Toroidal Launcher V2 - High RPM Propeller Launcher

Toroidal Launcher V2

The long awaited update to my Toroidal Launcher is now here! Completely redesigned from the ground up to print faster, assemble easier and fly higher! The redesigned planetary gearbox now features progressive gearing to achieve the same 48x ratio as the original design all while simplifying the assembly!

Once you've printed and assembled your launcher be sure to also checkout the Toroidal Propeller Lab and start designing your own custom propellers!

Printing Tips

• To avoid layer adhesion issues always clean build plate using water and a light soap (wiki guide)
• Recommended to use Basic PLA, PETG or ABS/ASA for gears and functional components
  • Cosmetic and fiber reinforced filaments can be used for a more aesthetic housing if desired
• For best results run flow rate calibration on all filaments to ensure dimensional accuracy
• Toroidal Rings can be printed using the High Quality 0.16mm preset from Bambu Labs
  • Using ABS, ASA or PA gives a 12-15% weight advantage over PLA and PETG
• Launcher parts print the best using the High Quality 0.16mm preset from Bambu Labs
• Launcher parts print the quickest using the Standard 0.20mm preset with the following changes:
  • Arachne wall generator, 3° wall transitioning angle
  • 60 outer wall speed, 150 inner wall speed
  • 20% adaptive cubic infill
  • Avoid crossing walls

Assembly Walkthrough

Frequently asked questions

Can the gears be lubricated?

Yes! Using a lubricant that is safe for plastics (e.g. Super Lube 51004) is highly recommended to reduce friction of plastic parts. During assembly apply a drop to the inner and outer surface of each planet gear to reduce friction between all plastic parts for the best possible performance.

I'm having trouble getting the gears to spin, what can I do?

The first step is to always try reassembling the gears and launcher housing, taking care to turn the knob and mesh the gears before snapping the two halves together. If you're certain the gears are meshed correctly and there is too much friction it's recommended to run flow rate calibration on all filaments used for gear components to ensure dimensional accuracy.

Is there any way to fine-tune the gears even more?

You can try adjusting the X-Y contour compensation in Bambu Studio (under Quality → Precision) and print a single stage of the launcher gears to check the fit. Once you are satisfied with the fit of a single stage the same compensation setting can be used to print the remaining stages to achieve a similar fit.

Can I showcase the design on my YouTube/Instagram/TikTok or other social medial platform?

Of course! You're more than welcome to showcase or feature the 3D printed model in any blog, short/long form video or other content as long as you provide credit to the designer and a link to the exclusive design here on MakerWorld. Be sure to leave a comment with a link to your content and I will showcase the best videos here directly on the model page!

Can I sell the printed design or files?

The design will always be free for anyone with a 3D printer to print for themselves and gift to others but if you are interested in selling the printed models for profit I offer several options through Patreon and the MakerWorld membership program, click the button below to learn more!

Modifications and Add-on Designs

Community Support

Thank you to everyone who downloads and prints the Toroidal Launcher! If you would like to support my design work and the development of more fun and functional 3D printed models the easiest way is to simply click the button below and Boost the model for free.

If you would like to support even more you can purchase filament through the official Bambu Labs store using the links in the Bill of Materials or with a monthly donation through Patreon or the MakerWorld membership program linked above.

New to 3D printing or looking for your next print?

Be sure to follow my MakerWorld profile  to be notified of new model releases and check out some of my other designs which showcase some of the many possibilities of 3D printing!

• Toroidal Accelerator - High-powered launcher with printed spring and one-way clutch
• Vortex Blaster - Rubber band powered blaster that launches rings over 30m
• Fibonacci Spheres - Customizable airless balls using MakerLab and OpenSCAD
• Not Another Filament Clip - Multi-feature filament clip that snap fits Bambu spools
• USB Rotating Display - Convert your Marble Run Kit into a USB powered turntable

Change Log

• Jan. 25, 2025 - Added Toroidal Propeller Lab to create custom toroidal propellers with MakerLab
• Jan. 17, 2025 - Improved design of planet gears and carriers, added adapter to match the Pro version
• Jan. 5, 2025 - Removed drive and alignment marks from housing knob to further simplify assembly
• Dec. 31, 2024 - Added print profile for extended components (no longer a separate model)
• Dec. 29, 2024 - Improved model geometry to address several issues reported by users
  • Improved post design of all three planet carriers, more robust center post and snap mechanism
  • Improved meshing of ring gears, updated housing textures to match extended knob 
  • Improved meshing of output sun gear, minor smoothing to adapter geometry
• Dec. 23, 2024 - Updated 0.20mm Custom profiles to use a 3° degree wall transitioning threshold angle
  • Many thanks to @AlchemicMatter and @kortuem8604 for helping to identify the issue!
• Dec. 21, 2024 - Added markings to help align planet carrier, changes to gear profile to improve meshing
• Dec. 19, 2024 - Improved snap-fit of housing and added additional reinforcement for first stage carrier