Designing a 13 Second Flight with a Rubber Band

In summary, the goal is to design a plane or other object powered by a single rubber band that can stay in the air for at least 13 seconds. The design should be simple and launch conditions must be specified. It is possible to achieve a longer flight time through proper construction and launching techniques, as demonstrated by hobby airplanes and motorless paper airplanes. Researching rubber powered free flight models may provide helpful insights for this project.
  • #1
titus_polo
23
0
im to design something, a plane, or any kind of material to let it stay from the time of release up to it falling into the ground for 13 seconds provided that it is powered by a rubber band...
i'm having a hard time thinking about it, having it stay in mid-air longer than usual, and just want to ask help from u guys...thanks in advance.
 
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  • #2
is there a size and weight limit? and remember,

KISS - keep it simple stupid

always the most effective designs are the simplest
 
  • #3
You should also specify the launching conditions. A paper aeroplane glider can stay in the air for far more than 13 seconds if thrown in the proper manner.
 
  • #4
we can launch it anyway we want, as long as it can stay up to 13 secs..
and powered by 1 rubber band..
 
  • #5
Well your launch method will depend on how strong your "vehicle" is constructed. Some very light free flight hobby airplanes can be hand launched and stay in the air for a very long time on a rubber powered motor (by hand launch I mean a light toss or even just let go after the prop is spinning).

As Danger pointed out you can get a motorless paper airplane if constructed right and launched righ tto glide for 13 seconds or longer.

Try searching on rubber powered free flight models and rubber powered free flight duration models and see what come up.
 

1. How do you calculate the optimal length for a rubber band to achieve a 13 second flight?

The optimal length for a rubber band can be calculated using the formula L = √(mg/k), where L is the length of the rubber band, m is the mass of the object being launched, g is the acceleration due to gravity (9.8 m/s²), and k is the spring constant of the rubber band. This formula takes into account the weight of the object and the strength of the rubber band to determine the ideal length for maximum flight time.

2. What type of rubber band is best for achieving a 13 second flight?

The best type of rubber band for achieving a 13 second flight is one with a high spring constant, which means it has a greater elasticity and can store more potential energy. Additionally, a thicker and wider rubber band will generally have a higher spring constant and be able to launch the object further.

3. How should the rubber band be attached to the object for optimal flight time?

The rubber band should be securely attached to the object in a way that allows it to stretch and release smoothly. One method is to tie a knot around the object, making sure it is tight and will not slip off during launch. Another option is to use a small clip or hook to secure the rubber band to the object.

4. What is the ideal angle for launching the object with the rubber band?

The ideal angle for launching the object with the rubber band is 45 degrees. This angle allows for the maximum distance to be covered while also minimizing the effects of air resistance. However, the specific angle may vary depending on the weight of the object and the strength of the rubber band, so experimentation and adjustments may be necessary.

5. How can I improve the flight time of my rubber band launch?

To improve the flight time of a rubber band launch, you can try using a stronger and thicker rubber band, adjusting the length of the rubber band according to the weight of the object, and experimenting with different launch angles. You can also reduce air resistance by launching the object in a windless environment and making sure the rubber band is stretched evenly and not twisted. Practice and fine-tuning your technique will also help improve the flight time of your rubber band launch.

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