P4_8 No Mr Bond, I Expect You to Drive

Abstract

This paper analyses the physics of the ejector seat shown in the James Bond film Goldfinger. By looking at frames from the film and modelling the ejection mechanism as a piston providing constant force, the motion of the ejected henchman was calculated. The henchman was found to reach a height of 2.37m at the apex of his ejection; a height which would not leave him seriously injured. The force required to eject him was found to be 1,930N, corresponding to a pressure of 8,870Pa. With comparisons to a typical piston from an engine, this was found to be a reasonable pressure and force for a piston to be able to generate.