AIAA Mechanical Seperation
OVERVIEW
Traditional model rocket launches involve chemical reactions such as controlled black powder detonations which require single-use resources that leave residue and can lead to fires. This project, proposed by Dennis Rogers, sought to develop an alternative, mechanical approach to launching model rockets.
I joined the project team during early stages, before construction began. As an underclassman, I was tasked with much of the assembly and machining, including cutting fiberglass bulkheads with a CNC mill to support internal structure. These were assembled along with OTS springs, an electromagnet, and strike plate to complete the mechanical separation system.
FINAL
One key issue we ran into early on involved the circuitry, designed by an upperclass EE student. I soldered the entire circuit and worked closely with him to help find the root cause of floating current. At the end of my time on the project, we had successfully ground tested the mechanical separation system and were looking forward to design and construction of the rocket body.
Extracurricular
I have always enjoyed visual arts, particularly sketching and drawing. I have recently begun to explore digital art, creating commissioned portraits, business logos, and even a children's book. While this type of creative expression has been a long-standing hobby, I have also found it applicable to the engineering design process.
