Play Catapult

Hi Friends, how are you all? certainly not exceptional. if anyone is sad, do not worry, forget your sorrow soon, because as usual we will air 'smart & fun' fun with science experiments are certainly a shame if to pass up.

You must have heard about the slingshot. Well slingshot was actually derived from the catapult, which is a tool of war often formerly used in a wide variety of great battles before the invention of the cannon. do not imagine it like a slingshot catapult that often we play. catapults that actually is very large even to use it takes a lot of people.

Well this time we will try to make a miniature of the various types of catapults, the Viking catapult. One of the characteristics of this viking catapult he is on the move and easier to use, but its strength is no doubt. this is one weapon that caused the nation viking explorers called the nation a very respected ... well let's get started.

To make a viking catapult, the necessary tools are not much you need is:

• Rubber bracelets 12 pieces
• Satay skewers round 6 equal pieces
• A plastic bottle cap
• Scissors / cutter

Well now do the following

• First we create the basic framework catapults that by assembling wooden skewers and combine it with a rubber band as shown in the side
• Create a tool thrower with bottle cap puncture in three sections and tie it with a rubber
• Then after it was united with the tool frame slingshots and catapults thrower is ready to be used
• Use a small crumpled paper as slingshot ammunition or can also use a ping-pong ball

Done already catapults us, but do not worry to make the simulation more exciting battle with your friends in groups, have survived and there is as a striker.

The task of the attacker is to destroy the enemy stronghold, while the last task is to destroy all of catapult used by attackers. if there is already a winner do exchanges that attack becomes survive and vice versa.

How? not easy at all. Did my friend what causes paper science and the ping-pong ball shot out of catapults and toward the target? and if you want a more challenging not, you can perform the following activities:

• Calculate What is the farthest distance that can be achieved by catapults that you make? and trying to do improvements to find a way to shoot the most distant
• Then you try to replace the paper and a ping-pong ball with a much heavier objects such as iron or stone (navigate to an empty spot and no one), is there a difference?
• If you want more challenging again try to create a bigger catapult of course with the help of brother or your parents at home, and watch how the magnitude of the power of the catapult

See you again mate science in the next experiment, Be Smart, Always Fun and Creative ...

Hunting, fishing, catch, capture, archery and so is the way humans seek game, and in order to achieve the goal that people try to use various means and methods of hunting, and on how to get the game might be a different way.

There is a bit of a unique way of hunting that I have ever seen and I've also been trying to do, maybe this way is somewhat risky, and it takes patience and a high accuracy.

This method takes extra patience, waiting for the target to be hunted or visible surface and the target fish that are hunted.

Archery hunt or fish in the river or pond of clear water or strong currents this is an effective way to get the game without losing a result, why? as the result of having been exposed to hunting arrows we will not run away and we will easily pull it up without having to go down to the river or pond.

Equipment needed may not exist in the store or at the market, because the tool is the result of its own assemblies, equipment, among others:
1. Needle arrows
2. Thread rod
3. Reel fishing line
4. Catapult

1. Needle arrows
This needle is a modification of iron or nails are made in such a way to form an arrowhead, filed or grinded manner. Find a material that is not easily corroded (stenlees steel).





2. Thread rod
Fishing line is used here because of the flexibility and elasticity. We use a fishing line with a diameter of 0.45 mm were rolled into a scroll made of bamboo or other material that is formed in such a way with the handle for grip.



3. Reel fishing line
The rolls are made of bamboo in the middle holes, better roads we take bamboo bamboo near a tree stump, because the hole is rather small. Take a section approximately 1 out of bamboo and give the skin in a hole about 1-2 mm.





4. Catapult
Here serves as a trigger catapults to hurl arrows needle. The material can be of wood or tree trunk shaped like the letter Y. With a bicycle tire rubber strap and thread pelontarnya thick and strong as the needle hook arrow.



How merangkainya, fishing line is wound into a roll of bamboo then end of the thread was tied to the needle tip arrows.



Then a needle is inserted into the hole in the lint roller, with a pointed tip that leads to the outside. And the needle tip arrows tied fishing line is clamped at the end of the thread rollers grip rubber cover on old tires as the retaining clamps. Pinch the thumb.



Then attach the rubber catapult arrows in the middle of the needle that has a hole. Then aim at the target, pull the catapult towards the front like archery, remove the needle thread tongs. Needle sped toward the target.

If we stay immobilized target can roll the yarn can be lifted up game.

Remember, the thread rod should be tight and not loose as if it is loose at the time of needle arrows leveled again be turned towards us.

Here it takes patience and a high accuracy, because the target is always moving and this tool without binoculars. It only takes instinct.

You want to try it?

Catapult games provide fun and addicting game play for casual and serious gamers alike. Numerous catapult games are available online and as mobile apps for players looking for fun games on their phone. More complex challenges range from destroying polar bears to conquering neighboring kingdoms, while other games are based on simple goals of distance that require catapulted objects to be thrown as far as possible.

Crazy Penguin Catapult

Crazy Penguin Catapult is available online and as an app, including a free lite version for download. The game has received several recognitions and awards for its creative game play, sleek design, controls and user interface. The game premise is simple, as penguins are launched to complete missions against polar bears who have invaded and taken many of the flightless birds captive.

Catapult Madness

Players of Catapult Madness must save a kingdom under siege by throwing peasants as far as possible to get help from neighboring castles. The goal of the online game is to throw one of the peasants 50,000 feet. If you achieve this goal, players will unlock endless play mode or extra characters. High scores can be submitted online as well. Catapult Madness can be played online or downloaded as an app from Armor Games, Inc. It is their No. 1 selling game in the U.S. and abroad.

Crush the Castle

Crush the Castle is another popular series from Armor Games developed for the computer, iPhone and other mobile devices. In the game, players must destroy neighboring castles using careful aim and timing to knock the adjacent structures down. Crush the Castle 2 and Crush the Castle 3 offer similar storylines and game play with slightly more complicated maps and challenges.

Other Games

Armor Games has produced similar catapult games including Ice Castle Blaster and The Great Seige. The Great Seige provides more intricate story and complex game play, while Ice Castle Blaster offers arcade-style gaming. A variety of other generic catapult games are available from numerous gaming sites as well, involving launched animals and other objects.

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When you think of a catapult, you probably think of that huge wood structure ancient armies used to throw large rocks and other projectiles at the opposition. But the term "catapult" can be used to describe more than just these archaic weapons; think of a slingshot or the tool on aircraft carriers that launches fighter jets---these are both catapults. To create your own small and easy catapult, you'll only need a few office supplies.

Instructions

1 Make your elastic band smaller and tighter by looping it around itself.
2 Place the elastic bland around the metal ends of the paper clamp. The elastic should fit snugly around the clamp, but it should not force the clamp open. The elastic should be about a 1/2 inch away from the black part of the clamp.
3 Place the paper clamp upright on a flat surface so that it is standing on its metal ends. With the elastic around the clamp, the clamp should look like an "A."
4 Insert a pen through the structure beside the right metal end. Insert it under the black clamp and on top of the elastic band. Pull the pen through until half of it is sticking out on either side of the clamp.
5 Lay the clamp down so that the left metal end is lying flat. The right metal end should be perpendicular to the left metal end and the flat surface. The pen should be sitting atop the black part of the clamp horizontal to the flat surface.
6 Place a projectile---such as a crumpled piece of paper---on top of the pen where the elastic meets the metal end that is perpendicular to the flat surface. Hold the projectile in place with one of your hands.
7 Pull back the metal end of the clamp with your other hand and let it go. The projectile will go flying.

Building a catapult serves as an excellent class activity for lessons on projectile motion or medieval warfare. An engaging project, catapult building requires inexpensive construction materials -- such as wood or PVC -- and encourages as much innovation as possible in the designs. A catapult project challenges students to fulfill three main objectives: longer range, higher projectile weight capacity, and greater accuracy. Students are free to choose among several types of catapults which they can modify for optimum performance.

Trebuchet

The choice speed weapon in medieval Europe, the trebuchet -- also called the "Ingenium" -- survived up to a century after the invention of gunpowder. A trebuchet has four main parts: the frame, the beam, the counterweight, and the sling. It harnesses the potential energy of the suspended counterweight and uses that to hurl the projectile. Ideally, the counterweight weighs as much as 80 to 100 times the weight of the missile. Trebuchets are an excellent choice for catapult projects because of the straightforward scaling involved -- areas as the square of the lengths, and volumes and weights as cubes.

Ballista

Ballistas were the giant crossbows of the Greeks, which propelled massive darts or arrows along a straight trajectory using the torsion in two twisted skeins of rope, hair, or sinew. Because they have more moving parts than the trebuchet, model ballistas are slightly harder to scale, design, and build. Braided nylon is an excellent material for the cord bundle. The strength of this bundle will determine the ballista's missile weight capacity. Provided the frame is strong enough and the cords sufficiently twisted, a projectile can cover a long range with superb accuracy.

Mangonel

A mangonel, whose name comes from the Latin word "manganon" meaning "engine of war", is in essence a torsion catapult. Like the ballista, a sturdy twisted skein provides the driving force for its missiles. It has a throwing arm similar to that of the trebuchet, but instead of a sling, it uses a bowl- or spoon-shaped extension. It loses to the ballista in accuracy and to the trebuchet in the size -- though not necessarily the weight -- of the projectile it can throw. However, it can cover a longer range than the trebuchet and achieve faster missile speed. Students usually find mangonels the easiest to build.

Leonardo da Vinci's Catapult

Many consider da Vinci's catapult a vast improvement on the catapult designs of his age, although no records exist of their being built or used in battle. The design relies on a simple leaf spring for the energy needed to throw the projectile. This catapult uses a throwing arm similar to the mangonel, but longer and attached to a rotating drum at one end. Cocking the throwing arm causes the accumulation of energy in the leaf spring. When the throwing arm is released, this energy rotates the drum and gives the arm a huge amount of acceleration. This design is efficient and excellent for illustrating energy transfer among a machine's components.

Toy catapults are available in stores, but they are more fun to make at home. The most creative and determined catapult enthusiast will build a large backyard machine which will throw water balloons across the street. Those who are looking for a simple toy will build smaller machines for launches across a room. There are many types and sizes of catapults from which to choose for those who need distance or just some fun.

Mouse Trap Catapult

The mouse trap catapult is built from a wooden mousetraps with a metal clasp. This clasp will break fingers so caution in using this catapult is wise. The trigger mechanism, which is the loose piece of wire on the trap, is removed. A spoon is taped to the metal square, which is the piece of the trap that snaps onto the mouse. Tape the whole square and then pull the taped piece back. Load the spoon and let go. This is the simplest homemade catapult.

Backyard Ogre Catapult

The backyard ogre catapult shoots projectiles approximately 10 yards. The catapult is approximately 3 feet tall and is built with 2-by-3 or 2-by-4 boards. A simple square base supports a 3-foot-long arm which is attached to a bungee cord. The bungee cord pulls the arm forward to propel the object at the top of the board. A small basket, such as a cup or box, is attached to the top of the arm. The arm is attached to the base with a pin and hook, enabling movement.

Table Top Troll Catapult

This catapult resembles the ogre catapult on a smaller scale. The table top is approximately a foot high, including the base. The arm is attached to the base with a metal bar inserted through the wood. The bar is attached to the base and allows for ease of movement. The top of the arm includes a basket similar to the ogre. While the ogre uses a bungee cord for launching, the table top uses a rubber band cut into one long piece.

Teeny Tiny Catapult

The teeny tiny catapult is perhaps the least dangerous of all the catapults because it is so tiny. It is made from Popsicle sticks and masking tape. The arm is held with masking tape and the basket is a masking tape box. A rubber band, cut to a length of 5 inches, is attached to the arm and causes the slingshot action. This little catapult is perfect for kids as a craft project and for home use. The basket is only big enough to shoot small pieces of paper or other soft projectiles.

In "Hamtaro: Ham Ham Heartbreak" for the Game Boy Advance, you play as the cartoon hamsters from the anime series "Hamtaro." The adventure takes you across the small world of "Hamtaro" to battle a bad hamster named Spat. To face Spat toward the end of the adventure, you must enter his tower. When you approach the tower, you will find the front gate locked. You must get in the door without using the front gate.

Instructions

1 Complete the marble puzzle in the Wild Woods. Ride the minecart south until you see a sword in a stone. Put one red, one blue and one green marble, in no particular order, into the three slots under the "sword." You will automatically remove the sword from the stone. The sword is actually a spoon.
2 Give the inventor's wife the spoon in the Wild Woods. The wife will give the spoon to the inventor and he will complete the Hamapault 2 catapult for later use.
3 Approach the front gate of Spat Tower. You must see a scene in which you discover you cannot open the gate in order to continue.
4 Visit the inventor in Wild Woods. He will now let you use his Hamapault 2 catapult to fly over the gate and into Spat Tower. Approach the Hamapault 2 and select "Stickie."

Many children owned a catapult back in the 1950s, when catapults were popular. The catapult craze didn't come without its share of broken windows and serious head injuries, which is why the craze nowadays encourages the use of soft items to pelt a target (one that doesn't breathe). Soft items for your catapult might include water balloons or marshmallows.

Instructions

1 Take a 1-inch PVC section and two 6-inch lengths of PVC pipe. Mop primer into the "V" ends of the "Y" section. Top the primer with glue and fit the two straight pipes into the "Y" section. Allow the sections to dry.
2 Drill two holes opposite each other on each stem of the "V" near the edge.
3 Sand rough edges of the pipe to prevent injury.
4 Thread each end of the elastic through the holes and tie the ends securely.
5 Retie the elastic if it is too long and stretches out too far for the reach of your arm. Cut off the excess elastic and discard.

Dionysius the Elder invented the basic catapult in 399 B.C. Some catapults were able to throw stones weighing as much as 350 pounds. The amount of force with which these stones were launched made catapults primary weapons of war even into medieval times.

Variations

Two variations of the catapult design were created from the original machine. The single-armed catapult was designed for throwing large objects, such as rocks, into the air. The two-armed design, known as the ballista, was used to shoot large arrows. The Romans added wheels to both designs so that the siege engines would have more maneuverability.

Invention of the Cannon

The cannon is one of the first forms of artillery that used gunpowder. Early cannons were not particularly safe, and could only be fired a limited number of times per day. The earliest use of a cannon is not known; however, the Scots defended Stirling Castle in 1341 with at least one cannon, and three were used in the battle of Crcy-en-Ponthieu in 1346. Between 1350 and 1400, use of cannons as weapons became more widespread.

Early Cannons

When cannon use first began spreading, 600-pound machines were considered "large guns." Although pieces weighing as much as 1,000 pounds, and one as heavy as 9,500, existed before 1400, these were so immobile that they were generally considered useless. As a result, heavy cannons stayed in the 700-pound range, with some as light as 43 pounds.

Similar Artillery

The cannon's use of gunpowder as a projectile method is what separated it from earlier siege weapons. Three variations on the cannon were developed and commonly used as artillery. Mortars were short-barreled machines that had little range, but were often used for hurling bombs over obstacles such as walls. Bombards were very heavy pieces that had moderate range and were used for battering walls down. Culverins were light and fit small to medium-sized cannon balls that could be hurled over large distances.
Although armies experimented with other types of weapons, the development of these was often expensive and more dangerous than more traditional firearms, which prevent their widespread use.

Legos are ideal buildings blocks for children who enjoy exploring architecture and model building. Not only are they great toys for children, but they can also contribute to a child's understanding of physics and engineering. Lego catapults are creative structures that can be used to thrust small objects into the air, either as an experiment or just for fun.

Instructions

1 Take a Lego block that is 1-by-10 sections long and another that is 1-by-12 sections long. Place the 1-by-10 horizontally on top of the the 1-by-12 piece so that one side is evenly lined up and the other is not. Repeat this for two more blocks of the same size.
2 Attach these pieces on either side of the width of a flat Lego piece that is 8-by-12 sections long. Take two Lego pieces that are 1-by-10 and secure one on top of the other. Secure it to the front edge of the catapult between the two pieces attached to the sides.
3 Take one blue sign connector and insert a long Lego beam piece into one of the bottom holes from the center of the 1-by-10 front Lego piece. Secure a small bowl-like object you wish to use for the catapult to the end of the beam with duct tape.
4 Insert a "plus sign" Lego piece on the other side of the hole to stop the arm of the catapult at a certain point. Insert a circle connector with three holes through the plus sign connector and insert each end into the third hole from end of the front facing 1-by-10 Lego piece.
5 Place two stacked 1-by-10 Lego pieces at the back edge of the catapult and push a beam through the sixth hole from one end, making sure that it is long enough to be secured on either side. This will stop the catapult arm from launching too far forward.
6 Secure a plate piece that is 2-by-3 sections long in the center of each 1-by-10 piece. Place a plate that is 1-by-2 sections long on the top center circles of both 1-by-10 pieces once again. Stretch a rubber band between those two places where the catapult sits and hook it on to each end.
7 Place an object in the small bowl at one end of the catapult, pull back on the rubber band and release to launch the object into the air.

Lego projects are great for adults and children alike and setting out to build a Lego catapult is a great way to put your imagination to work. Legos are inexpensive, readily available and can be used to create any size and shape catapult you wish to build.

Instructions

1 Build the working portion of your catapult by using 2 Lego wheels with the rubber removed. Fashion the wheels just ahead of the catapult's anchoring wall and build the catapults all around the wheels hub piece. The arm must be able to withstand considerable pressure without falling apart. Secure a rubber band over the wheels and around the anchoring wall.
2 Fasten the catapult to a heavy Lego base with enough structure and weight to keep it from moving when fired. The mechanism can mount on a ship, rolling cart or any other item you can imagine. The key here is to create a stable base for your siege engine.
3 Fire your catapult by pulling down on the end of the catapult's arm and releasing it quickly.
4 Experiment with different objects, varying weight and shape until you find the object that goes farthest. Add additional rubber bands to extend your distance and weight capabilities. With a little practice and a few friends, you can lead the Lego rebellion to victory in your own living room.

Catapults were used to tear down castle walls in the middle ages. Create your own mini-version of a catapult and shoot things far into the distance. Make your own catapult with a 50-yard range and build your own homemade "medieval rocket launcher," although not as dangerous. Make one from bits and bobs you find around the house. Once you build a catapult that shoots 50 yards, pick up a ping pong ball and aim, set, fire!

Instructions

1 Take the 6-inch wooden block and lie it on a flat surface.
2 Glue a clothes pin to the wooden block. Center it lengthwise.
3 Attach the bottle lid to the end of the Popsicle stick. Leave enough space to push it down before firing your catapult.
4 Place a ping pong ball on top of your bottle lid and test your catapult. Measure the distance it fires. It should reach up to 50 yards but, if not, find a large clothes peg and a separate spring to attach underneath to create more elasticity.
5 Paint your catapult.

What is a Trebuchet?

A trebuchet is a machine used during medieval times to propel heavy objects vast distances. They were primarily used to bring down castle walls during a siege. The trebuchet is powered by gravity and centrifugal forces from two axes. This made it an intimidating battlefield weapon during the Middle Ages.

Design of a Trebuchet

A trebuchet consists of a long beam attached to a pivot rod on a heavy frame. The beam is fitted into a guide chute to make sure the beam moves in a straight line. There is a counterweight on one end of the beam and a sling attached to the other. A heavy object, usually a rock, is placed in the sling, which is then closed and secured to a release pin on the beam. Once the trebuchet is pointed toward the target, it is ready to fire.

Firing a Trebuchet

The counterweight is dropped, swinging the beam toward the target. The sling, with the rock in it, is whipped skyward and forward. When the counterweight hits the bottom, the beam stops moving. The sling keeps moving skyward and forward. It swings the rock forward on a second axis multiplying the centrifugal force. When the rock approaches the apex of arc, the release pin is triggered. This lets go of one end of the sling, allowing the rock to fly free.

Impact of a Trebuchet

The rock is now flying toward the target with tremendous force and speed. A typical medieval trebuchet could hurl a 300-lb rock 300 yards. A series of these projectiles could bring down even the most fortified castle walls and crush any soldiers in the way. Trebuchets were more accurate than other catapults of the Middle Ages. The projectile flies somewhat straight because the beam travels through a guide chute. If the position of the trebuchet and mass of the projectile remain constant, the point of impact can be predicted with reasonable accuracy.

Things Trebuchets Throw

In addition to heavy rocks, trebuchets were used to toss dead people and animals into castle grounds in an effort to spread disease. There are also stories of using decapitated enemy heads to reduce enemy morale and beehives to sting the opposition into submission. Flaming oil was also propelled by trebuchets to ignite wooden buildings within the castle grounds.

A catapult is a type of siege weapon that was used to attack castles in medieval times. This type of device requires stored energy to propel an object into the air. An example of stored energy is a spring. Demonstrating how a catapult works is done by making a working model. You can make your paper clip catapult based on the principles of a simple spring.

Instructions

1 Bend the small inner loop of the paper clip up to make a 45-degree angle. You can do this by hand or by using a pair of pliers.
2 Place the large loop of the paper clip on the 2-by-4-inch block of wood. Secure the paper clip onto the wood with staples using the staple gun. If a staple gun is not available, use strips of duct tape.
3 Set the paper clip catapult on a flat surface. Pull back on the small loop with your finger. Place a cotton ball on top of the paper clip.
4 Release the paper clip to propel the cotton ball into the air. Measure the distance the cotton ball traveled with the measuring tape.
5 Repeat this process to construct additional paper clip catapults.

In "The Legend of Spyro: Dawn of the Dragon" the Dark Master, Malefor, threatens to destroy the world with a sea of blazing fire. Spyro and his companions vow to stop him, but Malefor's forces are numerous. Spyro retreats to the ancient Dragon City, where the citizens do all they can to hold off the impending attack. Several Siege Towers arrive in front of the city, each shooting flaming boulders that rip the dragon's home to shreds. You must destroy the Siege Towers as the Dragon City citizens find a way to escape.

Instructions

1 Fill your magic meter by attacking the large green crystal as soon as the battle begins. Small grublins start attacking your catapult; kill all of them.
2 Look at the damage meter on the screen. When it fills up, the catapult has taken too much damage. Go to the side of the catapult to repair it. If you do not repair it in time, it blows up and you must restart the battle.
3 Run behind the catapult when its occupant, a mole, asks for more ammunition. Pull the lever to drop ammunition to the mole.
4 Run to the right side of the wall. A Siege Tower has advanced to the city wall. Destroy the purple crystal on the Siege Tower. The mole is knocked out of the catapult, and he asks you to help him get back on it.
5 Go to the left side of the wall and walk next to the mole. When enemies appear, the mole stops walking. Kill them all to make the mole walk again. If you see the catapult damage meter filling up, leave the mole and go repair it.
6 Pull the lever to reload the catapult when the mole reaches it. Keep the enemies away from the catapult until another Siege Tower appears to the left.
7 Go to the left and destroy the purple crystal on the Siege Tower. Reload the catapult. The mole destroys the final Siege Tower, ending the battle.

Catapults are well-known to most people, maintaining their fame mostly through movies, history books and video games. Although their uses are relatively more benign today, they were once feared, serving as sophisticated weapons of war. Several examples of catapults can be found today, from military use to common backyard activities.

Slingshots

The basic premise behind all catapult types is turning potential energy into kinetic energy, using it to release an object. A toy for most kids -- and a weapon for some hunters -- exists in a common slingshot, which is also a miniature catapult. Slingshots usually use a stretchable plastic material, which connects to two crossbars. The user places a projectile within the center of the stretchy piece, stretches it, aims and fires.

Aircraft Carriers

An essential use of catapults still comes from the military -- specifically from Navy aircraft carriers. Each aircraft carrier contains four different catapults that are used to get planes up to high speeds to allow them to take off with extremely short runways. The catapult consists of two cylinders that contain pistons.

Clay Shooting

Clay-shooting offers many advantages. It allows hunters to shoot at a target without actually shooting anything that's alive, it provides an opportunity to practice at a rapid pace and it also allows a moving target. Clay shooting is exhibited in many competitions each year. It all stems from a simple catapult that closely resembles an ancient ballista catapult, shooting objects in a straight line into the air, usually at a 45-degree angle.

Other Catapults

Although ancient catapults don't exist today for practical purposes, many workable units still exist for museums or demonstrations. These include trebuchets, which are large launchers that use a heavy counterweight to launch objects; a mangonel, which contains four wheels and launches projectiles with an arc pattern; or a ballista, which shoots objects in a straight line.

The catapult is a machine used to hurl projectiles a great distance. A well-constructed catapult is an effective tool used to launch a variety of objects. Throughout history catapults were one of the most effective and powerful devices used in warfare. Today the art of designing and building catapults is a popular science project that demonstrates the laws of physics, projection and gravity. With a 2-foot long base and a 3-foot long throw arm, the outdoor catapult can launch objects 10 yards.

Instructions

Build the Framework

1 Put on the safety goggles. Lay the wood flat with the wider surface facing up. Make a mark 3 1/2-inches from the end of a 24-inch wood piece. This is the catapult's pivot hole. Drill a hole about 1-inch in diameter, wide enough for the broomstick to slide through it.
2 Make a mark at 5 1/2-inches and at 8-inches from the same end of the wood. Draw lines over your marks and across the top side of the wood. Draw two lines about 1/2-inch down each side of the wood and connect the parallel lines on either side, forming the outline of a rectangle.
3 Saw the parallel lines across the top of the wood. Chisel and hammer the lines along the sides of the wood. Remove the rectangular slot formed from the wood block.
4 Repeat Step 1 through Step 3 with the other 24-inch piece of wood.
5 Mark a line 2 1/2-inches from the end of a 14-inch wood piece. Saw over the marked line and half way down both sides of the wood. Continue to saw until you remove the 2 1/2-inch rectangle, leaving a hollowed out end at one side of the wood piece.
6 Repeat Step 5 for a second 14-inch piece. Cut out and remove only one end of each piece.
7 Fit the end of the 14-inch piece into the cut-out rectangle of the 24-inch piece to form a T shape. Align the sides of both pieces across the top of the T formation. Each piece should fit snugly.
8 Screw the two perpendicular pieces in place. One 14-inch piece of wood should still be left. Do not cut a rectangular slot into the third wood piece.
9 Place the two 24-inch pieces and the two 7 1/2-inch pieces on their sides, parallel to each other. Screw the corners of the two 24-inch pieces and the two 7 1/2-inch pieces together to form a rectangle. The cut out rectangles on the two 24-inch pieces should be aligned and face the outside of the rectangle, not the inside.
10 Screw one of the large eye hooks into the outside center of the 7 1/2-inch piece closest to the rectangular slots.
11 Screw the 10 1/2-inch long wood piece across the top of the two upright 14-inch pieces. Attach the piece to the side that is farthest from the metal hook.
12 Measure and draw lines along the ends of the remaining 14-inch wood piece by holding it against the backside of the horizontal 10 1/2-inch piece and the top of the 7 1/2-inch piece with the hook. Saw off the angled lines to form slants on both ends. Fit the custom cut piece over the center of the 7-inch wood piece and against the center of the back of the 10 1/2-inch piece.
13 Screw the cut wood into place to form an angle connecting the two horizontal pieces. This adds strength to the catapult.

Build and Install the Swing Arm

14 Drill a hole through the width of a 28-inch wood piece about 1/2-inch from the end of the wood. The diameter should be wide enough for the broomstick to slide through it. The 28-inch wood piece, or the swing arm, should fit loosely over the broomstick and rotate freely.
15 Find a small cardboard cup or cut down a plastic cup until it is two inches deep. Staple or glue the cup to the other end of the wood, opposite the side with the hole. The cup holds the projectile in place.
16 Screw the other large metal hook about 1-inch down from the cup into the center of the 28-inch long swing arm.
17 Slide the 12-inch long broomstick through each of the three holes previously drilled into the end of the catapult, the swing arm and the other end of the catapult. Drill a few screws into the long swing arm and the broomstick to hold it firmly in place.
18 Hook each end of a bungee cord to each of the metal hooks.

The catapult is a weapon used to hurl heavy objects at enemies. It started as a medieval weapon, using a hinged lever and propulsion in a method similar to that of a slingshot. Recreating a full-scale replica of the ancient weapon is a major undertaking. However, making a tabletop catapult for fun or for a school project requires little more than craft sticks, masking tape and a rubber band.

Instructions

1 Cut 10 clean Popsicle sticks or craft sticks, using scissors. Cut one stick 3 inches long and one 4 inches long, keeping the rounded end on each of the sticks. Cut three pieces 2 inches long and six pieces 4 inches long, removing the rounded ends off the pieces.
2 Place a 2-inch stick end to end with a 4-inch stick. Wrap a 6-inch piece of masking tape around the two pieces of sticks to secure them. Place a second 2-inch stick end to end with the 4-inch stick. Wrap a 6-inch piece of masking tape around the two sticks. Place a 4-inch stick end to end with the second 2-inch stick. Wrap a third piece of 6-inch masking tape around the two sticks to create a line of four sticks, alternating 2-inch and 4-inch lengths.
3 Bend the long stick at a 90-degree angle at each of the three taped connectors to create a rectangle. Use fourth piece of 6-inch masking tape to secure the last corner to create the catapult's base.
4 Place a third 2-inch stick inside the rectangle you created in the prior step. Position it flat against one of the 2-inch sides of the rectangle. Wrap two 6-inch pieces of masking tape around the two 2-inch pieces to secure them together. Keep the tape on either side of the sticks, keeping them off the center.
5 Place two 4-inch sticks flat on your work surface, side by side. Line up the ends of the sticks, then wrap a 6-inch piece of masking tape around the ends of the sticks to secure them. Repeat the process with two more 4-inch sticks.
6 Place the two sets of 4-inch sticks on top of the rectangle you made in Step 3. Align them the length of the rectangle, one flush against each side, leaving a 2-inch gap in between them. Secure them in place with four pieces of 12-inch masking tape.
7 Cut a large rubber band to create a straight line instead of a loop. Place one end of the rubber band against the rounded end of the 3-inch Popsicle stick. Position the end of the rubber band 1-inch down from the rounded end of the stick. Wrap a 6-inch piece of masking tape around the rubber band and the stick to secure. Insert the other end of the stick into the rectangular base between the two 2-inch sticks from Step 4.
8 Stick a 2-inch piece of masking tape onto your work surface, sticky side down. Place a second, third and fourth piece of 2-inch masking tape on top of the first, all sticky side down, to create a four-layer, 2-inch long piece of masking tape. Cut the strip in half to create two 2-inch pieces of four-layer masking tape, making the hinges.
9 Place the two masking tape hinges from the prior step on either side of the remaining 4-inch popsicle stick with the rounded end. Position the hinges, one on either side of the stick, on the cut edge. Line them up 1-inch down from the edge, pressing the sticky side to the stick. Wrap a 6-inch piece of tape around the hinges and the stick to secure it.
10 Put the stick from the prior step into the catapult base, positioned in the open section. Put the hinged end against the stick from Step 7, with the hinge folded up and the rounded end of the stick pointing out the other side of the base. Wrap a 6-inch piece of masking tape around the stick and the hinge.
11 Attach the other end of the rubber band from Step 7 to the hinged stick from the prior step so that the hinged stick hangs at a 45-degree angle. Attach the inside of a small batch box to the rounded end of the hinged stick, 1/2-inch down from the end, using masking tape or hot glue to finish the catapult.

The goal of an egg projectile project is to move an egg quickly from point A to point B without breaking or otherwise harming a raw egg. There are many ways to keep an egg from breaking, but not so many when launching the egg as a projectile. A simple catapult and a firm base on the egg's protective casing are the biggest requirements when attempting to complete an egg projectile project.

Instructions

Cushioning the Egg

1 Place the egg inside a length of pantyhose and twist the hose around the egg. Make sure the egg does not move around inside the hose. Secure each end right next to the egg with rubber bands.
2 Tape each end of the hose to a Styrofoam cup. The egg will be centered over the cup's opening and will not bang against the sides of the cup. Place another cup over the opening of the first cup and tape these two together.
3 Test the cushioned egg contraption by dropping it onto the floor from your hand. Any design flaws will be evident if the egg breaks upon impact. Repair flaws and test again until the cushioning is secure. Once this step is complete, move on to build the catapult.

Creating a Catapult

4 Roll a length of newspaper into a log and tape the center with masking tape. Lay the log on top of a rubber band.
5 Stretch the rubber band around the newspaper and loop the rubber band in place by passing one end through the other. Place your finger through the loop to hold it in place.
6 Lace a large tablespoon through the rubber band. The handle of the spoon will be halfway through the rubber band and the spoon will be large enough to support the base of the Styrofoam cup holding the egg.
7 Tape the ends of the newspaper log to the tabletop. Practice using the catapult with objects other than the wrapped egg to make sure it works properly.

The etymology of the word "catapult" lies in the ancient Greek for "shield piercer," owing to their ability to supersede the traditional armor of the day. A catapult is a device which can throw objects long distances at great speed, which led to them becoming useful in the ancient and Medieval world, particularly with the rise of siege warfare. You can make a model catapult for your home or garden as a fun project to teach your children about ancient warfare, without the need for specialist equipment.

Instructions

1 Cut the end of one of the 6-inch pieces at 45 degree angles. Cut the top right hand corner and the bottom left hand corner off. Lay an uncut 6-inch piece of wood on top of a 12-inch piece of wood, so that the two lie at 90 degrees to one another. Lay the cut 6-inch piece of wood at 45 degrees to both, so it forms a join between the two. Screw both smaller pieces of wood to the 12-inch piece, and glue the small pieces to one another. This will form the basis of the frame of the catapult. Repeat this process so that you have two triangle-joins.

2 Use the remaining four 6-inch pieces of wood to attach the two sections of frame together. These should be screwed to the two ends of the 12-inch frame, making a rectangular frame, at the top of the 6-inch piece of wood, and across the 45-degree join. This will make the frame stable and strong.
3 Drill a small hole in the remaining 12-inch piece of wood, roughly 1/2 inch from the end. The hole should be slightly larger than your metal bar, which can be a section of coat hanger or the axle to a toy car. Drill a hole in each of the two 6-inch pieces of wood which stand up of the frame. These holes should be near the base. Attach one of the eye hooks 3 inches from the opposite end of the 12-inch piece of wood to the hole you just drilled. Attach the Styrofoam cup with tacks immediately above the eyehook, so it is closer to the end.

4 Slide the metal bar through the frame and the catapult bar. Place Blu-Tack on the ends of the bar if they stick out from the frame. Place an eye hook on the front center of the frame, and run an elastic band between the two eye hooks. You can run as many elastic bands as you like through these hooks, although the more you have, the more powerful will be the catapult. You are now free to test your catapult, by placing objects in the cup, pulling the bar back and releasing.

A catapult is a device that stores energy and then instantly releases all the energy in about one second to force a projectile through the air at substantial speed. Large catapults were used centuries ago as weapons. Today, small catapults are used mainly for fun or school educational purposes, to teach the dynamics of converting stored energy into propulsion. There are two main types of catapult: the hand-held variety often referred to as a slingshot and the tabletop variety. Their purpose is the same, but the operational instructions are different.

Instructions

Slingshot or Hand-Held Catapult

1 Hold the handle of the catapult using one hand. A hand-held catapult is usually a "Y" shape, so hold the base part of the "Y" in one hand.
2 Put the object you intend to propel in the center of the elasticized band. The band is attached to the top of "V" part of the catapult. Put a finger and thumb onto the object using your other hand, but don't touch the band.
3 Stretch the arm holding the catapult away from your body, while still holding the object in the band. Keep the hand that's holding the catapult steady and then gradually pull the other hand holding the object back toward your body. You feel the tension build as you pull backward. This is the stored energy.
4 Check in front of you to ensure nothing is in the way. Release your finger and thumb by opening them, but keeping them still. The stored energy is released and the energy from the band propels the object away from you at high speed. Ensure you open your finger and thumb at the same time and as wide as you can so the object and band don't touch them; otherwise, the effect will not be as good.

Tabletop Catapult

5 Move the arm of the catapult that has the container where the object you want to propel goes down toward the firing position. The arm is on a hinge and when you move the arm down toward the base unit, you see the other end rise away from the base unit. The arm has an elasticized band attached to it and the base unit. As you move the arm down, you feel pressure increasing as the energy gets stored in the stretched band.
6 Clip the arm into the connector on the base unit. This holds the arm down and the energy remains stored. Place the object you intend to propel into the container.
7 Check that there is nothing above or in front of the catapult. Flip the switch that's holding the arm down using your fingers. Make sure you keep yourself clear. The arm lifts up quickly and propels the object into the air.

When your teacher announces the assignment to build your own catapult, it may seem like a daunting task at first. There are a lot of different ways you could go about it, but there is a pattern that allows you to make your own catapult using every day items found in your own home. Just collect ice cream sticks and a milk carton, gather some supplies, and you will be well on your way to making a working catapult.

Instructions

1 Cut the ice cream sticks as follows: 3 pieces with squared ends that are 2 inches long; 6 pieces with squared ends that are 4 inches long; 1 piece with 1 rounded end and 1 squared end that is 3 inches long; and 1 piece with 1 rounded end and 1 squared end that is 4 inches long.
2 Tape 2 of the 4-inch pieces and 2 of the 2-inch pieces together end to end, alternating short sticks and long sticks.
3 Bend the taped "joints" so that the sticks are shaped like a rectangle and tape the last joint.
4 Tape a 2-inch piece to the inside of one of the short sides, making sure to leave the middle area tape-free.
5 Tape 2 of the 4-inch pieces together laying side by side like a picket fence.
6 Repeat with 2 more 4-inch sticks.
7 Lay the taped 4-inch sticks on top of the rectangle lengthwise so they are flush with the corners, leaving a gap in the center.
8 Tape one end of the cut rubber band to the rounded end of the 3 inch stick. Then slide the other end of the stick between the 2 sticks on the short end of the rectangle where you taped a second stick in step 4.
9 Make the "hinge" for the catapult. Layer 4 2-inch strips of tape, one on top of the other, and then cut them in half lengthwise. Attach it to 1 side of the squared end of the 4-inch stick so that half of the tape hangs over. Repeat with the other side of the stick and the other strip of layer tape. You will end up with a stick with 2 "feet" on one end.
10 Press the feet together and tape it to the stick with the rubber band coming out of the top. When you bend the hinge, it should lay up against the stick with the rubber band.
11 Tape the loose end of the rubber band to the rounded end of the 4-inch hinge stick.
12 Cut the bottom off the milk carton, leaving a 1-inch rim. This cup should then be taped to the rounded end of the 4-inch catapult arm.
13 To use your catapult, put something in the milk carton cup, pull it back so that the rubber band stretches as far back as it will go, and release.

In the summertime, water fights are a great way to cool off. In order to win such a fight, tactics should be implemented. Being able to strike your opponents from a distance is a huge advantage. For this purpose you should employ a water-balloon catapult capable of launching water balloons a large distance. You can make one from materials commonly found in a home building store.

Instructions

1 Drill four holes through the rim of your plastic funnel using the drill. Space the four holes evenly around the perimeter of the wide end of the funnel so that there is one at the top, bottom and each side.
2 Cut the surgical tubing into two 8-foot pieces using the knife.
3 Tie a knot in the end of one of the pieces of surgical tubing and feed the other end through one of the holes drilled in the funnel, from the inside to the outside.
4 Feed the other end of this piece of surgical tubing through one of the two holes next to it. Tie a knot in the end of this tube once through the funnel, this is one half of the catapult propulsion system.
5 Tie a knot in the other piece of surgical tubing and connect it to the funnel in the same fashion as the first piece of tubing, using the two remaining holes of the funnel.
6 Trim excess tubing remaining from the knotted end inside the funnel. This is where the water balloon will be placed.
7 Have two friends each firmly hold one loop of surgical tubing while you place a water balloon in the funnel, pull the funnel back and release.

Laying siege is usually tough and your neighbors might get angry, but with the power of a catapult, you can launch projectiles to your heart's content, all while utilizing pure physics rather than electricity or gas. Building a life-size, historically accurate, boulder-tossing catapult is difficult and dangerous, so leave those big ones to engineers. Rather, below you'll find detailed instructions on how to make a smaller, but equally enjoyable catapult you can make with a few supplies and time.

Instructions

1 Lay out four pieces of wood to form a rectangular base. Glue or screw the pieces together. Take two pieces of wood and cut the ends at a 45 degree angle. You should now have two trapezoid-shaped pieces. Set those aside.
2 Affix one piece perpendicular to the base about half way in. The perpendicular piece should be half the length of the base. Repeat this for the other side. At the top of the two pieces, attach another piece of wood connecting the two. It should look like a doorway.
3 Take those trapezoid pieces and attach them to the base and the perpendicular pieces. The angles allow the pieces to fit comfortably. These pieces add structural integrity to the overall catapult.
4 Drill through the base so that the two holes are directly underneath the perpendicular pieces. Drill through another piece, which will be used as the launching mechanism. Place the wooden dowel through one side of the base, attach the launching piece in the middle and finish by inserting the dowel into the other side of the base. Use glue on the base (only on the base, not on the launching portion) to keep the dowel in place.
5 Cut the ping pong ball in half and glue it to the end of the launching piece to act as a basket for your projectiles. Attach hooks to both the launching piece and the top of the frame and attach rubber bands. Pull back the center piece, place your projectile in the basket (marshmallows work well) and let it fly.

When you are learning about weaponry and artillery from the dark ages, you may be amazed by how powerful and widely used catapults were for launching objects into and over fortress walls. One way to increase your understanding of these early weapons is to create a miniature catapult yourself, using a few basic materials that can be found at any office supply store. This enables you to recreate a working catapult that you can use to launch small, soft objects.

Instructions

1 Place three popsicle sticks into a triangle, and securely tape all of the corners using duct tape. Repeat this process to create a total of three taped-together triangles from popsicle sticks.
2 Tape two of the popsicle triangles together along one side, opening up the triangles into a 60 degree angle. Place the taped triangles upright onto a table top.
3 Place the third triangle flat onto the table in front of the upright triangles, and slide it in between the two taped together triangles, which should be a perfect fit. Tape the sides to secure the form into a nearly complete pyramid.
4 Insert the handle of a plastic spoon into the corner where all of the triangles touch, and wrap string around the handle and the corner of the pyramid to secure the spoon in place. Position the spoon bowl side up at a 45-degree angle from the bottom of the pyramid.
5 Loop a medium rubber band around the bowl of the spoon and also around the top of the pyramid. Place a soft object into the bowl of the spoon, pull it back, then release the spoon to launch the object across the room.

Building a Popsicle stick catapult is a fun, cheap and easy rainy day craft for children. Once built, this mini-catapult can be used to play the game "Storm the Castle." A catapult also teaches the scientific principles of motion, forces and simple machines. With four Popsicle sticks and a little know-how, you and your child can spend a fun and engaging craft time making this historical siege weapon.

Instructions

1 Lay two of the four Popsicle sticks on each long end of one of the 3 by 5 index cards to begin making the base of the catapult. Tape them to the card using a strip of masking tape at either short end of the card.
2 Cut the third Popsicle stick in half. Tape the two ends together to make an L-shape with the stick. Place the L so one end sticks up into the air and the other end lays in the middle of the two Popsicle sticks already taped to the card. Tape the bottom part of the L to the card using a strip of masking tape across the middle of the card (covering all three Popsicle sticks). Pace another strip of masking tape across the joint of the L at the end of the card (also covering all three Popsicle sticks). This completes the base for your catapult.
3 Tape the fourth Popsicle stick into the point of the L using masking tape on the top and bottom joints. This makes the catapult arm.
4 Cut the rubber band with scissors so it is one long rubber strip.Tape one end to the back of the catapult arm about 1 inch down on the stick. Pull the rubber band up and toward the back of the portion of your L which is sticking up off of the catapult base. You want to create a V-shape with the arm and the base. Then tape the remainder of the rubber band to the back of the L portion of the base so the rubber strip is taut, but not too tight. The catapult is now complete.
5 Fold the second index card into fourths. Unfold and cut along the creases with the scissors. Fold each of the pieces in half to make the pellets you'll fling using the catapult.
6 Load a pellet onto the long end of the catapult arm. Hold the base card of the catapult on the table with one hand. With the other hand, push the arm down until it touches the card and then release to fling the pellet.

If you collect action figures and you're the type who prefers the figures and playsets outside of their plastic packaging, why waste money on them when making some from scratch is fun and cost effective? Storming the castle with a custom-made catapult to suit the average action figure size is great way to add to the fun and your collection.

Instructions

1 Put the 7-inch wood block flat on your table. Measure and mark 3/4 inches from the front of the block and a half inch from the top of the block. Repeat the step on the rear and on the other side of the block, opposite of where you made your other two marks. These will be where you'll drill for the wheel placements later.
2 Hold a wheel over one of the pencil markings and drill, using a wood screw. Attach the wheel onto the wood surface using a wood screw but not drilling through entirely. Allow the wheel to spin loose for rolling movement. Re-do the steps for each wheel.
3 With the bigger block flat, measure and cut to the exact center using the jigsaw, cutting large enough to insert the thickness of the measuring spoon into the newly cut slot. Make sure to cut all the way through the block.
4 Set the block horizontally and across its side surface, holding one side nearly covering the cut from the previous step and creating a stopping block for the firing arm that aids in shooting the projectile further. Allow the glue to dry completely.
5 Slide the tablespoon's handle into the cut slot and press down until firm. Apply small amounts of glue to the base of the spoon for extra strength, and allow it to dry. Paint or stain if desired.

Take yourself back to the Middle Ages; you're trying to break down a fortified wall. What do you do? Get a catapult of course. Widely-used in ancient warfare, catapults utilize tension and leverage to launch devices or objects at enemies' buildings --- and sometimes the enemies themselves. Several types of catapults existed, some of which were large and bulky, others small and mobile.

Trebuchet

Trebuchets hold a major distinction from other catapult types. Rather than creating force by rope tension, they use a large counterweight which subsequently throws the object loaded into the lighter, opposing end. Usually used as siege weapons, trebuchets started in China, gradually making their way to Europe over subsequent centuries. Trebuchets played a significant role in warfare in Europe during the middle ages. The French military even made alterations to the trebuchet making it more accurate and keeping it in service for centuries.

Ballistas

The ballista is also familiar to most people as it has been featured in many movies. Looking like a modern-day crossbow, a ballista holds and fires an arrow. Many objects substitute well for an arrow within a ballista; arrows can be wooden or metal and although a sharpened end helps, isn't necessary.
Ballistas utilize tension in rope by pulling back a single rope which twists around two tension-loading posts on the sides. The ballista has a longer and richer history than the trebuchet; although it was used during the Middle Ages, it dates back to Greek and Roman warfare.

Mangonel

The mangonel dates back to Roman times, where it was commonly used in warfare. Larger than the ballista, but smaller than the trebuchet, the mangonel consists of a base with wheels, a long maneuverable arm, and a hollowed semi-circle at the end of the arm used for holding projectiles. Unlike the ballista, mangonels shoot projectiles with an arc as opposed to a straight-line. Dangerous in warfare, the projectiles have a range of up to 1,300 feet for top-of-the-line mangonels.

Modern Catapults

Although they might have lost their critical stronghold in warfare, catapults can still be found today. One common use is aircraft carriers, which utilize a very large and powerful catapult built to launch aircraft to a high speed over a very short distance, allowing them to take off successfully. Basic ballista-style catapults can be bought for clay-shooting, a common technique for hunters. Small versions of mangonel catapults were even used during World War I for grenade launching out of trenches.

Teach kids about simple machines and castle sieges with one project. You can build a craft stick catapult in a few minutes. Small children can participate in the construction and everyone can use the catapult to launch light items into the air. Older children can study the ballistics of trajectory and weight, while younger kids will just have fun tinkering with aim and experimenting with different sorts of "ammunition."

Instructions

1 Collect two piles of craft sticks, one with five to nine sticks and the other with only two.
2 Secure one end of the larger pile of sticks with a rubber band. Turn the pile and wrap a second rubber band tightly around the other end. You will have the equivalent of a very thick craft stick with bands wrapped around each end.
3 Taking up the pile of two sticks, wrap a third rubber band around one end, leaving the other end free. You should be able to open and close the open end, like opening and closing a crocodile mouth.
4 Slide the thick stack sideways into the open "mouth" of the shorter stack. The two stacks will now sit perpendicular to each other, with the thicker inside the thinner. You can see how pressing down on the top of the "mouth" creates a springy action.
5 Use a fourth band to tighten the two stacks together. Wrap first around one side of the large stack, then around the banded side of the small stack, then around the farther side of the large stack, repeating in the opposite direction if possible. Leave the open side unwrapped.
6 Glue the handle of your plastic spoon onto the top of the open short stack of sticks using the hot glue gun. Use the spoon handle to extend the arm of the top of your catapult and create a basket for the items you will project. You can, alternatively, glue a bottle cap directly onto the craft stick, leaving a small space for pressing the stick down.
7 When all is solidly dried, place a small, light object into the cup of the spoon or bottle cap, press down on the upper craft stick, and release to project the item. Experiment with different projectiles and perfect your aim and arc.

Finding activities that children and parents can enjoy together can be challenging, but, since 1992, K'NEX Brands has been encouraging families to develop resourcefulness together in an enjoyable, innovative manner with its construction sets. One particular K'NEX building project is the catapult, which allows a child's inventiveness to spring into action. This simple model provides an opportunity for children and parents alike to engage their engineering skills and experience the reward of creating their very own launching machine.

Instructions

1 Collect all required materials as listed in the "Things You'll Need" section, and organize them in a manner in which individual pieces are easily located. If one piece is missing, proper assembly of the catapult will be affected and could cause issues with its effectiveness. Arrange the pieces into the three categories listed, and place them on a flat surface such as a table or countertop.
2 Partner a five-slot connector with a red rod by sliding the red rod through the connector. Position the connector in the center of the rod and add the remaining five-slot connectors onto each side of the center connector. Join all one-slot connectors to each side of the five-slot connectors. Attach one wheel to either side of the red rod and cap each wheel with the two double-slot orange connectors. This completes the base of the catapult.
3 Set aside the small green rod and one triple-slot connector. Conjoin all other rods and connectors in the manner of your choice to create your ideal throwing arm. Length and width may vary based on how high or far you would like your catapult to launch objects, but the throwing arm must consist of four right triangles and two free-ended rods. Attach the free-ended rods to the centered five-slot connector. This will join the throwing arm to the base.
4 Create your launch object by connecting the small green rod with the center slot of the remaining triple-slot connector. Attach the newly made arrow to the top of the throwing arm, and check that it is centered and balanced for optimal launching conditions.
5 Aim away from anything that could be damaged, pull back and fire your catapult.

Webelos is a scouting program that bridges the gap between Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts, offering scouts the chance to earn 20 different badges. To earn each badge, the scout must complete a list of requirements. One of the Webelos badges is the Engineering Activity Badge. "Requirement Number 9" reads: "Build a catapult and show how it works." Make a shoebox catapult to earn your badge.

Instructions

1 Cut out one of the short ends of the shoe box, by cutting down the two corner edges on the sides of the short end. Leave 1 inch of cardboard across the bottom of the opening.
2 Measure 2 1/2 inches along the long, outer side of the shoebox, starting from the open cut end. Mark each side of the box with two small dots. Use the paper punch to punch a hole on the side of the shoebox, at each mark, measured 1 inch down from the top.
3 Starting on the outside of the box, insert one unsharpened pencil through the holes until it pokes out of the hole on the other side of the box.
4 Place the second unsharpened pencil against the center of first to form a perpendicular cross. Rest the eraser of the vertical pencil on the bottom of the shoe box. Start at the center point where the pencils meet and secure the pencils together by wrapping electrical tape around where the two pencils intersect.
5 Mark the spot where the pencil meets the bottom of the box. Use your scissors to poke a hole through the box at this spot.
6 Turn the box on its side. Push the rubber band through the hole on the bottom, and then into the box. There will be a loop on the inside of the box and one on the outside bottom. Place the eraser end of the pencil into the loop on the inside of the box. Insert the craft stick through the rubber band loop on the outside bottom of the box. The craft stick will keep the rubber band from coming through the hole and provide resistance, while allowing the box to rest fairly level on a flat surface.
7 Hold the spoon upright, with the inside scoop facing away from the cut end of the shoebox. Set it against the vertical pencil, on the side farthest away from the cut end of the shoebox. Tape the handle of the spoon to the upright pencil with electrical tape. Secure the tape until you are able to pick up the entire unit with the scoop of the spoon without any parts coming loose.
8 Pull the spoon down, toward the cut side of the shoebox. You will feel resistance from the rubber band pulling against the pencil. Choose a soft, lightweight projectile to place in the scoop. Release the spoon to launch.

Catapults, by definition, are machines used for hurling large stones used in ancient and medieval times. Although you won't be able to hurl large objects with a straw catapult, make a catapult to relieve stress by hurling paper into a garbage can or at your fellow co-workers.

Instructions

1 Cut one straw in half with scissors. These are the top and bottom base pieces. Position the top and bottom pieces parallel to each other. Position two full straws, which are the side base pieces, between the top and bottom pieces. The straws make a rectangle, which is the base. Glue the corners of the straws together, using a hot glue gun.
2 Cross the ends of the two straws in a teepee shape, which are the long sides. The straws intersect 1 inch from the top ends of the straws. Cut different straw in half. The half straw is the bottom side. Position the bottom side at the bottom ends of the long sides. Adjust the bottom ends of long sides until you make a triangle.
3 Glue the intersection point of the long sides using a hot glue gun. Glue the bottom ends of the long sides with the ends of the bottom side using a hot glue gun. The triangular structure makes the left side piece. Repeat to make the right side piece.
4 Position the left side piece inside the left center of the base. Glue the bottom edge of the left side piece to the inside of the base using a hot glue gun. Repeat to glue the right side piece.
5 Squeeze the tops of the left and right side pieces in the center of the base and glue them together. The two glued top pieces make a point. Glue a paper clip to the point using a hot glue gun. Wrap a rubber band around the paper clip and point to secure it. The paper clip holds the object to be launched.

A toy catapult is a toy that can provide hours of simple playtime for boys and girls. Making a catapult with two pencils and a rubber band is an easy process that you can do in a matter of five minutes. With two pencils as a stabilizer and a rubber band as the launching power, you can build a catapult your child can use to knock down homemade targets.

Instructions

1 Place two pencils of equal length into a solid base, such as the ground or in a hunk of foam. This will keep the pencils stable when the catapult is launched.
2 Break a rubber band and tie one end to each of the pencils. A simple slipknot will work. To tie this knot, loop each rubber band end around itself and pull the ends tight in the same way you tie a shoe, then fold the rubber band ends to create a loop. Pull one end through the loop and tug to tighten it.
3 Staple a small piece of cardboard to the center of the rubber band to use for a seating device. The cardboard should be about half the size of a matchbook cover. This is where you will place the tiny pebbles you want to launch.