UB-SEDS Flight Computer Development Flight Test

Overview

UB-SEDS has been working on the development of custom electronic suit of rocketry flight

computer equipment for the use in both our current level of High Power rockets, and future

high power rockets. Currently, we are entering the testing phase for the core unit, which is a

basic flight computer, and are also in the development phase for attachments for GPS and

direct telemetry, with hopes of finishing all three by early May. With flight testing, we hope to

gain data on the flight readiness of the system. This includes both sensor data, unit stability

under real world flight conditions, and accuracy of the unit. Configuration on the design is

currently modular, with software being setup to accommodate multiple linked or unlinked

units. A single integrated unit is possible if desired for the payload. Total payload mass is

estimated to be under 500g. Below is a summary of the various devices we would like to flight

test. With the GPS Attachment, any flight profile is suitable for the flight computer, although a

parabolic or semi-parabolic would be ideal.

Summary of Devices

Flight Computer – Build Development / Testing The primary component, this component houses the primary processing unit, an Arduino Pro Mini chip based on the ATMega microcontroller. It also includes a basic barometric sensor for deployment data, as well as a relay system for pyrotechnic outputs. This component also holds connection points for additional hardware. Current version 1.2, Version 1.3 to include larger memory, or SD card interface.

2” wide x 6” long x 2” high

Weight: 150g – 300g (depending on battery configuration)

Recommended max acceleration: 100g for 11ms

4 Pyrotechnic Channels out

Built in tone-based max altitude indicator GPS Attachment – Parts Acquisition Currently acquiring parts, with expected integration in early May. This component allows for higher accuracy, and will also allow for tracking with integration with telemetry system. Based off the EM-406A GPS module from USGlobalSat.

2”x2”x.75”

Weight: 150g (max) estimated

5 meter accuracy Telemetry Unit – Parts Acquisition & Design To be used for data relay with ground, as well as a backup pyrotechnic activation method. This is based off the XBee Pro 900, operating on the 900 MHz band.

Estimated size: 2” x 4” x 2” ; Antenna: 7” Weight: 100g estimated