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SOLIDWORKS Midterm Design Project
Project type:
3D modeling & precision analysis
Date:
November 2022
Location:
University of Washington - Tacoma
Role:
Design team
Team members:
Simon Njoroge, Ryan Lindbom & Kara Nichols
The project involved designing a 3D modeled projectile launcher that could launch a ping pong ball weighing 2.7 grams and with a diameter of 40mm. The launcher and all its parts had to adhere to a volume constraint of 3.0 cubic inches of 3D printed parts, using only PLA material. Additional material provided were 2x #33 rubber bands, and glue for permanently connecting parts. The model had to fit within a 5" x 6" x 7" box and have a maximum of 5 parts.
The design had to take into account the properties of PLA material and rubber bands, which affected the strength and elasticity of the launcher. The push plunger cannon design incorporated features such as a compact barrel, sturdy base, and a peg mechanism to hold the tension of the rubber bands when the plunger was deployed. The shape and size of the ping pong ball were considered to ensure a snug fit in the barrel and a straight trajectory upon launch.
The design was tested and refined to optimize tension and launch angle for the farthest launch (117.6 in). The compact size and limited number of parts made it an ideal project for hobbyists and enthusiasts looking to create their own custom launchers.
