Flywheel
A flywheel launcher consists of two adjacent wheels that grab and shoot an object.
Although this mechanism is quite viable, it is lacking in it's precision with smaller objects. Furthermore, since it squeezes the objects it intakes, there is a risk of damaging the candy. Since this project is about launching a candy like a skittle, which are small, this is not the best option.
Catapult
A catapult is a simple machine used to launch a projectile over a distance. It typically consists of a base, lever arm, a tensioning system, and a container. When the lever arm is released, the tensioning mechanism rapidly releases its energy, launching the projectile into the air.
Mechanical Arm
A mechanical arm consists of an "arm" with servos on it to control the arm.
Although this design is very precise, it is not be the best to launch an object at some velocity.
Centrifugal Launcher
A centrifugal launcher uses a rotary movement to generate momentum to launch a projectile. They are useful to launch objects because they easily reach high speeds, have few moving parts, and (ideally) can be controlled with near perfection. I have NOT reached this so far as the videos will show.