Re: OT: Repeatably lobbing "projectiles"

On Thu, 21 Nov 2024 00:04:45 -0700, Don Y
<blockedofcourse@foo.invalid> wrote:

We're trying to make a mechanism that will allow for the
REPEATABLE lobbing of small projectiles over short (0-20 ft)
distances.
>
We've tried using a constant force with a variable launch angle
(higher for shorter).
>
And, a variable force with a constant launch angle (push harder
to throw farther).
>
The former seems to be easier to get repeatability.  But, still
not great as it constrains HOW you develop the force to be applied.
>
A ferrous projectile would probably be easier to control
(think: rail gun) but then the projectile starts to become a safety
issue.
>
Now, we're looking at alternate ways of developing that propulsive
force -- e.g., controlled air or water (messy!) pressure.  But,
I suspect qualifying the release valves' performance will prove to
be a stumbling point (and, how it changes).
>
Any other ideas, given latitude in the design of the projectile?

Boring, but think 'sling'. david and Goliath etc.

Rotating arm, center-fed ~ counterbalanced.

axle tilt, fixed length arm (rpm), angle of release,

Golfers would go for it.

RL