3D Printed Whirligig

thingiverse

This is a whirligig that I created years ago out of wood. I decided to try making it again using 3D printing technology this time around. The Assembly_guide.pdf file will demonstrate how to put it together. Once the model is assembled and the hardware attached, find the balance point and glue the swivel with attached rod to the base at that precise location. This spot may vary depending on the type of plastic used, the specific hardware chosen, and any scaling adjustments made. I've posted a short video showcasing its action on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B7xo6ONpo9A&feature=youtu.be Print Settings Printer: FlashForge Creator pro Rafts: They aren't necessary in this case. Supports: Yes, they are crucial for a smooth finish. Resolution: I set it to 0.2mm for maximum detail. Infill: I chose 15% for a good balance between weight and structure. Materials needed: 4 - 608zz skateboard bearings (I got them on Amazon for $5.45) 1 - Length of either 5/16 or 8mm threaded rod 10 - 5/16 or 8mm nuts 6 or so 8mm washers 2 - 6-32 or m3 X1 1/4" or 30mm screws 2 - Nuts for the above screws 1 - 1/4-20 X 1 1/4" or m6 X 30 screw 3 - Nuts for the last screw A short length of stiff wire (I used 2mm steel wire) for the eccentric motion 2 short lengths of thin wire for the hind leg kicking action (I had some .8mm wire on a spool that I used) On my prototype, I replaced the 1/4-20 screw and nuts with a 10-24 internally threaded X 1/4 in diameter tube, a 10-24 standoff, and washer instead. To ensure everything turned smoothly, I applied a drop of super glue to all the nuts before assembling it to prevent them from loosening over time.