Mini 3D Printed Rocket Launch Controller

Welcome to this Instructables for building a low-cost model rocket controller launcher for under $10! If you’ve been wanting to get into model rocketry but don’t want to spend a lot of money on expensive launch systems, this project is for you. Using a few affordable components, I’ll show you how to create a simple, electronic rocket launcher that’s easy to use and reliable.

This launcher works using an electronic ignition system, which is perfect for safely and accurately firing off your model rockets. It's straightforward to build and doesn't require any specialized skills—just a little patience and attention to detail. Whether you’re launching for fun or experimenting with rocketry, this launcher will provide a safe, consistent, and exciting way to launch your rockets.

In this guide, I'll walk you through each step of the process, from sourcing the materials to assembling your electronic ignition system. Ready to watch your rockets take off? Let's get started!

Materials:

1. Square Tactile Pushbutton ($0.30)
2. Red Push Button Switch SPST On/Off ($1.84)
3. PLA Filament ($3.30)
4. Hot Glue Stick ($0.11)
5. 4 AA Battery Pack ($0.55)
6. 4 AA Batteries ($1.24)
7. Alligator Clips ($0.65)

Tools:

1. 3D Printer
2. Hot Glue Gun

Software:

1. Tinkercad
2. 3D Printing Slicer

Start by rounding the corners of a box in Tinkercad to give it a smooth, polished look. Next, hollow out the interior of the box and remove the top to create an open space. Then, add small rectangular walls along two edges where the lid will sit, ensuring that the lid fits snugly. Finally, cut a hole in one side of the box to allow wires to pass through.

Take the piece of the box you removed earlier and cut two holes in the top for the arming and launch buttons. Then, add labels to each button to clearly identify which one is for arming and which one is for launching.

Next, download the file below and upload it into your 3d printing slicer. After that, export it and upload it to your 3d printer. For me, the print took 7 hours 5 minutes, but print times may very depending on your printer's speed and quality settings.

Next, take the round switch and unscrew the securing piece from the end of it. Next, insert the switch into the hole. is sanded down the edges of the whole so that it would be a snug fit. After that, glue the square button in behind it's slot, so that only the colored switch cap shows through. I used hot glue to secure it in place.

Next, wire the buttons, the battery pack, and the alligator clips to create the circuit. I used a little hot glue to strengthen the circuit connections. I didn't use a soldering iron, but feel free to if you wish.

Next, take the assembled circuit an put as much as you can into the box. After that, glue the battery pack down to make the circuit more secure while launching. I used hot glue, but other glues will also work as well.

For the final step, take the lid and firmly push it onto the top of the box. the fit is quit snug, so make sure to push it on all of the way. To open the lid to take out the batteries to replace them, I used a butter knife to pry open the lid.

To launch a rocket, simply clip the two extremely long wires from the igniter to the control box. The alligator clips make it as easy as just clipping the wires together. Make sure that your wires are long enough so that you can be about 20 feet from the launchpad. Then, press the arming button and then press "launch" to make your rocket soar high into the sky.

I then took my launcher and a rocket that I had previously made, and set up the launchpad out in an open field far away from any obstructions. I then clipped the long 20 feet wires onto the launch controller. After I had done that, I pressed the arm button and prepared for liftoff. I then pressed "launch" to trigger the igniter and set off the rocket.

Congratulations, you’ve successfully built your own low-cost electronic model rocket launcher! For under $10, you now have a reliable, reusable system to safely launch your model rockets with precision. Whether you’re using it for fun or to experiment with rocketry, this launcher provides an easy and affordable way to get started in the hobby without the need for expensive equipment.

Now that your launcher is ready, it’s time to enjoy the thrill of watching your rockets soar into the sky. Just make sure to follow all safety guidelines when using your launcher, and always launch in an open area away from people and obstacles. Have fun exploring the exciting world of rocketry, and don’t forget to share your success with friends or fellow enthusiasts!

Thanks for following along, and happy launching!