Design, Modeling, Sensor Fusion, and Adaptive Control of a Low-Cost Reusable Rocket

Abstract

Increasing demand for low-cost and reusable rocket technology created an interest in the development of affordable guidance, navigation and control systems design. This research focuses on designing, developing and validating a low-cost reusable rocket with active fin control. The rocket aims to achieve stable and controllable flight using adaptive control, sensor fusion, 3D printed and composite airframe and low-cost avionics and actuation components. Real-time flight control will be achieved through the LQR controller for fins deflection angle adjustments. The methodology includes initial design, computational fluid dynamics and MATLAB simulations for controller design, and hardware-in-the-loop tests before actual flight tests.