This is a sphere printed in two parts with a threaded connector to attach each piece. Its design allows printing without supports, which gives a nicer finished look to the part. You can also mix and match colours!
Use a dab of super glue to permanently attach the pieces (the threaded connector helps with alignment and removes the need for clamping while the glue dries).
There are four sizes of the sphere:
- 24 mm (small threaded rod); The 24 mm sphere is compatible with Duplo/Hubelino marble runs.
- 30 mm (small threaded rod)
- 40 mm (large threaded rod)
- 50 mm (large threaded rod)
Printing instructions
- Print two half spheres in the size you want, as oriented in the .stl file
- Print the threaded rod (choose the right size, see above), also as oriented in the .stl file. You may need a brim, but I didn't.
- For a softer touch, print the sphere in flex (use a rigid material for the connector rod, though).
- If the screw is too tight or too loose, try scaling it in the x-y axis in increments of 1% until it fits well. This can be variable depending on your printer and filament combination.
Assembly instructions
- Apply a dab superglue into the thread cavity on the first half of the sphere
- Insert the threaded rod halfway (there is a bit of extra space).
- Apply a couple of dabs of superglue on the flat part of the first half.
- Apply a dab superglue into the thread cavity on the second half
- Attach the second half of the sphere
- Twist tightly
Safety notes
- Everything about the 24 mm and 30 mm spheres is a choking hazard. Not for small children under 3 years old.
- The large (40 mm and 50 mm) spheres will pass the small parts cylinder test (once secured with glue), but it remains your responsibility to supervise your children. It could be quite painful if this is thrown at someone.
Other notes
- The model is fully parameterized in OpenSCAD; if you need another size, just message me.
Adam
