing,
- Go to the test site regularly to run tests with other projects,
- Integrate new sensors into the system