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Re: Trajectory B&C
Posted: November 16th, 2008, 3:03 pm
by trombonegirl23
Would a ballista be work for this event?
Re: Trajectory B&C
Posted: November 16th, 2008, 3:44 pm
by andrewwski
We've debated the same thing on our team. We concluded that a ballista is using string as a torsional spring, thereby using the elastic properties of the string, and therefore should be allowed.
I think a clarification should be in order on that though.
Re: Trajectory B&C
Posted: November 16th, 2008, 3:46 pm
by trombonegirl23
What if you used something other then string like surgical tubing?
Re: Trajectory B&C
Posted: November 16th, 2008, 3:49 pm
by andrewwski
Well yes, that'd definitely be fine then. I'd be interested to see how that works in a ballista.
Re: Trajectory B&C
Posted: November 16th, 2008, 5:38 pm
by starpug
A Ballista definitely has a very good track record, it dates back to the times of Alexander the Great, and should definitely be legal considering that pretty much all solids have some elasticity.
Re: Trajectory B&C
Posted: November 18th, 2008, 6:39 am
by The Beast
can you use a metallic solid to power a trebuchet (To use as a wieght to pull it down)
Re: Trajectory B&C
Posted: November 18th, 2008, 12:52 pm
by cszg007
Re: Trajectory B&C
Posted: November 18th, 2008, 12:54 pm
by andrewwski
The Beast wrote:can you use a metallic solid to power a trebuchet (To use as a wieght to pull it down)
Read the rules already! I'm tired of people asking questions where they can find the answer by simply reading the rules.
3.a. The launching force must be supplied by non-metallic elastic solids...
May I suggest you read this thread, the wiki, and then hit the drawing board?
Re: Trajectory B&C
Posted: November 18th, 2008, 1:06 pm
by fleet130
Start with this:
Here's the process:
1. Brainstorm/Investigate
2. Plan Design
3. Build
4. Test
5. Evaluate results
6. Go back to #1 and start over
Repeat this process as many times as necessary to get your desired results or until you run out of time, money or desire.
Re: Trajectory B&C
Posted: November 18th, 2008, 3:08 pm
by haven chuck
Also, try to think up other ways to adjust variables. For instance, the catapult we used last didn't follow any previous designs and just came from someone playing with bungee cords. Also, make sure you build your prototypes and such with screws and hings that can easily be removed rather than hot glue or nails that are difficult to remove. This way you can change a flaw without building a completely new device. Finally, always start with things that are cheap and easy to manuver and then if it works move to more stable, reliable methods. Also, look at the wiki for some starters.
