r/c plane wheel pants (for 50-60mm wheels)

thingiverse

A landing gear pant for aircraft wheels has two main designs: one for vertical struts and another with slightly inclined struts. Both pant styles share outer dimensions of 60mm diameter and 18mm width, but due to structural necessity, nose wheel pants must accommodate a maximum metal strut diameter of 55mm. Two variations of nose wheel pants are available. The first is designed specifically for vertical struts perpendicular to the ground, while the second design features slightly inclined struts. The latter variant presents a more natural appearance, and detailed files with a '2' suffix can be viewed to explore this design further. Each pant has an approximate weight of 7.5 grams when printed in ABS, increasing slightly if printed using PLA material. The pants are designed for use with a 2mm metal rod as a strut. A solidworks file is included, allowing users to modify the design according to their desired dimensions. Photos of completed models equipped with these landing gear pants are encouraged and anticipated. Update (29-Nov-2015): These pants have been tested, but unfortunately, the nose wheel variants do not function well due to a flaw in design. The problem lies in the fact that the pant can easily break when subjected to pressure from the axle as it mounts directly onto the pant shell. When this occurs upon landing or taxiing, the pant can fracture due to the axle's deformation. This issue has since been addressed with an updated design, where the axle features a slight degree of freedom, preventing damage to the pant. Additionally, small bridges-clamps on top of the pant ensure secure strut placement. Main wheel pants function effectively (during normal landings), ensuring overall landing gear performance. Print Settings: Rafts: Do Not Matter Supports: No Supports Are Needed Infill: 100 Percent Filled Print Settings Are Recommended Notes: Printing with a 0.3mm nozzle and 0.2mm layer height produces optimal results. The use of supports was not necessary, as the bridges successfully held their shape without compromising structural integrity. While the internal surface may require some sanding to remove imperfections, this does not impact functionality. Post-Printing Procedure: To Assemble, Combine Top and Bottom Pant Sections Using Glue or Acetone (for ABS). Apply CA Glue or Dichloroethane for PLA Material Instead. Ensure Proper Positioning with the Designed Small Holes at Each End - Use a Toothpick or Filament Piece as Spacers. The M3 screw is secured to the strut using a locking nut, then tightened in place with another nut. Pants can be securely fastened onto the strut with 2 small tapping screws. To Complete the Nose Wheel Design: Secure a metal rod of 2mm diameter into place within the pant shell, shaping it according to visual instructions. Next, fit the wheel axle with a stop collar, much like those offered at hobbyking.com (product reference #6x2 1mm 10pcs).