Spinning-top project
A spinning top rewards symmetry, a centered tip and a smooth contact point. Balance usually matters more than decorative detail. Use the spool maker’s PLA temperature range; no tested historical top dimensions were recovered.
One axis through body, handle and tip
OPEN FULL SIZE ↗- Geometry
- Concentric body, handle and tip
- Comparison
- Same level hard surface
- Record
- Average of five spins
TECHNICAL NOTES///
A spinning top rewards symmetry, a centered tip and a smooth contact point. Balance usually matters more than decorative detail.
GOALRun the first test described in this guide and record the result for spinning-top project.
PREPARATION / NOTES
Use the spool maker’s PLA temperature range; no tested historical top dimensions were recovered.
EQUIPMENT
- FDM printer / slicer
- Slicer project
- Calipers or inspection method
MATERIALS
- Material requires confirmation
STEPS
- Model the body around one axis with the handle and tip concentric. Keep decorative features balanced around that axis.
- Start with PLA, 0.4 mm nozzle, 0.16–0.20 mm layers, 3 walls and 20–35% infill. Orient the part so supports do not damage the contact tip; consider a separate replaceable tip.
- Remove brim remnants and seam bumps carefully. Keep any weights securely enclosed and equally distributed.
- Spin on the same level hard surface for several trials. Change one variable, such as tip radius or rim mass, then compare average spin time.
TROUBLESHOOTING
- An off-center seam, bent stem or rough tip can cause wobble. A heavier top is not automatically better. Small detachable parts should be kept away from young children.
THINGS TO WATCH FOR
An off-center seam, bent stem or rough tip can cause wobble. A heavier top is not automatically better. Small detachable parts should be kept away from young children.
RESULTRecord print orientation, total mass, wobble and the average of five spins.
DEVELOPMENT HISTORY///
Imported as an independent manifest record; public copy keeps uncertainty visible.
SPECIFICATION///
RELEASED MATERIAL///
Record print orientation, total mass, wobble and the average of five spins.
The record keeps what is known at this revision. Unfinished tests stay unfinished here.