This is a simple, cheap and flexible modular model rocket design in OpenSCAD.

Using Customizer you can:

• Select a rocket size (e.g. mini, standard, C)
• Choose how many fins and what size
• Vary the height of the various sections (finCan, body, nose cone, etc)
• Alter the type of nose cone
• Add an optional, payload section
• Set your guide rod size
• Tweak the tolerances for your printer

Make sure to customize and export the various parts, then get printing.

The rockets are fairly durable, even without a recovery system, but the heat from the rocket engines mean the finCan will only last a few flights (if using PLA). Nonetheless, this is a very fast/cheap way to play with different model rocket designs and great fun with kids - especially as they can design their own rockets.

I'd recommend tweaking the Perimeter value to generate 2 perimeters in your slicer (probably around 1mm) - one perimeter just melts too quickly.

Here's a video of some of these flying - we were running late to the field, so didn't have time to add drogues/parachutes, but they are highly recommended:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0j5vvKFOFlI&feature=youtu.be

The OpenSCAD should be a good starting point if you want to design your own sections for the rocket, or add different nose cones, fin types, etc.

Updates

• Support for swept back fins and automatic print support for rocket body
• Improved coupling joints (lighter, sprung fit)
• Fins can now be twisted to rotate the rocket in flight (for stability)
• Option of a shockcord fixing at the base of the payload coupling
• Added Haack nose cone type (constant be varied for LV, LD or anything in between)
• Fins tips can now be offset vertically
• Added support for guide rails (rail buttons) as well as guide rods
• Added payload bulkhead option
• Fixed STL generation bug for nose cone
• Added additional fin and nose cone shapes
• Added option to generate complete rocket as single STL (without internal couplers, etc)

1. Customise, download and print the various parts for your model - 0.3mm layers is fine. Try to avoid using a brim - it's a pain to remove without cracking the thin-walled parts.
2. Fit a recovery chute/drogue (if desired) and associated wadding
3. Install a suitable rocket engine - start with something low powered (Estes A or B) - you may need a bit of tape around the engine to get a snug fit.
4. Install igniter, place on launch stand, countdown, FIRE!