JLC3DP Collaborates with Retsetman: Exploring Innovative Mechanical Design with 3D Printing

3D printing technology is widely used in mechanical design, especially in the realization of unique mechanical designs. Through 3D printing, engineers can more flexibly create complex structures and achieve rapid prototyping of high-precision parts, thus accelerating design iterations. The cooperation between JLC3DP and mechanical design blogger retsetman is a typical case. In this cooperation, Retsetman designed two extremely creative projects: a high reduction ratio "nutation swing gear" and a unique structure "swing plate air engine" ". By providing professional 3D printing services, JLC3DP helps retsetman’s design concepts be more vividly presented to the audience.

Project 1: High torque and compact design of nutating swing gear

A nutating oscillating gear is an epicyclic gear system with a "oscillating" motion that allows for high gear ratios. Retsetman achieves the oscillating motion of the gears by designing an inclined surface on the shaft. This gear device uses only four bevel gears to produce a reduction ratio of up to 41:1 through oscillating motion (nutation), creating a significant difference between input and output. torque difference. Thanks to its compact design, it is able to achieve powerful torque output with a smaller volume, reflecting the innovative potential of gear machinery design.

However, this oscillating motion also brings instability and vibration problems, especially at high speeds. Retsetman balanced the system by adding an extra set of mirrored gears, effectively reducing vibration but also increasing the gears' complexity, size and weight.

Source: https://www.youtube.com/@retsetman9698

During the test, Retsetman used a transparent protective cover printed by resin by JLC3DP as the shell of the gear system. The protective cover makes the debugging and observation of gear rotation more intuitive, and can also reduce the risk of gear oscillation during high-speed operation.

Source: https://www.youtube.com/@retsetman9698

Project 2: Innovative aerodynamics of oscillating disk air engine

The oscillating disk air engine is another creative design of Retsetman. Its uniqueness lies in its simple structure and efficient aerodynamics. The engine does not use the complex valves, cranks or pistons of traditional engines. The core of the engine is a tilted disc, mounted on the Z-axis, which is started to rotate by compressed air. The tilting and rotating action of this disc cleverly acts as a self-regulating valve, automatically alternating the flow of air above and below the disc without the need for a dedicated air inlet or crankshaft system.

Source: https://www.youtube.com/@retsetman9698

During assembly, Retsetman encountered the challenge of maintaining a tight seal. He used a 3D-printed TPU gasket to fill the gap around the disc and precisely adjusted the seal settings to ensure adequate sealing without affecting engine function. After many adjustments, the air engine successfully ran smoothly in a low-pressure environment. By adjusting the air intake, Retsetman can also change the direction of engine rotation, which brings new flexibility and control to aerodynamic design.

In this project, Retsetman used JLC3DP’s 3D printing service to print a transparent version of the engine. The resin material went through JLC3DP’s post-processing services (grinding, oil spraying) to achieve a transparent effect close to glass. This transparent version shows the swing The feasibility of the disc air engine in reality lays the foundation for further improvement and application.

Source: https://www.youtube.com/@retsetman9698

Click on the links below for the full exploration video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z3x-_-5T9DQ

https://youtube.com/watch?v=Z-zUTS5FPPc

JLC3DP focuses on supporting all types of creators, helping every innovator realize their creativity through rich material selection, fine craftsmanship and efficient delivery services. If you are interested in 3D printing services or mechanical design, welcome to visit the JLC3DP website for more information.