Download Article
Download Article
A catapult is an old medieval siege engine consisting of a large arm that used tension to “catapult” large objects far. Designing and constructing your catapult is easier than you may think. A well-made model representing a full catapult may be made using only a few pieces of material. This article will show you how to create one!
Steps
-
Sketch out your launcher design as a blueprint. Visualize how you want your catapult to look and then make a detailed blueprint. -
Gather all the necessary materials for building the design. Some popsicle sticks for the structure, a plastic spoon to act as the launcher and rubber bands to keep everything together.- Cut or shape the popsicle sticks to the desired length.
- Lay them out to match the blueprint.
.jpg)
Advertisement
-
Build a sturdy base. Attach the sticks with rubber bands so as to make a square shape. -
Make side attachments to help with the stability. Assemble two pairs of sticks joined to make a 'V' shape. Join these to the base afterward. -
Attach a launch arm to your base. Pick a "front side" and add a stick horizontally a few centimeters above the base. Add one to the top as well, binding it diagonally to the V shapes as shown in the picture. Place the spoon behind the top stick, binding it to the bottom stick.- Make sure it can pivot freely.
Advertisement
-
Test your launcher. Try launching a marshmallow or a small object by placing it on the spoon, turning it backward and releasing. -
Identify and fix any weak points in your launcher. Weak tension while launching can be common. You can tweak the tension by adding or getting rid of rubber bands in the relevant part. Consider adjusting the launch angle if required.
Advertisement
Expert Q&A
Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
Advertisement
Tips
Submit a Tip
All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
Name
Please provide your name and last initial
Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
Warnings
- Use only soft projectiles like marshmallows when using.Thanks
Advertisement
Things You'll Need
Preparing
- Notebook
- Pencil
Building
- Popsicle sticks (about 10)
- Rubber bands
- Plastic spoon
Finalizing
- Paint (optional)
References
About This Article
Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 120 times.
Advertisement
