Design of the Week: From the Earth to the Moon

By on May 29th, 2017 in Design

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The string-climbing From Earth to the Moon 3D model
The string-climbing From Earth to the Moon 3D model

This week’s selection is the fun “From Earth to the Moon” string-climbing rocket toy by Oklahoma-based Greg Zumwalt.

This fun project is to produce a string-climbing rocket that can be used as an entertaining pull switch for lights or ceiling fans. 

Here’s how it works: The rocket is attached to a string suspended from a pull switch, with a length of string hanging below the rocket. You pull the bottom length of string and the rocket mysteriously climbs the upper length of string. When it hits the top, which in this case is marked by a “Moon”, the actual pull switch is activated. 

Does this make sense? If not, watch the video:

However, this is a bit of a project. You’ll need to 3D print a number of parts and assemble them together. 

3D printed parts for the From Earth to the Moon project
3D printed parts for the From Earth to the Moon project

But don’t fret, Zumwalt has produce a 3D graphic video showing how to fit the various parts together.

I’m impressed as I haven’t seen quite a video like this for any similar project, although they may exist. 

The files and very extensive instructions are available at YouMagine

Via YouMagine

By Kerry Stevenson

Kerry Stevenson, aka "General Fabb" has written over 8,000 stories on 3D printing at Fabbaloo since he launched the venture in 2007, with an intention to promote and grow the incredible technology of 3D printing across the world. So far, it seems to be working!