Design, Modeling and Simulation of Mini Rocket Launching Systems Applied to the Reforestation of Areas Impacted by Deforestation
Authors: Guirlanda Christiano Pedro , Dutra Pedro Calistro Pescatori , Pereira Paulo Tibúrcio , Silva Gabriela Luiza Almeida , Anjos Gabriela Ribeiro dos , Bosch Neto Juan Canellas 
Published: November 2024

Objective: This project aims to develop reforestation operations in areas impacted by deforestation, with the objective of designing mini-rocket launch systems, computational modeling and simulation for flight prediction, promoting biodiversity and environmental recovery

Theoretical framework: The use of rockets for ecological restoration purposes presents unique challenges. Precision in seed deposition, selection of the most suitable species for each environment, and assessment of environmental impacts are issues that require in-depth research. This technology, traditionally associated with space exploration, has the potential to optimize agricultural practices, monitor the environment, and address challenges such as deforestation and desertification.

Method and material: The materials used in the project were a dynamometer, specifically the AMF 5 model, capable of measuring both tensile and compressive forces up to 5 N with a precision of 0.01 N, a RAVEN brand smoke generator with a smoke flow rate of 13 liters per minute, a custom-designed wind tunnel constructed in the laboratory, a CB-8909 anemometer, and custom-designed rocket launch bases. The methodology began with the design and construction of a wind tunnel to determine the drag coefficient of the miniature rockets. A launch pad for miniature rockets propelled by water and air was developed and used. The thrust of various miniature rockets was experimentally measured on a test bench while keeping the rocket stationary. Flight prediction modeling and simulation were based on two sets of differential equations derived from the conservation of mass and momentum, solved numerically using the Runge-Kutta method. Two sets of nonlinear differential equations were formulated and solved: one for the Propulsion Phase and another for oblique launch. The computer program allows user-defined input and generates various outputs in matrix or graphical format. Launch tests were conducted to validate the developed computer program.

Results and Discussion: The computational simulation of the mini-rocket flight prediction resulted in figures containing the most important flight parameters. The results of the computer program were validated through field launches of the mini-rockets. The differential of this work in relation to those found in the literature was that it addressed dynamic modeling for flight prediction, using two systems of nonlinear equations with twenty-two dynamic variables, with the obtaining of results for fifteen flight parameters.

Research Implications: This study found that the use of rockets in agriculture and environmental fields opens up a range of innovative possibilities for natural resource management and environmental preservation. The projects in this study revealed the importance of studying mini-rockets, wind tunnels, mini-rocket launch systems, and the development of simulation software, opening up new frontiers in the aerospace sector for reforestation, restoration of degraded areas, and applications in agriculture.

Originality/Value: The project, modeling and simulation of mini-rocket launch systems applied to reforestation revealed a new application area for rockets. The research was conducted at the Integrated Engineering Laboratory of the Department of Chemical Engineering at the Federal University of São João del Rey, Ouro Branco Campus, Minas Gerais, Brazil. This project, which was supported by FAPEMIG, involved the sharing of activities with post-doctoral, master's, undergraduate research, and final course work students, generating knowledge in the areas of research and teaching