Soccer (Football) Fixed-Center Kinetic Sculpture

Overview

This soccer kinetic sculpture has linkages that cause the ball to always be centered in the exact same position. It is a themed version of the model you can find here: https://makerworld.com/en/models/2961089-fixed-center-kinetic-sculpture-floating-ball#profileId-3319236 All of the parts in this model are compatible with the parts in the original. 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.

For printing

Standard setting can be used for printing. No AMS is required and no supports are needed. Two versions of the ball are available. One that requires an AMS or dual nozzle and one that requires the pentagons to be pressed or glued into place. For the print profiles, there is one with all parts on separate plates with both types of balls in the profile 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 or fourteen pieces: the base, the print-in-place linkages, and the ball that requires AMS or the ball that does not and the eleven pentagons. 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 of these parts are completely compatible with the original model. https://makerworld.com/en/models/2961089-fixed-center-kinetic-sculpture-floating-ball#profileId-3319236

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. If the no-AMS ball is printed, the pentagons need to be placed in place (they will likely require some glue). 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.

Other Versions with Themes

This is a variation that I created of my original model. https://makerworld.com/en/models/2961089-fixed-center-kinetic-sculpture-floating-ball#profileId-3319236

I currently plan on making more variations of this model with other specific themes. These may include but not be limited to:

• A space theme with the ball being a planet or the moon.
• A version themed around a different 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.