Section outline

  • Activity – Print Gear Mechanisms

    In this hands-on section, you will explore how to design and 3D print simple gear mechanisms. Gears are essential for transmitting motion and torque in robotics. Understanding how they work will allow you to build more efficient and powerful robots.

    • What Are Gears?

      • Gears are rotating machine parts with teeth that mesh with other gear teeth to transmit torque.
      • They help change the direction, speed, or torque of motion.
      • Common gear types: spur, bevel, worm, and planetary gears.

      Why Print Gears?

      • Custom gears allow for precise fit and functionality in robotics projects.
      • 3D printing makes it easy to prototype and test gear systems before finalizing a design.

    • Designing Gears in TinkerCAD

      1. Open TinkerCAD and create a new design.
      2. Use the Shape Generators section and choose Gear.
      3. Adjust the gear properties like number of teeth, pitch diameter, and thickness.
      4. Duplicate gears and align them to create a simple transmission system (e.g., two gears rotating together).

      Tips for Better Gear Printing

      • Use fillets or chamfers on edges to prevent sharp corners.
      • Set a proper clearance between gears so they don’t fuse while printing.
      • Ensure the orientation on the print bed reduces the need for supports.
       

    • Printing and Testing

      1. Export the design as an STL file from TinkerCAD.
      2. Slice the file using Cura or your preferred slicer with appropriate layer height (e.g., 0.2mm) and infill (20%-40%).
      3. Print the gears and test them manually by mounting them on sticks or axles.
      4. Observe rotation smoothness and check for proper tooth meshing.

      What You’ll Learn

      • Basic gear mechanics and applications in robotics.
      • How to use TinkerCAD for mechanical design.
      • Key 3D printing considerations when making small mechanical parts.
      Note: Be patient during gear printing. Even small deviations can affect performance. Measure and refine your design as needed.