Solution to Fun with Fundamentals Puzzler: Shell Shocker

If the slug shooter is based on conventional railgun design, how far can he reach with each shot? Let's find out.

May 5, 2013

Machinedesign Com Sites Machinedesign com Files Uploads 2013 05 Final Solution 295 Fundy Railgun

Aided by a loophole in the local county code, Wurme establishes an auxiliary season for electric sporting arms. Using an old rifle stock, some jumper cables, and wire hangers, he concocts a device that would make Horace Smith and Daniel B. Wesson howl. How far can he shoot with this device?

Wurme can shoot about 44.7 meters with his railgun.

Try the next Fun with Fundamentals puzzler: This ship is a-sailing ...

Machinedesign Com Sites Machinedesign com Files Uploads 2013 05 294 Ship Sailing Fundy Puzzle

Shell Shocker originally appeared as Fun with Fundamentals Problem 295.

About the Author

Elisabeth Eitel

Elisabeth Eitel was a Senior Editor at Machine Design magazine until 2014. She has a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from Fenn College at Cleveland State University.