Introduction: Halloween Witch/Cat Themed Toy Train

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This Halloween themed toy train was a project for my engineering class. In this project, my 3 partners and I had to design a complete train set with a theme on Fusion 360. This train was modeled to be compatible with other toy trains, such as the Thomas Trains. So, this toy train can connect to other toy trains that are the same size and can fit on the same track.

In this Instructable, I will share the process I used while creating this toy train. In the steps below, I attached the STL files for my train parts and will go in depth on how to assemble the parts together.

I'm a student at Benicia High School.

Supplies

Step 1: Designing the Train Parts in Fusion

I used a caliper to measure a toy Thomas train. I used these measurements to start sketching a design of my train. Once I got a good sketch that had all the features I wanted my train to have, I began to model each piece of my toy train in Fusion. I also modeled a piece of track that fit the Thomas train so that I could make sure my train fits on the track.

After modelling each piece individually, I began to assemble the parts together in a separate Fusion file. I did this to ensure that each piece will fit together as I had planned. If there was an issue connecting some pieces together, I would edit the design of one of the pieces and improve it to fit together. The pictures above show different views of my assembled train rendered in Fusion 360.

Below, I attached the STL files I designed in Fusion for you to download. After downloading, we're ready to print!

Attachments

Step 2: 3D Printing the Train Parts

After downloading the files, import the STL files into a 3D printing software. Adjust all of the models onto the print plate for maximum adhesion. I used Cura as my 3D printing software to print out my train files. After importing the STL files to Cura, I uploaded my file to a USB drive, inserted it into a 3D printer (I used the Ultimaker 2+), and printed my models. You don't have use these specific softwares or printers, but just make sure to follow the correct settings for your 3D printing software and printer.

For the train parts that I needed multiples of, such as the wheels, I made copies of the file on the 3D printing software and printed the pieces out in one batch instead of printing each copy individually. (Ex. instead of printing one wheel at a time, I made 8 copies of the wheel on Cura and printed out all 8 in one print) I recommend printing the train base and wheels this way.

Below, I listed each train part and added how many copies are needed of that piece.

List of parts that need to be printed with quantities:

  • Broom Stick (Qty 1)
  • Train Base (Qty 2)
  • Train Body (Qty 1)
  • Train Wheel (Qty 8)
  • Witch Hat (Qty 1)

Step 3: Assembling the Train

The supplies needed to assemble the train are the 3D printed parts, 4 nails, 2 4mm screws, glue, and wire cutters.

First, cut the head and pointy end of the nail off. Dab a bit of glue onto one end of the nail and insert it into the hole of the wheel. Wait for this to dry for about 30 seconds, then insert the rest of the nail through the hole in the train base. Add some more glue onto the other end of the nail and insert it into the hole of the second wheel. Repeat this 4 times for each set of wheels.

Next, take a screw, put it through the hole in the train base and train body, and screw the two parts together. Repeat this one more time for the second base.

Finally, insert the broom stick and witch hat into the holes in the train body. If the pieces are lose, add some glue.

Step 4: Finished Product!

After assembling all the parts together, you are now finished! In these pictures, you can see my 3D printed train prototype on a standard toy train track and also connected to the other trains from this project.

Thank you for reading my Instructable!

3D Printed Student Design Challenge

Participated in the
3D Printed Student Design Challenge