For this 2-week project we were asked to prototype a hand crank toy utilizing a mechanism. The main mechanisms in my space station toy are two sets of planetary gears, one inside of the other.

Stripped-down mechanism demonstration

Diagram to keep track of the rotation of parts

A rough sketch to help visualize what the mechanism would look like as a toy

All parts were modeled in SolidWorks and 3D printed, then filed for a smoother fit. Aluminum rods were used as pegs for rigidity. Two different colors of plastic were used to accentuate the motion of the mechanism in this prototype. Picture below shows all parts minus the base plate.

Connections

Space station toy in motion