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Multi Rocket Launcher
source:
unknown
Description
This launch controller can be used with low voltage battery igniters,
which fire rocket engines in model rockets such as the Estes range.
These circuits are electrical, only switches and contacts are involved.
First the circuit for a single rocket:
The only thing to note here is that this controller uses "C" cells,
providing more current than "AA" batteries and that the push button
switch has contacts rated 1 amp or higher. The wire to the igniter is
isolated via a 3.5 inch jack plug and socket. Connect the igniter, then
plug in to control box and then press button, making sure you are the
recommended distance away. Below is an internal and external picture of
my controller:-
Ok, does anyone think my grass needs cutting? Moving on to the multi
launch controller:-
Once again, nothing too complicated. The single pole rotary switch has
contacts rated 1 amp so can easily handle the 400 mA of current that the
igniter takes. Here three rockets can be launched by rotating the
switch. The Green LED provides continuity between battery,igniter and
wiring. This extinguishes as the launch switch is pressed. Once again,
observe safety precautions.
Mission Critical:
Heres a story about my own Estes space shuttle, on its one and only
mission. This is what happens when you're too eager to get a rocket
flying and don't pay attention to balance. It was a late November
afternoon in 1998 when I first launched the shuttle. Lift off was
perfect, no wind, clear skies (doesn't sound at all like England), and
the rocket motor was a C6-5. At launch, the rocket motor fired, though
lift off acceleration was not as good as I expected, I blame too much
paint and excess weight). As my rocket reached apogee, (estimated height
about 100 meters) and acceleration became zero there was no immediate
separation between the shuttle and main fuel tank. There was of course a
delay of 5 seconds between the rocket engine blowing its ejection
charge. Five seconds is a long time too wait, especially when the forces
excerted of gravity take hold. At 9.8 meters/second, the rocket plunged
towards earth losing at least half its height. Then, thankfully the
ejection charge blew, separation was achieved the the main fuel tank
with SRB's drifted slowly down to earth on its parachute. However all
was not well with the shuttle. It was only after separation that I
realized there was too much nose weight (hence a heavy lift up and not
enough height). The shuttle did glide, but only at about 45 degrees
downward, picking up speed until eventually it crash landed in some soft
mud. Luckily it survived the impact, I cleaned it up but have not yet
removed the nose cone to balance the shuttle. I like it as an ornament
anyway.
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