Tony the Pinball Wizard has successfully designed and created his very own DIY 3D printed pinball machine. The details, plans, and instructions for this impressive project are all available on his official website via the link below.
But before you jump over, check out the video below to learn more about this awesome 3D printed pinball machine, which has been created from scratch. Although if you are looking to build your very own, it might be worth knowing the following statistics.
– It took him over 200 hours to design the game
– Another 1,200 or more hours to 3D print everything
– Using 8.5 kilometers of filament
– 85 different 3D printing filaments were used in the construction of the parts
– Powered by a pair of Arduino Mega boards
The Design Process
Creating a 3D printed pinball machine from scratch is no small feat. Tony dedicated over 200 hours to meticulously design every aspect of the game. This involved not only the physical layout of the pinball machine but also the intricate details of each component. The design phase is crucial as it sets the foundation for the entire project. Tony used advanced CAD software to model each part, ensuring that they would fit together perfectly once printed. This level of precision is essential in a pinball machine, where even a slight misalignment can affect gameplay.
The Printing and Assembly
The printing process was even more time-consuming, taking over 1,200 hours to complete. Tony used 8.5 kilometers of filament, which is a testament to the scale of this project. The choice of 85 different 3D printing filaments was not arbitrary; each filament was selected for its specific properties, such as strength, flexibility, and durability. For instance, the flippers and bumpers needed to be robust to withstand constant impact, while other parts required more flexibility.
Once all the parts were printed, the assembly process began. This involved not only putting the physical components together but also integrating the electronics. The pinball machine is powered by a pair of Arduino Mega boards, which control everything from the flippers to the scoring system. The use of Arduino boards makes the machine highly customizable, allowing Tony to program unique features and gameplay mechanics.
Challenges and Solutions
One of the biggest challenges Tony faced was ensuring that all the printed parts fit together seamlessly. This required a lot of trial and error, as well as some post-processing of the printed parts. Sanding, drilling, and even reprinting some components were necessary to achieve the perfect fit. Another challenge was the wiring and integration of the electronic components. With so many moving parts, ensuring that everything worked in harmony was a complex task.
Tony also had to consider the durability of the machine. Pinball machines are subject to a lot of wear and tear, so he had to ensure that the materials used could withstand prolonged use. This is where the choice of different filaments came into play, as each part needed to be made from a material that suited its function.
Tony’s 3D printed pinball machine is a remarkable achievement that showcases the potential of 3D printing technology. It combines intricate design, advanced engineering, and creative problem-solving. For those interested in building their own, Tony’s website provides detailed plans and instructions, making it accessible for anyone with the time and dedication to take on such a project.
Source: AB
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