Device for Launching Models

Abstract : At the present time pneumatic launchers, in which a brake cylinder is used to absorb the energy of moving parts, are being employed for launching various models for research purposes in a wind tunnel. However, these pneumatic launchers do not create high initial velocities because the brake cylinders fail at high speeds. In addition, only models with specific dimensions and at fixed initial angles of attack can be tested because the mount for the model is not adjustable and is rigidly connected to a rod. In the proposed device these shortcomings have been eliminated. This is done by replacing friction braking with compressed-air braking.