HydroLink - Modular Outdoor Waterway System

The Modular Outdoor Waterway System

As a father of four, one of my favorite hobbies is designing and building toys for my children. Most of my projects start with a simple idea, a specific problem to solve, or something my kids wish they had. This waterway system was no exception.

The inspiration came from an existing Playmobil water play system that my children enjoyed for a while. However, it always had the same limitations: it was prone to leaking, lacked rigidity, and offered very little flexibility when it came to creating custom layouts. Every time we played with it, I found myself thinking about how I would redesign it if I could start from scratch.

What began as a small side project quickly escalated into something much larger. Instead of creating a few replacement parts, I ended up designing an entirely new modular system built specifically for outdoor play, easy expansion, and long-term durability.

The core idea is simple: a set of standardized channels, curves, and connection points that can be combined into countless layouts. To make the system accessible, you don't need to print everything at once. A basic starter loop can be built from just four curved sections and two straight sections, allowing you to test the concept with a relatively small printing investment. From there, the system can be expanded as much as you like by adding additional modules and features.

One of the main design goals was structural rigidity. The connection system is intentionally robust, allowing large assembled sections to be lifted and moved without falling apart. The assembled track is rigid enough to be picked up as a single unit and can even be stored vertically by hanging it on a wall when not in use.

The sealing took some times to be fully developed, a simple silicone tube (6mm OD) and a printed inlay turned out to be super fast, self aligning and cheap. The assembly is totally intuitive.

All parts are designed for straightforward FDM printing. No support structures are required, and no post-processing is necessary before assembly. Parts come off the printer ready to use.

Although the current release already provides a complete and functional play experience, this is only the beginning. The system was designed from day one with future expansion in mind. Planned additions include modules such as pump stations, interactive water features, harbors, and other elements that will further increase play value and customization options.

My goal was not simply to create another toy, but to build a modular water play platform that can continue to grow alongside the imagination of the children using it.

One disclaimer I need to add. Please dont use that system indoors, it is reasonably tight and the sealing is dooing a really good job. But with that many connections you just have to accept a small leakage.

The floating Benchy can be found at my profile if you are interested.

So I really hope for some feedback that motivates me to go even further :-)

Best wishes and Regards