A simple toy, designed to place random objects, such as water balloons, rocks, snowballs, tomatoes, etc. into flight. It is powered by a large rubber band, which is housed inside a plastic casing, so that the child cannot remove it, nor will it fly out if it happens to break. An adult can dissasemble it to replace the rubber band, if neccessary. In addition, the angle of launch can be modified by pinning the support into a different slot. This conveys basic physics principles involving the trajectory of items and launch angle.
To use the toy, the child will simply pin the support into the launching beam, place an item into the cup, pull the cup back, and release to launch. Due to the simple nature of the mechanism, the process can be repeated over and over again in rapid succession.
Of course, as with any child's toy involving projectiles, it is meant to be used under the supervision of an adult. It is designed for children ages 8 and up.
Every possible part of the toy is made from hard injection-molded plastic. This adds durability and weather resistance while reducing cost and making manufacturing easier. Most joints are connected by locking tab-and-slot connections. The center beam is closed using screws, so that adults can take it apart to replace a broken rubber band, in the event that happens. The catapult, due to its materials, is meant to be used outside, with interior storage when not in use. This will keep the plastic from becoming brittle, and the appearance from reducing in quality due to sunlight.
Robert Andre
randre@andrew.cmu.edu