The Most Unbelievable 3D Printed Dart Launcher You may Ever See

In terms of foam dart weapons, you could possibly say that we right here at MatterHackers are large followers. Critically, not one vacation celebration has passed by the place an all-out battle of flying foam darts ensues. So, evidently, we had been very excited to function Jesse Kovarovics, creator of the FDL-1, for our August Hacker of the Month. 

To print your individual FDL-1, go to the MatterHackers Digital Design Retailer, information are free!

The FDL-1 

Kovarovics, a software program developer primarily based in Atlanta, first began 3D printing in 2014 when his spouse gave him what would quickly develop into his passionate obsession. “My spouse obtained me a Printrbot Easy Metallic equipment,” gushed Kovarovics, “as quickly as I obtained all of it put collectively, I haven’t stopped printing since.”

FDL-1 Full Equipment in Pink

A pair years later and printing on two Printrbot Easy Metals with upgraded hotends, Kovarovics remains to be amazed on the prospects of 3D printing: “I print issues as a result of I’m fairly certain 3D printing is the one coolest factor on this planet,” he declared (and we undoubtedly agreed).

“I may speak for hours about why, nevertheless it actually comes right down to with the ability to design one thing in a totally digital surroundings similar to CAD, urgent a button, and it showing on my printer,” he added, “that blows my thoughts each print.” Along with his infectious surprise and enthusiasm, it’s no shock that Kovarovics started to start out printing for his different passion: foam dart launchers. 

Precision printing at its most interesting

The FDL-1 is the world’s first 3D printed foam dart launcher. Kovarovics mixed his tinkering thoughts along with his data of robotics to create the FDL-1, or, as he appreciated to name it, “the final geek kitbash.”

“For probably the most half the FDL-1 is a machine in and of itself and a whole enchancment of the widespread Nerf gun,” beamed Kovarovics. An enchancment is an understatement – this factor rocks. 

The FDL-1 accommodates a Particle Photon Microcontroller, which is the mind of the launcher, permitting the person to sync settings from their good cellphone, pill, or laptop whereas the gun is in turret mode. Clearly the FDL-1 is much extra superior than any Nerf we have seen. 

Darts feed into the flywheels with using stepper motors identical to those utilized in most desktop 3D printers. The motors can spin each methods simply, so if the FDL-1 turns into conscious of a jam, it will probably intervene and attempt to repair itself. 

Stepper Motors on the FDL-1 Desk Statue

Brushless Outrunner Motors run the flywheels on the FDL-1. They will spin actually quick, giving the gun its energy and stability. These motors are generally discovered on drones and RC automobiles. 

Entrance flywheels

An Advance Paddle change permits the FDL-1 to robotically advance the revolver to the subsequent chamber, which grants simpler and quicker reloading. With the paddle and handy rear loading system, you’ll be able to transfer to the subsequent chamber with out dropping using your second hand – that is big in Nerf battle technique. 

Advance Paddle

Should you aren’t blown away by how superior this juiced up dart blaster is but, right here you go: the FDL-1 has “Dart in Chamber” Detection. That is proper – it’s so superior that it will probably rapidly shift to the subsequent loaded chamber, each earlier than the primary shot and each after it. Fairly darn cool. 

“Dart in Chamber” Detection

Kovarovics gives the FDL-1 on the market on his web site right here. You may get it totally assembled, as a equipment to construct by yourself, or simply the electronics so you’ll be able to print your individual components. You could find the information totally free in our digital design retailer right here. Undoubtedly try his YouTube channel as properly. 

As for the way forward for this epic foam dart launchers, Kovarovics is already tinkering round with upgrades and new fashions: “I’d prefer to design not less than a pair different Nerf blasters or modularize the FDL-1 in order that components of it may be swapped out for different mechanics. There are different measurement Nerf darts and missiles that might be fascinating to work with, in addition to different digital elements to discover. Whether or not it’s a completely new design or a tweak of the FDL-1 design, I’ll be creating foam dart goodness for some time.” 

Please make it occur quickly – we will not wait to take a look at what you create. 

Do you suppose you have got what it takes to be our subsequent Hacker of the Month? E-mail rhonda.grandy@matterhackers.com, or message us on Fb or Twitter. Inform us about your 3D printed creation, and you could possibly be featured in our subsequent e-newsletter. Hacker of the Month wins 3 free spools of PRO Collection PLA or ABS filament to additional their pursuit of 3D printing greatness.