Linear Actuation Deployment for Liquid-Propelled Rocket Engine Control
Elara Aerospace integrated precision linear motion components from Thomson to enable thrust vector control and engine gimbaling on a reusable launch vehicle.
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Elara Aerospace, an initiative originating at the Technical University of Munich, develops liquid-propelled rockets utilizing methalox fuel. The engineering objective involves constructing a fully reusable launch vehicle designed to exceed 100 kilometers in altitude while accommodating up to 100 kilograms of payload for scientific experiments. To achieve stabilized flight trajectories, the vehicle architecture requires a precise thrust vector control system. The primary technical challenge involves active engine positioning, specifically executing engine gimbaling within a restricted ±5 degree operating range. This requires actuation systems capable of functioning reliably within stringent spatial limitations while delivering highly repeatable motion control.
Actuation Mechanics for Thrust Vector Control
To address the active engine positioning requirements, Elara Aerospace integrated a coordinated motion system supplied by Thomson, operating in conjunction with components from Kollmorgen and Boston Gear. The technical solution relies on PC Series precision linear actuators coupled with AKM13D servo motors, dual-axis drive systems, and planetary gearheads. The ball screw-based construction of the linear actuators was selected for its mechanical rigidity and compact physical footprint. The ball screw mechanism converts rotary motion from the servo motors into the precise linear displacement required to articulate the rocket engine. This configuration guarantees accurate positioning capabilities for the engine gimbaling process.
System Integration and Pre-Flight Validation
The actuation components were delivered individually, providing the engineering team with architectural flexibility during the design and testing phases. Thomson supplied engineering support to assist in embedding the motion package into the broader engine control architecture. The motion control system is undergoing validation protocols on ground-based development platforms prior to full flight implementation.
“Every commanded movement must be predictable, measurable and easy to verify,” said Anders Karlsson, Business Development Manager for Regal Rexnord’s Linear Motion Division. “Working closely with the team helped us ensure the motion package fits cleanly within the overall engine control architecture.”
The modularity of the components allowed the engineers to focus on system integration rather than overcoming compatibility issues.
“Thomson’s guidance gave us a clear path for the thrust vector control design without adding unnecessary complexity,” said Tom Luca Reinhardt, Founder and CEO of Elara Aerospace.
Edited by an industrial journalist, Lekshman Ramdas, with AI assistance.
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