March 25, 2023
Description
Just mash on the plunger and Whoosh! Launches two different gliders for long-range soaring and a rocket for sky-high trajectories. The launch angle adjusts with a simple screw that is hollowed out for airflow.
This is a complete re-design of my earlier Whomp Rocket & Glider. that includes a number of improvements and a great new feature:
UPDATE: I've just added the GyroRing glider, which is truly amazing! Angled fins inside the ring cause it to rotate in flight, creating a gyroscopic effect that keeps the glider straight and level.
Printing
Print all parts in the orientations provided. Use 0.2mm layers, and no supports are needed. I used PLA for everything, but PETG would be a more durable choice for the glider and rocket. On the gliders and rocket, I use 5 perimeter lines which makes them print pretty much solid. On the launcher, I use 3 perimeter lines and 20% infill.
Assembly
After printing, lightly sand the outside of the launch tube to eliminate and lumps and to smooth out the layer ridges. The ridges don't need to be sanded out completely – just a little smoothing will reduce the friction considerably.
The launch tube should seal tightly against the post on the base when affixed with the screw. Use a flat sanding block or a flat file to level off any over-extrusion ridges on both sides of the post and on the mating side of the launch tube.
Insert the screw into the post and screw into the side of the launch tube. The screw has an air port in the side that should end up pointing mostly downward when the screw is tightened. (The orientation of the port is indicated by the dot on the face of the knob.)
To assemble the glider, insert each wing into the slots on the side of the fuselage an secure with a few drops of superglue. Make sure that the glider (and rocket) slide easily over the tube. You may need to use a small round file to smooth out any lumps or ridges inside the rocket and glider tubes.
Play
Loosen the screw to adjust the launch angle - mostly vertical for the rocket, mostly horizontal for the either of the gliders. Lift the plunger all the way up - it has some little friction nubs inside so it should stay up by itself. Slide the rocket or glider onto the launch tube. Now, smack down smartly on the top of the plunger with the palm of your hand. (Don't stomp on it and don't use a mallet! I've seen people do both.)
Note: Because of the girth of the GyroRing glider, you'll need to place the launcher at the edge of table or on a book so that the ring doesn't bump into the table surface. (I'm working on a more elegant fix – stay tuned.)
Caution
The rocket and gliders move very fast. The rocket will put dents in your ceiling. Don't shoot yourself in the face. Don't shoot anyone else in the face. Don't shoot them anywhere else, either. Same for pets and siblings.
License:
Creative Commons — Attribution — Share Alike
LoboCNC
