OFweek 3D Printing Network. For 68-year-old FAA airframe design and maintenance expert Joel Leathers, 3D printing has become a fascinating passion. In fact, Leathers owns eight desktop 3D printers, including one Flash Cast, one FormLabs Form1+, three iBox SLA printers, and three Delta-style machines. His collection reflects his deep interest in the technology and its creative potential.
"When people ask me what I do," Leathers said, "I tell them that most of my time wasn't spent working for the FAA. Instead, I'd create engineering drawings, convert them into STL files using a vernier caliper, and then upload them online."
Recently, Leathers came across an online post where someone was looking for a 3D-printed model of the solar system to help teach children about space. Intrigued by the idea, he decided to take on the challenge.
The solar system model is designed to demonstrate the movement of large celestial bodies and serves as a mechanical representation of how our solar system functions. It allows users to study planetary motion and visualize how different gear ratios affect the system's operation.
Leathers started by using his usual design tools, SolidWorks and MOI, to create a functional model that included the Sun, Earth, Moon, and Venus, along with their respective orbits. After completing all the designs, he spent around four hours printing out the 10 different parts needed for the project.
The model also required a motor to drive the gears and make the entire system rotate automatically, bringing the solar system to life in a dynamic way.
This project not only showcases Leathers' technical skills but also highlights how 3D printing can be used in education and outreach to make complex concepts more accessible and engaging for students.
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