Before we began testing, we added foam bumpers to the bottom of the counterweights to reduce the impact force of the falling weight. Our final prototype is shown below:
We tested two different sling lengths, 17cm and 18cm. The 17cm sling was able to throw approximately 1/3 farther than the 18cm sling.
We tested three different hook shapes with increasing curvature. As the curvature is increased, the angle of release decreases since the sling is held onto longer. The hooks that we tested and results are shown below:
Results:
For the purpose of the upcoming competition with trebuchet group#2, we will not disclose the actual shot length.
Most curved hook – Projectile quickly hit the ground after launch, very short distance.
Slightly curved hook – Good distance, slightly lower than 45 degree release angle.
Straight hook – …lets just say we didn’t have a room big enough to measure the shot distance.
We are locked and loaded, ready for the competition. Bring it on trebuchet group #2.