Toroidal Launcher Pro

Upgraded version of the Toroidal Launcher V2 using hardware parts from Maker's Supply for ultra-high performance! In addition to upgraded gears using 18+1 bearings this version features an exclusive housing design for maximum grip and updated gear adapter for compatibility with other popular community models.

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 internal gear components
  • CF filament can be used for a more robust and aesthetic housing (recommend to break-in gears)
• For best results it's highly recommended to run flow rate calibration 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 reduction over PLA and PETG

Hardware Parts

The gear components can be assembled in two different versions based on the hardware parts you have available. The pro gear components uses the full set of parts listed in the Bill of Materials and available to order through Maker's Supply:

• M2x16 Socket Head Cap Machine Screw [10x]*
• MR106 Deep Groove Ball Bearing [18x]
• 6704 Deep Groove Ball Bearing [1x]

If you have limited access to hardware parts the gears can also be assembled using the lite gear components which only requires only a single 6704 bearing to assemble. If assembling the light gear components it's highly recommended to use a plastic safe lubricant (e.g. Super Lube 51004) and applying a drop to the inner surface of each gear during assembly to reduce friction.

*Note: when installing screws it's recommended to use a torque-limited driver set to a maximum of 1Nm to avoid over-tightening parts. If tightening by hand make small turns ensuring the gears still spin with minimal resistance.

Assembly Walkthrough

Frequently asked questions

Can the gears be lubricated?

Yes! It's recommended to use a lubricant that is safe for plastics such as Super Lube 51004. If assembling the lite gear components it's also highly recommended to apply a drop of lubricant to the inside part of each gear during carrier assembly to reduce friction.

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 simply too much friction it's recommended to run flow rate calibration on all filaments used for gear components (that includes the main housing) 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 find the correct compensation you can print the remaining stages for the best performance.

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 the MakerWorld membership program, click the button below to learn more!

Community Support

Thank you to everyone who downloads and prints the Toroidal Launcher Pro! 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 the membership program.

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!

• 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, 15, 2025 - Updated Lite gear components, improved housing geometry and print profile
• Jan. 13, 2025  - Restructured print profiles for the Pro and Lite gears, moved housing to new profile
• Jan. 12, 2025 - Added print profile for a Lite version of the launcher using a single 6704 bearing
• Jan. 10, 2025 - Improved planet carrier and screw post design; added short spacer for sun gears
• Jan. 9, 2025 - Improved texture of bearing insert grips; simplified output gear adapter