Mechanical Engineer
Current- Contributed to the Aftershock launch series as part of the Analysis, Composites, and Infrastructure subteams, setting a new world record for highest apogee achieved by a student organization- Led fin drag analysis by redesigning leading edges and accurately modeling Tip-to-Tip layers in revised analytical model in Ansys Fluent, reducing total fin drag by 15% and leading edge mass by 4%Analyzed nosecone and fins under hypersonic conditions to validate simulations and material choices- Developed Ansys ACP model of fins to investigate using less T2T plies or implementing cored fin designs on future vehicles, calibrated model by using rosettes to test fin strain on a previous rocket- Evaluated whether .75” or 1” sight glasses should be used on final vehicle using FEA- Directed construction of >20 ft diameter domes during Aftershock II launch mission, spending more than 50 hours manufacturing dome parts and validating fully built structures before trip- Oversaw ply-cutting sessions and obtained hands-on experience in several composites layups- Collaborated to create a lab procedure to test which TPS paint should be used on rocket- Investigated how NASA’s FIAT program could be used to optimize TPS layers on future rockets- Designed and waterjetted plate for DAQ enclosure to allow outside plug connection for easier team use
