Maximus knew of at least three types of catapults: one that launches stones through a torsion device, with the crossbow cannon being a typical example; another that uses elastic materials, such as large wooden bow arms pulling bowstrings to launch stones, exemplified by Cao Cao's thunderbolt chariot at the Battle of Guandu; and another using leverage to launch stones, primarily referring to the weighted catapult.
The reason Maximus chose the weighted catapult was that among various catapults, it was the most powerful. In historical records from his previous life, there were many accounts of it being used to break through thick stone walls. Moreover, its construction wasn't too complicated. Considering that they were only attacking wooden walls and held an advantageous position, with the enemy not daring to engage in field battles, he even downsized the catapult, simplifying some auxiliary devices and relying more on human power for pulling...
