Puppet Rex

thingiverse

Create a stick puppet using upholstery thread or fishing line and a rubber band, and discover how to open or close Rex's jaws by pulling the trigger. Check out this fascinating project in action and learn more about it at http://youtu.be/c9BTUQcyshs. Interesting details on the construction of this puppet reveal that it was printed in Ultimachine black and MakerBot yellow (creamed corn) using a Replicator 2, with the trigger being printed on a PrintrBot Simple to save time. The photos may appear more yellow due to lighting, but the Creamed Corn color actually looks like bone and is an ideal choice for the skull. Detailed instructions for this project will be available soon, along with updates to STL files. For version 2, rod-puppet_rex_v2.stl has been added, repositioning the side hole to allow the mouth to close completely. If you've already printed the previous version of the rod, a small hole can be drilled just above the old position for better functionality. The fit of the rod end in the skull's socket may require some touch-ups with sandpaper or a file, but if it is snug, no glue is necessary. All parts were printed as oriented, using a raft and specific settings (2 shells, .2mm layer height, 10% infill) to ensure optimal results. A new jaw version (jaw-puppet_rex-v2.stl) has been released, which is designed not to fall off when the puppet is assembled. The old jaw (jaw-puppet_rex.stl) requires a needle and heated wire for secure alignment. The grip_2key-puppet_rex.stl now features two keyways, allowing side-triggering or traditional alignment with the skull. Assembly involves gluing the rod into the skull, threading the line through the side hole, attaching the jaw with a double knot, and pre-tensioning the trigger with a rubber band for smooth operation. A display stand for your completed puppet is also available as puppet_rex_stand.stl. Enjoy this creative project and share your appreciation if you like it!