Additional Projects

Kinematics & Woodworking

Projectile Ballista Launcher

This project was completed as part of a physics class challenge. The objective was to design and build a tennis ball launcher that could accurately launch a projectile into a small target bucket at a specific distance using only elastic potential and mechanical energy. The design was constrained to fit within a 1m x 1m x 1m space, utilizing readily available materials.

We chose a ballista-style launcher, utilizing standard 2x4 lumber for the frame, a gate hook release trigger mechanism, and adjustable peg slots along the crossbar to control the elastic band tension. For the elastic component, we used an exercise band run through a PVC guide pipe to center and fire the tennis ball.

During testing, we encountered challenges with firing distance degradation as the guiding tape wore away. We resolved this by introducing a small PVC "scoop" to cradle the projectile. In the final target competition, our ballista performed exceptionally well, consistently launching projectiles over 25 meters with high structural stability.

Additive Manufacturing & Repair

3D Printer Customization

I’ve owned a 3D printer for several years, and while I’ve had occasional minor issues, nothing major had happened until the extruder/thermistor failed, rendering the printer unusable. After trying multiple fixes, I decided to replace the extruder/hot end assembly entirely and upgraded to a new model.

This process took quite a bit of time, as I had to combine some existing components with the new model and rewire part of the motherboard. Unfortunately, some of the parts I received were broken, forcing me to improvise by using old parts with the new ones. Despite the setbacks, I successfully resolved the issue and got the printer back in working order.