This project involves the conceptualization and 3D design of a mechanical butterfly, blending the aesthetic beauty of nature with the mechanical engineering.
The butterfly's wings are not just a static representation but are brought to life through a rotational mechanism paired with a crank and slider (crankshaft) mechanism. This design allows the wings to move in a realistic and mesmerizing manner, mimicking the natural motion of a butterfly's wings with mechanical elegance.
The design of the wings is a focal point of this project, incorporating mechanical elements that also contribute to the visual appeal. These elements are thoughtfully integrated into the wings.
The mechanical components are designed with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that the motion of the wings is smooth (As much as I could :P).
The project aims to showcase the potential of combining mechanical engineering principles with bio-inspired design, resulting in a captivating and functional piece of art.
This is the first version of the design; it may be necessary to adjust tolerances and the like so that it works for more 3D printer configurations. Let me know if any additional adjustments are needed in the comments :)
Nozzle Size | 0.4mm |
Layer Height | 0.2mm |
Infill Density | 20% or more |
Infill Pattern | Cubic |
Wall Line Count | 3 or more |
Wall Orientation | Outside To Inside |
Supports | NO |
Material | PLA or PETG |
Print Orientation | STL orientation |
![]() | Caps | x3 |
![]() | Eccentric Wheel | x1 |
![]() | Grip | x1 |
![]() | Joint 10mm | x6 |
![]() | Joint 12mm | x4 |
![]() | Joint 16mm | x1 |
![]() | Plate 2-Holes 40mm | x2 |
![]() | Plate 4-Holes 50mm | x2 |
![]() | Plate 3-holes with Rail | x1 |
![]() | Plate 1-Hole with Rod 50mm | x1 |
![]() | Rail Stopper | x1 |
![]() | Rod 60mm | x1 |
![]() | Rod 140mm | x2 |
![]() | Rod rotation helper | x1 |
![]() | Spacer | x1 |
![]() | Butterfly Wings | x1 (left) x1 (right) |
![]() | Butterfly Body | x1 |
![]() | Base | x1 |
Plate 1-Hole with Rod 50mm | x1 |
Rod 60mm | x1 |
Cap | x1 |
Eccentric Wheel | x1 |
Spacer | x1 |
Joint 16mm | x1 |
Plate 3-holes with Rail | x1 |
Plate 4-Holes 50mm | x2 |
Plate 2-Holes 40mm | x2 |
Joint 10mm | x6 |
Result of step [2] | x1 |
Base | x1 |
Result of step [1] | x1 |
Rod rotation helper | x1 |
Grip | x1 |
Base | x1 |
Result of step [1] | x1 |
Result of step [2] | x1 |
Rail Stopper | x1 |
Base | x1 |
Rod 140mm | x2 |
Base | x1 |
Result of step [2] | x1 |
Wings | x2 |
Joint 12mm | x2 |
Cap | x2 |
Body | x1 |
Base | x1 |
Just turn the grip! :)
You can see my other designs here 😉 → https://makerworld.com/en/@jtorregrosa