Abstract
In this paper, we propose an impulse force generator for catapulting an object. The proposed impulse force generator utilizes snap-through buckling of an elastic body. The distinguished feature of the device is to adopt a serial chain of torsion springs with both high elasticity and flexibility as its elastic body. The use of the serial chain of torsion springs enables us to increase the energy density of the elastic body. Experimental results show that the proposed compact and lightweight impulse force generator has high capability of catapulting an object. The generated maximum momentum is of 16[Ns] in spite that the maximum driving torque necessary for snap-through buckling is only of 21[Nm].
