Sam's Gears

thingiverse

My niece Sam has an upcoming birthday, so I crafted him a gear toy set as a present. The set includes gears of assorted sizes that can be stacked to create different gear ratios. For the base, users can either print out the included template or use a hardware store pegboard for a larger layout. Customize and print the parts in your preferred colors and styles. Gears are available in 1, 2, 3, and 4-inch diameters with unique designs, stackable and lockable vertically. Square plates of 2 and 4 inches serve as bases that can be locked together for larger layouts. Commercial pegboard from the hardware store is also an option, but note that its hole spacing differs from the design. Axles are provided in lengths of 1, 2, 3, and 4 cm, while spacers come in two types: with and without pegs. Spacer with a peg locks onto the gear above for synchronized turning, while the other allows independent rotation. A crank can be placed on top of 3" or 4" gears to aid turning. Updated versions of the plates are now available that print faster but maintain the original look if preferred.