The Flaps Module is a controlled airbrake mechanism for the Matterhorn Rocket which can substitute the Shuriken model, proving here the modularity given to our different systems. The Flaps Module has 3 big braking areas coming out of the rocket thanks to a combination of a motorized worm drive and mobile rods. The mechanism was optimized to have the smallest and the lightest motor, reducing the total mass of the system. With the rocket flying at Mach 0.8, The Flaps can deliver 240 [N] of added drag on the rocket, in 0.8 [s] of opening time. After a design phase, manufacturing, implementation and testing, the Flaps Module was characterized in Formula 1 Sauber’s windtunnel.
Collaboration and Timeline
- with: EPFL Rocket Team
- date: 2018
- duration 1 year
Technical skills:
- Mechanical design
- CFD
- Drag simulation
- Windtunnel testing
- Carbon fiber manufacturing
- Integration
