I'm trying to build a catapult and I've come across this cool floating arm trebuchet tutorial (https://www.instructables.com/The-Floating-Arm-Trebuchet/). However, I'm concerned that it won't be able to launch a projectile at least 12 meters, and I'm not very experienced in this area. I'd like to modify the design to make it a bit larger while still keeping it within a one-meter cube. I've looked for tutorials, but they either seem too big or aren't powerful enough. Any advice on how to scale this up?
2 Answers
If you’re open to alternatives, have you considered making an Onager instead? It's simpler to construct. Just build a square frame, thread the rope through holes on the sides, insert your throwing arm, and twist it tight while securing the cross brace. I built one back in 6th grade, and it could easily toss an apple over 12 meters!
You should be able to scale your trebuchet just fine within a 1m cube! Start by checking out YouTube for some 3D modeling tutorials, especially using SketchUp. Make the vertical part of the trebuchet a full meter high and extend your rail to a meter too. For wheels, you can find some great options at Harbor Freight or a Habitat for Humanity Restore. Also, barbell weights can serve as effective counterweights. I've built several trebuchets myself, so I can confirm this design strategy works!
That sounds interesting! Do you have a go-to tutorial for the Onager that you followed?