How Do You Make A Ping Pong Launcher?

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SUMMARY

The forum discussion centers on designing a ping pong launcher for a high school physics activity, utilizing materials such as cartolina, rubber bands, tape, string, scissors, glue, and a ping pong ball. The user initially considers a slingshot design, ultimately constructing a slingshot that achieved a maximum airtime of 4.02 seconds. Participants suggest using scissor handles for the slingshot and consider modifying the ball's weight for improved performance. The discussion highlights the importance of understanding physics principles to optimize launcher design.

PREREQUISITES
  • Basic understanding of physics principles related to projectile motion
  • Familiarity with simple mechanical designs, such as slingshots
  • Knowledge of material properties and their effects on performance
  • Experience with basic crafting tools like scissors and glue
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the physics of projectile motion to enhance launcher design
  • Explore advanced slingshot techniques and materials for improved performance
  • Investigate methods for modifying the weight of projectiles for optimal airtime
  • Learn about the principles of energy transfer in mechanical systems
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for high school students participating in physics projects, educators seeking practical applications of physics concepts, and hobbyists interested in building simple mechanical devices.

DarkWeiss
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Hey. :)
I'm new here and this is my first post... so please bear with me... xo

I'm a 4th year high school and we're going to have an activity in Physics tomorrow. We need to make a ping pong launcher that will make the ball stay in the air for the longest period of time. Here are the materials allowed:
1/2 cartolina
20pcs. rubberband
tape
string
scissors
glue
ping pong ball

We should design our own and I practically have no idea because this is the first time that we're going to have an activity that requires us to actually think and design and make something.

I've though about making it in a "catapult" sort of way but I don't know how. A sort of "slingshot" form looks okay and easy to make. You know, roll the cartolinas to make two posts then attach the rubberbands between the two poles then you could propel the ball to the air through that set up.

But there must be the BEST way and i need to know what it is.

I'd appreciate all the help you can give.

Thanks. :biggrin:
 
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Wait... this isn't a redundunt question, is it?

'Coz, you know, I'm new and all and maybe there's already like thousands who've asked before.

If that's the case, sorry. T___T

But if you would be so kind, please refer to me where I could find the help that UI would need.

Thanks. ^____^
 
I need some sleep. it's 3:42AM here so I'll be back later.

^____^
 
No idea what cartolina is. Not that it matters much.

You should have little trouble working out what the characteristics of an ideal launcher are using physics, and work your way backward from there.
 
Dictionary.com tells me cartolina means "postcard" in Italian.

I think a slingshot is the way to go. You can use the scissor handles to form the slingshot.

If you know how to use a sling then probably that would be better than a slingshot. I don't know how to use a sling, but it looks like you could make it.

Also you might want to look into making the ball heavier--maybe fill it with glue--if that's allowed.
 
Last edited:
Thanks. ^__^

Our activity's done already and, yeah, we made a slingshot.

We've managed to let it stay in the air for 3.28 seconds.. but the longest was 4.02 seconds.. oh well.

Thanks again for all the help. :D
 
The contest shouldn't have been keeping it in the air longest, it should have been launching the ball the farthest :S
 

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