What is the release pin on a trebuchet?
The way that the release pin works is when the arm begins to swing the sling is beginning to be thrown, however once it (the end of the arm) reaches a certain point the inertia pulls the loop off the pin causing the projectile to release at that particular instance.
How do you control the release angle of a trebuchet?
The release angle α can be adjusted by changing the finger angle δ. For a greater δ the release angle α increases. For a smaller δ the release angle α decreases. The figure below illustrates the trebuchet at the release point.
How does a trebuchet release mechanism work?
A trebuchet is powered by a falling counterweight acting through a beam acting as a lever. A trigger mechanism holds the counterweight up. When the trigger is released, the counterweight falls and the beam pulls the sling. Soon after, the sling lifts off and whips in an arc upwards.
How does sling length affect trebuchet?
Sling length and pin angle work together to affect the angle of release. Longer length slings have a lower angle of release, good for line drives (if you need a direct hit against the castle gate, for instance). Shorter lengths will result in a higher angle of release, best for lobbing projectiles over tall objects.
How long should the sling be on a trebuchet?
The sling harness length should be about 3/4 the length of the glide track, slightly shorter than the length of the short arm, or 80% the length of the long arm. There are many ways to design the trigger (or “release”) of your trebuchet.
What’s the best way to make a trebuchet?
Make the sling. Take a piece of heavy cloth (or burlap, for a very large trebuchet) and fold it in half. Gather the corners on the two sides together and tie them with string, cord, or rope, forming a pouch. Tie loops in the loose ends of the string so you can slip them over the hook on the launching side of the swing arm.
How big should the swing arm be on a trebuchet?
When cocked, the arm should be about 45 degrees from horizontal. The swing arm lever should be about 1 1/2 times the length of the base. The long end should be about 4-5 times longer than the short end (4:1 or 5:1 ratio) and must be constructed to be strong but light.
How does a lever work on a trebuchet?
The general working property of a trebuchet isn’t too complex – it’s a large lever that works by multiplying the speed on a short arm by the ratio of its length compared to the long (throwing) arm.