Propulsion
The Propulsion team is the driving force behind our rockets, quite literally! We delve into the fascinating world of rocket propulsion, focusing on the design, simulation, testing, and optimization of rocket motors and propellants.
At Volta, we're not just reaching for the stars, we're also exploring the skies closer to home. Our Hexacopter team is dedicated to the design, development, and implementation of these versatile unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). We believe in pushing the boundaries of aerial technology, exploring innovative applications for hexacopters in various fields, including crucial testing for our rocketry projects. This is where your passion for aerial robotics can take flight.
What we do:
Design and Construction: We design and build hexacopters from the ground up, selecting appropriate components, materials, and configurations to meet specific mission requirements. This involves a deep understanding of aerodynamics, control systems, and propulsion technology.
Flight Control and Stabilization: We develop and implement sophisticated flight control algorithms that ensure stable and precise flight, even in challenging conditions. This includes programming microcontrollers, tuning PID controllers, and integrating sensors like gyroscopes, accelerometers, and GPS modules.
Payload Integration: We integrate various payloads onto our hexacopters, depending on the mission objectives. This could include cameras for aerial photography and videography, sensors for environmental monitoring, or even delivery mechanisms for lightweight cargo. Crucially, we use hexacopters to test and validate critical rocket subsystems, such as parachute recovery systems, in a controlled environment.
Autonomous Navigation: We develop algorithms and software that enable our hexacopters to navigate autonomously, following pre-defined flight paths or reacting to dynamic environments. This involves using computer vision, GPS waypoints, and obstacle avoidance techniques.
Testing and Optimization: We rigorously test our hexacopters in various environments and conditions to ensure their reliability and performance. We analyze flight data, identify areas for improvement, and optimize the design and control systems for maximum efficiency and stability.
Applications Development: We explore and develop innovative applications for hexacopters in various fields, such as aerial photography, surveillance, search and rescue, agriculture, and environmental monitoring. We push the boundaries of what's possible with these versatile UAVs.
Skills you will acquire:
Aerodynamics: Understanding of lift, drag, and stability principles for multi-rotor aircraft.
Electronics: Knowledge of electronic components, circuits, and microcontrollers used in UAVs.
Programming: Proficiency in programming languages like C/C++ and Python for flight control and automation.
Control systems: Understanding of PID control and other control techniques for UAV stabilization.
Sensor integration: Ability to integrate and calibrate various sensors like IMUs, GPS, and cameras.
Computer vision: Knowledge of computer vision techniques for object detection, tracking, and navigation.
Data analysis: Ability to analyze flight data and identify areas for optimization.
Software you will use:
Flight control software: ArduPilot, PX4, Betaflight, INAV.
Programming environments: Arduino IDE, Python IDEs
CAD software: For designing custom components and modifications.
Simulation software: Matlab & simulink, for testing flight control algorithms and simulating flight scenarios.
Soft skills you will develop:
Problem-solving: Ability to troubleshoot technical challenges and find creative solutions.
Teamwork: Collaboration with other team members to achieve project goals.
Communication: Effectively communicate technical information and ideas.
Creativity: Develop innovative applications and solutions for hexacopter technology.
Adaptability: Adjust to changing project requirements and technological advancements.