KEEN | Fall 2019

Streamlining Rocketry: How to Cut Costs Without Compromising Performance

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The objective was to design, simulate, and launch a rocket for Spaceport America Cup 2019. This design was focused on developing new manufacturing processes that would cut costs and streamline manufacturing. Due to administrative and financial difficulties, the rocket itself was unable to be built in the given timeframe. However, the team was able to develop manufacturing processes that are streamlined and more cost-efficient, such as an improved method for wrapping carbon fiber body tubes. These processes and techniques have been and will be used to keep costs and manufacturing time down in all future projects.

Student researcher

Miguel Lugo

Aerospace engineering

Hometown: Phoenix, Arizona, United States

Graduation date: Fall 2019