Atom Fidget Spinner W/ "Electrons"

by adeperro in Workshop > 3D Printing

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Atom Fidget Spinner W/ "Electrons"

Atom 1.jpg
Atom 3.jpg

As a physics major, I aimed at creating a fidget spinner that incorporated science but also could perform at a high level. I eventually decided on an atom design because it is a simple structure that everyone would recognize. I did not want an ordinary atom fidget spinner though. I was determined to create a special one that stands out, that can spin for a long time and is easy to use with one hand. This atom fidget spinner design with “electrons” incorporates all the key aspects I set out to achieve.

Materials

  • 3D Print Atom Body
  • R188 Stainless Steel Ball Bearing
  • Ball Bearing Caps
  • 8mm Steel Balls (Lithium – x3) or (Carbon – x6)

Design Process

Oval Sketch.PNG
Oval with Circle Sketch.PNG
Extruded Oval and Circle.PNG
Circlular Pattern Extruded.PNG
Close up of Ball sketches and Result.PNG
Atom Body Complete.PNG

This is where the fun starts. Using SOLIDWORKS, create three ovals, all with the same center point. Measure the reach of your fingers and determined the appropriate dimensions. Offset the ovals on both sides by 2.5mm. Also, add in the centerpiece that holds the bearing. Extrude both bodies by 5mm. Add 6 bridges between the two bodies to connect them. Create 7mm sphere holes in 3 or 6 spots on the ovals depending on what atom desired (Lithium or Carbon). This completes the design process of my atom.

3D Print

Atom 4.jpg

At this point you can 3D print your model. After I was able to create my ideal design, I sent it to a local company to have it 3D printed. The printed atoms came out great!

Assembly

Atom Fidget Spinner w/ "Electrons"
Atom 6.jpg
Atom 5.jpg

Apply pressure to the balls to fit them in the holes of the atom body. Also, add the ball bearing to complete the assembly. Your atom fidget spinner with electrons is now complete and you can spin it as much as you want. The average spin time for my spinners is about 3 minutes. They are very easy use with one hand and most importantly they look great! Enjoy!