Simple hack to convert a stock softball launcher into a voice-controlled or mobile app controlled automatic ball launcher. The particular ball launcher shown here is a SKLZ Softball Catapult that I picked up at Target for about $35. The balls are 5oz foam softballs.
Materials: 12V DC ball launcher (your choice as long as it's under 2 Amps), wire, some electrical tape, a Wemo Maker and an optional Amazon Echo (Alexa) if you want to be able to launch a ball using your voice. Dog is also optional :) as this could be great for batting practice - think of being able to take a pitch when you're ready as opposed to getting pitches on a cycle.
This version needs an extension cord so I'm thinking the next iteration will run on an Amazon Tap and off a 12V battery.
Also included in this is a demo of the Wemo App, close ups of the Wemo Maker, Amazon Dot and how to set up the IFTTT trigger.
