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  • physics

  • balance

  • physics demonstration

  • center of mass

  • center of gravity

  • physics demo

I wanted to make an activity for the students in my middle school science class when we studied center of mass. I found a few "balance bird" models here. I really liked gianfranco's "a present for you !" version (https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:2674741) where you can place coins on the bird's wings and move the wing structure to demonstrate the change of center of mass.

I found the tree didn't print with a flat surface on top. So, I cut the top to a flat surface. Also, I found the wings slid too easily with my prints (PLA+). So, I closed the gap in the body a bit to hold the wings in place once you adjust them.

I printed them for all my kids and they had to adjust and mark the wing location with US Quarters, Nickels, Pennies, and Dimes. They enjoyed the activity.
 

Originality of the Model

The author declares that this work is their personally remixed model

Original creator:
gianfranco

This model is licensed under the following terms:

Credit must be given to the creator

Only noncommercial uses of the work are permitted

Remixes must be shared under the same license

Models(3)

  • model file image
    Balance Bird with Coins Remix - Wings.stlDesigner

    332.60 KB

    2025-08-15

  • model file image
    Balance Bird with Coins Remix - Body.stlDesigner

    110.24 KB

    2025-08-15

  • model file image
    Balance Bird with Coins Remix - Tree.stlDesigner

    88.36 KB

    2025-08-15

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