Hello all,

For a group project at university, we developed an fidget ring with an external spinning mechanism. This might be helpful for you, if you are neurodiverse in some way or are just interested in fidgeting now and again.

There are quite some rings available here already, which have a spinning mechanism with one ring inside the other. There, we realized that the spinning is not really that satisfying as with off-the-shelf fidget rings, as they often include metal parts to ensure the smooth rotation. Also, since the entire mechanism sits around the finger, these designs can feel bulky.

Therefore, we opted to create an external smaller-scale spinning mechanism. Since the rotating part is placed outside the part that actually goes around the finger, that part around the finger can be much slimmer, which can improve the wearing comfort. After some trial and error, we present our one-piece 3D-printable fidget ring.

As we ourselves are not neuro-diverse and could not test this for a longer period of time, we can only report limited testing results. But as far as we could tell, this is definitely entertaining, spins smoothly, is more comfortable to wear and is a new approach to fidget rings.

The ring is designed to be printed in one piece. Therefore, the external rotating part should be placed flat on the print bed, while the part of the ring that goes around the finger stands upright and is supported with print supports. After printing, the supports can be removed, and the contact areas may need a bit of smoothing—e.g., with a small file—for a cleaner finish. We've included multiple file versions for different finger sizes: you can choose from 17 mm, 18 mm, 19 mm, or 20 mm inner diameter.

As these are only 3D-files and the question arose sometimes before, you sadly cannot order this, and we are also not capable to print and ship this. But if you live in Australia, you can go check out Access3D, which will probably print this for you with you only needing to pay for the shipping. You can also have a look at a MakerLab nearby and ask them for some help. On the other hand, if you have the capability to print for others, and this is your hobby, we can highly recommend MakersMakingChange, as they always have open requests, which you could use your printer for.

We hope that this fidget ring might be helpful for peers which are in some way neuro-diverse and people who enjoy spinnable accessories.
Have fun fidgeting!

Print Settings: Bambu X1, with no rafts/brim, support structure, resolution of 0.08mm, PLA and printed with the spinning extension on the ground and the ring standing upright.