How Can I Scale Up My Trebuchet Design for Better Range?
Asked by CraftyNinja42
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?
Answers
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!
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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!
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CraftyNinja42: That sounds interesting! Do you have a go-to tutorial for the Onager that you followed?