Control and Simulation of Rocket Hopper Demonstrator

What it is about

You work on modeling, simulation and control of a Cold-Gas rocket engine (Rocket Hopper) and implement the developed controller in software and hardware. In the end you can build a simulation environment with ODE-based and lumped-parameter models, use Ecosim Pro / ESPSS, design controls (PID, MPC, RL) and practically test them in a high-pressure gas test campaign.

What you will be able to do

• Set up a simulation environment for transient fluid flows (ODE) and lumped-parameter models
• Modeling with Ecosim Pro and the ESPSS library
• Familiarity with PID, MPC and RL controllers and selection of an appropriate controller (with ≥3 selection criteria)
• Synthesis of controllers in the simulation environment and deployment on hardware
• Identify and name at least 2 practical challenges of control engineering
• Write a short scientific paper and present the results to a technical audience
• Name and apply the 4 steps to solving practical control problems (modeling, simulation, control synthesis, transfer/testing)
• Safe handling of high-pressure gases and knowledge of the associated hazards

What the module consists of

• VorlesungenReview and conveyance of fundamentals; tutorials, questions and quizzes for reinforcement
• Projektphase (Gruppenarbeit, bis 3 Studierende)Modeling, numerical simulation and synthesis of control laws; office hours support with Ecosim issues
• Testkampagne (Blockseminar, voraussichtlich eine Woche im Januar, Oberpfaffenhofen)Deployment and testing of the controllers on the Rocket Hopper; practical experience with high-pressure gases
• Dokumentation und PräsentationDrafting a scientific report (paper format) and presentation of the results

Teaching method

• Vorlesung (Präsentation, Tutorials, Quizfragen)Transmission and review of theory as well as consolidation through exercises
• Gruppenprojekt mit SprechstundenPractical application of theory, support with tool usage and project progress
• Blockseminar / Testkampagne vor OrtPractical exam of the controller and training in safe handling of high-pressure gases
• Schriftlicher Bericht und PräsentationScientific documentation and communication of the results