How to DESIGN a CATAPULT that fires at a certain distance

Summary

In this engaging project presentation, a team demonstrates the design and construction of a catapult, detailing its dimensions of 17 by 16 by 15 cm and a launch range of 5 meters. They explain the materials used, including popsicle sticks and a cable tie for strength and stability, and showcase their innovative approach to maximizing the launch angle. The catapult's elastic mechanism is highlighted as the key to propelling the projectile, with a clear method for measuring distance. This collaborative effort showcases creativity and engineering principles while inviting viewers to explore the results of their tests.

Takeaways

• 🎯 The project involves building a catapult with specified dimensions of 17 by 16 by 15.
• 🚀 The catapult is designed to shoot projectiles up to a range of 5 meters.
• 🛠️ Materials used include popsicle sticks, hot glue, and cable ties for structure and strength.
• 📏 The base of the catapult is designed as a rectangle for enhanced stability.
• 📐 The catapult features a slanted side to optimize launch angle.
• 🔩 Each layer of popsicle sticks is positioned differently to improve strength and durability.
• 💡 An elastic mechanism is utilized to propel the projectile forward.
• 📊 A scale is used to measure the distance of the projectile's launch.
• 🤖 The presentation includes a demonstration of how the catapult operates.
• 👏 The group thanks the audience at the end of their presentation.

Q & A

What is the main objective of the project presented in the transcript?

The main objective of the project is to build a catapult that meets specific dimensional requirements and can shoot projectiles over a range of 5 meters.

What are the dimensions of the catapult mentioned in the presentation?

The catapult has dimensions of 17 cm by 16 cm by 15 cm.

What materials were used to construct the catapult?

The primary material used for the catapult's structure is popsicle sticks, along with hot glue for assembly and elastic materials for propulsion.

How does the design of the catapult enhance its stability?

The base of the catapult is designed in a rectangular shape, which contributes to its strength and stability during operation.

Why are the sides of the catapult slanted?

The sides of the catapult are slightly slanted to maximize the launch angle, which helps improve the distance the projectile can travel.

What technique was used to enhance the strength of the popsicle stick layers?

The popsicle sticks are layered in different positions, similar to a brick pattern, which increases the overall strength and durability of the structure.

What is the propulsion mechanism of the catapult?

The catapult uses an elastic band as the propulsion mechanism to propel the projectile forward when released.

How is the distance traveled by the projectile measured?

A scale is included in the setup, marked from 1 to 5 meters, to measure the distance the projectile travels after being launched.

What is the process for testing the different catapult designs?

The team plans to test each catapult design one by one and measure their performance to determine which design is the best based on distance achieved.

What was the overall tone and setting of the presentation?

The overall tone of the presentation was informative and collaborative, indicating a classroom or group project setting, with moments of excitement as seen through music and applause.