Project number
25512
Organization
Nobel
Offering
ENGR498-S2025-F2025
Static fire rocket stands are vital for test rocket motors prior to flight and provide valuable data regarding long term rocket performance. Current stands used by the project sponsor integrate the solid rocket motor into the stand while exposed in the outside environment. This project aims to provide an ergonomic horizontal test stand that allows for motor integration in an enclosed space with fast and easy transportation of the stand outside for the static fire.
This design implements the use of welded square steel tube to provide durability and is modeled to withstand a rocket with up to 5,000 lbf of thrust. Finite element analysis was used to verify the stand’s structural rigidity at a safety factor of two. The test stand is intended to roll from an enclosed hardware assembly area to a testing area where it will be secured in a stationary configuration for ignition. The rocket is contained in a sponsor provided clamp mechanism to ensure proper thrust direction. A command center designed for customer meetings and test demonstrations is integrated into the test site. This command center will be used for data acquisition and processing. This project will improve efficiency, reliability, and comfort with the integration of the test stand and command center.
This design implements the use of welded square steel tube to provide durability and is modeled to withstand a rocket with up to 5,000 lbf of thrust. Finite element analysis was used to verify the stand’s structural rigidity at a safety factor of two. The test stand is intended to roll from an enclosed hardware assembly area to a testing area where it will be secured in a stationary configuration for ignition. The rocket is contained in a sponsor provided clamp mechanism to ensure proper thrust direction. A command center designed for customer meetings and test demonstrations is integrated into the test site. This command center will be used for data acquisition and processing. This project will improve efficiency, reliability, and comfort with the integration of the test stand and command center.