Design of a reusable model rocket with vertical landing

Abstract

Aiming to design, produce and test a model rocket capable of landing. Different systems to accomplish the objective are implemented (aerodynamics brakes, landing legs, thrust vector control). A flight computer capable of managing these systems is used. A PID feedbacked with the attitude of the rocket to control the direction of the engine through two servos mounted on a two-axes gimbal is designed. Furthermore, the algorithm logs data from sensors and from a Kalman filter to estimate velocity, altitude, accelerations and the attitude of the rocket for later review. The mission is tested only for landing, it is to say, there is no launch. The results conclude that the idea is feasible and works properly but can be improved. Moreover, trying to launch and land is discussed at the end as the results from landing tests are a success