Dragon Fly Wind Spinner

Note: 10/28/2020 replaced file "dfly tail.stl" with proper content. It previously had a duplicate of the file "dfly center body.stl".

This is a dragon fly wind spinner with two six blade contrarotating fans. 608 style bearings are used for easy movement.

Source files:
https://www.tinkercad.com/things/3D1rz8MUDs8

Print Settings

Printer Brand:

Creality

Printer:

Ender 3

No

Supports:

Yes

0.16

Infill:

15%

Notes:

I used copper silk & natural PLA+ for this print, liking the contrast between the metallic copper body and translucent wings.

The complete model consists of one each of: head, center body, tail, ring A, ring B and stake mount; and twelve wings. I used PLA+ but that is not critical. The pictures should provide adequate information on how the body parts fit together.

Head, tail and center body parts will need support (touching build plate only) when printing.

You will probably need to do some light trimming on on parts to relieve edges where they fit together. Don't trim too much as you want a tight fit. The rings should fit on the 608 bearing as printed with a bit of pressure. If there is difficulty in fitting the bearing into the stake mount, a bit of heat to soften the plastic can allow for an easier insertion.

Wings should fit into the rings tightly, but not so tightly as to cause the ring to split. Trim & test fit to get the desired connection. Once complete you can consider using a small amount of super glue to insure the wings don't come out.

My suggestion is to orient the wings on the rings so the "flatter" edge is toward the center. The wing mounting holes are oriented at a 35 degree angle. Rings A & B are mirror images of each other and, in operation, their rotation should be in opposite directions.

The stake mount is sized for use with 3/8" allthread rod.

If the 608 bearings you acquire have heavy grease, I recommend soaking them in mineral spirits to help with removing it. Once the grease is out, lubricate with a light oil. This helps quite a bit in the ease of movement.