Meet the Thrustra X1
ME405 2024 DESIGN PROJECT
LOUIS HILLIER
UNIVERSITY OF BRIGHTON
A high-performance mechanical water bottle rocket that launches using only air and water. Designed for durability and repeat use, it offers an exciting, hands-on way to explore physics—no electricity required.
Components.
1.
The split cone opens smoothly mid-air to release the parachute for a safe landing.
2.
Four string posts inside the cone hold the parachute in place until release.
3.
Inside the cone, a secure casing holds the BBC micro:bit to track altitude and speed.
4.
The landing gear detaches cleanly when triggered by the opening cone.
5.
Inside the cone, a secure casing holds the BBC micro:bit to track altitude and speed.
6.
A strong Velcro strap keeps the two wings firmly attached to the bottle.
DEVELOPMENT
RESEARCH
Final thoughts
Looking back on this project, I’ve come a long way. I started out only knowing how to use Autodesk Inventor, but I picked up SolidWorks pretty quickly and ended up using it to design almost everything. I also learned how to use the BBC micro:bit, which was completely new to me, and even though Blender wasn’t officially part of the project, I used it to make clean, professional-looking visuals of my design. It helped me present the rocket in a way that static models just couldn’t.
More importantly, I’ve learned a lot about physics—especially aerodynamics and pressure—and picked up new formulas and problem-solving skills I didn’t have before. Honestly, I made loads of mistakes throughout this project, but I learned something from every one of them. If I had started assembling parts earlier instead of rushing it the day before testing, I could’ve printed better-fitting pieces and gotten cleaner results. Still, I’m proud of what I’ve done. The CAD design turned out great, the marketing strategy made sense, and even though the physical testing wasn’t perfect, the experience taught me more than I ever expected. I know now that every failed print or late night was worth it for what I know today.
Louis Hillier