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MiniRocket Procedure

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Karl Parks edited this page Feb 23, 2019 · 3 revisions

Welcome to the MiniRocket wiki!

Here you can learn how to setup and operate the Mini Rocket Launcher for SDSU Rocket Project Activities. Use the images in this google drive folder as an extra resource to make sure all materials have been accounted for and the proper setup procedure has been followed. https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1K_MirNLuWqYQY_tjhINLYUgrsZ1g7deY?usp=sharing

Materials Required:

  • Raspberry Pi Touchscreen (with Pi and micro USB cord splitter plugged in)
  • Launch Pad Raspberry Pi (with Relay Board on top)
  • Green Solenoid (with quick disconnect fittings install on both sides and 2 pin molex connector)
  • 24V Power Supply (that has a 4 pin molex connector for Relay Board)
  • Cisco Wifi Router (with power cord)
  • Green tubing (make sure the green tube with taped on quick disconnect)
  • Foam rockets
  • Air Compressor (or SCBA Cylinder and Regulator with WELL experienced personnel present)
  • Two USB Cables and Corresponding USB DC/AC Adapters
  • Extension Cord
  • Power Strip
  • Safety Glasses (at least 3 pairs)
  • USB Portable Power supply (if you want a portable touchscreen)

Setup

(OBVIOUS DISCLAIMER: DO NOT SET RASPBERRY PIS ON METAL SURFACE)

Launch Pad (Raspberry Pi next to Air Compressor)

  1. Power on router
  2. Install solenoid on compressor with green tubing
  3. Connect solenoid molex connector to "main" on Relay Board
  4. Connect 24V power to Launch Pi Relay Board
  5. Connect USB cable to Launch Pi 5v power

Touchscreen

  1. Connect USB Cable to touchscreen to power on (can use portable battery pack)
  2. Click "ok" on the warning about ssh is enabled
  3. Double click "clientLaunchMiniRocket.py" on desktop
  4. Click "Execute" and "Mission Control" should open
  5. Ensure wifi of router is connected to "SDSURPCISCO"
  6. Click "Connect to Launch Pad"
  7. If "Failed To Connect" shows up under connection status, contact Karl Parks
  8. Otherwise, you're a go to launch rockets!

Operation

  1. Install Foam Rocket on Launch Pad
  2. Ensure proper Safety Glasses are worn for "Rocket Scientists"
  3. Ensure downrange of launch pad has no hazards
  4. Click "Start Countdown"
  5. Click "Launch" when countdown reaches zero
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