Modular Tops

Modular Tops was inspired by the idea to build a simple custom spinning top together with my daughter. After printing the first prototype, the design kept getting more and more modular. It wasn't long before an optional mechanical starter mechanism was added.

Parts like the tip and handles were difficult for her to remove, so I started adding features to allow easy fastening and removing of parts. The starter can be used as a wrench tool on most of the smaller parts.

In the end I spent much more time on tweaking and refining all the parts than originally expected. I think the outcome is a pretty nice universal and modular top construction kit.

ModularTopsV3_all_parts_v1.1.zip contains all parts sorted in folders and the pdf booklet.

Challenge yourself

Try to build different tops:

Most stable
* Should stay in place with minimal movement
* (short handle, low center of gravity, smooth shape, sharp tip, etc.)

Most agile
* Should move around in circles
* (rounded tip, flat tip, inverted, etc.)

Longest spinning
* Timing the longest spin
* Heavy weight to store more energy
* Weight further away from center has more influence

Building a "boomerang top"
* Start it at an angle so that the top moves away and comes back in a circle
* (rounded or flat tip, requires well coordinated start)

Building an "inverting top"
* Requires sphere-shaped body with low center of gravity (must be below center of vertical axis)
* Depends on friction between top and surface (the exact mechanics are quite complicated)

Stable top with sphere-shaped body
* Use the sphere body with higher center of gravity
* Add a disc to change center of gravity

Update v1.1 (2019-02-26)

• Added longer starter cords
• Added HS05 starter handle with double disc receiver
• Added B12 Flybody 100 with flight capabilities

Printing notes

Tested in PLA with 0.3mm resolution and 30% infill
It is recommended to print small parts in pairs (e.g. 2 handles of the same type) to allow sufficient part cooling between layers
All parts are ed in their recommended printing orientation
Important: Tips and handles with threads facing the print bed are recommended to print with 1 raft layer to prevent "elephant-footing". Otherwise the tip of the thread may require tiresome cleanup for a smooth fit.

Additional notes:

• The heavy body (B06) and heavy disc (D05) should be printed with 80%+ infill for longer spinning time
• The body for the inverting top (B10) should be printed with 80%+ infill to achieve the required center of gravity
• The turbine body (B04) is the only part with difficult overhangs, results may vary depending on printer