Bottle Rocket Launch Tube and Snow/Ground Spike

thingiverse

For traditional German Silvester fireworks on New Year's Eve, I created a launch tube for bottle rockets featuring a ground spike to secure it firmly. The concept aims to develop a semi-disposable design that eliminates the risk of tipping over caused by small bumps in the ground due to dirty glass bottles. The tube's purpose is also to ensure safe ascents of the rocket through perfect vertical installation using a long ground spike, eliminating any danger associated with horizontal launching methods. Last year's testing of this design involved approximately 30 bottle rockets, resulting in significant improvement satisfaction. There are still some factors that should be taken into consideration: Bottles Used We usually use relatively large rockets, about 80 cm or three feet tall. Consequently, the tube has a significant length and relative width, limiting its suitability with small Chinese mini-rockets. You can modify the design to fit those types of rockets by scaling down the model. Perimeter Width To print the two walls efficiently, I maintained a narrow perimeter dimension which provides sufficient stability for standard PLA printing material thickness. Ground Spike Accommodation The ground spike is designed to accommodate a slightly larger opening at the launch tube's end to compensate for any discrepancies resulting from printer tolerance. You can experiment with folding paper or glueing it to secure the gap, or simply scaling down the model further. Conversely, if the space remains excessive after printing, simply add some additional material around the edges. Recommended Printing Methods It is advised that you print the tube's base first and then work on the spike upwards. For a safer result, you are highly recommended to use a printed brim to stabilize it during the entire process of being manufactured.