Rocket Flight Computer System

A sophisticated flight computer for rockets featuring STM32MP1 processor, multi-level memory hierarchy, and comprehensive sensor integration.

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Technologies Used

AerospaceSTM32Flight ControlEmbedded SystemsSensorsReal-time Systems
Rocket Flight Computer System thumbnail
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Table of Contents

Technical Implementation: How It Works

The system is built around a powerful microprocessor and uses a sophisticated architecture for power, memory, and communication.

  • Power System:
    • It starts with a 14.8V LiPo battery.
    • The Power Board uses two-phase buck converters to efficiently step this down to 7.4V and 5V.
    • The 5V rail powers the Flight Computer, which uses a PMIC (Power Management IC) to generate a stable 3.3V for sensitive components like sensors and memory chips.
  • Processing and Memory:
    • Processor: The brain of the flight computer is a powerful STM32MP157 series microprocessor.
    • Memory Hierarchy: A multi-level memory system is used to balance speed and cost:
      • DDR RAM: For fast, volatile memory access.
      • NOR Flash: For fast booting of the system.
      • NAND Flash / SD Card: For cheaper, high-capacity, non-volatile data storage.
  • Sensors and Communication:
    • Sensors: The board integrates a GPS, IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit), and a barometer to track the rocket’s position, orientation, and altitude.
    • Communication Protocols: Different protocols are used for specific tasks to optimize performance:
      • I2C: For communicating with the sensors.
      • SPI: For high-speed communication with the NOR flash.
      • SDIO: For communicating with the SD card.
      • CAN bus: For robust communication between the Flight Computer and the Telemetry board.