Designing Model Rockets for Maximum Altitude

[Art_]

Hello,
This summer I would be interested in designing my own model rocket. I do not have a lot of aerospace/aerodynamics (read the NASA (http://www.grc.nasa.gov/WWW/k-12/airplane/)) knowledge but I do have a good grasp of math and physics.
I would like to use a A or B model rocket engine and get then maximum altitude out of the rocket. In the end maybe try to beat the record but for now just want to get started with a design and learning how this works.
So how would I start?

I got a list of questions(list of how to start) that I will research and try to answer
Am I missing any important things?

-best weight and dimensions

nose cone(size, shape)
body tube(size, shape)
fins(size, shape, locationg on body tube, number)
*idea* with the right spin would having curved fins help?
centering tube(distance out of the body tube)
center of gravity(position)
center of pressure(position)
***CP is behind the CG***

should the rocket have transition from thin at top to thick at the bottom?

Also would this be allowed at a competition?
rocket with no parachute?
push rocket with ejection charge and eject engine out?(my own idea, not sure if it would help a lot)
Thank You
Art

 

[JasonGodbout]

Hi,
Well first if you want more advice go to tripoli (Internatinal amateur rocket group):
http://www.tripoli.org

I suppose your in USA so you should watch the NAR site :
http://www.nar.org

The best weight would be 0.000000001 pound :)

An a quick and easy way to calculate the CG-CP is Winroc:

http://www.drmoore.org/winroc.htm

 

[NatSusan]

Hi Art,

It's great to hear that you're interested in designing your own model rocket this summer! It's definitely a fun and challenging project that will teach you a lot about aerospace and aerodynamics.

To get started, here are some steps you can follow:

1. Research and learn about basic rocket design principles. The NASA website you mentioned is a great resource for this, as well as other online tutorials and resources. Make sure you have a good understanding of concepts like center of gravity, center of pressure, and how they affect the stability of a rocket.

2. Decide on the type of rocket you want to design. Will it be a single-stage or multi-stage rocket? Will it have a payload or just be for launching?

3. Choose the right rocket engine for your design. A or B model rocket engines are great for beginners, but make sure to check the weight and dimensions of your rocket to ensure it can handle the thrust of the engine.

4. Determine the best weight and dimensions for your rocket. This will depend on the type of rocket you're designing and its purpose. Generally, a lighter rocket will go higher, but you also want to make sure it's strong enough to withstand the forces of launch and flight.

5. Design the nose cone, body tube, and fins of your rocket. The shape, size, and location of these components will affect the stability and aerodynamics of your rocket. Curved fins can potentially improve stability, but make sure to research and test your design before implementing it.

6. Consider adding a transition from thin to thick at the bottom of your rocket. This can help with aerodynamics and stability, but it's not necessary.

7. Test and adjust your design. Before attempting to launch your rocket, make sure to test it on a small scale first. This will allow you to make any necessary adjustments before launching the full-size rocket.

8. As for your idea of a rocket with no parachute or ejecting the engine, these are not typically allowed in competitions. However, if you're just designing for fun and learning, you can definitely experiment with different ideas and see how they affect the performance of your rocket.

Overall, it's important to do thorough research and testing when designing a model rocket. Don't be afraid to ask for help or advice from more experienced rocket designers, and have fun with the process! Good luck with your project.