Physics Gyroscope

In the challenge description, it said to design and 3-D print a project that will help kids learn in a classroom, so that's what I did. A gyroscope is a device consisting of a wheel or disk mounted so that it can spin rapidly about an axis that is itself free to alter in direction. Gyroscopes are commonly used for navigation systems, auto-pilot in planes, and stabilizers. In this gyroscope, there is a 3-D printed wheel with a diameter of five inches, and a thickness of three-quarters of an inch thick. In the center of the wheel, an axle is inserted and glued to the wheel. The motor, which is directly under the wheel, is pressed into the hole in the axle. In the box, the motor is fastened in by an extrusion. The motor fits snugly so that it will not shift and move. In the inner battery compartment, the battery box is stored (I used sticky Velcro to fasten the battery box to the side to prevent movement). On the side of the box, the on/off switch is snapped into the hole. The wires from the battery box and motor were soldered to the on/off switch, completing the circuit. Once turned on, the LED light on the switch will light up. Also, the wheel will begin spinning, eventually reaching approximately 5000 RPM. After everything is hooked up, the lid can be bolted onto the case. When the wheel gets to maximum speed, hold the box with the on/off switch facing upwards and turn the box clockwise or counterclockwise and feel the push for the wheel to level out. Remember, most of these parts are only plastic and are capable of getting cracked or broken, so use caution when bolting parts together and holding the project.

*For a list of the non-printed parts that I used, check the parts list at the bottom of the page.