PET Bottle launcher

thingiverse

Zip Tie Launcher for Pet Bottles Inspired by Online Sources This innovative launcher cleverly uses zip ties to secure the PET-bottle in place while pressurizing it. The zip ties grasp around the flange on top of the bottle, and a ring ensures they stay put, allowing the bottle to remain intact until release. When the ring slides down, it creates space for the zip ties to deflect and release their grip on the bottle. My initial attempt at creating this launcher in PLA several years ago resulted in a flawed design that leaked everywhere. I've since improved upon this by designing a smaller pressurized part in one piece using PETG, which now works flawlessly. The majority of the design remains intact, with only minor adaptations to accommodate the new pressurized part. The LaunchPipe is responsible for retaining the bottle using zip ties and locating the Pet-AP_Connector, which adapts the pet bottle to a standard European Air Hose connector. I utilized small ball bearings in the launcher base as pivot points in the release cord path, allowing for remote control of the release mechanism. These ball bearings can be omitted if desired, with dummy parts printed from plastic instead. Among the STL files are a locator that fits around the airline tube inside the launch pipe to maintain alignment and direction. This ensures the pet-rocket remains stable during launches. A tube is fitted on top of the PET-AP_connector piece to prevent water from flowing down the airline and generates additional launch height. The Locking_Ring serves as a safety feature, preventing premature launches by locking the launcher in place. It's placed underneath the ring to stop it from sliding down and releasing the rocket prematurely. STL files are attached, along with the original Fusion360 file for reference. Parts Used: * 1 piece of Rubber O-ring (22mm OD, 17mm ID, 2.5mm TH) * 16 pieces of Plastic ZipTies (4.8mm x 250mm) * 2 pieces of BallBearing (684, 4x9x4mm) * 1 piece of European AirLine QuickConnect for 9mm tube * 1 piece of Schrader Bicycle valve (OD 8.5mm) * Some meters of pressurized airline tubing (ID 9mm) * 2 pieces of hose clamps, one low-profile type to fit inside the launch tube assembly * 1 piece of tube (ID 13mm) for stabilizing the pet-bottle * Small wire or similar material for the release wire Other Parts: * Wooden plate for stabilizing the base * Tent spikes * Dual hand bicycle pump with Schrader fitting and pressure gauge * Rope for connecting to the release wire * Pet-bottles (1.5l-2l) with PCO-1881 throat and stabilizing fin assembly * Water for filling the pet-bottle