Rocket Thrust Stand for Experiments, Education and Outreach

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Portable, flexible-use stand for statically testing rocket motors and demonstrating elements of rocket propulsion for STEM outreach programs

 

Thrust test stands are commonly used to test rocket motors and engines, but often they are designed to test a single motor size or type and lack the ability to be transported easily. Applications for the stand include use for academic and outreach purposes, as well as experimental motor design. More specifically, the stand will be used at Oklahoma State University to support a senior undergraduate propulsion course, an undergraduate rocketry team, and STEM outreach to the local community.

 

With its simple design, the goals of modularity and mobility are achieved, while producing accurate performance data. A LabVIEW program runs both the motor ignition and data acquisition systems to produce time-resolved thrust data. The robust design of this test stand allows it to be easily transported and to accurately test different rocket sizes and types.