Student Designed Physics Project Details
Project Information
- Trebuchet Catapult
- Project date : Spring 2022
- Progress Bar: Project Completed
100%
Project Overview
This student-designed physics project focused on building a functional trebuchet using a drop-weight mechanism and quick-release sling. The project explored torque, moment arms, and launch optimization to maximize throwing distance and demonstrate the mechanics behind medieval siege engines.
The goal was to apply principles of mechanics and energy transfer to design and test a trebuchet system, while gaining hands-on experience with optimization of lever arms and release mechanisms.
Key Features
Drop-Weight Design
Implemented a weighted counterbalance system to power the trebuchet arm.
Quick-Release Mechanism
Designed a sling and release hook for efficient projectile launches.
Mechanical Optimization
Applied torque and moment arm calculations to improve launch distance and efficiency.
Conducted launch trials to measure swing motion, height, and projectile trajectory.