Airframe Design - Waterloo Rocketry
What?
• Build composite fin-can and fuselage with controlled mass properties • Maintain stability margins through precise geometry and interfaces • Define tolerances and assembly references for repeatable fit-up • Capture layup process so new members can execute reliably • Plan QC checks from layup through final drilling and install
How?
• Iterate laminate schedules in ANSYS Composite PrepPost for strength and buckling • Model interfaces, ply books, and cure cycles in SOLIDWORKS; define ply drop-offs • Execute wet layup with vacuum-bagging; trim, drill, and fit-up procedures • Build alignment jigs and datum strategy; specify inspection checkpoints • Write step-by-step work instructions and layup maps
Results
• ≈2% structural mass reduction while keeping safety factor at 60 g axial load (analysis) • Consistent wall thickness and joint fit across sections • Faster assembly using alignment jigs and documented datums • Lower rework due to clear maps and QC flow • Smoother onboarding with complete process documentation
Student Design Team - Waterloo Rocketry
2025
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