I just received a print of my "Hand-Crank Fan" model in WSF.

This model is a single print with six moving parts, and is specifically designed for the loose tolerances of Shapeways' WSF material. The entire model is printed with all of the parts in position; nothing is assembled post-production.

The 1:9 gear ratio (made from two sets of gears each with a 1:3 gear ratio) makes the fan blades rotate nine times for every single rotation of the crank. The grip of the crank handle freely rotates as well.

Based on this latest print, I will be making a some minor adjustments before releasing the model for sale.

Hand-Crank Fan in action (video): Hand-Crank Fan video
Model page: Hand-Crank Fan model

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Looks like quite a feat of (3d printed) engineering.

When do we get a video of it in action?

Edited: Note to self -- look closer...

[Updated on: Tue, 03 May 2011 07:07 UTC]

Thanks!

Some of the gaps are pretty tight; it really took a while to free up the parts. I'm working on some slight modifications.

There is about 1mm vertical space between the gears and the brace, and I added little semi-sphere nipples on the brace to help keep the gears from wobbling too much. I also curved the sides of the holes in the brace; a .6mm straight gap around the shafts would be too loose, but I also did not want the gap to be too small, so this is how I compromised.

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