TVC Rocket Testbed

Low-Cost Thrust-Vector-Controlled Rocket Platform for Attitude Estimation and Control Algorithm Development

Problem statement

Thrust vector control (TVC) is essential to the stability of modern launch vehicles, reusable first stages, and vertical landing systems. However, it is still difficult to experimentally validate guidance, navigation, and control (GNC) algorithms for these inherently unstable systems in student-led or academic settings. Previous studies have shown that although high-fidelity simulations are useful, they often fail to reflect certain physical realities such as unmodeled dynamics, actuator limits, sensor noise, time delays, structural dynamics, and fuel slosh that can significantly affect closed-loop stability [1]. Similarly, large experimental platforms and flight demonstrators, (e.g., full-scale VTOL vehicles and testbeds powered by rocket engines), provide realistic dynamics but are expensive, difficult to operate, and often have associated safety risks, which makes them inaccessible to student teams and early research efforts [2]. Therefore, there is often a gap between the behavior of the system under operational conditions and the theoretical control system design. This discrepancy limits experimental understanding and slows the advancement of robust GNC algorithms, demonstrating a clear need for an inexpensive platform that enables physically realistic, safe, and repeatable experimental evaluation of thrust-stabilized system dynamics. [1] W. Elke III, J. Johnson, W. Roslansky, D. Gebre-Egziabher, and R. Caverly, ‘Design, Fabrication, and Flight of the Cost- and Risk-Reducing Quadcopter System for GNC Testing’, Feb. 1, 2024 [2] M. Dumke, G. F. Trigo, M. Sagliano, P. Saranrittichai, and S. Theil, ‘Design, development, and flight testing of the vertical take-off and landing GNC testbed EAGLE,’ CEAS Space J, vol. 12, no. 1, pp. 97-113, Jan. 2020, doi: 10.1007/s12567-019-00269-5.

Team members

Abigail Winn – facilitator
Brady Marques – accountant
Drew Olson – communicator
Kuei-Yo Liu – admin

Client