steampunk gear rack and pinion light switch

thingiverse

This is a kit-bash/remix of three different models I found here at Thingiverse plus several added parts. I work in the 3D software AC3D, so I've included my source files as .ac files, along with the print layout .stl files. The stl files are laid out so they will print on any 8"x8" (205mm x 205mm) printer with minimal use of supports. This project began when a friend asked for help after buying a new bookcase unit and realizing that the light switch for the room would be hidden behind it. This project allows him to have a handle off to the side to flip the light switch without obstruction, and does so with style. I've included two versions here: the regular version and the long version. I haven't printed the longer version yet, so results may vary. The regular version worked fine by adding screws and washers to keep the gears from walking off the axles. The longer version was done to reverse the action of the rack so that the up motion of the rack turns the light on and the down action turns it off. In the shorter version, the action is reversed.