AIAA Subcommittees

The jet engine project aims to create a test stand for safe operation and monitoring of a miniature jet engine, the WREN 75. Design requirements of this test stand will involve the measuring of temperature and pressure at different points within the engine, safe control of startup and power down sequences, and allowing for real time monitoring of the engine system during user operation. This model will serve as a demonstration and teaching tool to improve student learning and promote engineering development within the WPI chapter of the AIAA. The test stand will additionally be used as part of the WPI Fundamentals of Air-breathing Propulsion course AE-4711 and for AIAA outreach events.

The sub-teams of this project are divided between the design and implementation of the physical test stand and control system respectively. The test stand team works on the safe implementation of the necessary mechanical mounting systems for the sensors and engine itself, while the controls team focuses on the electrical control system, which integrates the sensors to a data acquisition system and generates control signals based on proper data interpretation.

While this subcommittee does not explicitly aim to teach and mentor members unlike HPRC and Model Rocketry, the project welcomes members of all experience levels for contribution.

The Model Rocketry subcommittee is ideal for members who want to learn rocketry by designing and building their own rockets. This subcommittee runs smaller events such as low power rocket building days as well as trips to rocket launches. Every year, they run a Level 1 Rocketry program that includes workshops and build sessions where members design, build, and fly their own high power rocket in order to get a Level 1 High Power Rocketry certification from the National Association of Rocketry (NAR).

While rocketry can get expensive, the AIAA is committed to making it accessible. The club covers all costs associated with building and flying a rocket for members pursuing a level 1 HPR NAR certification. Funding is also available for higher certification levels and other projects on a case by case basis.

Unlike HPRC, Model Rocketry is not a competition team. It is a great option for those who aren't interested in competing, want to become NAR certified, or just want a new hobby.

UAV Club is a subcommittee dedicated to unmanned ariel vehicles. Typically, these are quadcopters and other similar craft. The club has activities that teach members how UAVs are built as well as how to fly them. The club also hosts Free Fly days for members to hang out and fly together.