Test Launch 5

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Date: March 18, 2006
What: Potato Launcher Test Launch 5
Where: NDL

Introduction

Test launch 5  for the potato launcher tested the first version of the Smart Mortar (Smort) that we call the "Yellowjacket." The Yellowjacket was to be the first demonstration of the wireless video system (tested here).

The mortar contained the following:

  1. Video Camera in the nose
  2. 900 Mhz Wireless transmitter in the tail
  3. 12 volt power source
  4. Custom wiring
  5. Paint job

We had previously tested with a prototype version of the mortar made with cardboard fins,  no camera hole in the nose, and  no

Result

The test failed...  but with style.

The mortar blew apart as it exited the launcher and suffered heavy damage on impact with the ground.
  • The fins and fin support PVC broke apart.
  • The tail section and nose broke off.
  • The screws ripped out of the wood block securing them.
  • The nose broke apart and the Plexiglas camera shield was not recovered.
  • The camera was ripped out and recovered, by itself, 5-10 feet away in the grass.
  • The transmitter antenna broke off.

The following video shows the recorded camera feed about 10 seconds before launch. The screen abruptly goes blank as the mortar rips apart.

On a more positive note, the mortar--even damaged--was stable in flight. Also, we were able to conduct the test on a tight timeline with a lot of new equipment largely revolving around the video system.

Lessons Learned and Future Improvements

We compiled the following list for consideration in our next launch:

  1. Add metal plates on the sides of the wood blocks to prevent the screws from ripping out.
  2. Place a cap on the end of the mortar to prevent air from entering in from the tail section.
  3. Secure the camera into the nose with some type of adhesive.
  4. Research parachute deployment with a mercury tilt switch, latch, and spring deployment of a 24" parachute.
  5. The paint held up very well.
  6. The tail section needs to extend past the fins (we hope this doesn't take away too much surface area).

Media

The following video was collected at the launch:

  1. Mortar Camera
  2. Launch Clip
  3. Recovery Clip
  4. Camcorder Documentary [unavailable]

Additionally, we have a flickr group set up for all mortar work.

Conclusion

The launch was a failure, but we hope to create a revised Yellowjacket soon that will survive both launch and impact.

Gentlemen, we can rebuild him. We have the technology... better than he was before. Better, strong, faster.

- The Six Million Dollar Man

 
 

© 2005 Copyright Steve Conover. All rights reserved.