Fixed-Center Kinetic Sculpture | Floating Ball

Overview

This kinetic sculpture has linkages that cause the ball to be always centered in the exact same position. Due to each hinge axis passing through the center, no matter how each link is moved, it will cause the entire structure to articulate around a stationary center. It features a print-in-place and thread-together design that requires no glue or additional hardware. It requires no supports and is extremely fascinating and satisfying. The base can also be filled with sand or other materials to provide a more premium feel. I have also created a soccer version that is completely compatible with all of these parts. You can find the soccer version here: https://makerworld.com/en/models/2977052-soccer-football-fixed-center-kinetic-sculpture#profileId-3339654 

For printing

 Standard setting can be used for printing. No AMS is required and no supports are needed. For the print profiles, there is one with all parts on separate plates for different colors for each part and two that have all the parts on a single plate (one includes the funnel and the other does not). All materials should work; however, for the ball to stay more centered, avoid flexible materials like TPU.

Features

The model prints in three pieces: the ball, the base, and the print-in-place linkages. Additionally, a funnel can be printed to more easily fill the base with sand or another material. The hole for filling the base is the same hole that the linkage structure threads into. The entire structure is about 95 mm in diameter and about 105 mm tall. All parts are compatible with the other versions.

Assembly

Assembling this model is very simple. Optionally, the funnel can be threaded into the hole in the base and the base filled. After the funnel is removed, the linkage structure can be threaded into that same hole until it stops. The location of where the threads stop should position the linkage structure properly. Lastly, the ball can be threaded onto the rod at the center of the ring. The links may be slightly stiff and not want to move after printing, but with some slight pressure, the links can be broken free.

Versions with Themes

I currently plan on making more variations of this model with specific themes. I have already created a soccer version that you can find here. https://makerworld.com/en/models/2977052-soccer-football-fixed-center-kinetic-sculpture#profileId-3339654 Other versions may include but not be limited to:

• A space theme with the ball being a planet or the moon.
• A version themed around a sport such as basketball, baseball, tennis, golf, volleyball, or American football.
• A moving object-themed version that could be a motorcycle, racecar, airplane, or rocket.
• An outdoor activity-themed version that could have a surfboard, skateboard, or fishing bobber or lure.
• A larger version that had a light using the led light kit.

There are many possible versions that I could create. Let me know which ones you want to see, and let me know of any other ideas that you have.

Other notes

If you have any questions or comments, feel free to ask in the comments or send me a private message.

This is actually sort of the second version of one of these that I have created. After creating the other one, I found that it had limited movement, was a little bit weak, and could have looked better. That partially inspired me to create this model. If you want to check the other one out, you can find it here. https://makerworld.com/en/models/2182045-fixed-point-desk-fidget#profileId-2368453