SARAH
SCHMIDT
M.S. ENGINEERING, SCIENCE, & TECHNOLOGY ENTREPRENEURSHIP
Yo-yo De-spin
Undergraduate Senior Capstone 2019, Northeastern University
Abstract
Northeastern University’s AIAA Project Karman is taking part in an unofficial space race to be the first university team to send a rocket to the Karman line, the border between Earth’s atmosphere and space. The proposed rocket will use spin stabilization to avoid drifting off course. This results in the rocket spinning along its vertical axis at a high frequency. In order to take clear pictures and ensure a successful deployment of the parachute, the rocket must de-spin as it reaches maximum altitude, or apogee. One method of doing this is by using a yo-yo de-spin mechanism which deploys two weights attached to the side of the rocket by wires. The deployment rapidly increases the moment of inertia and slows rotational velocity. NASA and other groups have been using yo-yo de-spin mechanisms since the 1960’s. The purpose of this project is to build a yo-yo de-spin mechanism that can be used on Northeastern’s Karman rocket. The current design uses two weights incorporated within the walls of the rocket to maximize space efficiency. Weights are deployed using a permanent magnet, with kick-off springs for more reliability. Once the weights are fully extended, the ends of the cables release from a pin anchor point. This mechanism will be tested first using a ground test stand and then flight tested on a sounding rocket.
Poster Presentation
Executive Summary
Final Report
Full Presentation
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