Triple Axis Flying Tourbillon

thingiverse

This is a triple-axis tourbillon similar to those found in high-end mechanical watches that are worth a fortune. The basic design emulates those of Thomas Prescher, who is reportedly the only craftsman creating triaxial tourbillons that "fly" (i.e., are cantilevered) about two axes. See it in action: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6ARaZ5O9Wp8&feature=youtu.be and here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iniAlhXM0p4&feature=youtu.be A tourbillon supposedly enhances accuracy by eliminating gravitational errors on the balance spring. It also increases a watch's price and awesomeness at an exponential rate based on the number of axes. This tourbillon utilizes a simple Swiss lever escapement vibrating at 14,400 beats per hour (bph). This is slower than standard watch speeds. The inner two axes rotate at 3 revolutions per minute while the outer ring turns at 1 rpm (provided one properly adjusts the balance with grub screws). I attempted to use the fewest and simplest components in this design as well as the least amount of plastic. The largest part, the outer race, measures 120mm x 136mm. It functions nicely but could still benefit from improvements. Desired tweaks include: Cutting accurately sized 3mm shafts (my Dremel is currently out of commission due to relocation). Creating a two-part outer race to eliminate the access hole in the giant bevel ring (you can see a few airsoft pellets attempting to escape). Converting it to weight-powered rather than hand-powered. Adding coin counterweights to balance the system. Non-printed components: 4 x 6x2.5x3 RC Helicopter ball bearings 2mm shafts (various lengths) 3mm shaft (various lengths) 6mm airsoft pellets (about 60) Here are links for the non-printed components I used. Anything comparable will suffice. bearings: https://www.amazon.com/Sixteen-MR63-3x6x2mm-Precision-Bearings/dp/B01M0VV96I/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1483062996&sr=8-2&keywords=3mm+id+ball+bearing 3mm rods: https://www.amazon.com/10Pcs-Stainless-Steel-Cylinder-Linear/dp/B00JR56KI0/ref=sr_1_1?rps=1&ie=UTF8&qid=1483063060&sr=8-1&keywords=3mm+shaft&refinements=p_85%3A2470955011 2mm rods: https://www.amazon.com/20Pcs-Stainless-Steel-Round-150mmx2mm/dp/B00KHUR5AQ/ref=sr_1_1?rps=1&ie=UTF8&qid=1483063100&sr=8-1&keywords=2mm+shaft&refinements=p_85%3A2470955011 airsoft pellets: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002GNYDCA/ref=od_aui_detailpages00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 Print Settings: Printer: Reach 3d Rafts: Doesn't Matter Supports: Yes Resolution: .2 Infill: 30 Notes: Printed at 195/60. The balance wheel is at 100% while all else is at 30%. Only frames, the outer race, and the 10t bevel require supports. The 10t bevel and the outer race are designed to firmly grip their 3mm shafts. All others should spin freely.