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Taurus Hybrid Engine Fluid Panel Redesign

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Jacob Norris

Project Timeline

Oct 2023 - Dec-2024

OVERVIEW

Redesigned and rebuilt the test stand fluid panel for Taurus hybrid engine hotfire campaigns. Owned the full system lifecycle, including CAD modeling, component selection, routing, valve specification, and integration for high-pressure nitrous and nitrogen lines. Developed test procedures, coordinated with vendors, and led design reviews while managing a student team. Balanced safety and functionality under real test conditions by troubleshooting leaks, validating system performance, and training members in tubing fabrication. The project strengthened my expertise in fluid systems and test engineering, as well as my ability to lead teams through high-pressure design and operations.

HighlightS

  • Owned the entire lifecycle of the fluid panel, from CAD design and component selection to build, integration, and test readiness.
  • Increased system safety by redesigning and certifying a high-pressure fluid panel for hybrid engine hotfire testing.
  • Enabled autonomous operation through integration of pneumatic valves, solenoids, and reliefs with the control system.

SKILLS

SolidWorksFluid Systems DesignTest OperationsLeadership

ADDITIONAL CONTENTS

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Jacob Norris

Aerospace Engineering Student & Test Engineer

I am a 4th year aerospace engineering student at UT Austin passionate about test engineering and ground system design. My experience spans internships at NASA and SpaceX, where I contributed to propulsion test operations, hardware certification, and system troubleshooting. In student rocketry, I have led the design and operation of fluid panels, test stands, and data acquisition systems, combining CAD expertise with hands-on integration. I am seeking opportunities to apply this foundation to propulsion test and GSE engineering roles.