Building a ball launcher for a dog

Help & Support Robot Parts
1

Hello,

I’m trying to build a ball launcher for a german shepherd.
The goal is for the launcher to shoot the ball about 30m far.

After some searching on the web I came by these 2 posts:

Preferably I’d have used the same ‘FIRST CIM 12V 5280 RPM’ motors as the tennisball thrower (which shoots pretty far).
Unfortunately I couldn’t find that specific motor anywhere, but I believe the 12V 5310 RPM “CIM” Brushed DC Motor should come close enough.
(if anyone could confirm that i’d appreciate it :wink: )

I want to start with just the 2 motors + a power supply and start working from there.
I wonder if I can pick any power supply with 12V for this or should I look for a specific A?

The description of the motor says:

  • No Load Current: 2.7 A
  • Stall Current: 133 A

So I’d assume it has to be minimum 2.7A and maximum 133A?
Do I risk ending up with weak motors if I use a Power supply 12VDC 6A?
(also can I just cut the output cable of the power supply to connect them to the cables of the motors?)

Can I just connect these motors to my motorcycle battery which is 12V - 10Ah?

Thanks in advance for any feedback!

2

Hello @Dewy and welcome to the RobotShop community,

but I believe the 12V 5310 RPM “CIM” Brushed DC Motor should come close enough.

Yes, that motor should work for you.

I wonder if I can pick any power supply with 12V for this or should I look for a specific A?

No, choosing a power supply for a motor is a little bit more complex than choosing a battery. Check these articles:


That being said, I’d recommend using a rechargeable battery and get a battery charger for it.

I hope that helps!

1 Like