Classic Thunderbird 1

thingiverse

From the 1960s classic Gerry Anderson series, comes this model based on Hans De Ridder's original design at http://grabcad.com/library/thunderbird1. I dissected it into separate parts for easier printing, improving its overall printability. Printed with supports and superglue assembly, I then painted it with acrylics. 2016-1-26 Update: I refined the main body and wings, making them smoother and more optimized for 3D printing. An alternative version with built-in support is also available online. 2018-4-8 Update: V3 has been released, featuring embossed lettering and connectors that enable glueless assembly. 2018-4-10 Update: V4.1 is now live, showcasing an area between the wings removed and improved wing pivot connectors. Using NetFabb, I addressed potential slicing issues to ensure optimal results. I've printed this model twice, first at 100% size with a 10% infill, and then again at 60% size with 0% infill. Both versions worked flawlessly when sliced using Makerware and printed on a Replicator 2 in PLA. TB1-Improved.stl requires Support; raft is optional. TB1-Alternate+Support.stl should be printed with raft enabled, without needing any extra support. TB1-assembly_v3 rear rocket section requires support for successful printing. TB1-assembly_v4.1 requires support as well. The recommended version! The wings can pivot by drilling a 1.75mm hole in each wing housing and then inserting a small piece of filament through the corresponding hole. V3 might work with its built-in connectors, but V4.1 should perform even better. Both versions need testing; I invite you to give them a try and leave a comment!