Complete Rocket Integration Minus Pyrotechnics, or CRIMP, is a team event where we the procedure to assemble the rocket. It was created and implemented for Project Therion and implemented each year after. This usually does not require actual crimping of wires...
What happens?
During CRIMP, the rocket is integrated. All the subsystems are put together in a launch-ready configuration (without pyros, for safety) in lab. This can get a bit messy, especially the first time. It can easily turn into "just put the rocket together so we can go to bed," especially when things aren't finished and can't be finished. It usually takes 3 CRIMPs to actually put the rocket together for various reasons.
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Ideally, the team members going to the launch and responsible for assembling the rocket will be at CRIMP.
A good music playlist is a necessity.
Ideal CRIMP Procedure
CRIMP starts with a clean table. The only things that go on the table are things that are required to build the rocket (incl. checklists). Start a timer, then assemble the rocket. Use the assembly checklists to put the rocket together, and edit as you go.
Once the rocket is completely integratedcomplete, take some pictures, disassemble the rocket, and pack everything on the table for launchin an orderly fashion. Pack each subsystem separately. (Label film canisters/centrifuge tubes for screws and nuts. Super helpful. )
Realistic CRIMPs
The above never happens. Here are some ways CRIMP usually goes.
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Figure out an alternate solution to assemble the rocket. Determine if this solution is flight-worthy. Ask the integration lead subteam leads/exec for help.
"Do we really need a checklist?"
Yes. Yes you do.
If there is no checklist, each subteam assembles their own subsystem in series so everyone can understand how to put it together. Assign a lead integrator and a scribe for every subteam.
Once the checklist and 1st round of assembly are complete, take some pictures, disassemble the rocket, and reassemble it while doing tasks in parallel according to the master and subteam checklists that were just written.
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A successful CRIMP results in:
- A fully assembled rocket that fits together (only pyrotechnics required)
- A refined assembly checklist
- A team prepared to put the rocket together at the launch site
- An approximate integration time of the rocket, which will inform launch operations
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