Vent Sensor

[Voyager]

Has anyone implemented a vent sensor for their hybrid launches? Usually, you can see the venting occurring, but sometimes it is not that obvious, particularly when your launch tower is 90+ metres away. Yes, I have used binoculars, but it would be more convenient to have a very visible indication, either at the pad, or better still, at the LC position with a wireless link.

I'm sure one of you has sorted this out! I did see a post on TRF (http://www.rocketryforum.com/showthread.php?129000-hybrid-rocket-motor-nitrous-oxide-vent-sensor) that describes one pad-based method.

... and I just found this one! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ka6EpxNi-YE

[OverTheTop]

I suspect a remote camera watching the vent would be invaluable based on the hybrid launches I have seen. Would take the guesswork out of it fairly cheaply.

[SpaceManMat]

I suspect a remote camera watching the vent would be invaluable based on the hybrid launches I have seen. Would take the guesswork out of it fairly cheaply.

Might also help take guess work out of various failures as well.

[OverTheTop]

Maybe something like this is fairly cheap. Only need some batteries and an LCD monitor I guess

84883.jpg (17.36 KiB) Viewed 989 times

https://hobbyking.com/en_us/quanum-fpv- ... eiver.html

I bet there are even cheaper solutions out there.

[Voyager]

That's not a bad little system OTT, thanks for that. Could be useful in a number of applications.

[Voyager]

OK, I now have a N2O vent sensor courtesy of Jaycar Electronics. I was planning to design & build one, but as I was about to purchase the components from there, I saw their temperature sensor kit which fits the bill nicely.

For those of you wanting to reliably test for venting from their hybrid, the kit link is https://www.jaycar.com.au/economy-adjustable-temperature-switch/p/KC5381. It has a 2 pole relay that can drive a very bright LED and/or a loud beeper. It can also be used to provide remote indication at the LC table.