Canon PowerShot G9
ƒ/3.2
7.4 mm
1/60
80

My son was inspired to scare the neighbors.
(Thanks Tom =)

So he has built an autonomous robot rocket launcher (no remote control; he programs it ahead of time, and off it goes).

The runtime program uses various trigger events to move the launch platform, raise the rocket into position (like a slow hydraulic rail, but using gears) and launch it. We are still working on that last part, but I suspect we will use the current from the LED light module to flip a relay to connect a fresh 9V battery to the igniter. And we may need to add the second NXT motor controller for ignition control and a second rocket rail. Should be able to aim in any direction and angle…

It just seems ripe with opportunities for mishap.

7 responses to “Mobile Robotic Rocket Launcher”

  1. heet_myser Avatar
    heet_myser

    I wish there were something in there for scale. This is super cool.

    Reply
  2. jurvetson Avatar
    jurvetson

    Oh, sorry, here you go…..

    But I do worry a bit about the insane objects in the code base:

    Robot Uprising has Begun

    …and the attempts at self-awareness..
    .

    Reply
  3. rocketmavericks Avatar
    rocketmavericks

    Sounds like he is ready to learn to make propellants. Tell him that I have a recipe for him for rocket propellant that we can make together out of his left over halloween candy!

    I am still awaiting to hear a final verdict from the FAA on his birthday present.

    Look at the bright side. At least your dental bill will not be a problem this year. 🙂 We can put that candy to good use.

    Oh. Tell him he needs to add a blast shield and a nose cone, and when he gets bored with this one, we need to upgrade his kit so we can build a katyusha launcher together. This will only intimidate the neighbors, and it is important to always do the best job you can, when you set a goal for yourself.

    Reply
  4. Todd Huffman Avatar
    Todd Huffman

    "I am still awaiting to hear a final verdict from the FAA on his birthday present."

    My favourite quote of the year.

    Reply
  5. pegleg000 Avatar
    pegleg000

    Is Halted and/or Weird Stuff selling cluster bombs now?-o Geez, I miss that area….

    Reply
  6. avlxyz Avatar
    avlxyz

    the peacenik in me suggests that it should be reprogrammed to water the neighbour’s garden instead 🙂

    Reply
  7. 空虚 Avatar
    空虚

    Regarding ignition control, here’s a link to a controller project for launching fireworks. tuckie.net/wordpress/2008/03/23/diy-wireless-firework-con…

    Reply

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