Deployable Swept Grid Fin

thingiverse

This is a cutting-edge experimental swept grid fin engineered specifically for model rockets. Extensive testing has been conducted, with impressive results: it performs exceptionally well! Initially, this fin served as the prototype for the Propulsive Landing Research Project before being superseded by an alternative design currently undergoing trials. The fin underwent rigorous torture tests and consistently emerged unscathed. We attached it to our Decent Research Vehicle Dev Vehicle (DRVDV) and dropped the entire apparatus without parachutes from a height of 25 feet. Miraculously, the fins successfully stabilized the vehicle while sustaining minor damage (a few small components suffered chipping). Initially, we were convinced it wouldn't withstand such a harsh test at all! The fins deploy via a nichrome wire linked to a flight computer pyro output. When heated, this wire severs a rubber band wrapped around the fins. Please note that these fins are experimental and therefore come with inherent risks; use them at your own discretion. They feature an innovative swept design intended to enhance performance during low-speed flights while minimizing bow-shock. However, DO NOT employ them in high-air speed applications – under such conditions, the fins will deploy towards the wind and may fold back, failing to deploy properly.