iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
An Arduino ping pong ball cannon is usually a lightweight launcher that uses two spinning flywheels to propel table-tennis balls and a servo to feed them. In the closest match to this title, the Arduino controls the feeder and motor switching; it does not power the high-current motors directly. This guide explains that flywheel design, what its parts do, and how it differs from a pneumatic launcher.
How an Arduino ping pong ball cannon works
A dual-flywheel launcher separates the job into feeding and propulsion. A hopper or reservoir holds balls; a servo-operated gate or pusher releases one onto a guided ramp; two rotating wheels grip and accelerate it. An Arduino handles commands and timing, while a suitable switching or motor-control circuit connects the motors to their power source.
- Ball storage and singulation: Holds balls and releases them one at a time.
- Servo feeder: Moves a gate or pusher to place a ball into the launch path.
- Ramp or guide: Keeps the ball aligned as it reaches the wheels.
- Flywheels and motors: Provide the force that launches the ball.
- Control and power: The Arduino coordinates the sequence; a motor driver or switching device and a motor-matched supply handle motor current.
“Cannon” here means a low-energy table-tennis-ball launcher, not a firearm or a general-purpose projectile device. A pneumatic launcher is a different mechanism, with a pressure-bearing barrel and valves; its parts and build considerations should not be mixed into a flywheel design.
What the Arduino controls
Gord Payne’s 2019 Arduino Project Hub build uses an Arduino Uno Rev3, two high-speed DC motors, and an SG90 micro-servo. Its sketch reads a potentiometer on A0, controls motor output on pin 6, and commands the servo on pin 8. On a start character, the sketch runs the motors, waits two seconds, feeds a ball, and stops the motor; a stop character turns off the motor output. The servo makes a push-and-return movement and is detached afterward. These pin assignments and timings describe that sketch, not a universal wiring plan.
#1 Best Overall
- FETCH MADE FUN: You and your dog will love the thrill and fun of playing fetch with Franklin Pet Supply’s Dog Fetch Toy! Easily launch tennis balls with the launch pull handle
- KEEPS DOGS ACTIVE: Active play encourages your dog to exercise, and there’s no better way to play than playing fetch. Dogs love to run and chase, and this activity is sure to keep them engaged at any age!
- DURABLE AND RUGGED: More than just a dog toy, this play fetch tennis ball cannon is durable and includes a comfort-grip handle for hours of enjoyment for you and your pet
- COMPLETE SET: This play fetch toy includes the cannon and a mini 1.7" tennis ball designed for small dogs. The cannon has a built in ball holder that hold 2 more mini tennis balls for added playability
- COMFORT AND CONTROL: Prevent pain in your back and shoulders from bending down and picking up wet tennis balls. This tennis ball launcher is the perfect way to entertain your dog and grow closer together!
The important electrical distinction is that an Arduino output pin is a control signal, not a motor power supply. Payne’s parts list includes an N-channel MOSFET and a 1N4007 diode alongside the motors and battery. A separate Carleton University prototype used a 12 V supply and PWM controller. Choose motor switching and power components for the actual motors and circuit; do not connect high-current motors as though an Arduino pin could drive them directly.
Reference build: parts and their roles
The following is the component list published for Payne’s 2019 project. It is a reference build, not a universal bill of materials; compatibility depends on the selected motors, wheels, driver, supply, and mechanical layout.
Rank #2
- High Quality – These colored ping pong balls are top-quality, measuring 40mm in diameter and weighing in at 2.2g each. They are made of durable PP material that ensures long-lasting fun. Suitable for all ages, from kids to adults!
- Colorful – These table tennis balls come in a wide variety of colors that children will love, as well as being perfect for a range of craft activities and party decorations, for occasions like Christmas and birthdays. With just the right amount of bounce and playability, these pings pong balls will provide endless fun for every member of the family.These ping pong balls can be used as interactive toys for cat or dog.
- Frosted Surface – Featuring a frosted surface, these table tennis balls make them easy to paint on with mark pen to create unique and stunning designs. Perfect for children looking to get creative and make their own unique table tennis balls.
- Non-Professional Table Tennis balls– While these table tennis balls may not be suitable for professional play or practice, they're perfect for other activities like classroom teaching, parent-child games, handmade creation, or holiday decorations. The range of possibilities is endless and guarantees fun for all.
- You Get – In this pack, you will receive 28 colored ping pong balls, we offer 7*24 hours customer support, ensuring you have peace of mind with every purchase.
| Listed component | Role in the project |
|---|---|
| Arduino Uno Rev3 | Runs the control sketch. |
| SG90 micro-servo | Moves the ball-feeding mechanism. |
| Two 6 V DC motors rated at 13,000 rpm | Spin the flywheels; these ratings belong to this project’s listed motors. |
| 7.4 V, 1,300 mAh LiPo battery | Listed power source; verify that any chosen motors and electronics are compatible with the supply. |
| 10 kΩ resistor | Listed circuit component. |
| 1N4007 diode | Listed circuit component. |
| N-channel MOSFET | Listed switching component for motor control. |
The list does not specify a universal wheel size, feeder geometry, or motor-driver design. Those mechanical and electrical choices must be made together rather than inferred from the parts names alone.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Feeding rate and what a prototype achieved
Carleton University Group 7’s 2026 launcher used a reservoir door to release one ball, then a ramp and two flywheels to launch it. Its reported sequence opened the door for 0.325 seconds, closed it, waited one second, and used a 1.325-second feed cycle. The team reports that its prototype fed and fired 20 balls in 26.5 seconds without jamming. Those figures describe that particular prototype, not a general throughput guarantee.
Rank #3
- Automatic Ball Launching Practice: This table tennis automatic launcher delivers consistent ball feeding for uninterrupted training sessions. Use it in your garage for daily skill building or set it up in your backyard for weekend family matches, improving your return accuracy and reaction time with every session
- Portable Lightweight Design: Weighing just 664 grams, this training machine is easy to carry anywhere for on the go practice. Take it to your community center for group training or pack it for vacation entertainment, enjoying professional level practice wherever you go
- Simple One Switch Operation: Featuring an easy on off switch, this table tennis training machine starts instantly without complex settings. Beginners can start practicing right away in their living room or experienced players can warm up quickly at the office break room, saving time for actual play
- Large Smooth Ball Exit: The wide ball exit design of this automatic launcher prevents jamming and ensures smooth, consistent ball delivery. Practice your forehand drives in the basement or work on your backhand returns on the patio, with reliable performance that keeps the balls coming
- Complete Set with 10 Balls: This ball launcher comes with 10 practice balls, ready to use straight out of the box. Perfect for children learning the sport at home or adults honing their skills in the recreation room, providing everything needed to start training immediately
Why aim and consistency can be difficult
The Carleton team reported weak consistency in trajectory, height, and range. It attributed problems to imperfect motor alignment and proposed an adjustable ramp angle, a more constrained ball path, and better alignment between the ramp and flywheels. These are useful iteration points: the feeder should present each ball in the same orientation, and the guide and wheel contact should remain aligned. The project report does not establish a universally reliable geometry or performance level.
Flywheel and pneumatic designs are not interchangeable
| Design | Propulsion and feed | Control and build considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Dual flywheel, Arduino Project Hub (2019) | Two motor-driven wheels launch a ball delivered by a servo feeder. | Arduino timing and motor switching; motor power requires suitable separate power and switching components. |
| Carleton University prototype (2026) | Two flywheels, a ramp, and a servo-operated reservoir door. | Used a 12 V supply and PWM controller; its report describes feed timing and alignment challenges. |
| Aalto University pneumatic project documentation (associated with 2015) | A barrel and feed arrangement use pneumatic propulsion. | Arduino-connected solenoid valves and servos control the mechanism. The documentation says two separate 5 V regulators were used to avoid overload; it is not a parts list for a flywheel launcher. |
| Single-flywheel-plus-hood concept (Ammar Jaleel; publication date not stated) | Uses a single flywheel and hood as an alternative architecture. | The page compares flywheels, a solenoid, springs, and pneumatic options, and argues that motor speed and hood angle can be separate controls. Its numerical specifications are design claims, not independently verified results. |
These projects illustrate different approaches, not proof that one architecture is best for every maker. A pneumatic barrel and valves add pressure-related components and considerations; they should not be folded into the low-voltage dual-flywheel reference build.
Rank #4
- 🥇【Catch Launcher Baskets】Enjoy the pop and catch ball game with our 6 catch launcher baskets. They are easy to assemble and provide tons of fun! Perfect for kids aged 4 to 12+ years old and adults, these toys provide endless indoor and outdoor play options.
- 🥈【Special Glowing Balls】With 15 ping pong balls and 5 glow balls, this set provides a variety of options for interesting gameplay. Play during the day with the ping pong balls or feel the fun of playing at night with the glow-in-the-dark ball.
- 🥉【Engaging Multiplayer Fun】Perfect for outdoor activities, camping, and endless fun! Gather family and friends for engaging multiplayer games at the beach, in the backyard, or indoors, promoting active play and friendly competition with exciting outdoor play toys and games.
- 🏅【Work on player Reflexes】As players catch, toss, and strategize, they develop hand-eye coordination, reflexes, and teamwork skills. This interactive game not only entertains but also creates lasting memories and bonds that will be cherished for years to come.
- 🥇【Great Gift for Kids】Our pop and catch ball set comes in stunning outer box packaging, making it an impressive gift choice for Birthday and Christmas Party Favors Gifts for Kids, a companion for unforgettable moments and endless laughter!
Keep demonstrations controlled
These project descriptions are not a safety standard or a validated construction guide. Treat even a table-tennis-ball launcher as a projectile device: use only lightweight balls, keep the firing direction controlled, and do not adapt the design for heavier projectiles or higher-energy pneumatic systems.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- ENGAGING PLAYTIME: Each cute ping pong ball is crafted to entice your cat's hunting instincts, perfect for solo or interactive play. They're light, bouncy, and ideal for those spirited chases, making them a staple in any cat toy collection.
- DURABLE DESIGN: Proudly designed by husband-and-wife team based out of Southern California, these ping pong balls are designed with your pet's safety and your home's cleanliness in mind. These cat balls withstand vigorous play, are easy to clean, and don't leave marks on walls or floors.
- MULTI-PURPOSE FUN: Not just for cats, these versatile balls can easily transform into a playful cat ball pit or be used as engaging toys for small dogs, ensuring your pets are joyfully occupied.
- PET LOVER'S CHOICE: A thoughtful gift for cat and dog enthusiasts or cat moms, this 6-pack cat toy set brings delight to both pets and owners, sparking joy and enhancing bonding time.
- CREATIVE PLAY: Stimulate your pet's mind and keep them active with these cat toy balls that are perfect for a variety of games and also serve as a great addition to any cat ball pit setup.
Project references
- Arduino Project Hub: “Arduino Ping Pong Ball Cannon” — Gord Payne, February 3, 2019; components and sketch.
- Carleton University: “Ping-Pong Ball Launcher” — Alexia Savage / Group 7, 2026; prototype, feed timing, reported run, and limitations.
- Aalto University Mechatronics Exercises: “Pingpong ball cannon” — documentation associated with 2015; pneumatic mechanism and control.
- Ammar Jaleel: “Ping-Pong Ball Launcher” — architecture comparison and single-flywheel-plus-hood concept; publication date not stated.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
