Prototype X: A Cost-Based Design Optimization of an Upper Stage Liquid Propulsion Module with Green-Storable Propellants

This paper investigates the cost­-benefit, payload performance and technical feasibility of green storable upper stage design concepts on their potential implementation with existing launchers. Since the demand for reliable, safe, and cost­-effective transport to space is growing, it is necessary to find sustain­able rocket propellant solutions....

Necessity of non-rigid body models for launch vehicles

In previous research, the necessity of non-rigid body simulators was stated to be a requirement for long, slender bodies. However, it remains unclear for which vehicle design parameters non-rigid body effects become destabilising. A set of 2+N linearly independent equations of motions can be combined in a single matrix to determine the motion of...

Topology Optimization of Launcher Structures under Multiple Critical Load Cases

The launch vehicle industry is undergoing a major shift as new commercial organizations are staking claim to large market shares with bold technologies. To stay competitive in this new era, launch vehicle companies must develop new technologies to reduce launch costs while serving the growing demand for space accessibility. A possible solution...

Tracking Ballistic Vehicles during Boost: Development and Performance Analysis of Tracking Filter Algorithms

Accurately tracking the trajectory of launching vehicles during the boost phase is crucial for a variety of reasons. First, an accurate burnout point location and  velocity of the launch vehicle will facilitate the estimation of its trajectory during the following phases of ballistic flight and the impact location. This has important...

Control of the atmospheric flight phase of small rocket launchers

This dissertation addresses Thrust Vector Control (TVC) design techniques for small launch vehicles with bounded roll rate. The first contribution of this dissertation is the development of a 6 Degree of Freedom (DoF) nonlinear model that serves as a tool for flight control system design. The nonlinear model is then trimmed and linearized, for a...