Missing Pieces? The 3D Printer Can Help

Recently our children’s area experienced a problem known to families across the world: the loss of a single piece from an otherwise functional toy. Typically, we would have to throw the toy out, as it can be difficult or impossible to find a replacement piece, and often the time involved to replace a piece is just not worth it. Luckily, our 3D printer and some creative thinking saved our toy. 

The Toy: Rainbow Gear Set 

Using TinkerCAD, some measuring, and our 3D printer, we were able to build ourselves a new green gear to replace the old one. 

How It’s Done 

First, accurate measurement is important. TinkerCAD features many shape generators, including a gear generator. Because we carefully measured the teeth and the spaces between, we could input these into the generator to create an equally spaced circular gear.

Next, we measured the height of the original gear and adjusted the height in TinkerCAD to match, and then inserted a hollow space in the bottom for the gear to sit on the toy platform. Then we added a small cone to the top of the gear, to match the style of the others.

For the handle, TinkerCAD’s shape generator again came to the rescue with its “round roof” shape.

Finally, it was time to print. We were able to produce our new gear in a color very similar to the original. In less than two hours, our toy was playable once again!

After a couple weeks back in our Tree House, we have received a patron request for a yellow gear for their own gear toy at home. 3D printing saves another toy from the dumpster.

To explore building and printing your own replacement toy parts, visit your nearest branch. Or submit a 3D file for us to print for you.