PVC Launcher test for FPV wings

[Derek]

It's always made me nervous to hand launch my FPV wings because the prop is spinning on the rear. I've never had a prop strike my hand but the possibility is always there. I figured it's about time that I build a bungee launcher. I sourced the black rubber tubing from Ebay. I bought enough tubing for two bungees. I had the PVC sitting in my shed. I just had to get the proper fittings. I watched dozens of launcher videos, on Youtube, and I finally settled on a design that I liked....so the build began. If you would like to see an overview of how it all goes together, just ask. I can do that. In the meantime, here is a short video of Makayla helping me test the launcher with a mock plane, lol.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KwkAo6XqMKE

[DOG]

Look good Derek and looks like it's going to work just fine for you

[Graham Lawrie]

Very cool Derek:)

[Derek]

Thanks guys! I wanted to take it out today but it's gotten really windy. Next time you see the launcher, I'll be using it to launch some wings.....maybe even a creme pie, lol

[Derek]

I made some changes to the launcher. I moved the release mechanism to the front. That way there is only a single line behind the release hook. Now there is a far less chance of a line getting snagged on a model. My wife, daughter, and parents were on hand for todays test launches. I'm happy so far. I'm gonna make some changes to the length of bungee and para-chord but I have no doubt that my FPV wings will have successful launches from this launcher. Here are two of the tests that we did today.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B_HZhbgxu_E

[DOG]

That's awesome Derek. Nice job on the design.

[Derek]

Thanks! There are all kinds of variations of the PVC bungee launcher on Youtube. I looked at several of them and then started building. I got a full launcher built and then I saw a video from Bert Kammerer. He was demonstrating a variation that he added that made launching "wings" much safer. I adapted that idea and reconfigured my launcher. I think we are in great shape now and I look forward to some great launches while the new goggles are down, lol.

[Graham Lawrie]

Excellent Derek:)

[Derek]

Thanks Graham! I'm hoping to get out today with the launcher and launch some wings. I have the bungee hooks installed and ready to go.