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I need a designer to produce a 3D-printable file (STEP + STL) for a self-centering guide mechanism, similar to the paper guides in a printer tray. The problem: I have a printer whose left and right guides slide independently. They need to move in sync — pushing one side in or out must move the other side by the same amount, so both stay equidistant from the centre. Reference material: Short video with dimensions here — [login to view URL] I've also attached a photo of my own attempt: parts salvaged from another printer and hot-glued in place. It wasn't secure or straight, so it isn't usable. That's the problem I need solved properly. Requirements: Rack and pinion system: two opposing racks driven by a central pinion gear Pinion must sit centrally and be no more than 20mm wide Enclosed housing — gears must not be directly exposed Integrated slides/guide channels so the racks stay captive and can't drift or lift out Must fit the dimensions shown in the linked video Designed for FDM 3D printing (sensible tolerances, printable without excessive supports, no fragile thin walls) Deliverables: Editable source file (STEP or native CAD) plus STLs Any fasteners/hardware specified in a short note (screw sizes etc.) Brief assembly notes Nice to have: Experience designing printed gears and working parts that actually survive real use. Please share examples of similar mechanical/functional 3D design work when applying. If you've read the whole thing and looked at the pics and your bid is a real one for the job then start proposal with the word coconut.
Project ID: 40582800
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39 freelancers are bidding on average $22 USD for this job

Coconut! I'm thrilled to submit my proposal for your self-centering guide mechanism project. With my solid 9+ years of experience in 3D designing, I can curate a unique and efficient solution to your printer issue. My skills include not only 3D CAD, but also 3D design, drafting, modeling and printing, all of which are essential for creating the printable STL files you require. In addition to meeting your outlined requirements of a rack and pinion system with enclosed housing and integrated slides/guide channels, I bring the added value of proficiency in designing printed gears and functional parts that can withstand actual usage. This ensures the mechanism will not only fit perfectly into your printer's dimensions but will be sturdy and reliable throughout its lifespan. Aiming for full client satisfaction, I will deliver editable source files in STEP format or CAD native files along with STLs and clear assembly notes. To ensure seamless printing, my design will consider sensible tolerances, minimal support structures, and sturdy walls to prevent any fragility issues. Trust me to create a self-centering guide that’ll revolutionize your printing experience!
$30 USD in 1 day
8.5
8.5

Coconut. Thank you for the detailed brief on the self-centering guide — a rack-and-pinion pair driven by a central pinion, housed so the gears stay enclosed and the racks remain captive, is a clear and workable mechanical problem to model for FDM printing. TRYGVE Studio works on architectural, engineering and product design tasks, with CAD experience spanning mechanical parts, furniture fittings and general product modelling. Our usual approach for this kind of functional part is to work in staged steps — establishing the mechanism geometry and fit first, then refining wall thickness, tolerances and the housing for reliable printing, with a review round before finalising. We'd want to confirm the exact tray dimensions, your printer/material, and any fastener preference before locking scope and price, since the budget shown is only a starting point for discussion. Feel free to message with those details before awarding so we can align on the final approach: https://www.freelancer.in/u/faisal8071 Regards, Ar. Faisal Saif
$30 USD in 1 day
6.9
6.9

Welcome Coconut I MADE MANY SMART DEVICES THAT MANUFACTURED AND USED IN REAL YOU WILL GET IT DONE PERFECTLY IN LESS TIME CHECK MY LATEST REVIEWS > (http://www.freelancer.com/u/ENG1mga) I have previously worked on, Lifting Set of Drones Mechanism, Robotic Arm, Delivery Robot, Automatic Wiring Machine, Solenoid Engines, Car Rooftent, Boat Lift Mechanism, Shoe Treadmill Mechanism Mechanical Ventilator and many other projects. I use Solidworks, Fusion 360, and ANSYS, COMSOL I have a workshop specializing in all 3D printing and CNC machining work, so I strive to provide the highest quality and precision. What you will receive with me: - 2D drawings - 3D files - Complete Tech. Formats - Finite Element Analysis (FEA) (if needed).
$50 USD in 1 day
6.8
6.8

Hello, I am interested in designing the 3D-printable self-centering guide mechanism for your printer, ensuring that the left and right guides move in sync as required. I will create a rack and pinion system with opposing racks driven by a central pinion gear, ensuring that the pinion sits centrally and is no more than 20mm wide. The design will include an enclosed housing to protect the gears, integrated slides/guide channels to prevent drifting, and will be optimized for FDM 3D printing. Please have a look at our Freelancer portfolio through the links given below. https://www.freelancer.com/u/CreativeDesign50 Best regards, Kirandeep K.
$20 USD in 1 day
6.4
6.4

As an adjustable solution specialist, I am confident in my ability to design the ideal self-centering guide mechanism for your printer. My extensive expertise in 3D CAD, modelling and printing guarantees that I can provide you with the precise geometry, clear detailing, and production-ready files you need for effective manufacturing. I completely understand your difficulties with sliding guides that lack the functionality you require. By utilizing my skills I can implement a rack and pinion system with two opposing racks driven by a central gear, ensuring both sides of your printer move in perfect synchronization and stay equidistant from the center. I also assure you that the design will be capable of withstanding real-life usage, a vital requirement for you as highlighted in your brief. You will have editable source files along with STLs, proper hardware specifications, concise assembly instructions ensuring you could easily put things together. In conclusion, engaging my services not only assures you of a functionally optimized architectural piece but also an engaged and efficient partner for future projects.
$15 USD in 2 days
6.4
6.4

Your blue prototype has the right concept, two opposing racks on a central pinion, but it failed because there's no captive channel keeping the racks aligned, so they drift and the hot-glue mounting can't resist the side loads. The fix is an enclosed housing that constrains both racks in guided slots so they can only translate, with the pinion trapped between them on a proper bearing surface. My approach: parametric rack-and-pinion in Fusion 360, sized to your video dimensions, with an enclosed housing providing captive channels for both racks. Pinion centrally mounted, under 20mm wide, tooth profile designed for FDM survivability (wider teeth, proper backlash tolerance so printed gears mesh without binding or skipping). Printable without supports, no fragile walls. Deliverables: STEP plus STLs, fastener spec, and assembly notes. I design printed gears and working mechanisms regularly as a mechanical engineer. Send the video link dimensions and I'll confirm gear module and rack length. Pricing after understanding full scope.
$20 USD in 7 days
6.0
6.0

Pitch: Dear Client, I am Muhammad Frooq, and I would be delighted to be selected for your project. My experience in 3D design and printing, combined with my deep knowledge of popular 3D modeling software like Blender, ZBrush, Tinkercad, and slicing software including Cura, Prusa Slicer, and Simplify3D put me in a unique position to create high-quality designs like the one you require. Having worked extensively with various filament types like PLA, ABS, PETG, and TPU, I can guarantee that the model I provide you will not only be print-ready but also perfectly aligned with FDM 3/D design constraints ensuring reliable, sturdy and functional resultant parts. Moreover as requested for this project ,I am well-equipped to handle the design of complex mechanical systems like pinion and sheet metal profiles including your specifically requested rack and pinions system.I assure you strictly following all the mentioned guidelines along with covering necessory details such as providing seperate protocols on hardware (screw sizes etc.), editable source file (STEP or native CAD),STLs and brief assembly notes. Let's work together and create something outstanding to solve your frustration once for all.
$20 USD in 1 day
5.6
5.6

coconut. I will design a synchronized rack-and-pinion self-centering guide, delivering functional, FDM-optimized STEP/STL files.
$50 USD in 1 day
5.3
5.3

As an experienced 3D modeler with a focus on print-ready designs, I am well-equipped to help you resolve the problem you're facing with your printer. My knowledge extends to many different software including Blender which allows me to create intricate and meticulous designs suited for FDM 3D printing. Coordinating my work across these tools, I ensure the designed models not only look amazing visually but also pack structural integrity for real-life usage. By accomplishing previous projects involving mechanical/functional 3D design work successfully, I've amassed substantial expertise in creating printed gears and parts durable enough to survive abuse.
$30 USD in 1 day
4.9
4.9

Hi, I'm Juli, a 3D design specialist. I've read your job description and I’m confident I can help. I have solid experience with SolidWorks, Fusion 360, and rendering tools like KeyShot. I focus on precision, fast delivery, and clear communication. I understand the requirements of 3D Printable Self-Centering Guide Design and how to approach it effectively. You can also see similar work on my portofolio. Looking forward to hearing from you. Best regards, Juli
$30 USD in 1 day
5.0
5.0

Hi, I see you need a 3D-printable self-centering guide mechanism designed in STEP and STL format. We have 8+ years of experience and suggest designing it with smooth, low-friction movement for reliable operation after printing. Ready to start immediately. Portfolio: https://www.freelancer.com/u/mahadhasan012 Thanks, PIXORA STUDIO
$15 USD in 1 day
5.1
5.1

Coconut. I will design a robust, enclosed rack-and-pinion mechanism in Fusion 360, featuring optimized gear clearances and captive guide channels for smooth, synchronized movement. My design will prioritize FDM-printable tolerances and structural integrity, and I will deliver a complete package including STEP/STL files, a hardware list, and clear assembly notes. I am ready to review your video and photos to ensure the mechanism fits your specific dimensions perfectly.
$25 USD in 1 day
4.1
4.1

Hello, I understand that you require a 3D-printable file for a self-centering guide mechanism, similar to printer tray guides, ensuring both sides move in sync. I will design a rack and pinion system with opposing racks driven by a central pinion gear, enclosed housing, and integrated guide channels meeting the specified dimensions for FDM printing. With expertise in 3D design, CAD modeling, and functional part design, I am confident in delivering a high-quality solution. You can view examples of my previous mechanical and functional 3D design work in my portfolio: https://www.freelancer.com/u/Neelamr1991 Effective communication and attention to detail are key aspects of my workflow. I am excited about the opportunity to work on this project and look forward to hearing from you. Best regards, Neelam R.
$30 USD in 1 day
4.3
4.3

Hello, I've read your entire project description and understand exactly what you're trying to achieve. The goal is to create a reliable self-centering guide mechanism using two opposing racks driven by a central pinion, ensuring both paper guides remain perfectly synchronized while keeping the gear assembly enclosed and suitable for long-term use. I can design the mechanism in CAD with proper clearances for FDM printing, including captive guide channels to prevent the racks from lifting or drifting, a compact central pinion within your 20 mm width limit, and a durable enclosed housing. I'll carefully work within the dimensions shown in your reference video and optimize the design for strength, smooth operation, and easy assembly without requiring excessive supports. You'll receive editable CAD files (STEP or native format), print-ready STL files, a list of any required hardware such as screw sizes, and clear assembly notes. I have experience creating functional mechanical parts for 3D printing and understand the importance of tolerances, gear meshing, and durability in moving assemblies. I look forward to reviewing your reference video and images and helping you develop a robust, production-ready solution. Best regards, Mubashir Ali
$15 USD in 1 day
4.2
4.2

Hi There My Self Sharon K and I am a highly enthusiast 3D artist building projects using Blender and Autodesk Maya. I've been freelancing since 2 years and I've done several related projects for multiple clients. I am highly adaptable and is consistent across my work. Thanks.
$30 USD in 1 day
4.1
4.1

(COCONUT) Hello, I've reviewed your project and understand you're looking for a robust self centering guide mechanism using a rack and pinion system that is fully printable, reliable in everyday use, and designed to fit your existing printer dimensions. I have experience designing functional 3D-printed mechanical assemblies with moving parts, including gears, sliding mechanisms, and print-ready components optimized for FDM. I'll create an enclosed rack-and-pinion assembly with captive guide channels, appropriate clearances, and durable geometry, delivering editable CAD files, STEP/STL exports, and concise assembly notes for straightforward installation. Could you confirm whether the linked dimensions are final, or should I allow a small amount of adjustment to fine-tune the fit during the first prototype?
$20 USD in 7 days
4.0
4.0

Hi there, I understand the challenge you're facing with your printer's guide mechanism and I am confident that I can help you create a 3D-printable self-centering guide design that meets your requirements. By implementing a rack and pinion system with integrated slides and guide channels, I can ensure that the guides move in sync, maintaining equidistance from the center. The design will feature a centrally positioned pinion gear within an enclosed housing for durability. I have experience in designing functional 3D-printed parts and can provide you with the necessary editable source files (STEP or native CAD) and STLs, along with any specified hardware details and assembly notes. I look forward to working on this project and delivering a solution that meets your needs. Best regards, GenZ Solutions
$10 USD in 1 day
3.8
3.8

Coconut. Hi there! As a dedicated and experienced 3D CAD designer, I can create for you a precision-based, faultless self-centering guide mechanism that will solve your printer tray issue perfectly. With my extensive knowledge in Fusion 360, specifically designing for FDM 3D printing, I have the skills necessary to produce a CAD model that ticks all the right boxes for you: high quality, printable without excessive support needs, sturdy, and impactful. What sets me apart from others is my experience in designing complex mechanical parts such as gears which are built to withstand constant use and still be effective. Understanding the challenges of moving parts and their need for synchronization is second nature to me. Drawing from this experience, I can assure you an enclosed housing design to keep dirt away from the gears ensuring better longevity and a rack and pinion system with threads calibrated to move together symmetrically. Finally, I believe what makes a good freelancer is clear communication and on-time delivery. My commitment to precision and attention to detail means no measurement will be off by a millimeter. Rest assured, when you hire me for this project, you're targeted at perfection – right from designing an STL file that fits your existing dimensions perfectly to providing a step-by-step assembly manual with hardware requirements clearly specified. Don't wait; let's collaborate and get started on making your printer function optimally again!
$15 USD in 1 day
3.9
3.9

✅ I can design a functional self-centering guide mechanism with a proper enclosed rack-and-pinion system, optimized specifically for FDM 3D printing. I’ll create the housing, captive rack slides, central pinion placement, and ensure both guides move smoothly and equally from the center. I have experience designing mechanical 3D-printable parts, gears, assemblies, and functional components in CAD/Blender workflows. I’ll provide clean STEP/native CAD files, STL exports, hardware notes, and simple assembly instructions. I’ll review your reference video and dimensions carefully, then design with practical print tolerances, strength, and real-world use in mind. I can also share relevant examples of mechanical and functional 3D designs from my portfolio. Looking forward to creating a reliable replacement solution for your printer guide mechanism.
$15 USD in 1 day
3.9
3.9

Coconut - I understand your requirement to create a 3D-printable self-centering guide mechanism, similar to paper guides in a printer tray. As a skilled designer with expertise in 3D modeling, mechanical engineering, and AutoCAD, I can help you achieve this. My experience in designing functional parts that survive real use will be beneficial for your project. I'll create a rack and pinion system with opposing racks driven by a central pinion gear, ensuring the pinion is centrally located and no more than 20mm wide. The enclosed housing will keep gears protected, and integrated slides/guide channels will prevent drift or lift-out issues. My approach involves breaking down the design into manageable parts, creating detailed drawings, and simulating the mechanism's functionality to ensure accuracy and reliability. I'll deliver editable source files in STEP or native CAD formats plus STLs, along with brief assembly notes and any necessary hardware specifications. Let's discuss your project further - please feel free to chat with me on Freelancer for a more detailed proposal and timeline.
$10 USD in 1 day
5.1
5.1

Blackburn, United Kingdom
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₹600-1500 INR
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