Cannon Add-On — Power, Physics, and Safe Play
Turn your Stackr into a dramatic demonstration of stored energy with the Cannon add-on. Designed for learning and hands-on experimentation, this module uses a single continuous-rotation servo driving a rack-and-pinion to compress a spring; when released, the stored energy launches a small projectile. It’s an engaging way to explore mechanics, electronics, and control — with safety built in.
What You’ll Learn
🔩 Mechanics – See energy storage and release in action. Learn how a rack-and-pinion can convert rotary motion into linear travel to compress a spring, and how that stored energy translates into a short, controlled launch.
⚡ Electronics – Interface and control a continuous servo from the Arduino Nano ESP32 on Stackr. Practice wiring, power considerations, and using feedback/limits to keep movements repeatable and safe.
💻 Software – Build reliable control logic:
- Create an arming/disarming sequence and safe release behavior.
- Integrate with the GamePad App and BLE to remotely trigger and monitor the cannon.
- Coordinate timing between driving, arming, and firing for repeatable results.
Why It’s Great
The Cannon add-on is a visually gratifying project that ties classroom physics to a real device. It’s ideal as a short workshop or weekend build that teaches core engineering concepts from mechanisms and energy to responsible control systems.
Safety First
This add-on is intended for educational, low-energy demonstrations only. To keep projects safe and fun:
- Never aim at people, animals, or fragile objects.
- Operate under adult supervision and wear eye protection during tests.
There is more
This Add-On is compatible with the Alvik Robot.
Content:
Cannon (Add-On) Assembly Video - https://youtu.be/grzgB0A8CFg
This is just the Add-On. It does not include Stackr.
