The Powerpack and Air Cannon
The Powerpack is still not quite done, but I got some footage of one of the first test runs and threw it all together during a 2 hour editing session for everyone’s enjoyment!
For those of you interested in the technical aspects of the Powerpack and Air cannon, here’s some information.
- The sprinkler valve on the air cannon is a solenoid valve that costs around 40 dollars. It runs off of three 9-volt batteries in series, and is the device that cycles the air from the reservoir into the barrel, propelling the projectile. The air cannon in this video is the first I ever built, and is also the best one; It has never caused me any problems.
- The Powerpack started as a fancy looking battery pack for my 15 watt solar panel I purchased months ago. I realized that it was the perfect size to act as a ‘universal power supply’, and the Powerpack was born! Inside are two 12 volt 12 Ah Gel Cell sealed led acid batteries. They are wired in parallel, which means I should be able to draw about 24 Ah’s out of the battery pack before I should recharge it, for the sake of prolonged longevity.
- The mini air compressor was purchased from Harbor Freight for 25 dollars. Every time I go there I spend at least 3 times the amount I meant to. That store is just too amazing for words.
If I get the chance I might do a more complete write up someday so others can learn from my experience (and mistakes), though I bet that most people don’t need me to tell them what to do, there may be some who would be happy for a few guidelines. Cheers!
-Lace