Windmill coat hanger with mechanics

cults3d

My four-year-old nephew has an absolute fascination with windmills, particularly the classic ones that the Netherlands is renowned for. Given the limited availability of windmill toys, I decided to design and build one for his birthday using my trusty 3D printer. The primary function of a windmill is to generate power by converting rotational energy into linear motion. To replicate this process in a fun and engaging way, I aimed to create a model with a mechanical movement that showcases the inner workings of a traditional windmill. Initially, I attempted to recreate an accurate replica of a working windmill, but it quickly became apparent that the design was too intricate for a simple coat hanger. Undeterred, I shifted my focus towards developing a simplified rotation-to-linear motion transmission system, which proved to be a more feasible and enjoyable project. One of the great advantages of 3D printing is its ability to accommodate customization, so I decided to make the model personal by engraving my nephew's name onto the moving platform. If you're inspired to create your own windmill model using a 3D printer, please feel free to share a photo of your creation!