Computer Guided Trebuchet

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Computer Guided Trebuchet

• Seth Katz
• Matt Leese

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Overview

• Trebuchet is a medieval siege weapon
• Throws a projectile by utilizing a
  counterweighted arm
• Computer control provides automated accurate
  targeting

3
System Overview

• Trebuchet
• Embedded Controller
• Computer

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Trebuchet Overview
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Trebuchet Targeting

• Targeting
• Range
• Azimuth
• Range
• Governed by
• Move counterweight for range
• Azimuth
• Rotate trebuchet base

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Trebuchet Specifications

• Fire a Nerf Ball (2 oz.) a distance of 15 ft.
• Therefore
• Counterweight of 12.5 lbs.
• Small Arm Length of 2.5 in.
• Long Arm Length of 12.5 in.

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Actuators

• Rotate trebuchet base
• DC motor connected to gearing
• Move counterweight
• DC motor connected to a lead screw
• Remove firing pin
• Servomotor connected to the firing pin

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Trebuchet Design
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Trebuchet Design (2)
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Embedded Controller

• MC68HC12
• Provides control over trebuchet
• Input data from sensors
• Output data to actuators
• Takes commands from Computer
• Sent desired azimuth and counter-weight location
• Sent fire command

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Embedded Controller Block Diagram
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Computer

• Windows GUI Program to select desired target
• Calculates appropriate azimuth and counter-weight
  position
• Commands Embedded Controller to move trebuchet
• Commands Embedded Controller to fire

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GUI Screenshot
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Schedule
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Questions?