Avionics and Telemetry

At Volta, the Avionics team is responsible for developing the brains and nervous system of our rockets. We design and implement the electronic and software systems that control navigation, stability, communications, and power management during flight, allowing our rockets to achieve their objectives autonomously and safely. We are the digital architects of the flight, ensuring that every component works in perfect harmony.

What we do:

• Flight Control Unit (FCU) design and implementation: We develop the "autopilot" of the rocket, responsible for stabilizing and guiding the vehicle during flight, ensuring a precise and safe trajectory. This involves programming sophisticated algorithms that interpret sensor data and adjust the rocket's control surfaces in real-time.

• Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GNC) system design and implementation: We create the "GPS" of the rocket, which calculates its position, speed, and orientation in real-time, guiding it towards its target. We use advanced sensor fusion and control techniques to ensure the rocket stays on course.

• Power Management System (PMS) design and implementation: We are in charge of the "heart" of the rocket, managing and distributing electrical power to ensure the operation of all electronic systems. We design efficient power distribution networks and implement safety mechanisms to protect the electronics.

• Telemetry and Communication System (TCS) design and implementation: We develop the "telephone" of the rocket, which allows bidirectional communication with the ground station, transmitting telemetry data and receiving control commands. We ensure reliable communication throughout the flight, even in challenging conditions.

• Sensor integration: We integrate the "eyes and ears" of the rocket, selecting and calibrating sensors that collect critical information about the environment and the rocket's status. We ensure that the sensors provide accurate and reliable data for the control systems.

• Control algorithm programming: We develop advanced control algorithms that allow the rocket to maintain stability, correct its trajectory, and respond to unexpected conditions. We use our expertise in control theory and programming to create robust and efficient control systems.

• Testing and analysis: We conduct thorough tests of the avionics systems to ensure their proper functioning and optimize their performance. We analyze data from these tests to identify areas for improvement and enhance the reliability of our systems.

Skills you will acquire:

• Electronics: You will learn about circuit design, microcontrollers, sensors, and communication systems.

• Programming: You will develop programming skills in languages such as C/C++ and Python to implement control algorithms and signal processing.

• Control systems: You will understand the principles of control systems and learn to design controllers to stabilize the rocket's flight.

• Signal processing: You will learn to acquire, process, and analyze signals from sensors to obtain relevant information about the rocket's status.

• Telemetry: You will learn to transmit and receive telemetry data between the rocket and the ground station.

• Problem-solving: You will develop the ability to identify and solve problems related to the design and implementation of avionics systems.

Software you will use:

• Integrated Development Environments (IDEs): Arduino IDE, PlatformIO

• Simulation software: MATLAB, Simulink

• Circuit design software: Eagle, KiCad

Soft skills you will develop:

• Teamwork: You will collaborate closely with other team members to achieve the project objectives.

• Critical thinking: You will analyze the challenges of avionics and evaluate different possible solutions.

• Attention to detail: You will ensure that every component and line of code works correctly.

• Communication: You will communicate your ideas and results clearly and effectively to the rest of the team.

• Curiosity and continuous learning: You will research and stay up-to-date on the latest technologies in avionics.