Customisable Modular Model Rocket

thingiverse

This is a simple, cheap and flexible modular model rocket design in OpenSCAD. Using Customizer you can: Select a rocket size (e.g. mini, standard, C) Choose how many fins and what size Vary the height of the various sections (finCan, body, nose cone, etc) Alter the type of nose cone Add an optional, payload section Set your guide rod size Tweak the tolerances for your printer Make sure to customize and export the various parts, then get printing. The rockets are fairly durable, even without a recovery system, but the heat from the rocket engines mean the finCan will only last a few flights (if using PLA). Nonetheless, this is a very fast/cheap way to play with different model rocket designs and great fun with kids - especially as they can design their own rockets. I'd recommend tweaking the Perimeter value to generate 2 perimeters in your slicer (probably around 1mm) - one perimeter just melts too quickly. Here's a video of some of these flying - we were running late to the field, so didn't have time to add drogues/parachutes, but they are highly recommended: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0j5vvKFOFlI&feature=youtu.be The OpenSCAD should be a good starting point if you want to design your own sections for the rocket, or add different nose cones, fin types, etc. Updates Support for swept back fins and automatic print support for rocket body Improved coupling joints (lighter, sprung fit) Fins can now be twisted to rotate the rocket in flight (for stability) Option of a shockcord fixing at the base of the payload coupling Added Haack nose cone type (constant be varied for LV, LD or anything in between) Fins tips can now be offset vertically Added support for guide rails (rail buttons) as well as guide rods Added payload bulkhead option Fixed STL generation bug for nose cone Added additional fin and nose cone shapes Added option to generate complete rocket as single STL (without internal couplers, etc) Instructions 1) Customise, download and print the various parts for your model - 0.3mm layers is fine. Try to avoid using a brim - it's a pain to remove without cracking the thin-walled parts. 2) Fit a recovery chute/drogue (if desired) and associated wadding 3) Install a suitable rocket engine - start with something low powered (Estes A or B) - you may need a bit of tape around the engine to get a snug fit. 4) Install igniter, place on launch stand, countdown, FIRE!