Thu Sep 21 15:23:27 2023 GMT
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Next Generation Launch System
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We've begun construction of a new launch stand that will
provide better stability than our previous rod-based
launcher. The rocket is guided by three - 1" x 4" x 6' rail
boards. The rail boards are held 120° apart at their
base by 2" x 4" and plywood segments. Slots in the bottom of
the rail boards, and screw adjusters on the top, allow
adjustment to accommodate different sized rockets. The base
segments also have legs which can be adjusted to point the
rocket into the wind. At the top the rail boards are
supported by a triangle which allows the rocket fins to pass
freely.
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The rocket is guided by the inside edges of the rail
boards. Some care was required to assure that the edges of
the board are straight and smooth.
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The upper ends of the rail boards are supported by 1/4-20
machine screws, and a captive nut, with a spring for
tension. (click on the picture for a large-scale version)
This arrangement allows for adjusting the spacing of the
rail boards.
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Our new launcher needs a few more features:
- A Release Mechanism
- A Source Of CO2
- A Blast Shield
...to be continued
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