Simple Screw Toy

Intention

The original intention behind this project was to create a moving or movable object by using Fusion 360 and 3D Printer. In developing this project, I was actually confused of whether this object had to have a purpose or use, or just merely a movable object. Thus, I have decided to design a simple toy that I would like to play with to relieve stress and kill time. 

Research & Context

In coming up with ideas, the first thing that came up to my mind was a "mini-cart" that I could roll back and forth. Although it does not have a specific purpose, I believed that I could put in small miscellaneous items in the cart and avoid loosing little things from my desk. 

Process & Procedure

However, in developing the model in Fusion 360, I have decided to completely change my design. Using small cylinders as substitutes for wheels did not seem plausible or fun as initially expected. Thus, I designed a simple toy that incorporates screws and threads. I thought of 3D printing the screws as well, but soon realized that 3D printing such thin screws is not plausible. Therefore, I have decided to print the five hexagons shown below, and cut up short metal screws to hold them together. 

Product

My final product shown below directly reflects my second design in the process. the basic idea of this simple toy is to connect small hexagons to the big hexagon using small threaded holes and metal screws. Although the metal screw is difficult to see in the picture, they are cut up to tiny lengths to hold the pieces together. Each hexagon can be separated any time by un-screwing the screws. 

Reflection

In developing the final design, I have come across several difficulties. First, I could not 3D print long screws to connect the hexagons due to limitations of 3D printer. Also, I had trouble cutting the metal screw into tiny pieces, since it took a long time and effort to do so. As a result, the metal screws were too short to be seen, since they were screwed into the threaded holes. However, I am satisfied that I could still create a final product that can transform using movable pieces.