MAE 208 Dynamics with Dr. Katherine Saul featured a kinematics/kinetics final project, in which groups of four individuals would create either a linear or angular launcher with a budget of under $50. Each group would design a linear launcher and angular launcher and report calculations to Dr. Saul. After ideation, my group chose to create a spring-based launcher with MDF, 2×4 planks, a compression spring, and a wooden dowel. I used my experience with woodworking to build the launcher with assistance from group members, and while our launcher did not accumulate the most points for accuracy, it was fairly accurate and won the award for furthest range.
Design Report PDF Link:
Launcher During Construction
Completed Launcher