Toroidal Accelerator

Introducing the Toroidal Accelerator, the latest version of my Toroidal Launcher and most ambitious project to date! The design is powered by a 3D printed spring and features a one-way roller clutch bearing, single stage gearbox and compliant ratchet mechanism to enable easy and consistent launches. Experiment with different gear ratios, spring designs and engineering-grade filaments from Bambu Lab to create your own custom high powered launcher!

Demonstration of one-way roller clutch bearing (click for GIF on mobile)

Printing Tips

To avoid layer adhesion issues always clean build plate using water and a light soap (wiki guide)
For best results run flow rate calibration on all filaments to ensure dimensional accuracy
All parts have been designed to print using the Standard 0.20mm preset with the following changes
- Arachne wall generator, 3° wall transitioning angle
- 60 outer wall speed, 150 inner wall speed
- 20% gyroid infill
- Avoid crossing walls
- 5 walls (planet carriers only)

Hardware Parts

The following hardware is required to assemble each planet carrier. If you would like to print and assemble all possible gear ratios you can purchase four sets of SHSS screws for a total of 20PCS (bronze bushings are sold as 20PCS).

M3x4x12 SHSS Machine Screw (5PCS) - (AA123)
4x8x8mm Oil Impregnated Bronze Bushings (5PCS) (ED004)

Assembly Walkthrough

Begin assembly by snapping the flexible ring into place on the upper housing

Press a bronze bushing into each of the three planet gears and spring insert as shown above

Secure planet gears to the carrier using a SHSS screw for each and making sure to insert the sun gear before installing the final planet gear

Close the ring gear around the assembled planet carrier, making sure the gears are able to spin freely before inserting the assembly into the housing

Secure the gear assembly by threading the one-way clutch onto the housing as shown above, making sure the rollers are facing away from the gears

Secure the printed spring insert to the planet carrier with the remaining two SHSS screws; the spring arms should be able to rotate freely reducing material stress

Complete the assembly by aligning the housing knob with the printed spring and screwing tight to the one-way bearing (the ratchet may click a few times)

When disassembling the launcher the one-way roller clutch bearing can be unscrewed from the housing using the included tool (shown above)

Frequently asked questions

Can the gears be lubricated?

Yes, you can apply a plastic-safe lubricant (e.g. Super Lube 51004) to reduce the friction of the gear components but do not lubricate the roller clutch bearing since it requires friction to operate correctly.

I'm having trouble getting the gears to spin, what can I do?

The first step is to always try reassembling the gears and housing, taking care to mesh the gears before closing and inserting the ring gear. If you're certain the gears are meshed correctly and there is too much friction it's recommended to run flow rate calibration on all filaments used for gear components to ensure dimensional accuracy.

Is there any way to fine-tune the gears even more?

You can try adjusting the X-Y contour compensation in Bambu Studio (under Quality → Precision) and print a single stage of the launcher gears to check the fit. Once you are satisfied with the fit of a single stage the same compensation setting can be used to print the remaining stages to achieve a similar fit.

Can I showcase the design on my YouTube/Instagram/TikTok or other social medial platform?

Of course! You're more than welcome to showcase or feature the 3D printed model in any blog, short/long form video or other content as long as you provide credit to the designer and a link to the exclusive design here on MakerWorld. Be sure to leave a comment with a link to your content and I will showcase the best videos here directly on the model page!

Can I sell the printed design or files?

The design will always be free for anyone with a 3D printer to print for themselves and gift to others but if you are interested in selling the printed models for profit I offer several options through Patreon and the MakerWorld membership program, click the button below to learn more!

Community Support

Thank you to everyone who downloads and prints the Toroidal Accelerator! If you would like to support my design work and the development of more fun and functional 3D printed models the easiest way is to simply click the button below and Boost the model for free.

If you would like to support even more you can purchase filament through the official Bambu Labs store using the links in the Bill of Materials or with a monthly donation through Patreon or the MakerWorld membership program linked above.

Change Log

Mar. 26th, 2025 - Restructured print profiles and updated settings to print faster
Mar. 24th, 2025 - Initial model release

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