CWU NASA Student Rocket Launch
Testing
The initial testing starts with basic ground tests making sure the payload in its whole is functioning. Once the system is working properly, the next step is to test it inside the rocket. If it successfully opens the nose cone and continues out its tasks then its time for flight tests. Testing not just the functions of the system but the strength seeing whether or not it can survive the flight.
One testing issue was prints coming out printed incorrectly resulting in the piece not being as strong as expected. Another would be having tests fail and causing changes to be made around that test in order to get a successful result.
This is the basic setup for the first test done on the payload. In this setup, the linear actuator is extended and the mount is let free to rotate. This makes sure the wires don't get in the way of the rotation of the mount.
This is the first test launch of the entire rocket. The payload is inserted in this launch as well. This was my second test and acted as a strength test for the mount piece making sure it would not break under the forces of landing/takeoff.
Test #1 -
Mount Rotation
This test tries to perfect the rotation of the mount piece. It needs to rotate 180 degrees maximum in both directions from a starting point. Wires from the rest of the payload get in the way of the rotation. Extending these wires should make them has less affect on the rotation.
Switching battery from wires going outwards to inwards
The wire connecting the battery to the electronics also needed to be extended to allow for an easier rotation on the mount.
Switching the battery to have the wires on the far side
Test
Number 2
Testing the strength of the mount piece
In this test, the rocket is launched with the payload fully inside. This launch acted as a test for multiple parts of the payload. One of which was the mount piece. The mount needed testing on if the weak points would break during flight. It is expected not to break because of force calculations saying it should stay together. The impact equation was used for these calculations (F=(v*m)/t) which gave a force applied to the mount of 290 Newtons.
This image shows the result of the first test launch (second test). This shows that the mount survived the launch and is able to withstand the forces of takeoff/landing.
Data Sheet
For reference, an old broken extension piece which was printed in the wrong orientation causing it to not be strong enough for flight. Fortunately, this was broken outside of a flight. This is why we chose to test the strength of pieces even if calculated to be correct.