3D-printable-bearing-generator

Generate 3D printable bearings according to your dimension constrains.

1. Introduction

Many hobbyist face the problem of needing some bearings that are lightweight and cheap enough for their applications. However, more times than not, the available sizes don´t match your application or they are to much of an overkill to be used. To solve these issues I decided to develop a Fusion 360 script which generates bearings depending on your input parameters.

2. How to use

Start by downloading and installing the script into your Fusion 360. Check here for a quick guide.

Once installed open the script and modify the following bearing's parameters:

3. Assembly

For the assembly of the bearings follow next steps:

1. 3D print bearing's two parts.
2. Remove the support material
3. Place a BB ball into the outer part's groove and turn the outer part looking for positions in which the ball gets stuck. Clean those positions until the ball is able to rotate freely.
4. Repeat previous step in the inner part's groove, by placing a BB on it and turning the inner part. Make sure that the BB ball slides smoothly.

5. Place the inner part inside the outer part and align the holes.

6. Start inserting BBs until there is no more room left. During the process make sure to turn the bearing to detect any kind of blockage. If you encounter a blockage disassemble and check the surfaces again.

7. Finish by inserting BBs until there is no more room left.
8. Turn the bearing and see if it turns smoothly.

4. Disassembly

The disassembly process could be a little bit troublesome depending on the tolerances you used.

1. Align the insertion holes.
2. With a thin tool align on BB ball in a way it is below the insertion hole.
3. With another thin tool push the BB ball from behind though the extraction hole.
4. Repeat 2-3 steps until there are no BB balls left.

5. Software

The script works in the following manner:

1. Check the input parameters are correct
2. Draw the inner and outer circles and extrude them (create new body operation).
3. Draw the gap circle and extrude it (cut operation).
4. Draw the BB ball circle and revolute it (cut operation).
5. Draw the insertion and extraction circles and extrude them (cut operation).

6. Requirements

You should install/have the following:

• Fusion 360
• BB balls
• 3D printer

Future functionalities

In future versions I would like to add a GUI interface for inputting the parameter values. I would also like to include other bearing models with optional features (assembly holes,...).