Mechanical Design Concepts

Sensor Rods:

We considered several concepts for the geometry of the sensor rod arms.  The main objective of these arms is to allow sensors to reach outside the boundary layer of the probe as it falls.  This allows the sensors to measure "un-disturbed" air and yields more accurate results.  One of our concerns in the sensor rod design was the structural stability of the rods during impact with the ground.  Because of this concern, the static cross design appears to be the best because it allows the possibility of multiple rods distributing the landing force.

Static Rods (linear design-one on either side 180˚ apart)

Static Rods (cross design-four rods 90˚ apart)

note: a sphere design is used here as an example shape.

Dynamic Rods

Designed for the aero-shell.   Rods deploy after the aero-shell detaches from the probe.