[rick.oliver]

We have prototyped a latch actuated with a short stoke cylinder. The prototype used a 1/2" diameter shaft supported on bearings to simulate a CAM roller. The latch was cut from 1/8" AL flat stock such that the latch would follow the radius of the shaft and go just over top dead center. The latch is also cut away from the shaft at an angle to allow the catapult to flex down when the ball enters.

We have not completed the competition version; however, have high confidence it will work reliably. If not, thanks to the posters for alternatives.