TRACE Flight Computer

Author

Zachary StrattonFollow
Vandad Mossavand VarkanehFollow
Nicholas ElyFollow

College

College of Engineering and Polymer Science

Date of Last Revision

2025-04-26 12:09:12

Major

Computer Engineering

Honors Course

Senior Design II

Number of Credits

3

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science

Date of Expected Graduation

Spring 2025

Abstract

In the world of collegiate rocketry, there are currently no commercial-off-the-shelf flight computers capable of being fitted to liquid engine rockets with thrust vectoring control. Currently, amateur rocketeers utilize unreliable Arduino-based systems or expensive drone computers. The objective of this project is to design a flight computer capable of data collection and filtering, telemetry transmission, and real-time controls of critical safety systems using readily available commercial-off-the-shelf components to allow rocketeers to complete their designs within a reasonable budget. The system will collect data from two IMUs, a barometric altimeter, and a magnetometer, then filter the collected data using custom Kalman and low-pass filters. This data will then be used by the system to determine when and how to engage the included peripherals to maintain the predetermined flight path. The system will also transmit all flight characteristics data to a ground station so users can track the real-time status of the flight vehicle. The system will offer a cost-effective solution for aspiring rocketeers to launch with confidence and ensure proper operation in real time.

Research Sponsor

Dr. Michael Lichter

First Reader

Dr. Yan Zhang

Second Reader

Dr. Mohammed Ali

Honors Faculty Advisor

Dr. Jose Alexis De Abreu-Garcia

Proprietary and/or Confidential Information

No

Recommended Citation

Stratton, Zachary; Varkaneh, Vandad Mossavand; and Ely, Nicholas, "TRACE Flight Computer" (2025). Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects. 1954.
https://ideaexchange.uakron.edu/honors_research_projects/1954