AA Battery Tower Dispenser

Batteries work so hard for us. It's time to give them some fun!

This project began while searching for a simple battery dispenser that did not jam up somewhere inside during use, and escalated into a design exercise including a rotating barrel and ratchet mechanism. Along the way I looked at dozens of different prints others have submitted, and made several trial versions to make sure the batteries flowed smoothly and would not jam. I also wanted the design to assemble easily (no glue is required) and operate simply. A side benefit was that I learned a lot more about Fusion (including threads, joints & animation).

The Tower holds approx. 36 AA batteries and will dispense one at a time by rotating the ratchet knob. If two batteries are dispensed and not removed, the barrel continues to turn freely and the barrel can be loaded up. Also, the batteries fall through the tower with a pleasing click-clack sound.

I printed the side panel in a transparent material for no other reason than to have the satisfaction of seeing the batteries flow through the tower.

Assembly video: https://youtu.be/WD2powGxYwI

Update April 9 2024: Created a AAA battery version using a planetary gears concept: https://www.printables.com/model/838359-aaa-battery-planetary-gear-dispenser

Print Settings

Printer Brand:

Prusa

Printer: 

i3 MK4

Rafts:

No

Supports: 

No

Resolution:

0.3mm Draft

Infill: 

10%

Filament: Prusa / Prusa / Generic PETG / PLA / PLA Orange / Pearl Blue / Transparent

Notes:

All parts printed without supports and 10% infill.
Barrel assembly printed in PETG but should be fine in PLA.

Post-Printing

Clean out the peg holes in the main body to receive the side panel (hand held 3mm drill bit), and tidy up the side panel pegs (light sand). Other than that, the side panel should snap into place and hold without glue.

Category: Organization