Launch Ramp: [and plans]
[ Thanks to Angus Lowe, UK ]
Angus Lowe was the first to send us both pictures of his ramp, and the plans as well. Thanks!
you can click on the photos for larger versions
Lowe has a rather innovative design for his launch using just a sheet of plywood, and some sheet metal. A lot of launch ramps use 2x4 or similar joists. Instead Lowe uses varied height plywood that fully support all the way to the ground. We asked him a few questions about his ramp.
RPDO: What height is it?
AL: It is 40cm high and 100cm long.
RPDO: How did you bevel the tops to line up correctly with the curve?
AL: By penciling the angle of the tops on the side of the plywood and using a electric band saw and angling the cutting surface to the same angle as the wood needs to be cut.
RPDO: How did you cut the sheet metal?
AL: With a lever metal cutting knife. Metal needs to be 106cm by 83cm.
RPDO: How long did it take you to build?
AL: Altogether about 6 hours.
RPDO: Did it work out well? is it fun?
AL: Yes great ramp, big lip and you get a lot of air.
RPDO: How thick is the sheet metal?
AL: 1 millimetre.
RPDO: Do you think the sheet metal will bend around the joists over time leaving the surface bumpy?
AL: Maybe, but I don't think so because it is strong. (mild steel)
AL: Also.... Improvements that I would have made:
To extend the sheet of metal so it wrapped over the lip of the ramp, so it doesn't leave a sharp edge. When screwing in the metal sheet leave 10cm between each screw. (use round headed screws) When screwing in the middle bits to the side use flat headed screws and also counter sync them. Leave about 10cm between each middle bit of plywood.
