Explosion Effect - Talcapult

Name:
Talcapult
(Because its a small catapult that launches talcum-powder).

What does it do
Creates a mini mushroom cloud effect.
Intended to have the visual impact of small scale pyrotechnics without the cost or danger.
Its not that I don't love blowing stuff up its just that it is not always convenient.

Why
Personally I use the talcapults as targets for duino tag (arduino laser tag games), and hope to use them with more laser tag systems in the future, just to make things a bit more visually impressive.
System might have some uses as part of low budget special effects set ups.


Talcapult Video

Step 1 You will need

Parts you will need:

Servo - preferably a big powerful one (note: there is no provision for preventing the servo from excessive force and could potentially damage it so use an old or cheap one).

Thin ply wood.

Screws or small bolts for mounting parts

Spring / Springy material.

Thick wire e.g. coat hanger wire.

A few scraps of card or thin plastic.

Strong Tape.

Talcum powder (Talc).

Some means of controlling the servo:
 e.g. Standard RC electronics
         Good old Arduino
         Almost any Micro-controller


Tools you will need:

Drill

Pencil

Ruler

Coping saw

Sand Paper

Pliers