Trebuchet Design Brief

ObjectivesThe student will be able to: Follow the problem solving steps. Know what a trebuchet does. Describe the basic way a trebuchet operates. Answer basic trebuchet knowledge questions. Build a working trebuchet that will fire golf balls. Hit a target with the golf ball. Use an online calculator to figure the appropriate size of the trebuchet and it’s parts. Use a release lever when launching the trebuchet.

ProblemYou are a military craftsman/women in the medieval era fighting against a small horde of ancient creatures. These creatures stand only one foot tall and build miniature five foot castles to match their small stature. It is your job to create a throwing device known as a trebuchet that will launch a projectile 20 feet and destroy the enemy. Good luck!

Criteria The height of the frame must be less then 24”. You must use a release device. Frame must be made from ¼” thick strips of wood supplied from Woods scrap Exotic supplies must be approved by instructor in advance. Joints must be glued or fastened without using pre-manufactured mechanical fasteners. Trebuchets may or may not use wheels. Wheels must be fabricated. No tape can be left on the trebuchet during siege for full quality credit.

SuppliesInstructor Supplied Wooden Strips ¼” thick Golf Ball Projectile Castle Styrofoam Twine Glue, White or Wood Tape

Clamps Saw Drill Drill Bits Shop Vac Axle

Student Supplied Other axles Weight Pouch material Release mechanism Wheels Other building supplies

EvaluationA target will be placed at 20 feet away. It will be about five feet tall and several feet wide. Success will be based on your trebuchet’s ability to hit that target without bouncing. You will be given 3 shot opportunity.