What Are the Best Creative Designs for a Water Balloon Launcher Project?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on designing a water balloon launcher capable of launching a balloon at least 200 yards without using compressed air. Participants suggest various creative designs, including slingshots, catapults, and vacuum springs. While coil guns and Gauss rifles are considered, their feasibility for this project is questioned. The consensus leans towards slingshot-type mechanisms as the most viable option for achieving the required distance.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics principles related to projectile motion
  • Familiarity with mechanical design concepts for launching devices
  • Knowledge of materials suitable for constructing a slingshot or catapult
  • Experience with safety measures when building and testing launching devices
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the mechanics of slingshot design and optimization techniques
  • Explore the principles of vacuum springs and their applications in launching mechanisms
  • Investigate the construction and safety protocols for catapult devices
  • Learn about alternative propulsion methods for launching projectiles without compressed air
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for students, hobbyists, and educators interested in mechanical engineering projects, particularly those focused on creative design and physics applications in launching devices.

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My teacher assigned a project in which we have to build a device that will launch a water balloon at least 200 yards, the only restriction being that the use of compressed air is prohibited.

I have already thought of several designs using a slingshot or catapult. It would be wonderful to be able to use a coil gun or a Gauss rifle, but I believe that I will not be able to make one large enough to launch a water balloon.

I was wondering if any of you have any more...creative, or destructive, ideas and would be willing to let me use them.
 
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Another idea would be using a vacuum spring, but I don't know if it would generate enough force.
 
a slingshot type idea would probably work:

http://www.frattoys.com/water-balloon-launcher.html"
 
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