Show HN: I'm a 15 Year Old Wannabe Engineer, This Is a Cycloidal Gearbox I Built
Points and comments are a snapshot, not live.
A 15-year-old built a 3D-printed cycloidal gearbox with a Python script.
Tom Ilan created a 3D-printed cycloidal gearbox and a Python script to generate it. Version 3 has a 1:9 reduction ratio, 90mm outer diameter, and runs on a NEMA 17 motor. It achieves 1.3 N·m torque with 66% efficiency, printed in PLA with +0.15mm tolerance offset. The Python script generates cycloidal profiles for Fusion 360. Design evolved from a hand-cranked test to a functional motor-driven model.
What commenters are saying
Commenters praised the build and encouraged the author. Some debated the use of the term "engineer" without formal training, especially in Canada where it's a protected title. Others recommended measuring backlash and efficiency under load. A few warned about posting age online, while others dismissed that concern. The Hack Club founder invited the author to join, and discussion touched on AI's role in engineering and comparing projects across generations.