PCN145 - Fully Printable Push Chain

This model was inspired by automatic window actuators, which use a "push chain" mechanism to open and close windows. A push chain is designed to flex in one direction to move smoothly around a sprocket, yet remain rigid enough to transmit force when pushing in the other direction. This fully printable design demonstrates the concept, offering a tactile way to explore how push chains work.

Additional Hardware

None.

Print Instructions

I've printed my copy in PLA but every material will work fine. For the inner link I suggest upping the perimeter count so that the body is printed without infill to increase it's load bearing capacity. The ‘link’ and ‘pins’ as one group and ‘plate’ and ‘locking-clips’ as the other are designed to be of same height to optimize the process of printing them as a batch.

Customization

The Fusion 360 source files for the bearing can be found in the download section. 

Technical Specification

This may be relevant if you want to use this model for something useful like a 3D printed window opener or something similar.