Fun project from “Gadget Freak” –
William Grill created a gadget that helps control the firing of model rockets. The device provides basic rocket igniter functions, including an igniter “fuse†monitor, audio input and an LED display. The gadget also features a “DeadMan†button (which helps avoid an unintended launch) and a “Fire†button that sends the rocket into the sky. The goal of this inexpensive tool is to reduce the risk of pre-launch ignition and provide a controlled sequence from setup to launch. A small, inexpensive controller manages the DeadMan and Fire buttons.
6 thoughts on “Controlling model rocket firing”
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So, what’s wrong with the stock Estes controller? It provides a safety key & visual confirmation of continuity.
The reason we don’t use DMX for pyros is because of the lack of error correction. Does this correct that possibility? (I do FULLY realize that this is NOT DMX BASED, I’m just curious…)
Per NAR regs, you have to have a removable safety key.
I too built a cool launcher, then suddenly realized my error. used a big phono jack for my key, and all was well.