Design of a GNC profile module for a small vehicle platforms (rocketry and drones)

Project Title: Mission Profile Module (MPM) Development for Modular Compact Vehicles and Small Launch Platforms Project Description: We are seeking an experienced systems engineer to develop a Mission Profile Module (MPM) that will serve as a centralized input interface for mission-specific data, providing critical parameters to the Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GNC) systems. The MPM will manage mission profiles, inputting data such as trajectory types (vertical, waypoint navigation, LEO injection, etc.) and dynamically updating targets for different mission scenarios. This project requires both hardware interface design and CAD development for a modular system that integrates smoothly with our GNC architecture. Key System Requirements: Architecture Design: Develop system and software architectures for the MPM, ensuring compatibility and data synchronization with the GNC. Mission Data Input and Processing: Implement an interface for mission-specific data input, handling various mission profiles and data formats. Hardware Interface and CAD Design: Design a modular hardware interface that can connect with onboard systems and provide flexible input options for different mission profiles. Testing & Validation: Validate MPM integration with GNC modules and confirm data accuracy through simulated testing. Technologies: Microcontroller: Arduino Uno/Pro for prototyping, transitioning to a microcontroller compatible with RTOS in the final design Programming Tools: MATLAB/Simulink for code generation, Arduino IDE, and embedded systems IDEs Hardware: Basic I/O interface (LCD or keypad) for direct mission parameter input, optional data link setup for dynamic updates CAD Software: SolidWorks, AutoCAD, or similar CAD software for designing the modular hardware system Project Tasks and Milestones: Milestone 1: System and Software Architecture (15%) Task 1.1: Develop a system architecture for the MPM, defining data flow between the MPM and the GNC modules. Task 1.2: Design the software architecture, including modules for mission profile input, data processing, and communication protocols with the GNC. Deliverable: Comprehensive system and software architecture document with diagrams and module descriptions. Milestone 2: Mission Data Interface Design (20%) Task 2.1: Develop an interface for inputting mission-specific parameters (e.g., JSON or XML file format, user input via an LCD or keypad). Task 2.2: Configure the interface to handle different mission types (vertical, waypoint, LEO injection) with options for real-time or static data inputs. Deliverable: Documented mission data input interface and initial prototype demonstration. Milestone 3: CAD Design of Hardware Interface (MODULMPM) (20%) Task 3.1: Create a CAD design for MODULMPM, the modular hardware interface for mission input, integrating connections for power systems and data lines to the GNC modules. Task 3.2: Ensure modularity, enabling easy access and replacement of components for future upgrades. Deliverable: CAD files and hardware specifications document for MODULMPM. Milestone 4: Prototype Development of Mission Profile Module (25%) Task 4.1: Develop the MPM prototype on an Arduino (or similar) microcontroller, implementing mission data input and processing functions. Task 4.2: Integrate a basic I/O system (LCD, keypad, or wireless data link) for testing mission profile selection and input. Deliverable: Fully functional MPM prototype, delivered with the ability to test different mission profiles. Milestone 5: Testing and Integration with GNC Modules (15%) Task 5.1: Conduct integration testing between the MPM and GNC modules to ensure correct data flow and parameter synchronization. Task 5.2: Validate the accuracy of data handling across different mission scenarios and record performance results. Deliverable: Test report and validation results, plus recommendations for future adjustments or RTOS-compatible enhancements. Milestone 6: Project Handover and Documentation (5%) Task 6.1: Compile all documentation, including final system and software architecture, CAD designs, codebase, and testing reports. Task 6.2: Provide guidance for potential expansion or RTOS-compatible updates. Deliverable: Complete project documentation, code repository, and project handover meeting. You will work with the developers of the Guidance, Navigation, and Control modules. This is rapid prototyping so the idea is to have a working prototype and later on we can work deeper on the design. But it will be tested in the field.

Project ID: 38743184