Spring Loaded Rocket Launcher

A foam rocket launcher consists of a compressed spring attached to a platform of mass \(m_p\), which when released collides with a stationary rocket setting it into motion.

A simplified cross-sectional view of the launch module is shown above.

\(x_0 = {{params.x0}} \ \rm{m}\), \(x_1 = {{params.x1}} \ \rm{m}\), \(m_p = {{params.mp}} \ \rm{kg}\), \(m_r = {{params.mr}} \ \rm{kg}\), \(k = {{params.k}}\).

Part 1

If the spring is un-deformed at the point of impact \(x_0\), determine the speed \(u_p\) of the platform just before it hits the rocket.
Neglect the mass of the spring and any resistive forces. Assume the launcher is fixed to the ground.

Answer Section

Please enter in a numeric value in \(\rm{m/s}\).

Part 2

If the coefficient of restitution between the two colliding surfaces is \(e = {{params.e}}\), calculate the final speeds of both the rocket and the platform.
Neglect the effects of gravity and force in the spring during the duration of impact.
What is \(v_p\)?

Answer Section

Please enter in a numeric value in \(\rm{m/s}\).

Part 3

What is \(v_r\)?

Answer Section

Please enter in a numeric value in \(\rm{m/s}\).

Attribution

Problem is licensed under the CC-BY-NC-SA 4.0 license.