Estes Rocket Parachute Ejection Pistons

thingiverse

This design delivers a reliable piston type parachute recovery system compatible with diverse body tube sizes, engineered specifically for Estes model rocket body tubes. The body tube size is clearly marked on each piston for easy identification. While still in the developmental phase, I've successfully tested a paper and balsa wood prototype that performed exceptionally well. The main objective of this design is to facilitate the creation of a parachute system based on a piston concept, eliminating the need for wadding every time the rocket is launched. A standard rubber band shock cord is attached to a bar on the underside of the piston, while the parachute cords are secured to the inside of the piston (utilizing fishing lure hooks). It's essential that the shock cord be connected to the tube below the area where the piston must travel to ensure proper clearance. Additionally, sufficient space must be allocated between the piston and the nose cone (or payload base bulkhead) to accommodate the parachute(s) intended for use. This design aims to provide a helpful solution for model rocket enthusiasts.