Carousel Bird Feeder & Interactive Toy

An interactive, rotatable Ferris-wheel style feeder designed for budgies, cockatiels, and other small pets. Utilizing a standard 608 bearing, the wheel spins smoothly when the bird perches on it, turning feeding time into an engaging activity. The modular feeding cups are easily removable for quick cleaning and refilling.

[Hardware Compatibility] This model offers flexible assembly paths depending on your available hardware:

• Option A (Highly Recommended): A standard metal M8 Bolt (35mm length) paired with standard M8 metal washers for maximum mechanical durability.
• Option B (100% Printed): Use the included 3D-printed M8 bolt and washers if you do not wish to use metal hardware.
• Core Element: Requires 1x Standard 608 Bearing (8mm x 22mm x 7mm).

[Slicing & Structural Guidelines]

• Material: PETG is strongly recommended. It offers superior impact resistance for the rotating components, stands up well to regular washing, and handles moisture better than standard PLA.
• Main Wheel & Support Pillar: Set to a minimum of 3-4 Wall Loops (Perimeters) to guarantee structural stiffness and withstand lateral forces from birds landing on the perimeter.
• Removable Cups: Set to a minimum of 3-4 Wall Loops and consider bumping up the flow ratio slightly to ensure the cups are completely watertight and won't leak when filled with liquid.
• Supports: The model is optimized for 3D printing. No supports are required if oriented correctly on the build plate.

[Critical Fitment Note: Press-Fit Tolerances] To eliminate rotational wobble and ensure structural stability, the 608 bearing interface is intentionally designed with a tight interference fit. You will need to gently tap or press the bearing into both the wheel center and the support pillar using a small rubber mallet or a flat tool. Do not rely on loose slip-fitting.

[Safety & Hygiene Notes (Brainstormed Enhancements)]

• Bearing Isolation: The mechanical interface is designed to completely enclose the 608 bearing. This isolates the industrial grease and shields from your pet, preventing any direct contact or pecking.
• Sanitization: 3D prints naturally have micro-gaps between layer lines that can trap organic matter. If using these cups for wet food or water, sanitize them regularly with pet-safe cleaners to prevent bacterial buildup.

[Fixed / No-Bearing Version Overview]
For users who do not have a 608 bearing on hand, or for pets that prefer a completely stable perching experience, a Fixed (No-Bearing) Version is provided. In this version, the rotatable wheel and the central pillar are consolidated into a single, cohesive, integrated structure.