balancing koala-physics
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This 3D-printed koala sculpture isn’t just visually interesting—it’s actually a nice little example of basic physics.
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Updated at source:
Model information
- Source
- Printables
- Category
- Physics & Astronomy
- License
- Standard Digital File License
First, the key reason it doesn’t tip over is its center of mass. Even though the koala is leaning forward and holding a branch, the combined weight of the koala and the base is distributed so that the center of mass stays directly above the contact area with the ground (the flat bottom of the print). As long as that vertical line falls inside the base, the object stays stable.
The branch plays an important role too. It extends forward, but it’s designed in a way that either:
Adds weight low and forward to counterbalance the koala’s body, or
Is supported structurally so it doesn’t create too much forward torque (a rotational force that would tip it over).