This is a remix of the original variable pitch propeller mechanism designed by Chris B.

After printing and assembling the original model, I decided to make several small mechanical improvements to improve the strength, rigidity, movement, and overall appearance of the mechanism. The goal of this remix was to keep the original concept, but make the assembly more reliable and suitable as a finished display model.

The main mechanical change was increasing the axle/gear pitch adjustment from 6 mm to 8 mm. In my tests, the 6 mm version broke three times, so I redesigned this area to make it stronger. I also changed the planetary system to a 6-gear setup, which made the mechanism much more rigid and helped prevent the propeller pitch mechanism from skipping teeth during movement.

The propeller blades were enlarged to 145 mm, giving the model a more impressive and realistic appearance. I also made several small adjustments to improve the contact area between the mechanical parts, helping the components fit and work together more smoothly.

This version also includes a suitable base for assembly and display. After printing the final full-color version with the long blades, the model became a great shelf piece, ideal for display as a mechanical, aviation, or engineering-inspired 3D printed model.

The included files are organized to make printing easier, especially for multicolor printing. I printed my version in PETG using three colors, and the .3mf files are separated by color to simplify the printing process.

What is included

• Improved variable pitch propeller mechanism

• 6-gear planetary system

• Enlarged 145 mm propeller blades

• Display/assembly base

• .3mf files created in OrcaSlicer V2.4.0

• Printing tips and instructions

• Photos of the assembled model

Folder structure

• 3mf_file — Contains the .3mf files created in OrcaSlicer V2.4.0.

• instructions — Contains useful printing tips and notes for assembly.

• pics — Contains photos of the assembled model.

Printing notes

I printed this model on a Creality K2 Plus, but the full build area is not required, so it should also be printable on smaller 3D printers depending on your slicer settings and part orientation.

I printed the parts in PETG using three colors. Other materials may also work, but PETG gave good strength and flexibility for the mechanical parts.

Some parts may require careful assembly and small adjustments depending on your printer calibration, material, and tolerances. For the best result, make sure the moving parts are printed cleanly and test the fit before final assembly.

Credit

Original model by Chris B.
This remix is based on his original design, with mechanical improvements, enlarged blades, a 6-gear planetary system, and a display base added.