February 25, 2024
Description
I've designed two different print in place support free axle benders for pinewood derby cars. They are used to bend standard axles, 0.087 inches in diameter by 1 inch long. One is a hardware free version that bends a single angle ~ 3 degrees. The second version requires some hardware, allows angle adjustment, and provides increased clamping force.
Both benders uses a print in place flexure hinge to align the bend axis with the top of the nail for an optimal bend location. There are also bend angle gauges on the right side of the unit to check your bent axles. You can also print and use a large angle gauge found HERE.
There are two stops at the zero position that may slightly fuse during printing. It may be necessary to pop the bending section free with a screw driver after printing.
If the triangular flash under the nail head has not been removed make sure to align flash with slot when inserting axle
For the no hardware version a second nail is wedged above the nail to be bent and provides clamping force.
This version has an adjustable stop with lock nut that allows custom repeatable bends. The axle is held in place with a screw clamp.
This version requires the following hardware:
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License:
Creative Commons — Attribution — Noncommercial — Share Alike
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Robagon3D
