RAPID - Reusable Ascending Platform with Intelligent Directional-control

With regard to the reusability of rockets, new approaches have been developed and tested in recent years. One approach is the controlled ascent and descent of individual rocket stages. In order to control the ascent and descent, thrust vector controls are used, by means of which an attitude control of the rocket is realised.

As part of the RAPID project, the students are developing such a thrust vector control system and a position controller to achieve a controlled ascent with a model rocket. In the process, the thrust is provided by solid rocket motors. In addition, the project focuses on the development of all necessary systems, including test stands, a launch pad and a ground station, to be able to safely ensure the launch process of the rocket.

Project content:

• Development of an avionics system to collect and process all relevant data
• Construction of a launch pad and ground station to control all processes
• Construction of a rocket body by means of fibre composite and additive manufacturing
• Design and construction of a thrust vector control system
• Creation of simulation models of the control mechanics and the control loop
• Construction of test stands to validate all subsystems