About this 3D model
========================================================== 2023.12.02 A 36mm diameter gear ball joint with 16 teeth—I initially planned a four-ball design, but it proved overly complex, so I abandoned it. Printing details: The print base features two options: a round base and a flat base; the flat base prints more readily. The round base should have a minimum infill density of 50%, avoid tree supports, and utilize concentric circular top and bottom patterns. You may print two round bases, two flat bases, or one of each. Each gear ball is printed in two halves and subsequently joined with adhesive. Gear ball and ball socket gap testing: A 0.4mm gap prevents gear jamming but hinders smooth 8-shaped motion on fabric, exhibiting considerable friction. A 0.45mm gap also largely prevents jamming; however, if jamming does occur, forceful lateral pressure is needed to resume rotation. A 0.5mm gap offers superior smoothness. While jamming remains possible, dislodging is straightforward. Based on my evaluations, I offer 0.4mm and 0.45mm versions; intermediate values were not empirically tested. The inherent variability of FDM printing renders incremental adjustments of 0.01mm unnecessary. Required components: Two M3x10 screws