1. choosing a file
The file chosen needed to be an “impossible object,” as in, one that could only realistically be made from a 3D printer. I wanted to do something that incorporated movement, as I thought it was one of the most interesting ways to make an interesting impossible object. Additionally, with the new Star Wars movie coming out this winter, I thought something relevant would be an engaging object worth 25 cents. After some searching, I decided on a rotating BB-8 keychain, which has the added benefit of being semi-functional as well as entertaining.
File from Thingiverse.com
2. First Print
I decided to just go ahead an print the object, using a tabletop 3D printer. I did not generate support or use a raft and used 70% infill, a high value to ensure it was strong enough to act as a keychain. While it was functional, it turned out somewhat messy, especially on the bottom, and the rotating inner piece had to be painstakingly cut away with a knife. I also didn’t really like the purple color very much.
First prototype BB-8
With Rotating Center
3. Final Print
I decided to use one of the other tabletop 3D printers, and generated a raft which helped with making the bottom come out more cleanly. I also used white filament, which is more true to the original BB-8 design. Ideally, one would use two filaments, but that was out of the scope of this assignment. The raft helped create a much cleaner piece, and was smoothly rotating right out of the printer. I still did not generate support, as that wasn’t necessary and could mess up the rotation.
Final prototypes – Back
Final Prototype – Front
It just barely fit within the gumball container.
Close squeeze with the gumball container
