Trebuchet Team Members: Linda Hib, Charlene Obille, Hanh Phan, James Santos Lab: Thursday University of the Pacific School of Engineering and Computer Science December 4, 2003
Overview / Outline Research: Operation & Development Guideline & Theory Optimization & Safety Design: Design Simulations Sketches Construction: Building the trebuchet Competition Rank based on score not distance Report: Design Logs Final Sketches
Problem Definition
Introduction Our objective was to build a trebuchet that would launch a one ounce hacky sack with certain constraints The overall grade is based on the performance, analysis, and the implementation of the design
Constraints Dimensions: 2.5 ’ by 3 ’ by 4 ’ Weight: 10lbs, anything over is penalized Counterweight 12 pounds Sling & Counterweight Anchor Non - Metal Trigger 10 ’ from Trebuchet Must be safe Dowel Half-Inch minimum Hardwood
Objectives/Criteria Build a trebuchet Use java simulation Analyze results Graph data Modify Competition Time limit Pickup Setup Launching in optimal conditions
Approach
L1 vs. Distance
Angle vs. Time
Preliminary Ideas Longer sling length Shorter counterweight anchor Swing arm with varied settings Wide base design Metal braces for support Trapezoid shaped sides
Sketches
Refinement Trapezoid sides -> Triangle Sides Shorter sling length Longer Anchor Added an angled nail for sling release Added ring to release sling for smooth release Added metal sling track
Analysis Energy Conservation: Dowel rotation (friction) Length of counterweight anchor Friction of release mechanism Length of sling
Decision / Implementation
Results / Discussion Performance: 43 ’ Negative 25 ’ due to weight.7 ’ Offset Weight 18 pounds Score: -12.1
Suggested Improvements Create a design that isn ’ t so wide. Use thinner cut wood. Multiple pre set release angles. Smoother dowel rotation.
Conclusion The main problem with the trebuchet was that it weighed a lot. The weight of the trebuchet lead to poor score results. Design revisions lead to a drastic change in final design
Special Thanks Tool and Workspace help: Wat Dhamawararam Buddhist Temple The Engineering Workshop Instructors: Professor Litton & Golanbari Influence: Poeun Hib Stores: Home Depot