This is a modification of a simple toy of the depression era called a Whirligig. Children would thread a string through a large button and make a loop of the string and then spin the button on the string.
It is an interesting way for children to learn about kinetic energy, sound generation, and rhythm.
As this Noisy Whirligig spins, air passes over the opening on the edge to create a noise that varies with the speed of the Whirligig rotation. The principle is the same as blowing across the top of an open bottle.
Requires a strong string or twine. Holder rings are provided to comfortably hold the string as it twists tightly.
Slicer Settings (Cura)
- Material - PLA
- Orientation - laying flat with button holes facing print bed
- Layer height - 0.28
- Wall line count - 2
- Infill density - 10%
- Support - Enabled
- Build plate adhesion - None
Assembly
- Print the flywheel and two rings.
- 1200mm (4 ft) of twine/strong string required. The string needs to be flexible but strong. Stiff string will not work. Some shoelaces work well.
- Thread both ends of the string through each button hole.
- Tie the string ends together securely.
- Push one end loop of string through the center of a ring.
- Push the top of the ring through the center of the string loop.
- Slide the ring up completely through the loop and pull the ring and string in opposite directions.
- The ring should now be held by the string knot that just formed looking like one of the photos.
- Repeat the process with the remaining ring.
Make it Work!
- Hold a ring in each hand with the forefinger and thumb.
- Spread hands apart until string is taut with the flywheel centered between your hands.
- Bring each hand in towards the button approximately 4 inches so that the Whirligig now hangs loosely.
- Wind up the toy by swinging the Whirligig in a circular motion away from you. The flywheel will rotate, twisting the string.
- After five rotations or so, the string will be twisted.
- Pull the rings apart causing the string to untwist as the flywheel spins. Momentum will cause the string to twist in the opposite direction as the flywheel continues to spin.
- By rhythmically pulling hands apart and relaxing them at just the right moments, the Noisy Whiligig will develop great speed and make quite a noise.
Jesster
