by muzz64
Geckoz are... fun and super flexible just like a... gecko!
This is a simple one piece print that, with a precisely sliced file and printed on a well set up accurate machine, will create super flexible Geckoz. The images provided show the results...
Apart from being another unique example of what can be produced with 3D printing Geckoz are fun things to have around home, at work or in school. They look great printed in any color... but once you print one you're sure to want to print more!
Geckoz get their flexibility from 'sliding links' that will extend / contract depending on the pressure placed on them. At standard scale contracted Geckoz are 195mm in length... but fully extended they measure 230mm. That additional 35mm makes a big difference in flexibility to make the parts rotate to greater angles. The clearances designed in have been intentionally left loose to accommodate most printers... this means the scale can be reduced on well set up machine to potentially 75 - 80% of the standard scale but remain free / loose to move.
Two versions have been provided. If you have a large enough build plate (over 200mm in length) you can use the 'straight' version. If you have a smaller build plate use the 'curled' version... or if you want to print super sized Geckoz this version will also be of use to make the print as big as possible even on a large build plate. The curved version is 144mm x 123mm at 100% scale.
This is a super flexible one-piece-print. The designed in clearances should make it readily printable with no issues on most well set up PLA machines with a filament fan and reasonable bridging capability. No supports are required and raft is recommended to avoid the risk of damaging your Geckoz when you take them off your build plate.
Please refer to the images and instructions provided for additional information... and make sure you post images of your Geckoz in all sorts of places!
Printer Brand:
MakerBot
Printer:
Rafts:
Yes
Supports:
No
Resolution:
Standard / 0.20mm
Infill:
PLA / 2 Shells / 20% or more infill recommended
Notes:
Raft is recommended for ease of print removal from the build plate and to help ensure the fingers and toes aren't damaged during the process. Do not use any automated support or the joints could be fused.
Stretch your Geckoz!
The Geckoz design features extending joints so make sure you free each joint (good prints should come off the build plate free / loose) then check each link slides back / forth freely... so you can stretch them out.
If the links aren't free, gently wiggle to help free it up and add some light lubricant (silicone) spray to help the parts slide freely. This will help allow your Geckoz flexibility.
