3D-Printed Piston Model
I created this semi-accurate model of a piston engine. I made this model to practice my 3D-design and problem solving skills.
Supplies
PLA printer filament, felt, paper, super glue, and tape were used to construct this model, along with Sketchup 3D design.
Design
Step 1 is to design the model using Sketchup. I created each part in such a way that they can be easily put together, while being designed in a way that is optimal for no-support printing.
Printing
The next step is printing. I did my printing on a Prusa printer and positioned the optimized parts in a way that I could achieve no supports.
Construction
The last step is construction. I super-glued each part to another one in a specific order that allowed for easy building. Before the piston was installed, I glued a piece of felt around it to allow it to slide through the outer ring easier. I also taped in strips of paper at the bottom of the outer ring to prevent the piston from sliding out of it. After that, the piston went in, the stopper and crank were installed, and the model was ready for play and demonstration.