Thinkfun Tread Expansion

thingiverse

PRINT IN PLACE TREAD EXPANSION I have designed a print in place tread set for the Thinkfun Maker Studio sets. The treads are designed to be spaced using the long connectors as a guide. Take the long connector and mark the outside holes as well as the center hole on your box and punch them out. Then print a tread for each side and three spools for each tread. You can design all kinds of vehicles that use treads. I have included a plow for a bulldozer (from a pop-tarts box) and skis to make a snowmobile (from a spaghetti box). You can also use these treads to make a pizza box space shuttle transport and even a Sandcrawler from leftover Amazon boxes. The best part is these treads print in place. There is no fitting them together, they come completely assembled. The more you play with them the smoother they roll! I hope you enjoy these treads and come up with some great expansion designs that use them! UPDATE I have added a new tread design called the rugged version. This version functions that same as the original version but includes extra traction points on the outside of the treads to help them grip the surface they are moving over. Enjoy! Print Settings Rafts: No Supports: No Resolution: 200 micron Infill: 25% Notes: Make sure to print the treads without support material. The plow will need support material. The skis do not need support material. Post-Printing Assemble the Treads Each tread will require three spools and one tread link. Use the long connector to mark the hole and punch them in your box. Then place the rods through the box and put the spools and treads on the rods. Mark and Punch Holes Place the Treads on the Box Cut the Box for a Bulldozer Cab Add the Bucket Plow to Finish the Bulldozer! Completed Dozer!