Leonardos Renaissance Catapult (Working Miniature)

Leonardo’s Renaissance Catapult (Working Miniature)

Combine Renaissance ingenuity with modern 3D printing to build this fully functional miniature catapult, inspired by Leonardo da Vinci’s original sketches! Whether you’re a history buff, an engineering enthusiast, or just looking for a fun project, this build offers a fascinating glimpse into the genius of da Vinci and the power of 3D-printed torsion systems.

Who Was Leonardo da Vinci?

Leonardo da Vinci (1452–1519) was a renowned Italian polymath of the High Renaissance. Best known for masterpieces like the Mona Lisa and The Last Supper, da Vinci was also a visionary engineer and inventor. His catapult concepts, found in his notebooks, applied advanced principles of physics and mechanical advantage to traditional siege engines—paving the way for more efficient and powerful designs. This project pays homage to his pioneering spirit by blending historical inspiration with cutting-edge 3D printing.

Key Features

1. Historical Flair, Modern Materials:
   • Printed with Bambu PLA Wood in Ochre Yellow (13403) and Rosewood (13204) for an authentic, wooden look.
   • Castle walls and accessories in PLA Basic Silver and Light Gray to complete the medieval scene.
2. Fully Functional Miniature Siege Engine:
   • Launches 8 mm steel ball bearings over 10 meters at speeds up to 40 MPH.
   • Adjustable tension via the nylon cord for fine-tuning range and power.
3. No Screws Needed:
   • Assembled using 3D-printed wooden pins for an authentic, Renaissance-inspired construction.
   • Only a single drop of glue is used to secure the small magnet in the launching cup.
4. Easy to Reprint and Repair:
   • High-torque parts (the throwing arm and tension bows) are separate pieces, so they’re simple to reprint if they wear out.

Bill of Materials (BOM)

From the Maker’s Beginner Kit (B-ZC002):

• (1) D4×2 mm Round Magnet
• (1) ~1 foot of 0.6 mm Black Nylon Cord
• (6) 8 mm Stainless Steel Balls

3D-Printed Parts (Included STL Files):

• Catapult Frame & Side Supports (Ochre Yellow PLA Wood)
• Throwing Arm & Tension Bows (Rosewood PLA Wood)
• Wood Pins (Rosewood PLA Wood or same color as frame)
• Miniature Castle Walls & Towers (PLA Basic Silver/Light Gray)
• Spindle/Winding Mechanism

Additional Materials:

• A small drop of glue (to secure the magnet to the cup).

Disclaimer: This model is compatible with the Maker’s Beginner Kit (B-ZC002). The kit includes various non-printed parts to support multiple designs, so some components may not be necessary for this specific model.

Assembly & Usage

1. Print All Parts
   • Adjust settings for Bambu PLA Wood or PLA Basic as recommended by the filament’s specs.
   • Ensure higher infill on high-stress parts (throwing arm, bow, etc.) if you plan on frequent launches.
2. Frame & Pins
   • Insert the 3D-printed pins through the corresponding holes in the side supports and frame.
   • The friction-fit design should hold everything snugly.
3. Attach the Magnet
   • Add a tiny drop of glue in the throwing cup.
   • Press the D4×2 mm magnet firmly in place and let it dry.
   • This magnet secures the steel ball before launch.
4. String the Tension Mechanism
   • Wind the 0.6 mm nylon cord around the spindle or center rod.
   • Tie off or loop the cord to adjust tension. The tighter the wrap, the more power you’ll generate.
5. Load & Fire
   • Place one 8 mm steel ball in the cup.
   • Gently pull back the arm and lock triggering mechanism
   • Pull relase string and destroy what ever you aim at!
   • Experiment with tension to find your desired range and speed.

Safety Warning

• This catapult launches steel bearings at high velocity and can break glass or cause injury. Always point it in a safe direction and use protective gear if necessary. Store out of reach of children or pets.

Like & Download: If you love Renaissance engineering, hit Download now to get the STLs and start printing!

Build & Customize: Tweak infill, add decorative elements, or paint your catapult for a personal touch.

Share Your Makes: Post photos or videos of your launches; tag me and the Bambu Lab community so we can cheer you on!

Spread the Word: Invite fellow makers to join the Maker’s Beginner Kit Commission & Incentive Campaign—the more creations we share, the more we all learn.