Convertible Pencil Rocket (Parametric)

thingiverse

Update 12/1 - v1.1 Check out the latest version! Remember those childhood days when you'd pretend your pencil was a rocket launching from your desk? This design lets you relive that fantasy with a twist. By setting the pencil down on its fins, it becomes a sneaky space-saving pencil stand for your desk. Don't worry, this is not about turning your pencil into a weapon; though it might make an interesting one! The OpenSCAD file allows you to adjust sizes as needed. After testing, I settled on 2-layer-thick fins for a perfect fit with the Ticonderoga #2 pencil. Despite its hexagonal hole, the parameter can also accommodate round pencils, pens, or smooth rod. This quick print is an ideal demo or giveaway piece and sure to impress at your next event! And guess what? You'll probably always have a pencil handy for a demonstration. Update 12/1/12: v1.1 Now, you can adjust the angle of the fins so that when thrown, the pencil might spin (untested). The new STL has this set at 5 degrees for a clockwise spin with right-handed throws. Follow these easy steps to use this design: 1) Print it out (adjust parameters if needed for a snug fit). 2) Slide the design onto your pencil from the tip, stopping at the metal bit that holds the eraser on. 3) No crazy ideas, please! (But do tell us if you have one.) Disclaimer: Not responsible for lost pencils. Featured Crazy Idea #1: Thanks to glen2, you can make the fins bigger and slide them along the length of the pencil. Attach stoppers at each end with rubber bands so they don't come off. Push the fins to the tip, hold the blunt end, and throw in an overarm motion. The fins should slide back, giving your pencil a straight flight to its target. Print Settings: I printed this using slic3r 0.9.7, Marlin, j-head 0.5mm with cheap 3mm "repraper" PLA filament from China. I used glass covered with window tint and applied a thin coat of ABS juice. The printbed is heated to 90 for the first layer (around 80 with an IR thermometer), and 70 for additional layers. Two perimeters, 10% honeycomb infill, and 0.4mm layer height were used in my print settings. Hot end temperature depends on color but is usually around 185.