3D Printed Mendocino Motor Parts

thingiverse

The Mendocino Motor is a captivating, solar-powered electric motor levitating through magnets. Instructors have used this project in classrooms, although some may face challenges due to limited access to woodshops; 3D printed designs are now an alternative. Photos showcasing the development process can be found at http://www.flickr.com/photos/connors934/sets/72157629433089119/. The latest developments are available in a zip file, introducing a four-way connector fitting inside magnets with three holes for standard pencils. The project's video demonstration can be viewed at http://youtu.be/gR2-wXdhSDc. Instructions on assembly and materials needed are provided in the zip file, including usage of 10 specific ring magnets. Printing the parts, assembling with pencils as connectors, wiring, soldering solar cells, installing magnets, and feedback for continuous improvement are part of the process. Separate things like blocks (http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:4455), connectors (http://www.thingiverse.com/download:60281), and mirror connectors (http://www.thingiverse.com/download:60284) are also provided for the base. Pencils serve as struts between the connectors, magnets are placed with same polarity, and proper alignment is essential. Wrapping wire on the rotor, soldering solar cells pairs, levitating the rotor in a magnetic field, turning on an incandescent light, and witnessing the rotation completes the project. Instructions for the base and more details are forthcoming.