Roll Control Test Unit
RCTU is a full mockup of the roll control system for the Low Altitude Demonstrator Rocket. It’s functionality gives invaluable data before flight.
RCTU
The Roll Control Test Unit (RCTU) is a full mockup of the roll control system for LAD and for Starscraper in the future. Designed from the ground up to be a complete mimic of the Starscraper and LAD cold-gas roll control systems, RCTU contains identical valves, control electronics, and components, all mounted to a large free-spinning platform weighted to have the same mass characteristics as the rocket it is simulating. With RCTU operational, iterating the control system is rapid and allows for huge amounts of data to be collected in critical portions of the development process. Sensors on board the setup record performance data in real time, displaying the system’s performance immediately.
Test Stand Overview
Total Testing Package
RCTU also allows us to test and debug the entire hardware loop for the control system. Between the raw control logic and the roll control thrusters is a complex electromechanical system composed of fluid components, power supply equipment, a sensitive IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit, which tells the controller how fast the rocket is spinning), and electronic boards running a real-time operating system. All of these need to work together for the system to function; RCTU gives us a simple way of insuring the entire system works together in the same configuration we will be using for flight.
Adjustable Inertial Mass
RCTU sits atop a spinning bearing with adjustable weights to be able to change the spinning moment of inertia and properly simulate the vehicle. Because of this, the vehicle's entire controls package can be tested prior to even being put onto the vehicle, furthering the amount of work that can be parallel pathed and streamlined.
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