These
are used to fine tune the axial position of the center of mass Cm for the
rocket.
They
can also used to both improve flight stability in strong crosswinds and
also to improve the
nose cone separation point.
The
other parameter that can be changed to obtain the required
separation between the centers of mass and aerodynamic pressure. Is to
reduce the height of the center of pressure measured from the base
of the rocket. Cp
This
can be achieved by changing the lower profile of the rocket to increase
its surface area.
One
example would be to increase the fin area without increasing the
aerodynamic drag force significantly.
This
needs to be done so that the total surface area exposed to the air or
fluid flow over the rocket surface is not too large.
Although
the rocket needs to be as light as possible the ideal would be for
the Cm for the empty rocket mass to be near the front nose
cone.
A little experiment that will help illustrate this is to
manufacture some simple sling launched arrows.
Modifying
the fin area and center of mass to produce the best flight length.
Note
all the modifications made and record the flight distance obtained.
Discuss
what combination provides the best result and explain why.
|