TEAMS
Embedded Files
CURRENTLY
RED is working on Elysium 2, Texas A&M's most powerful rocket engine ever!
TEAMS
The RED team is divided into several groups (also referred to as "sub-teams"), each under the guidance of 2 technical leads. Each group represents a major subsystem of the engine or test stand design. Currently, these groups consist of:
Thrust Chamber Assembly
Fluid Systems
Avionics and Controls
Structures
Business and Marketing
Safety and Operations
This grouping helps with efficiency and specialization. Read more about each group below.
THRUST CHAMBER ASSEMBLY
THRUST CHAMBER ASSEMBLY
The Thrust Chamber Assembly (TCA) team is responsible for designing, validating, and manufacturing the powerhouse our rocket engine - the injector, thrust chamber, nozzle, and cooling systems. These critical components house the combustion process and generates the hot, high-pressure gases necessary for propulsion.
The work of the Thrust Chamber Assembly team is of upmost importance as it directly impacts the performance, reliability, and safety of our rocket engine. This involves the use of analytical and computation methods, and takes into account fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, and heat transfer. Examples of engineering work conducted by the Thrust Chamber Assembly team this semester includes:
Modeling components using computer aided design programs
Conducting thermal and structural analysis to ensure the thrust chamber and nozzle can withstand extreme operating conditions
Designing cooling systems for the chamber and nozzle
Designing ignition systems necessary to start the engine
FLUID SYSTEMS
FLUID SYSTEMS
The Fluid Systems (FSYS) team manages, designs, and builds the heart of our rocket engine: the feed, pressurization, and flow control for all liquids and gases in the engine and engine test systems. They also operate for the water flow test stand which allows us to verify the performance of our injectors and valves.
Examples of engineering work conducted by the Fluid Systems team includes:
Designing, modeling, and analyzing propellent feed systems to optimize flow rates, pressure regulation, and overall system safety
Selecting and integrating appropriate propellant valves, pressure regulators, adapters, pressure sensors, and piping
Creating and implementing procedures for all engine operations
Working with other subsystem teams to ensure integrability of all systems in the engine
STRUCTURES
STRUCTURES
The Structures (STR) team is responsible for the design, analysis, and fabrication of our rocket engines test stand and ground infrastructure. Their work ensures that the engine can withstand high forces, vibrations, and thermal loads during a fire. The engine test stand and fluid systems stand integrate with several electrical components to measure engine data.
Examples of engineering work conducted by the Structures team includes:
Modeling engine mount components utilizing computer aided design
Structural analysis and finite element modeling of engine infrastructure to evaluate and optimize for engine safety and reliability.
Fabrication of various components using various machinery, tools, and welding equipment
AVIONICS AND CONTROL SYSTEMS
AVIONICS AND CONTROL SYSTEMS
The Avionics and Controls Systems (AVI) team designs, builds, and tests the electronics and algorithms for RED's hardware. Their work ensures that the engine can be safely and predictably controlled from a distance will recording all necessary data for analysis. AVI works closely with all subteams to ensure proper control and data aqcuisition of all subsystems.
Examples of engineering work conducted by the Avionics and Control team includes:
Collection of pressure, temperature, and force data from various locations in the engine
Actuation of all mechanical systems such as valves, thrust vectoring, and ignition systems
Designing automated systems nominal and shut down procedures
BUSINESS AND MARKETING
BUSINESS AND MARKETING
The Business and Marketing (BIZ) team plays a crucial role in the overall success of the Rocket Engine Design Team. They handle various aspects of management, fundraising, outreach, and promoting the team's work to the broader community.
Examples of work conducted by the Business and Marketing sub-team include:
Developing a business plan and budget for the team's activities and projects.
Collaborating with industry partners, sponsors, and potential donors to secure funding and resources.
Organizing public outreach events, participating in competitions, and maintaining the team's website and social media presence.
Safety and Operations
Safety and Operations
The Safety and Operations (SAFE) team is responsible for developing and maintaining all documentation as well as running/overseeing all of RED's testing. The team is also responsible for data analysis and root cause analysis testing.
Examples of the work conducted by the Safety and Operations team includes:
Developing test procedure, assembly, and issue ticket documentation
Operating the engine during hotfires
Reviewing hotfire data and design simuations
Conducting root cause testing
Google Sites
Report abuse