TR1: Mechanical Systems
Below are images of the various mechanical systems employed on the TR1 rocket. Attached are links to mechancial drawings for each of the various parts.
Mechanical Systems
Part Name |
Description |
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The nose tip is designed to reduce the temperature on the nose tip. The curved end creates a detached shock wave which allows for greater heat dissipation around the nose tip, Whereas a pointed nose tip creates a shock wave at the point of the nose tip and the heat energy concentrates at the point where the temperature can reach 4000 degrees Fahrenheit. |
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The nose cone is fabricated by wrapping multiple layers of fiberglass around a inner mold, then compress into shape by placing two outer molds around the inner mold and fiberglass. Once the fiberglass is set, the outer molds are removed and the nose cone is wrapped in a plastic to remove air bubbles by creating a vacuum. The nose cone is sanded and painted. Ablative coating is added to help dissipate heat from the nose cone. |
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The payload tube is the main structure of the rocket. It houses and protects the payload components. The payload tube is an aluminum tube 69.325 inches long, 8 inches in diameter and is 1/8 in. thick. The tube was ordered and shipped from a company in the continental U.S. The holes for the deck plates, the umbilical and the motor coupler were machined by the geophysical institute. |
The umbilical section is where external power is connected. External power stays connected until the connectors are separated by launching of the rocket. A section of the payload tube is cut out and screw holes drilled for the umbilical section. The umbilical block or plate is a sand casted piece of aluminum and fitted with an electrical connector. |
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The payload instrument housing fits inside the payload tube and is where most of the instrument package is secured. |
