We designed and manufactured a Gridded Rocket Body, Payload Module utilising the superior performance of an orthogrid structure. By using 0°/90° and ± 45° orientations we were able to test the characteristics of each and determine to most suitable approach.
The design is based on a single-stage REXUS rocket module which gives real-world application to this demonstrator. Thermoplastic unidirectional carbon fibre tapes were precisely placed with a customised robotic laser-assisted fibre placement system. The final modules are equipped with 3D printed housings with embedded electronics for telemetry and communication functionality.
Manufacturing Details:
Manufacturing Process: Robotic laser-assisted fibre placement with customised dual-laser placement head (AFPT GmbH)
Material: Continuous unidirectional high-strength AS4 CF/PEEK tape, 55% FVF, bonded Aluminium 6061-T6 rings
Dimensions: External diameter: 355.6 mm | Length: 300 mm |
Laminate thickness: 10 mm | Number of plies: 74
Manufacturing Time: 240 min / module
Embedded Electronics: L-Band antennae, customised 3D printed antennae on Tecglass, IoT Telemetry (GPS, CATm, LTE), Raspberry Pi. Available with customised embedded electronics, such as Raspberry Pi 4, fitted with Waveshare SIM7080G IoT transmitting hat (supports GNSS position tracking), demonstration patch antenna, printable on either 2D or 3D surface or similar.
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