Launching a Penny Accurately - Advice Needed

  • Context: High School 
  • Thread starter Thread starter newtonsmac
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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on creating a device to launch a penny accurately between 0.0m and 10.0m. Participants suggest considering various mechanisms, including siege projectiles like catapults and trebuchets, as well as compressed air systems. A homemade compressor is recommended for those interested in air propulsion without relying on CO2 or bike pumps. Additionally, a simpler alternative involving a ramp with an adjustable spring is proposed for ease of construction and calibration.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics principles related to projectile motion
  • Familiarity with siege engines, specifically catapults and trebuchets
  • Knowledge of air pressure mechanics and homemade compressor construction
  • Experience with spring mechanisms and calibration techniques
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the construction of homemade air compressors for launching projectiles
  • Explore designs and mechanics of catapults and trebuchets for accuracy
  • Learn about adjustable spring mechanisms and their calibration methods
  • Investigate alternative launching mechanisms beyond traditional siege engines
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for hobbyists, DIY enthusiasts, and educators interested in physics experiments, particularly those focused on projectile motion and mechanical design.

newtonsmac
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Greetings fellow smart people.

I am looking into making a device that can accurately launch a penny 0.0m to 10.0m quite accurately. I do not know whether I should a siege projectile launcher such as a catapult or trebuchet or something using compressed air. I want to try to make this out of common household stuff and recyclables but I probably will have to buy a few things from a hardware store. I don’t want it to be dangerous and I am willing to spend a lot of time and patience on it.

I myself am interested in air, but then again I have no idea how to make one without using compressed CO2 or a bike pump. I want it to be made with a home made compressor.

Trebuchet and catapult are fairly simple but aren’t that original. If you guys know of any other mechanisms that can launch a penny accurately please let me know or tell me which one I should use.

Thanks a lot.
 
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Welcome to PF, Newtonsmac.
You might want to start with something simpler and cheaper, such as a ramp with an adjustable spring.
 
how would you adjust the spring accurately?
 
Just connect the front end (for an extension spring) or the rear end (for a compression spring) to a threaded rod which protrudes through the case. An adjustment nut can then be turned to move the rod in and out. Calibration would be by trial runs, with notes taken of the position required for a particular distance.
 

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