Ultrasonic Welding is a fusion bonding method that can create high-strength thermoplastic composite joints at very fast speeds. This makes it a very promising method for use in the aerospace industry, though further research is required to mature it. One topic of interest is how the crystallinity of the polymer matrix in the joint is affected by the ultrasonic welding process. This thesis specifically investigated the degree of crystallinity of carbon fibre reinforced lower melting polyaryl ether ketone (LM PAEK) composite. An experimental methodology was developed to measure the temperature at different locations through the thickness of the joint, and extract samples for Differential Scanning Calorimetry analysis. The calculated degree of crystallinity was related to the temperature evolution for different locations in the joint and variation in the welding force and amplitude.

This report details the design of a mission aimed to find and analyse active Venusian volcanoes, if they exist. These volcanoes are interesting because active volcanism would significantly contribute to the understanding of the Venusian atmosphere, its extreme climate and geological processes. This knowledge would in turn help us understand Earth better. The design is based on the concept selected previously in the Midterm report and consists of five vehicles: a spacecraft, an aeroshell, an aircraft and two landers. The spacecraft with aeroshell will be launched into a Hohmann transfer orbit to Venus in 2023. Upon arrival, the satellite will map the surface, and find the most promising region for volcanic activity. It will then deploy the aeroshell containing the aircraft and landers. The satellite then changes its orbit to one that allows for it to act as a relay between the Venusian vehicles and Earth. After entry and having slowed down sufficiently to deploy a parachute, the first lander will be dropped. This lander will act as a reference for the lander inside the aircraft. Next, the aircraft is deployed after which it will start following flight tracks that allow for it to stay in the Sunlight. These tracks are designed by taking into consideration the power systems, thermal system and propulsion system, and then optimising such that the electronics do not overheat and that the battery size is reasonable. While flying, the aircraft will take measurements to locate volcanoes. Once a very promising location is found, the aircraft will deploy the second lander from an altitude of about 32 km. This lander will then descend further down and land on the surface where it will perform measurements. Combining the measurements of all vehicles it is expected that the mission can also complete a number of secondary objectives to further improve the knowledge of Venus...