6 DOF Solid Rocket Motor Thrust Stand

The Florida Space Authority and Florida Institute of Technology

Florida Institute of Technology Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Department

UPDATED: December 17, 2007

Thrust Stand Major Components

Aft Sensing Assembly Bolt pattern for Aerotech motor Bolt pattern for Super Loki Concrete Anchors Aft Sensing Assembly Base Plate

Forward Structure

I-beam Base Structure

7/24/2013

Space Florida / Florida Institute of Technology

Thrust Stand Major Components

Motor

Single Axis Sensors

Tri-Axial Force Sensor

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Space Florida / Florida Institute of Technology

Capable of Testing Motors up to 12 inches in diameter

Motor outer diameter

Threaded sensor rods allow adjustment to accommodate several rocket diameters. Lock nuts prevent rods from moving after adjustment

Motor outer diameter

Ball transfers reduce axial friction and eliminate shear stress on sensors

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Space Florida / Florida Institute of Technology

Preparation for Test

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Space Florida / Florida Institute of Technology

6 DEGREE OF FREEDOM ROCKET MOTOR THRUST STAND

Thrust stand contract completed 10,000 lb capability Measurement of all 6 degrees of freedom using state-of-the art piezoelectric instrumentation Many successful motor firings on Florida Tech campus with excellent results Significant business interest and numerous education opportunities identified

Solid rocket motor test firing

500 and 1,000 lb motors

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Final Set-Up on Florida Tech Campus

Capable of measuring any thrust level up to 10,000 lbf in primary direction Capable of measuring solid rocket motors of any length Capable of measuring solid rocket motors up to 12 inches in diameter Measurement of 6 degrees of freedom, including torque, using high-frequency, stateof-the-art piezoelectric force transducers
Space Florida / Florida Institute of Technology 7

7/24/2013