Magnus Effect Flying Wing and Launcher

Copyright Claim

Magnus Effect Flying Wing and Launcher

Boost
22
44
1

Print Profile(0)


No Print Profile yet. Add one to earn points.

+ Add Print Profile

Boost
22
44
1
0
19
0
Released

Description

When a rotating cylinder (or sphere, for that matter) meets a transverse airflow, lift is generated by what is known as the Magnus effect. This is the same phenomenon that causes ping pong balls, tennis balls and soccer balls to curve in the air when hit with spin.

The classic science class demonstration of the Magnus effect uses a wing formed by two paper cups with the bases glued together. A rubber band is then wrapped around the narrow part and stretched so that when released off the edge of a table, the wing is pulled forward and also with backspin. The spin causes the air flowing over the top to go faster than over the bottom, creating lift. There are a ton of fascinating experimental aircraft, and even ships, that use Magnus effect wings, also known as Flettner rotors.

This model dispenses with the tedium of wrapping rubber bands and desks in favor of a throwing stick to launch the wing. The center of the wing has gear teeth that engage the toothed rack on the launcher so that as the wing is flung forward, it is also imparted with backspin.

I've included 3 different versions of the wing with different wall thicknesses and weights. The heavier, thicker one is both sturdier and easier to throw, but it has less lift. The lighter thinner one gets the most lift, but peters out more quickly due to the drag. Shown in the GIF above is the medium weight version.

Both the wings and the launcher are sized to just fit on a Prusa Mini+.

Printing
Print the wing parts with 2 perimeters and zero infill to keep the weight down. I used PLA, but other filaments may a little tougher. The launcher handle and rack parts should be printed in PLA (it's stiffer than other filaments) and with at least 3 perimeters and at least 20% infill. None of the parts need supports.

Launching
First, roll the wing onto the rack of the U-shaped launcher until it sits at the bottom of the U. If it is a little snug at the bottom, you may need to sand the inside smooth side of the U. Launching the wing is more akin to throwing a dart than, say, throwing a baseball. Magnus effect wings are notorious for having no roll stability, so you need to launch the wing dead-level. The technique that seems to work best for me is to hold the launcher in front my face (rather than to the side) and then push it forward with just a little bit of wrist flick. It takes some practice to both keep the flight level and also keep the release angle more or less level. Give it a shot, and have fun!

Comment & Rating (1)

Please fill in your opinion
(0/5000)

Cool love this design
0
Reply
No more