Difference between revisions of "Getting Started"
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<div style="float: left;">[[Downloading & Installing|← Downloading & Installing]]</div> | <div style="float: left;">[[Downloading & Installing|← Downloading & Installing]]</div> | ||
<div style="float: right;">[[Basic Rocket Design|Basic Rocket Design →]]</div> | <div style="float: right;">[[Basic Rocket Design|Basic Rocket Design →]]</div> | ||
− | [[ | + | [[Main Page|↑ Back to Contents]] |
</div> | </div> | ||
{{UserGuideHelp}} | {{UserGuideHelp}} | ||
− | |||
__TOC__ | __TOC__ | ||
− | In this section we have a look at how OpenRocket is organized, by analyzing in detail the structure of the <strong>user interface</strong>. We will also briefly mention the <strong>Example projects</strong> that are accessible from the <em>File</em> menu. After reading this section you will have a thorough understanding of how OpenRocket is structured, and will be ready to start designing a rocket of your own. If you already know how this program is organized, feel free to jump to | + | |
+ | In this section we have a look at how OpenRocket is organized, by analyzing in detail the structure of the <strong>user interface</strong>. We will also briefly mention the <strong>Example projects</strong> that are accessible from the <em>File</em> menu. After reading this section you will have a thorough understanding of how OpenRocket is structured, and will be ready to start designing a rocket of your own. If you already know how this program is organized, feel free to jump to <font color="blue">[[Basic Rocket Design]]</font>, the next section. | ||
= The User interface = | = The User interface = | ||
+ | The OpenRocket user interface is divided horizontally into four sections, the ''Main Menu'' (<font color="green">green</font>); the ''Task Tabs'' (<font color="black">black</font>); the ''Rocket Design, Motors & Configuration, and Flight Simulation Pane'' (<font color="red">red</font>), and the ''Rocket Views Pane'' (<font color="blue">blue</font>). | ||
− | + | [[File:2023.01.Guide.User_Interface.png|frameless|896 px|center|UI of OpenRocket divided into four]] | |
+ | == Main Menu == | ||
− | == | + | <table class="left"> |
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th>Menu Item</th> | ||
+ | <th></th> | ||
+ | <th>Description</th> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | <th>File</th> | ||
+ | <td>'''[[File:02.04.01.File_Menu.png|left|frameless|256 px|center]]'''</td> | ||
+ | <td>The [[File Menu | <font color="blue">''File Menu''</font>]] is divided into five divisions by function, (1) file opening options; (2) file saving options; (3) import and export options; and (4) closing and (5) quitting options.</br> | ||
+ | :- <b>''New''</b> allows you to start a new project without closing the project that is currently open; you can have more than one project open at the same time. If you start a new project when you have not already started (made changes to) the current project, a new project will be opened and the empty project will be closed, leaving one project open.</br> | ||
+ | :- <b>''Open...''</b> allows you to open an ''*.ork'' file that you have previously saved on your computer.</br> | ||
+ | :- <b>''Open Recent''</b> opens a pull-down menu of recently opened filed from which you may choose one to reopen.</br> | ||
+ | :- <b>''Open Example''</b> allows you to select from and open an example project included with OpenRocket.</br> | ||
− | + | :- <b>''Save''</b> saves the changes you have made to a project that you have opened or previously saved, without changing the current filename or location of the file.</br> | |
+ | :- <b>''Save as...''</b> allows you to save the project you are working as a different filename and/or a different file location.</br> | ||
+ | :- <b>''Export as''</b> allows you to export the project you are working on to a different file format, such as a Rocksim 10 (''.rkt'') file.</br> | ||
+ | :- <b>''Save decal image''</b> allows you to save a decal image file used in your project (currently only the first decal). However, this option is not available until you actually add a decal to your project.</br> | ||
+ | :- <b>''Print design info...''</b> allows you to select elements to print or export to a ''*.pdf" file from a drop-down menu; such as the technical details of your rocket's components, templates for your rocket's fin sets, or even the design of your rocket.<br /> | ||
+ | :- <b>''Close design''</b> exits the current project (you will be asked whether to save unsaved changes); ''close''</b> also exits OpenRocket if there are no other projects open.</br> | ||
+ | :- <b>''Quit''</b> exits OpenRocket, checking to ensure that you have saved or may save each open project. | ||
− | [[File: | + | </td> |
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th>Edit</th> | ||
+ | <td>'''[[File:OR.Guide.User_Interface.04.02.File.png|left|frameless|256 px|center]]'''</td> | ||
+ | <td>The [[Edit Menu | <font color="blue">''Edit Menu''</font>]] is divided into three types of operations, (1) undoing and redoing an action; (2) cutting, copying, pasting, and deleting components and text; and scaling the rocket and system preference.</td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th>Tools</th> | ||
+ | <td>'''[[File:OR.Guide.User_Interface.04.03.File.png|left|frameless|256 px|center]]'''</td> | ||
+ | <td>The [[Tools Menu | <font color="blue">''Tools Menu''</font>]] provides design tools which allow the user to analyze the effect of specific components, optimize particular rocket characteristics, create custom expressions for specialized to analysis, and a photo studio which displays the rocket in 3D with a variety of backgrounds and effects.</td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | <th>Help</th> | ||
+ | <td>'''[[File:OR.Guide.User_Interface.04.04.File.png|left|frameless|256 px|center]]'''</td> | ||
+ | <td>The [[Help Menu | <font color="blue">''Help Menu''</font>]] is divided into three sections, (1) guided tours demonstrating the use of OpenRocket; (2) bug reporting and debugging tools to assist users provide feedback to the developers; and (3) licensing and version and other general information about OpenRocket.</td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | </table> | ||
+ | ---- | ||
− | + | [[#The User interface| ← Go to ''The User interface'']] | |
− | + | ---- | |
− | + | <br /> | |
+ | == Task Tabs == | ||
− | + | The windows shown below utilize the A simple model rocket example included with OpenRocket. | |
+ | <table class="left"> | ||
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th>Rocket Design</th> | ||
+ | <td>'''[[File:01.02.Rocket_Design.Tab.png|left|frameless|1028 px|center]]'''</td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th></th> | ||
+ | <td>The ''Rocket Design'' tab is divided into three sections, the component tree, component arrangement buttons, and component selection buttons. The components available in OpenRocket are divided into four classes based upon component function. These classes are assembly components, body components and fin sets (external components), internal components, and mass components (which include electronics and recovery components). Components are ''greyed out'' until it would be appropriate to add that component type. As components are added, you will see the component tree (on the left side of the window, grow with each component added. For a detailed description of each component, see [[Component_Details | <font color="blue">''Component Details''</font>]].<br /><br /></td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th>Motors & Configuration</th> | ||
+ | <td>'''[[File:02.02.Motor-Configuration.Tab.png|left|frameless|1028 px|center]]'''</td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th></th> | ||
+ | <td>The ''Motors & Configurations'' tab is where you select motors, recovery events, and stage timing. Motor configuration options include creating new configurations, renaming existing configurations, removing (deleting) configurations, and copying configurations. With a specific configuration selected, you may select (or select a different) motor, remove the motor, or select and reset the motor ignition timing. For more motors and configuration utilization details, see [[Motors_&_Configuration_Details | <font color="blue">''Motors & Configuration Details''</font>]].<br /><br /></td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th>Flight Simulations</th> | ||
+ | <td>'''[[File:03.02.Flight_simulations.Tab.png|left|frameless|1028 px|center]]'''</td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th></th> | ||
+ | <td>The ''Flight Simulations'' tab is where you manage and flight simulations and flight simulation plots. From here, you can add new simulations, or edit, run, or delete existing simulations. Select a single simulation, and you can even plot and export the simulation results. For more details on ow to use these functions, see [[Flight_Simulations_Details | <font color="blue">''Flight Simulations Details''</font>]].<br /><br /></td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | </table> | ||
− | + | ---- | |
+ | [[#Main Menu| ← Go to ''Main Menu'']] | ||
− | + | ---- | |
− | + | <br /> | |
− | |||
− | |||
− | |||
− | + | == Rocket Views == | |
+ | The windows shown below utilize the A simple model rocket example included with OpenRocket. | ||
− | [[File: | + | <table class="left"> |
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th></th> | ||
+ | <td>The ''Top View'', ''Side View'', and ''Back View'' are line drawings, similar to a blueprint that shows all of the rocket components and the placement of those components. Almost all of your design work will take place in the top, side, and back views.</td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th>Top/Side/Back View</th> | ||
+ | <td>'''[[File:Getting_Started.Rocket_Views.Top_View.jpg|left|frameless|1028 px|center]]'''<b />'''[[File:Getting_Started.Rocket_Views.Side_View.jpg|left|frameless|1028 px|center]]'''<b />'''[[File:Getting_Started.Rocket_Views.Back_View.jpg|left|frameless|1028 px|center]]''' </td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th></th> | ||
+ | <td><br />The ''3D Figure'' and ''3D Unfinished'' view allow you to look through the rockets exterior to view many of the interior components. These views can help you more clearly see the relationship between the placement of different components inside the airframe.</td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th>3D Figure/3D Unfinished</th> | ||
+ | <td>'''[[File:Getting_Started.Rocket_Views.3D_Figure.jpg|left|frameless|1028 px|center]]'''<b />'''[[File:Getting_Started.Rocket_Views.3D_Unfinished.jpg|left|frameless|1028 px|center]]'''</td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th></th> | ||
+ | <td><br />The ''3D Finished'' view shows you what the rocket will look like when finished. OpenRocket allows you to select component colors, inside and outside of outer tubes, right side or left side of fins, and even creating transparent components, all with or without decals (transparent or opaque).</td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th>3D Finished</th> | ||
+ | <td>'''[[File:Getting_Started.Rocket_Views.3D_Finished.jpg|left|frameless|1028 px|center]]'''</td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | </table> | ||
+ | ---- | ||
− | + | [[#Task Tabs| ← Go to ''Task Tabs'']] | |
− | + | ---- | |
+ | |||
+ | <br /> | ||
− | + | == Become Familiar with OpenRocket == | |
− | + | For new users of OpenRocket, before attempting to create your own custom rocket design, it is strongly recommended that you become familiar with the OpenRocket user interface and generally accepted rocket design principles by opening and looking at how an example is assembled, making changes to the example, and understanding how to simulate flights. The example designs are found here: | |
+ | <table class="left"> | ||
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th>File → Example... → </th> | ||
+ | <td>'''[[File:2023.01.Open_Example.png|left|frameless|1028 px|center]]'''</td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | </table> | ||
− | + | ---- | |
+ | [[#Rocket Views| ← Go to ''Rocket Views'']] | ||
− | + | ---- | |
+ | |||
+ | <br /> | ||
+ | = The Basics of Using OpenRocket = | ||
− | + | == Rocket Configuration == | |
+ | To build your first rocket, start OpenRocket, then double click the ''Rocket'' label at the top of the component tree to open the ''Rocket configuration'' pop-up window. OpenRocket allows you to name your design, identify the designer, make comments, and create a revision history. | ||
− | + | The default design name is ''Rocket'', but that name can be changed, and a design name change also changes the name of the rocket shown on the component tree. So, rename your design and enter the designer, comments, and revision history information you desire. | |
− | |||
− | |||
− | |||
− | |||
− | |||
− | + | <table class="left"> | |
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th>Double-Click ''Rocket''</th> | ||
+ | <td>'''[[File:04.01.02.Rocket_Configuration.png|left|frameless|1028 px|center]]'''</td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th>Rename ''Rocket''</th> | ||
+ | <td>'''[[File:04.01.05.Rocket_Configuration.Rename.png|left|frameless|1028 px|center]]'''</td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | </table> | ||
− | + | ---- | |
+ | [[#Become Familiar with OpenRocket| ← Go to ''Become Familiar with OpenRocket'']] | ||
− | + | ---- | |
− | + | <br /> | |
+ | == Adding External Components == | ||
− | + | Now it's time to start putting together components to build the rocket design. The generally accepted way of putting together a rocket design is from top to bottom, from nose to tail. So, we'll add the nose cone first. | |
+ | === Selecting a Nose Cone === | ||
− | + | With the ''Stage'' selected, click on the ''Nose Cone'' button and the ''Nose Cone configuration'' window will pop up. Then, select ''From database...'' to open the Choose component present window. From here, you can select from the pre-loaded parts database. Select the nose cone shown below, and click the ''Close'' button, then close the ''Nose Cone configuration'' window. | |
− | + | <table class="left"> | |
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th>Selecting a ''Nose Cone''</th> | ||
+ | <td>'''[[File:11.01.03.Rocket_Build.Nose_Cone.png|left|frameless|1028 px|center]]'''</td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th></th> | ||
+ | <td>'''[[File:Getting_Started.Components.Nose_Cone.Parts_Library.Highlighted.jpg|left|frameless|1028 px|center]]'''</td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th>''Nose Cone'' Added</th> | ||
+ | <td>'''[[File:Getting_Started.Components.Nose_Cone.jpg|left|frameless|1028 px|center]]'''</td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | </table> | ||
+ | Congratulations, you've just added your first component. | ||
− | + | <br /> | |
+ | === Adding a Payload Bay === | ||
− | + | So that a few "appearance" can be demonstrated later, a payload bay will be added after the nose cone. To do this, with either the ''Stage''or ''Nose Cone'' selected, click on the ''Body Tube'' button and the ''Body Tube configuration'' window will pop up. Then, select ''From database...'' to open the Choose component present window. From here, you can select from the pre-loaded parts database. Select the body tube shown below, and click the ''Close'' button, then close the ''Body Tube configuration'' window. | |
+ | <table class="left"> | ||
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th>Add a ''Body Tube''</th> | ||
+ | <td>'''[[File:11.02.01.Rocket_Build.Payload_Bay.png|left|frameless|1028 px|center]]'''</td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th></th> | ||
+ | <td>'''[[File:11.02.05.Rocket_Build.Payload_Bay.png|left|frameless|1028 px|center]]'''</td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th>''Payload Bay'' Added</th> | ||
+ | <td>'''[[File:11.02.06.Rocket_Build.Payload_Bay.png|left|frameless|1028 px|center]]'''</td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | </table> | ||
− | + | <br /> | |
+ | === Adding a Transition === | ||
− | + | Transitions are most often used to connect body tubes with different diameters. But, a transition can also be used to connect two body tubes of the same diameter, as will be done here. | |
+ | To do this, with either the ''Stage'' or ''Payload Bay'' selected, click on the ''Transition'' button and the ''Transition configuration'' window will pop up. The default ''Transition Configuration'' tab is the ''General'' tab. On this tab, change your entries in the circled areas below to match the entries shown. Then, click the ''Shoulder'' tab, and change your entries in the circled areas below to match the entries shown. Then, click the ''Close'' button. | ||
− | [[File: | + | <table class="left"> |
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th>Add a ''Transition''</th> | ||
+ | <td>'''[[File:11.03.01.Rocket_Build.Transition.png|left|frameless|1028 px|center]]'''</td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th>Change Specifications</th> | ||
+ | <td>'''[[File:11.03.06.Rocket_Build.Transition.png|left|frameless|1028 px|center]]'''</td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th>''Transition'' Added</th> | ||
+ | <td>'''[[File:11.03.07.Rocket_Build.Transition.png|left|frameless|1028 px|center]]'''</td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | </table> | ||
+ | <br /> | ||
− | == | + | === Adding a Body Tube === |
− | + | Now, do what you did to add the ''Payload Bay'', above, but select this body tube from the parts database: | |
+ | <table class="left"> | ||
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th>Add a ''Body Tube''</th> | ||
+ | <td>'''[[File:11.04.01.Rocket_Build.Body_Tube.png|left|frameless|512 px|center]]'''</td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th>''Body Tube'' Added</th> | ||
+ | <td>'''[[File:11.04.02.Rocket_Build.Body_Tube.png|left|frameless|1028 px|center]]'''</td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | </table> | ||
− | + | <br /> | |
− | + | === Adding Fins === | |
+ | The bottom component are the fins. OpenRocket offers four types of fins, ''Trapezoidal'', ''Elliptical'', ''Free Form'', and ''Tube Fins''. For this design, ''Trapezoidal'' fins will be used. | ||
− | + | With the ''Body Tube'' selected, click on the ''Trapezoidal'' fins button and the ''Trapezoidal Fin Set configuration'' window will pop up. On your default ''General'' tab, change your entries match the entries shown. Then, click click the ''Close'' button. | |
+ | <table class="left"> | ||
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th>Select ''Fin'' Type</th> | ||
+ | <td>'''[[File:11.05.01.Rocket_Build.Fins.png|left|frameless|1028 px|center]]'''</td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th>Select ''Fin'' Type</th> | ||
+ | <td>'''[[File:11.05.02.Rocket_Build.Fins.png|left|frameless|512 px|center]]'''</td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | </table> | ||
− | |||
− | |||
− | |||
− | |||
− | |||
− | |||
− | |||
<br /> | <br /> | ||
− | |||
− | |||
+ | Fins attach to another component, in this case the ''Body Tube''. As circled below, the fins are shown underneath the ''Body Tube'' on the component tree. | ||
− | [[File: | + | <table class="left"> |
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th>''Fins '' Added</th> | ||
+ | <td><br />'''[[File:11.05.03.Rocket_Build.Fins.png|left|frameless|1028 px|center]]'''<br /></td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | </table> | ||
+ | <br /> | ||
− | === | + | === Adding a Launch Guide === |
− | + | OpenRocket includes two styles of launch guides, ''Rail Buttons'' and a ''Launch Lug''. Because of the diameter of the body tube, a ''Launch Lug'' will be used for this design. As with fins, launch guides attach to another component, in this case the body tube. | |
+ | You should now be able to open the ''Launch Lug configuration'' window without assistance. So, open your ''Launch Lug configuration'' window, and change the specifications to match those shown below. | ||
− | [[File: | + | <table class="left"> |
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th>''Launch Lug'' Specifications</th> | ||
+ | <td>'''[[File:11.06.02.Rocket_Build.Launch_Lug.png|left|frameless|512 px|center]]'''</td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th>''Launch Lug'' Added</th> | ||
+ | <td>'''[[File:11.06.03.Rocket_Build.Launch_Lug.png|left|frameless|1028 px|center]]'''</td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | </table> | ||
+ | <br /> | ||
− | + | ---- | |
− | - | ||
+ | [[#Rocket Configuration| ← Go to ''Rocket Configuration'']] | ||
− | + | ---- | |
+ | <br /> | ||
− | + | == Adding Internal Components == | |
− | + | === Selecting a Parachute and Shock Cord === | |
− | + | <table class="left"> | |
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th>Adding a ''Parachute''</th> | ||
+ | <td>'''[[File:11.07.03.Rocket_Build.Parachute.png|left|frameless|1028 px|center]]'''</td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th>Adding a ''Shock Cord''</th> | ||
+ | <td>'''[[File:11.08.01.Rocket_Build.Parachute.png|left|frameless|512 px|center]]'''</td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th>''Parachute'' and ''Shock Cord'' Added</th> | ||
+ | <td>'''[[File:11.08.02.Rocket_Build.Parachute.png|left|frameless|1028 px|center]]'''</td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | </table> | ||
− | + | <br /> | |
+ | === Selecting an Engine Block === | ||
− | [[File: | + | <table class="left"> |
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th>Adding an ''Engine Block''</th> | ||
+ | <td>'''[[File:11.09.01.Rocket_Build.Engine_Block.png|left|frameless|512 px|center]]'''</td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th>''Engine Block'' Added</th> | ||
+ | <td>'''[[File:11.09.02.Rocket_Build.Engine_Block.png|left|frameless|1028 px|center]]'''</td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | </table> | ||
+ | <br /> | ||
− | + | ---- | |
+ | [[#Adding External Components| ← Go to ''Adding External Components'']] | ||
− | + | ---- | |
+ | <br /> | ||
− | + | = Viewing Your Design = | |
+ | == Basic Views == | ||
− | + | <br />With the airframe complete, you can view your design in either 2D (as above) or three 3D views. The most commonly used of which are ''3D Unfinished'' and ''3D Finished''<br />. | |
+ | <table class="left"> | ||
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th>''3D Unfinished'' View</th> | ||
+ | <td>'''[[File:11.06.03.Rocket_Build.3D_Unfinished.png|left|frameless|1028 px|center]]'''</td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th>''3D Finished'' View</th> | ||
+ | <td>'''[[File:11.06.04.Rocket_Build.3D_Finished.png|left|frameless|1028 px|center]]'''</td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | </table> | ||
− | + | <br /> | |
− | + | == Adding Appearance Settings == | |
+ | <br />When changing ''Appearance'' settings, it is best to be in the ''3D Finished'' pane so that you can see the changes that you are making. So, let's start by changing the view to ''3D Finished''. | ||
− | [[File: | + | <table class="left"> |
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th>''3D Finished'' View</th> | ||
+ | <td>'''[[File:11.06.04.Rocket_Build.3D_Finished.png|left|frameless|1028 px|center]]'''</td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | </table> | ||
+ | <br /> | ||
− | + | === Changing Color === | |
+ | <table class="left"> | ||
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th></th> | ||
+ | <td><br />The first change that will be made is to select the color for and change the color of the nose cone. Double-click on the nose cone in the parts tree to open the ''Nose Cone configuration'' window, then select the ''Appearance tab''.<br /><br /></td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th>Nose Cone ''Appearance''</th> | ||
+ | <td>'''[[File:12.10.01.Rocket_Build Appearance.Nose_Cone.png|left|frameless|1028 px|center]]'''</td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th></th> | ||
+ | <td><br />Now, uncheck the '''Appearance''' ''Use default'' box. Then, Click on the ''Color'' box to open the ''Chose color'' window. Select the color of your choice (purple will be used here). Click ''OK'' to use your selection, then ''Close'' the ''Nose Cone configuration'' window.<br /><br /></td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th>Change Nose Cone Color</th> | ||
+ | <td>'''[[File:12.10.05.Rocket_Build Appearance.Nose_Cone.png|left|frameless|1028 px|center]]'''</td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th>Nose Cone Color Changed</th> | ||
+ | <td>'''[[File:12.10.06.Rocket_Build Appearance.Nose_Cone.png|left|frameless|1028 px|center]]'''</td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th></th> | ||
+ | <td><br />Repeat those steps for the ''Transition'', ''Body Tube'', ''Trapezoidal Fin Set'', and ''Launch Lug''; body tubes, launch lugs, and fins also have a '''Texture''' that will need to be set to ''none''.<br /><br /></td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th></th> | ||
+ | <td>'''[[File:12.10.07.Rocket_Build Appearance.Nose_Cone.png|left|frameless|1028 px|center]]'''</td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th></th> | ||
+ | <td><br />Now for a little magic. Open the ''Payload Bay'' appearance tab, uncheck the '''Appearance''' ''Use default'' box, and set the ''Texture'' to ''none''. Then, click on the ''Color'' box to open the ''Choose color'' window. Click on a light blue color (the box shown with the '''X''' below), then click ''OK''. Now, set the ''Opacity'' to 20% and close the Payload Bay configuration window, and yoy have a transparent payload bay.<br /><br /></td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th></th> | ||
+ | <td>'''[[File:12.10.11.Rocket_Build Appearance.Nose_Cone.png|left|frameless|1028 px|center]]'''</td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th></th> | ||
+ | <td>'''[[File:12.10.12.Rocket_Build Appearance.Nose_Cone.png|left|frameless|1028 px|center]]'''</td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | </table> | ||
− | + | <br /> | |
+ | ---- | ||
− | + | [[#Basic Views| ← Go to ''Basic Views'']] | |
+ | ---- | ||
− | + | <br /> | |
+ | === Adding Decals === | ||
− | + | One last bit of magic, let's apply a decal to the transparent Payload Bay. | |
− | + | But, before beginning, save this image to your device. | |
+ | <table class="left"> | ||
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th>Decal</th> | ||
+ | <td>'''[[File:12.10.13.Rocket_Build Appearance.Decal.png|left|frameless|128 px|center]]'''<br /><br />With the decal saved to your device, you're ready to start.</td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th>Select Decal from File</th> | ||
+ | <td>Open the Payload Bay configuration window and select the ''Appearance'' tab. Click on the ''Texture'' type to activate the selection drop-down, and select ''From file...''. Now, navigate to where you saved the decal, and select it.<br /><br />'''[[File:12.10.16.Rocket_Build Appearance.Payload_Bay.Decal.png|left|frameless|1028 px|center]]'''</td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th></th> | ||
+ | <td><br />To size and position the decal, first change the ''Repeat'' type to ''Sticker'' (you only want one symbol on the Payload Bay), then change the "Scale'' and ''Offset'' "x" and "y" values to those shown below.<br /><br /></td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th>Decal Type, Size and Position</th> | ||
+ | <td>'''[[File:12.10.19.Rocket_Build Appearance.Payload_Bay.Decal.png|left|frameless|1028 px|center]]'''</td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th></th> | ||
+ | <td>'''[[File:12.10.20.Rocket_Build Appearance.Payload_Bay.Decal.png|left|frameless|1028 px|center]]'''</td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | </table> | ||
− | + | And, there you have it. A decal on a transparent payload bay. | |
− | + | So, let's see what you've learned, and extend your knowledge. See is you can follow the screens below without any instructions. | |
− | |||
− | |||
− | |||
− | |||
− | |||
− | = | + | <table class="left"> |
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th>Decal</th> | ||
+ | <td>'''[[File:12.10.21.Rocket_Build Appearance.Fins.png|left|frameless|128 px|center]]'''<br /><br />Save this image to your device</td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th>Split the Fins</th> | ||
+ | <td><br />'''[[File:12.11.03.Rocket_Build Appearance.Fins.png|left|frameless|1028 px|center]]'''<br />After splitting the fins, <Font color="red">'''SAVE AND REOPEN THE DESIGN FILE'''</Font>, then view in ''3d Finished''.</td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th></th> | ||
+ | <td></td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th>Change Appearance of ''Fin #2'' and ''Fin #3''</th> | ||
+ | <td><br />'''[[File:12.11.11.Rocket_Build Appearance.Fins.png|left|frameless|1024 px|center]]'''</td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th></th> | ||
+ | <td><br />'''[[File:12.11.12.Rocket_Build Appearance.Fins.png|left|frameless|1024 px|center]]'''</td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | </table> | ||
− | + | <br /> | |
+ | ---- | ||
− | [[ | + | [[#Changing Color| ← Go to ''Changing Color'']] |
+ | ---- | ||
− | + | <br /> | |
− | + | == Viewing in ''Photo Studio'' == | |
+ | |||
+ | <br /> | ||
+ | |||
+ | So, what will this bird look like in Flight? To really find that out, you need to add a motor first. | ||
+ | |||
+ | === Selecting a Motor === | ||
+ | |||
+ | <table class="left"> | ||
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th>''Motors & Configuration'' tab</th> | ||
+ | <td>Select the ''Motors & Confirguration'' tab, then make sure that the correct motor tube is selected before clicking ''New Configuration''.<br /><br />'''[[File:12.12.02.Rocket_Build Motor.png|left|frameless|1028 px|center]]'''</td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th>''Select a Rocket Motor''</th> | ||
+ | <td><br />When you select ''New Configuration'', the ''Select a rocket motor'' window opens. For this example, select the Estes D-12-7, then click ''OK''.<br /><br />'''[[File:12.12.03.Rocket_Build Motor.png|left|frameless|720 px|center]]'''</td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th>Select ''Flight Configuration''</th> | ||
+ | <td>Now, select the D-12-7 as the ''Flight Configuration'', and you're ready to go to the ''Photo Studio''.<br /><br />'''[[File:12.12.05.Rocket_Build Motor.png|left|frameless|1028 px|center]]'''</td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | </table> | ||
+ | |||
+ | === Flying in ''Photo Studio'' === | ||
+ | |||
+ | <table class="left"> | ||
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th>Open ''Photo Studio''</th> | ||
+ | <td>Are you ready to see your rocket fly? The, open ''Photo Studio''.<br /><br />'''[[File:12.12.01.Rocket_Build Photo_Studio.png|left|frameless|1028 px|center]]'''</td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th>''Select a Rocket Motor''</th> | ||
+ | <td><br />Here it is.<br /><br />'''[[File:12.12.02.Rocket_Build Photo_Studio.png|left|frameless|1080 px|center]]'''</td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | <tr> | ||
+ | <th>''Flame'' Effect</th> | ||
+ | <td><br />So why did you need a motor? Because, '''you can't create flames without it'''.<br /><br />'''[[File:12.12.03.Rocket_Build Photo_Studio.png|left|frameless|1028 px|center]]'''</td> | ||
+ | </tr> | ||
+ | </table> | ||
+ | |||
+ | |||
+ | Now, experiment to your heart's content. | ||
+ | |||
+ | <br /> | ||
+ | |||
+ | ---- | ||
+ | |||
+ | [[#Adding Decals| ← Go to ''Adding Decals'']] | ||
---- | ---- | ||
− | + | ||
− | + | <br /> | |
− | |||
− | |||
− | </ |
Latest revision as of 18:03, 6 February 2023
The current User's Guide is very much a work in progress, any help would be greatly appreciated! |
In this section we have a look at how OpenRocket is organized, by analyzing in detail the structure of the user interface. We will also briefly mention the Example projects that are accessible from the File menu. After reading this section you will have a thorough understanding of how OpenRocket is structured, and will be ready to start designing a rocket of your own. If you already know how this program is organized, feel free to jump to Basic Rocket Design, the next section.
The User interface[edit]
The OpenRocket user interface is divided horizontally into four sections, the Main Menu (green); the Task Tabs (black); the Rocket Design, Motors & Configuration, and Flight Simulation Pane (red), and the Rocket Views Pane (blue).
Main Menu[edit]
Menu Item | Description | |
---|---|---|
File | The File Menu is divided into five divisions by function, (1) file opening options; (2) file saving options; (3) import and export options; and (4) closing and (5) quitting options.
|
|
Edit | The Edit Menu is divided into three types of operations, (1) undoing and redoing an action; (2) cutting, copying, pasting, and deleting components and text; and scaling the rocket and system preference. | |
Tools | The Tools Menu provides design tools which allow the user to analyze the effect of specific components, optimize particular rocket characteristics, create custom expressions for specialized to analysis, and a photo studio which displays the rocket in 3D with a variety of backgrounds and effects. | |
Help | The Help Menu is divided into three sections, (1) guided tours demonstrating the use of OpenRocket; (2) bug reporting and debugging tools to assist users provide feedback to the developers; and (3) licensing and version and other general information about OpenRocket. |
Task Tabs[edit]
The windows shown below utilize the A simple model rocket example included with OpenRocket.
Rocket Design | |
---|---|
The Rocket Design tab is divided into three sections, the component tree, component arrangement buttons, and component selection buttons. The components available in OpenRocket are divided into four classes based upon component function. These classes are assembly components, body components and fin sets (external components), internal components, and mass components (which include electronics and recovery components). Components are greyed out until it would be appropriate to add that component type. As components are added, you will see the component tree (on the left side of the window, grow with each component added. For a detailed description of each component, see Component Details. |
|
Motors & Configuration | |
The Motors & Configurations tab is where you select motors, recovery events, and stage timing. Motor configuration options include creating new configurations, renaming existing configurations, removing (deleting) configurations, and copying configurations. With a specific configuration selected, you may select (or select a different) motor, remove the motor, or select and reset the motor ignition timing. For more motors and configuration utilization details, see Motors & Configuration Details. |
|
Flight Simulations | |
The Flight Simulations tab is where you manage and flight simulations and flight simulation plots. From here, you can add new simulations, or edit, run, or delete existing simulations. Select a single simulation, and you can even plot and export the simulation results. For more details on ow to use these functions, see Flight Simulations Details. |
Rocket Views[edit]
The windows shown below utilize the A simple model rocket example included with OpenRocket.
The Top View, Side View, and Back View are line drawings, similar to a blueprint that shows all of the rocket components and the placement of those components. Almost all of your design work will take place in the top, side, and back views. | |
Top/Side/Back View | |
The 3D Figure and 3D Unfinished view allow you to look through the rockets exterior to view many of the interior components. These views can help you more clearly see the relationship between the placement of different components inside the airframe. |
|
3D Figure/3D Unfinished | |
The 3D Finished view shows you what the rocket will look like when finished. OpenRocket allows you to select component colors, inside and outside of outer tubes, right side or left side of fins, and even creating transparent components, all with or without decals (transparent or opaque). |
|
3D Finished |
Become Familiar with OpenRocket[edit]
For new users of OpenRocket, before attempting to create your own custom rocket design, it is strongly recommended that you become familiar with the OpenRocket user interface and generally accepted rocket design principles by opening and looking at how an example is assembled, making changes to the example, and understanding how to simulate flights. The example designs are found here:
File → Example... → |
---|
The Basics of Using OpenRocket[edit]
Rocket Configuration[edit]
To build your first rocket, start OpenRocket, then double click the Rocket label at the top of the component tree to open the Rocket configuration pop-up window. OpenRocket allows you to name your design, identify the designer, make comments, and create a revision history.
The default design name is Rocket, but that name can be changed, and a design name change also changes the name of the rocket shown on the component tree. So, rename your design and enter the designer, comments, and revision history information you desire.
Double-Click Rocket | |
---|---|
Rename Rocket |
← Go to Become Familiar with OpenRocket
Adding External Components[edit]
Now it's time to start putting together components to build the rocket design. The generally accepted way of putting together a rocket design is from top to bottom, from nose to tail. So, we'll add the nose cone first.
Selecting a Nose Cone[edit]
With the Stage selected, click on the Nose Cone button and the Nose Cone configuration window will pop up. Then, select From database... to open the Choose component present window. From here, you can select from the pre-loaded parts database. Select the nose cone shown below, and click the Close button, then close the Nose Cone configuration window.
Selecting a Nose Cone | |
---|---|
Nose Cone Added |
Congratulations, you've just added your first component.
Adding a Payload Bay[edit]
So that a few "appearance" can be demonstrated later, a payload bay will be added after the nose cone. To do this, with either the Stageor Nose Cone selected, click on the Body Tube button and the Body Tube configuration window will pop up. Then, select From database... to open the Choose component present window. From here, you can select from the pre-loaded parts database. Select the body tube shown below, and click the Close button, then close the Body Tube configuration window.
Add a Body Tube | |
---|---|
Payload Bay Added |
Adding a Transition[edit]
Transitions are most often used to connect body tubes with different diameters. But, a transition can also be used to connect two body tubes of the same diameter, as will be done here.
To do this, with either the Stage or Payload Bay selected, click on the Transition button and the Transition configuration window will pop up. The default Transition Configuration tab is the General tab. On this tab, change your entries in the circled areas below to match the entries shown. Then, click the Shoulder tab, and change your entries in the circled areas below to match the entries shown. Then, click the Close button.
Add a Transition | |
---|---|
Change Specifications | |
Transition Added |
Adding a Body Tube[edit]
Now, do what you did to add the Payload Bay, above, but select this body tube from the parts database:
Add a Body Tube | |
---|---|
Body Tube Added |
Adding Fins[edit]
The bottom component are the fins. OpenRocket offers four types of fins, Trapezoidal, Elliptical, Free Form, and Tube Fins. For this design, Trapezoidal fins will be used.
With the Body Tube selected, click on the Trapezoidal fins button and the Trapezoidal Fin Set configuration window will pop up. On your default General tab, change your entries match the entries shown. Then, click click the Close button.
Select Fin Type | |
---|---|
Select Fin Type |
Fins attach to another component, in this case the Body Tube. As circled below, the fins are shown underneath the Body Tube on the component tree.
Fins Added |
---|
Adding a Launch Guide[edit]
OpenRocket includes two styles of launch guides, Rail Buttons and a Launch Lug. Because of the diameter of the body tube, a Launch Lug will be used for this design. As with fins, launch guides attach to another component, in this case the body tube.
You should now be able to open the Launch Lug configuration window without assistance. So, open your Launch Lug configuration window, and change the specifications to match those shown below.
Launch Lug Specifications | |
---|---|
Launch Lug Added |
Adding Internal Components[edit]
Selecting a Parachute and Shock Cord[edit]
Adding a Parachute | |
---|---|
Adding a Shock Cord | |
Parachute and Shock Cord Added |
Selecting an Engine Block[edit]
Adding an Engine Block | |
---|---|
Engine Block Added |
← Go to Adding External Components
Viewing Your Design[edit]
Basic Views[edit]
With the airframe complete, you can view your design in either 2D (as above) or three 3D views. The most commonly used of which are 3D Unfinished and 3D Finished
.
3D Unfinished View | |
---|---|
3D Finished View |
Adding Appearance Settings[edit]
When changing Appearance settings, it is best to be in the 3D Finished pane so that you can see the changes that you are making. So, let's start by changing the view to 3D Finished.
3D Finished View |
---|
Changing Color[edit]
The first change that will be made is to select the color for and change the color of the nose cone. Double-click on the nose cone in the parts tree to open the Nose Cone configuration window, then select the Appearance tab. |
|
Nose Cone Appearance | |
Now, uncheck the Appearance Use default box. Then, Click on the Color box to open the Chose color window. Select the color of your choice (purple will be used here). Click OK to use your selection, then Close the Nose Cone configuration window. |
|
Change Nose Cone Color | |
Nose Cone Color Changed | |
Repeat those steps for the Transition, Body Tube, Trapezoidal Fin Set, and Launch Lug; body tubes, launch lugs, and fins also have a Texture that will need to be set to none. |
|
Now for a little magic. Open the Payload Bay appearance tab, uncheck the Appearance Use default box, and set the Texture to none. Then, click on the Color box to open the Choose color window. Click on a light blue color (the box shown with the X below), then click OK. Now, set the Opacity to 20% and close the Payload Bay configuration window, and yoy have a transparent payload bay. |
|
Adding Decals[edit]
One last bit of magic, let's apply a decal to the transparent Payload Bay.
But, before beginning, save this image to your device.
Decal | With the decal saved to your device, you're ready to start. |
---|---|
Select Decal from File | Open the Payload Bay configuration window and select the Appearance tab. Click on the Texture type to activate the selection drop-down, and select From file.... Now, navigate to where you saved the decal, and select it. |
To size and position the decal, first change the Repeat type to Sticker (you only want one symbol on the Payload Bay), then change the "Scale and Offset "x" and "y" values to those shown below. |
|
Decal Type, Size and Position | |
And, there you have it. A decal on a transparent payload bay.
So, let's see what you've learned, and extend your knowledge. See is you can follow the screens below without any instructions.
Decal | Save this image to your device |
---|---|
Split the Fins | After splitting the fins, SAVE AND REOPEN THE DESIGN FILE, then view in 3d Finished. |
Change Appearance of Fin #2 and Fin #3 | |
Viewing in Photo Studio[edit]
So, what will this bird look like in Flight? To really find that out, you need to add a motor first.
Selecting a Motor[edit]
Motors & Configuration tab | Select the Motors & Confirguration tab, then make sure that the correct motor tube is selected before clicking New Configuration. |
---|---|
Select a Rocket Motor | When you select New Configuration, the Select a rocket motor window opens. For this example, select the Estes D-12-7, then click OK. |
Select Flight Configuration | Now, select the D-12-7 as the Flight Configuration, and you're ready to go to the Photo Studio. |
Flying in Photo Studio[edit]
Open Photo Studio | Are you ready to see your rocket fly? The, open Photo Studio. |
---|---|
Select a Rocket Motor | Here it is. |
Flame Effect | So why did you need a motor? Because, you can't create flames without it. |
Now, experiment to your heart's content.