Welcome to UCI Rocket Project’s new announcement series, where updates on each subteam will be posted on a weekly basis on Mondays. Check out the team’s newest developments!
UCI Rocket Project subteam updates for Oct 4 – Oct 11
Avionics Subteam
Update By: Brennden LaGreek
The Avionics Team made a lot of progress on their different ongoing projects. Most notably, the GPS that would have been used for the Solids rocket launch, along with being implemented into the ECU (Engine Control Unit) at a later date. Additionally, the GUI for their ground control system is beginning to take shape. Next week, many team members will begin work on new projects, specifically for use on the main rocket.
Launch Vehicles Subteam
Update By: Michael Ross
The Launch Vehicles Team is working heavily on designing the mount for the upcoming Vertical Test Fire (VTF). The skins team is working on the material for the rocket and will soon be testing in the materials science lab. Recovery systems are currently undergoing design as the team works on the ideal way to fold and store the parachutes for deployment. Simulations of the engine mount are being performed to verify that it can withstand the thrust generated by the engine. See below for a picture of Launch Vehicles Lead Alek Grosgurin, who is working on a new testing method for fiberglass fin layups, with prototypes of various fin mounting ideas in the works.
Propulsion Subteam
Update By: Thomas Westenhofer
The Propulsions Team is making progress on many different aspects of the plumbing for the rocket engine. The MVAS (Main Valve Actuator System), which is used for opening the valves allowing the fuel and oxidizer to flow, has had several new parts designed that are going to be sent out to get cut. The current MVAS has many 3-D printed parts that are all going to be replaced by metal parts for the final design. Major designs have been finalized for the plumbing of the rocket that will be implemented. The picture below shows the disassembly of Cold Brew, the current plumbing system, which will be replaced by the new design.
Solids Subteam
Update By: Ryan Chu & Kenny Tsing
Things are gearing up for the Solids Team as new team members have been introduced to OpenRocket, a fully featured model rocket simulator that is used to design and simulate rockets before actually building and flying them. One of the most important concepts to take into account is the location of the rocket’s Center of Gravity and Center of Pressure, which is affected by various design decisions such as fin shape and placement. This will be crucial as the team begins the designing phase of their rockets. The team is excited to each design and build their own solid rockets and gain their Level 1 Certifications by the end of the quarter! A fully built rocket in OpenRocket looks like this:
