Physics Olympics: Design System for Cable Car "Bomb" Drop

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on designing a system for a cable car to drop a water balloon "bomb" accurately onto a target while in motion. A proposed solution involves creating a removable door mechanism that releases the balloon at the end of a string, which is tethered to a tree. This method ensures that the balloon drops at the correct moment, considering that it will maintain the same horizontal speed as the cable car. Feedback is sought on the feasibility of this design approach.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics principles related to projectile motion.
  • Familiarity with mechanical design concepts for moving systems.
  • Knowledge of cable car mechanics and operation.
  • Experience with timing mechanisms for precise release of objects.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research projectile motion calculations to determine optimal drop timing.
  • Explore mechanical designs for removable doors in moving systems.
  • Investigate the effects of air resistance on falling objects.
  • Learn about timing mechanisms that can be synchronized with moving vehicles.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physics students, mechanical engineers, and anyone involved in designing systems for dynamic object release in motion.

xporcelainx
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Homework Statement


Drop the Bomb
a. design a system that attaches to a moving cable car. The system must drop a water balloon "bomb" on a large target while moving. Cable car is supplied.
[this was the information students were given.]

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution



Any ideas? I'm pretty stumped myself. I though maybe some sort of removable bottom to the box, but the box has to keep moving the whole time. Since the zip line the car is traveling between is attached to two trees, my first thought was to have a removable door tied to a string tied to the tree. This string would be the same length as the distance from tree to target. The door would come off at the end of the rope, and balloon would fall.
Do you think this would work out? I'm just looking for some feedback. Thanks!
 
Last edited:
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Keep in mind that the balloon travels at the same speed as the car in the "x-direction."
 

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