Backup data recorder

When preparing the launch of Eirspace's (A model rocketry team I am a part of) maiden rocket launch I realised the need for a compact and resilient sort of black box to recover data from in case of a catastrophic failure. This prompted the creation of this device. A custom built rapid data recorder. It integrates a BNO055 accelerometer, gyroscope and magnetometer combination together with an altimeter and temperature sensor. This data is logged in real time to a separate EEPROM that can be recovered and the data extracted in the event of a crash. The system is powered by a nickel metal hydride battery using a boost module and a charging circuit recycled from another project.

The devices status LED's indicate the write readiness of the device and if a launch has been detected or not.

The reality of this design became apparent when neither me or my crusty old soldering iron was cut out for the task ahead. The multitude of tiny little wires were an immense pain but was worth it given the impressively small package.

I am planning to design a full flight controller and this project has definitely taught me that I should learn how to design a PCB.