High Speed Propeller Launcher

Lukas Hannert
Toys & Games>Outdoor Toys
Copyright Claim

High Speed Propeller Launcher

Lukas Hannert
Boost
6181
11395
3321
GIF

Print Profile(38)

All
X1 Carbon
P1S
P1P
X1
X1E
A1
A1 mini
Complete Set | Propeller Launcher
Complete Set | Propeller Launcher
Designer
19.7 h
6 plates
4.8(995)
Complete Set | Small Propeller Launcher
Complete Set | Small Propeller Launcher
Designer
10.4 h
6 plates
4.7(273)
Mod | Extended Adapter
Mod | Extended Adapter
Designer
19 min
1 plate
4.9(79)
Propeller | The plane that works differently
Propeller | The plane that works differently
Designer
21 min
1 plate
4.5(79)
Click to see more
Open in Bambu Studio
Boost
6181
11395
3321
4.5 k
17.5 k
8.3 k
Released

Description

High Speed Propeller Launcher

  • Three stage herringbone planetary gear box with a 1:64 gear ratio.
  • Up to 18300 RPM with the 67.4mm propeller.
  • No tools required for assembly - everything is a press fit (to fully disassemble you just need a 2-3mm pin punch).
  • Customizable propellers - download the “Propeller Blank” file and use CAD to model your own propeller design!

Check out my Patreon❤️

Huge thanks for every boost and form of support that I get!!!


Assembly

1. Stage 1 Carrier

Make sure the Stage 1 Planetary Gears are oriented correctly so that its teeth can interlock with the Stage 1 Sun Gear.

 

2. Stage 2 Carrier

Use the thicker one of both Planetary Carriers and the Planetary Gears with the longer shaft.
Insert the gears from the correct side into the carrier. The holes are conical. Make sure the grooves on their shafts face outwards so they align with the small flanges inside the holes. Be sure to insert the axles all the way, it can take quite some force sometimes.

 

3. Stage 3 Carrier

Use the thinner one of both Planetary Carriers and the Planetary Gears with the shorter shaft.
Insert the gears from the correct side into the carrier. The holes are conical. Make sure the grooves on their shafts face outwards so they align with the small flanges inside the holes. Be sure to insert the axles all the way, it can take quite some force sometimes.

 

4. First Internal Subassembly

Use the longer one of both hex shafts.
Carefully crack open the white Sleeve on its zigzag line.
Make sure the Lower Internal Toothing can fully close and the gears run smoothly.

 

5. Second Internal Subassembly

Use the shorter one of both hex shafts.
Carefully crack open the white Sleeve on its zigzag line.
Make sure everything sits close together as shown in the picture.
Make sure the Upper Internal Toothing can fully close and the gears run smoothly.

 

6. Final Assembly

Make sure everything sits close together as shown in the picture.
Screw in the Lock Nut with the flanges facing outwards. The torque you can apply with your bare fingers is totally enough.
Slide on the Adapter all the way and make sure there is no gap larger than ca. 1mm between the Upper Housing and the Adapter.
Fixate the Adapter and screw on the Lower Housing.
Tip: A few drops of oil will make the gears run smoother. Especially any friction reduced on stage 3 can make a difference.

🎊🎉All set!🎉🎊

 

FAQ

  • What can I do if it doesn't turn smoothly even though I added lubricant?

    First check if all Gear Axles and Planetary Carriers are inserted all the way vertically. Sometimes it requires a lot of force to push them all the way in. If the issue still persists, check the teeth of the gears for any print imperfections and remove them. You can also use a power drill to spin the output shaft for a couple minutes to smoothen the flanges.

     

  • What are the three spinning pins at the bottom side for?

    It's just for the optical design and has no further functional use.

     

  • Where can I find all STL files if I don't have Bambu Studio or the STEP file for the propeller blank?

    Select Download STL/CAD Files from the dropdown menu of the green button. Look for the .zip files if you need STLs.

     

  • Is there any need for support material on any parts?

    No, but if using custom slicer settings I recommend to not exceed a layer height of half your nozzle diameter. This is for better overhang capabilities.

     

  • I'm having too much fun playing with this even though I'm not a kid anymore. Is everything ok with me?

    YES.

 

Changelog

Update 24/12/24:

Affected Profiles:

  • Complete Set | Small Propeller Launcher
  • A1 Mini Complete Set | Small Propeller Launcher
  • Complete Set | Propeller Launcher
  • A1 Mini Complete Set | Propeller Launcher

Changes:

  • Improved optical design of the Upper and Lower Housing. The function is not affected.

Update 16/11/24:

Affected Profiles:

  • Complete Set | Small Propeller Launcher
  • A1 Mini Complete Set | Small Propeller Launcher

Changes:

  • Improved clearances on Stage 1 Planetary Carrier, Planetary Carrier Top Cap and Planetary Gears.

Update 08/11/24:

Affected Profiles:

  • Complete Set | Small Propeller Launcher
  • A1 Mini Complete Set | Small Propeller Launcher
  • Complete Set | Propeller Launcher
  • A1 Mini Complete Set | Propeller Launcher

Changes:

  • Added an official 75% version with adjusted tolerances. It uses the same output shaft so you can use the same propellers on it.
  • Slight geometrical modifications to the Stage 2 and 3 Planetary Carriers. By this the likelihood of jams and excessive friction is reduced.

Update 07/11/24:

Affected Profiles:

  • All official profiles

Changes:

  • Added all model data as STL files.

Update 26/09/24:

Affected Profiles:

  • Complete Set | Propeller Launcher
  • A1 Mini Complete Set | Propeller Launcher

Changes:

  • Added a fourth color to the design.
  • Divided the Internal Toothing into two separate parts to make the assembly easier. The assembly manual has been updated accordingly.
  • Increased clearance for press fit parts to make assembly easier.
  • Increased clearance for moving parts and increased flank play for gears to fix the issue of users having trouble to get it running smoothly.
  • Reduced Z-clearance for the Stage 1 Planetary Gears to make the Lower Housing feel less wobbly and better guided.
  • Equipped brims to some more parts to make this safely printable on bedslingers as well.
  • Enlarged and reshaped groove on the Stage 2 and 3 Planetary Axles for easier assembly and a more hidden Z-seam.
  • Added a second chamfer to the Stage 1 Planetary Axles to make them installable in both orientations.
  • Minor optical changes to the Lower Housing.
  • Minor optical changes to the Stage 2 and 3 Planetary Gear Axles.

 

Safety notice

- Only use the launcher outdoors.

- Keep a safe distance from others and avoid aiming at people, animals or fragile objects.

- Do not use propellers that are damaged or run unbalanced.

- Do not reach into the partially open gearbox.

- Spinning the gearbox close to an ear can potentially cause hearing damage.

- Adult supervision is recommended for children or young users.

- This design includes small parts and may pose a choking hazard in its disassembled form. Keep out of reach for children under 3 years old.

- Ensure that all parts are securely attached before use to prevent accidental detachment. Especially the Adapter and the Output Shaft.

- Only operate the toy manually and do not motorize or automate it.

 

Disclaimer

All designs that are published in this post by the original author are shared on MakerWorld for personal, non-commercial use. By downloading, printing, or utilizing this design, you agree to the following terms and conditions:

  1. Safe Use and Responsibility:
    This toy is designed to be powered manually and should be used outdoors. Users must exercise caution and responsibility to ensure safe operation. Do not aim or launch propellers at people, animals, or fragile objects. Adult supervision is recommended for children or young users. The user is solely responsible for ensuring the toy is operated in a safe manner and environment.
  2. Liability Waiver:
    The creator of this design assumes no liability or responsibility for any injury, damage, or loss resulting from the assembly, use, or misuse of the toy. Users accept all risks associated with the design and release the creator and platform from any claims or liabilities arising.
  3. Modification Warning:
    Any alterations or modifications to the design may introduce unforeseen risks or safety hazards. This toy is powered by hand and is not intended for modification into a motorized or automated device. The creator disclaims responsibility for any issues, injuries, damages or failures resulting from such modifications.
  4. Compliance with Local Regulations:
    Users are responsible for ensuring the use of the toy complies with any applicable local laws or regulations, including those related to toy safety, public safety, or outdoor use in public spaces.
  5. No Guarantees:
    The design is provided "as is," with no guarantees or warranties of any kind regarding performance, safety, or durability. Users must verify the suitability of the design and 3D printed parts for their intended use.
fun
outdoor
launcher
propeller
gearbox
planetary
aero
speed
fast
ratio
gears
gear
fidget
fidget toy
x1c
functional
steampunk
intricate
prop
spin
plane
airplane
herringbone
gearset
launch
A1
a1 mini
toy
spinner

Comment & Rating (3321)

Please fill in your opinion
(0/5000)
@abats
Boosted
I spent so many hours printing this. And for whatever reason I just can't seem to get step 5 to work for me. If i put only the bottom 2 gears I can get it to click in place and spin smoothly. But the moment the top part is involved I can't get it to work, it's just completly stuck. Any tips? Edit: I got it to work in the end (scroll down before posting), no need to keep posting tips months later :)
(Edited)
The designer has replied
36
Reply
@LukasHannert
When applying the internal toothing, twist the output shaft until the gears mesh. For me it can take up to 10 attempts of removing the internal toothing and putting it back on in another angle. If it still doesn't work for you, maybe check if all teeth came out cleanly and with no stringing inbetween.
(Edited)
1
Reply
@abats
Boosted
Replying to @LukasHannert :
Thanks for taking the time to reply. I've been trying for 2 hours now and my hands are starting to hurt :D. Everytime it works fine if i just put two of the gears, but when adding the third it just stops. Maybe I'm doing something wrong. Adding some photos of my gears, maybe you can see if I'm doing something wrong. I looked at the instructions many times :|
6
Reply
@LukasHannert
Replying to @abats :
On the pictures everything just looks perfectly fine (Except maybe that one Planetary Axle wasn't inserted with the chamfered side first. But it won't affect the function). Have you checked the Internal Toothing as well?
(Edited)
1
Reply
@Bobert
Boosted
how many is to many? I attempted to stack.. it is tricky but I think we a lot of time or someone who knows how to.. stacking is most likely possible with some creativity..
The designer has replied
38
Reply
@LukasHannert
Holy moly... This is the perfect way to use this design 😂😂 If it was possible I'd pin this comment!
(Edited)
11
Reply
@Bobert
Boosted
Replying to @LukasHannert :
I've been told I need more... as well not to hurt backs doing cleanup..  32in/83cm Grabber Reacher Tool 2-Pack - https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0CMR332QB?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title Telescopic Butterfly Net - https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B088KRDQPY?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title
2
Reply
@LukasHannert
Replying to @Bobert :
Dude just making my day😂😂😂 Gotta add that to the safety notice😂😂
4
Reply
@XanderBrendon
Boosted
Really great model. Instructions are very clear. The only part I had a bit of trouble on was the stage 1 assembly - I put the gears on upside down the first time and found that things wouldn't mesh together in the right place when trying to place the third gear. I used a small screw driver to pop out the pegs and put them back in the other direction and things worked well. I used a bit of the bambu lubricating grease on the gears to reduce friction but there's a bit of plastic squeaking still, so I will probably add more. I love how sturdy the launcher feels and how well it twists up to speed. The casing is comfortable in hand and going together without hardware is amazing! 1 Remix I'd like to see to the mounting peg that the propeller goes on: My 7 year old daughter has a hard time spinning the device up to speed quickly enough and the copter generally just lightly floats off and and then falls to the ground without going very far. I would love an alternative launching attach point that helps the copter stay on the launcher for longer. Maybe either by having an extended length launch point or some little gentle "catch" points on the grooves that require a light amount of force to push past so that the copter has to be spinning a bit faster before it will release from the launcher.
The designer has replied
9
Reply
@LukasHannert
Hi, thank you for your elaborate comment. This genuinely helps me improve the model. I added the regarding hint to the assembly manual. I think the only realistic fix would be an extended adapter. How I see it, the gentle catch concept requires for a very consistent friction coefficient between the prop and the adapter and needs a quite gentle leaf spring that stays constistent as well. If 3D-printed, both things are great subject to wear, and if made from PLA to fatique as well. In my mind I havent come up with a potential solution for that yet😅
3
Reply
@iodine
Boosted
My 6 year old has the same experience; I wonder if some alternative blade designs could improve lift at the lower speeds our younglings hands can impart. One thing I did was told my son that this is a special design that is meant to fly more horizontal than the standard VTOL most of those pull style copters operate. So if he holds it at a 50ish degree angle it adds enough friction that it gets up to a high enough speed he can launch them clear across the room which he loves to do now, so he is more engaged with how far he can launch it, vs how high
2
Reply
@LUCASRACINGLLC
Boosted
Hello! I went ahead made a print profile that includes an extended adapter. However, I have not tested it yet as I still have the original design printing. You can go into the print profile and manually select the adapter only to print. (I extended it decently, but nothing too crazy.)
2
Reply
@user_2599522470
Gigant Launcher 125% German below! Hi Lukas - I truly could not resist - I had to give it a try. Here is the gigantic 125% version. With an adapter for the standard propeller. The gearbox runs as smoothly as silk. It is magnificent during launch. Truly a great deal of power! It took me a good 12 hours with two Bambu Labs. Assembly was incredibly easy. It worked flawlessly right away. I am absolutely thrilled. Such a fantastic project! You are a true master! Best regards from Berlin Folker German: Hi Lukas - ich konnte echt nicht widerstehen - ich musste das ausprobieren. Hier die Giganten Variante 125%. Mit Adapter für den Standard Propeller. Das Getriebe läuft butterweich. Es ist der Hammer beim Abschuss. Richtig viel Kraft! Mit zwei Bambus habe ich gute 12 Stunden gebraucht. Der Zusammenbau war super einfach. Es hat sofort funktioniert. Ich bin begeistert. So ein tolles Projekt! Du bist ein ganz großer Meister! Viele Grüße aus Berlin Folker
(Edited)
The designer has replied
Show original
9
Reply
@LukasHannert
I think you are the first one to print the launcher enlarged! Absolutely awesome! 😂
Show original
6
Reply
@user_2599522470
Replying to @LukasHannert :
Indeed, the launcher now lies comfortably and firmly in the hand. For the large propellers, it is certainly the right launch ramp with a good grip. A true club. The thing is such a riot of fun. My long-time friend Ralf is a trained aircraft mechanic, who said 20 years ago that the younger generation no longer has any idea of ​​proper mechanics - that must now be seriously reconsidered! Damn it :)
Show original
3
Reply
@rouyer
Boosted
I see you have several sizes, does the size of the launcher have a significant effect on how far it launches?
1
Reply
@Valkgideon
Boosted
I need some help. I have everything assembled however I can not rotate it at all when fully assembled. If I take the top sleeve off I can rotate the two gear sections separately from each other but I noticed how the top part spins the other direction then the bottom part and they cannot physically rotate in the same direction. I don't know how this is possible as all the gears are perfectly aligned and they rotate very smoothly. And there is no other way I could possibly assemble this together without it not fitting together. I didn't change anything at all in the print profile for the a1 mini. Could this be a problem with the profile that it has one section of the gears inverted?
The designer has replied
2
Reply
@LukasHannert
Hi, if a section of gears would be inverted, it couldn't fit into the internal toothing. Did you use PLA Basic, and flow dynamics calibration?
(Edited)
0
Reply
@Valkgideon
Boosted
Replying to @LukasHannert :
Yes I did, perhaps for the gears I used PLA matt as it was the only red I had but the rest is basic. But the gears all turn fine. it doesn't seems like it's too tight or anything as I can squeeze one part of it and it turn just fine. But when both parts are held together like what happens when I put the top sleeve on it becomes physically inmoveable. However I can spin the gears when I twist the top part where the fans would fly off. Just not the bottom
0
Reply
@Valkgideon
Boosted
Replying to @LukasHannert :
Nevermind, It was just an extremely tight fit. After letting it sit sometime with WD40 and some excessive force it eventually started working and got smoother and smoother. I just didn't realize it would require that much force in the beginning
1
Reply
@takeo
Boosted
the instructions are not correct. I did exactly as instructed and the first and second gear bottom part is shown in the assembly guide to have the “big hole” to the top but it’s actually to the bottom otherwise it can’t be assembled at the end to attach with the little sticks. correct? I just lost a whole lot of hours and material because I can’t get the pieces apart anymore. :(
The designer has replied
7
Reply
@LukasHannert
I'm sorry to hear that. In this picture the larger diameter of the conical holes is facing upwards. And this is the correct side to mount the gears from. It's supposed to be quitea a tight fit. Also it shouldn't even be possible to insert the planetary gears with their axles from the other side.
0
Reply
@takeo
Boosted
Replying to @LukasHannert :
Hi Lukas. The problem is actually the assembly between all 3 parts at the end - in your first photo, the big hole is up, then in the second, you actually flip the "triangle" piece - and only now after doing it all wrong I realize that - I hope I make sense? The real problem is the first picture to be "the other way around" for the triangle. (for both steps, 1 and 2 for the assembly)
1
Reply
@LukasHannert
Replying to @takeo :
Okay I got you. You're the first one to at least tell me this but I get that it's confusing. I was planning to redo the assembly instructions already so when I'm at it I will take care of the orientation issue. But did you actually manage to press the gears axles all the way in from the wrong side?
1
Reply
@nikkolaus
Boosted
Print Profile
Complete Set | Small Propeller Launcher
I printed the smaller version on my P1S. The first stage gearing and housing for the first and second stage was very finicky and difficult to rotate, to the point that destructive disassembly was necessary to continue with use. The parts were re-printed in BL PLA and functioned fine afterwards. Don't simply disregard the warning to print all parts in Bambu Lab filament. I printed all the major components in Bambu Lab PLA and then the housings and external covers in eSun PLA+ and Duramic 3D PLA+ marble, respectively. These things fly with quite a lot of force. Heed the warnings well, unless you for sure want to cause a rift in your family because you don't care about that prized taco-eating trophy your grandpa won 50 years ago, in the corner, which is now in shambles. :) With the instructions, sometimes it was hard to tell orientation at a basic level, and you had to focus hard to see what was being referred to. It also appeared that instructions for Stage 3 were present in the instructions for Stage 1. Why is this here? Is it a mistake? Is there a context clue here?? It's just seemingly randomly thrown in and there's no real clear reason as to why... It's also very heavily leaning towards word-salad throwing in all types of technical terms, and for a STEP 1 instruction it just immediately plunges into the deep end and really throws a "Wtf did I just read...?" vibe to the whole section, ESPECIALLY if you're not someone who's mechanically inclined to engines and transmissions, as I am. I do appreciate that the model maker took the time to put in disassembly features, knowing people would screw it up or that future repairs would be necessary. I would like to see deeper grooves in the gearing OR a different gearing design, maybe worm gears?, because as it sits they like to skip teeth or not mesh perfectly quite a bit more than is expected, and it will lead to issues. 10/10 on appearances and function. 9/10 on instructions. 8/10 on internal designs and implementation.
The designer has replied
5
Reply
@nikkolaus
Boosted
Gif for your pleasure.
GIF
5
Reply
@LukasHannert
Dude I got ppl looking at me weirdly for laughing out loud in public😂😂At this point I rly wish I could pin comments! Idk what I've been smoking to write that caption on step 1 so thanks for calling it out. Again, awesome wording😂
6
Reply
@nikkolaus
Boosted
Add-on Information - Since BL won't let me edit the original without returning to a 500 character limited speech -- If you do not already have one, or one similar, in your collection of tools, I highly recommend a TEKTON 6 Inch Ratchet Bar Clamp, and a light rubber jeweler's Hammer (2.5-inch). With it being a hand-pressure activated clamp it is impossible to over-tension something to the point of breaking, because the internal mechanism will just slip -- it's not a traditional screw-clamp with tons of force. The hammer helps to put things in with a bit more force, but not to the point of breaking them - Just a li'l love tap. A beading awl works lovely on the pins for Stage 1 if you need to remove them.
3
Reply
@Latist
Very nice design. I'm still printing. But, I have one question. How do you printing with the cuts for Lower/upper Internal Toothing? My printer and Cura slicer make only vertical and no diagonal. Maybe someone can help. Please.
The designer has replied
2
Reply
@LukasHannert
It's probably sth in the accuracy settings. However, the tolerances on this model are quite tight and I can't guarantee it'll run properly when printed on a non Bambu Lab printer.
(Edited)
0
Reply
@Latist
Replying to @LukasHannert :
Oh. Ok. Thank you for answer. I will try and after make update.
1
Reply
@Latist
Updating my post. Ender 3 V2 printing for long time, maybe 10 time fail some parts until I found correct settings, printing time around 3 days. Assembling process not so hard, but very tight. Turning process, probably not easy and smooth like in the video, but everything is working. Very fun mechanism, I can easily RECOMEND for person who don't have Bambu Lab printer! Thank you for your work!
(Edited)
0
Reply
@user_4056688073
Boosted
Print Profile
A1 Mini Complete Set | Propeller Launcher
This design and slicer settings are unbelievable. everything printed out on first try and everything working absolutely flawlessly. Wow !
The designer has replied
2
Reply
@LukasHannert
Very nice, thank you!
0
Reply
@user_4056688073
Boosted
Replying to @LukasHannert :
just wondering, what is this for, I dot get the function of it , why it is like that ? The "trident" on the bottom part
1
Reply
@LukasHannert
Replying to @user_4056688073 :
It's just to look cool and because I had the space there
0
Reply
@Shenanigans74
Boosted
So I printed the white "Output Shaft" in 3 pieces since I couldn't complete step 5. Now when I turn from below and hold the lower part of the divided output shaft, the above two levels spin. If I hold the lower two parts and turn from below, only the top part spins fast. If I hold all three parts and I turn below, nothing spins, it is stuck. But it should spin because that is the behaviour when I put it in the black enclosure? Don't want to put it in because I am afraid I can't get it out anymore. Or is it ok to leave the top part of the output shaft out?
(Edited)
The designer has replied
2
Reply
@LukasHannert
Hi, the gaps between the 3 internal toothing segments look concerning. Have you pushed all shafts all the way in? The top part of the output shaft (or "Adapter") can be left out for a spin test. Its only needed if you want to launch propellers.
0
Reply
@Shenanigans74
Boosted
Replying to @LukasHannert :
Thank you. Here is a photo of the gaps. I already tried to get them more in with a platic hammer, but it seems they don't want to come in more. Any tip to reduce the gaps? Edit: I could remove the top and so use more force. I will try again. But now don't have the time anymore. Will give an update! Edit2: Did a quick try. The gaps are gone, but it still locks if I include the top element. Would maybe more oil / WD 40 help?
(Edited)
1
Reply
@LukasHannert
Replying to @Shenanigans74 :
Usually this is a K-Factor issue. But since many users are experiencing tolerance issues, I'm currently working on a version with more clearance.
1
Reply

License

This user content is licensed under a Standard Digital File License.

You shall not share, sub-license, sell, rent, host, transfer, or distribute in any way the digital or 3D printed versions of this object, nor any other derivative work of this object in its digital or physical format (including - but not limited to - remixes of this object, and hosting on other digital platforms). The objects may not be used without permission in any way whatsoever in which you charge money, or collect fees.

Related Models

Easy print propeller launcher
GIF

Easy print propeller launcher

Patopato_Design
246
840
3.5 k
High Speed Propeller Launcher - Hex Drill Bit

High Speed Propeller Launcher - Hex Drill Bit

Zeonia
6
80
134
Toroidal Launcher Pro

Toroidal Launcher Pro

Brent Peterson
37
175
214
Twisted Propeller Puzzle

Twisted Propeller Puzzle

Stag 3D
0
9
12
PrivacyTermsGuidelinesFAQCookie SettingsHot Searches
© 2025 MakerWorld