Rocket Ride (Functional with Build Instructions)

Retro Rocket Ride

Edit 30.09.2022: After printing I have found the tolerances on the model may be a bit loose. I am in the process of updating the components.

Edit - 19.09.2022: IMPORTANT - After realising that there were some issues with the mechanism's functionality. I have uploaded files with a “Rev.” (with subsequent revision number) in the file name. If you have downloaded the files before 18.09.2022, please ensure to replace the respective parts with their updated versions.

The Rocket Ride model is a nod to a vintage coin operated Rocket kids ride. Designed to be a desk toy, or a children's toy, the model is sure to bring a lot of smiles to many faces. 

The model features individual parts with the intent to be printed with several vibrant colours (no MMU required, just print and assemble). The individual parts were also designed to print without the necessity of support material, and the orientation of all the parts are presented in the orientation in which they are intended to be printed; with the largest pieces designed to fit onto a 220mm x 220mm build plate*. 

(*Note: for users with Prusa Mk3 printers with a build plate size of  210mm x 210mm I have included smaller versions of the base and backdrop denoted with the addition of “small” to the part name to allow the parts to be printed without having to split them up).

When printed and assembled the model has a size of 220mm Wide x 157mm Deep x 205mm Tall and allows for the turning of a hand crank which transfers motion via gears and linkages allowing the rocket to rock back and forth, the stars to rotate and for the satellite to whiz through the night sky - see a video of the operation in the uploaded files.

Included is a complete and comprehensive build instructions booklet* giving step by step instructions on how to assemble the model, and also includes a complete Bill of Materials with intended colours for all parts of the model. below is a preview of the contents of the instruction booklet. 

*Note: Should this not download with the model files please be sure to download it as part of the “other files” on the model page: https://www.printables.com/model/274490-retro-rocket-ride-functional-with-build-instructio/files (it will be at the bottom of the page).

Retro Rocket Ride - Standalone variant

I have also added a standalone variant of the model which allows for a more simple, yet still functional model to be printed with fewer parts. below is a representation of the model:

To print this variant, all files for the Retro rocket & rocket stand should be printed (parts as shown in the build instructions booklet (Stairs not required)). The following components should be replaced from the original model:

For the mechanism of the standalone variant the following parts are required:

Printing Tips:

Material: PLA, PETG, ABS, or any material that you would be comfortable to print with.

Supports: No supports required.

Layer height: 0.2mm will be fine for 95% of the parts, for smaller parts I would recommend a layer height of 0.1mm and slow down the printing speed for optimal detail. 

Infill: I would recommend 20%-25%.

Colours: Recommended colours are captured in the build instructions booklet. But with some imagination any great colour combination would work.

I hope that anyone who prints the model has as much fun putting it together as I did creating the model and instructions. 

Please note some of the parts may cause a choking hazard, so these 3D printed toys are not recommend for children under the age of 6.

Happy printing and enjoy the ride.