Marvelous Magnetic Marble Run

Marble run tracks and tricks that mount onto any magnetic surface. I designed these with my kids as a project during the coronavirus lockdown.

Make it your own by deciding which parts to print or even customizing the source openscad files, which can be found at github.com/jhpieper/marble-run .

See it in action: https://youtu.be/W0yioqEhmZE

Materials

This marble run works with regular glass marbles that measure 5/8" (16mm).

All tracks are designed for round 10mm x 2mm magnets. They can easily be ordered from Amazon and other retailers.

The Tracks

Straight

Just a straight run. Available in many lengths from 50mm to 200mm.

The Wave

This track makes things a bit more interesting. Print with supports.

Curve

A 90 degree curved piece. Great to catch a falling ball and getting it onto the next track.

The Tunnel

A straight pipe that hides the ball. Available in multiple lengths.

The Drop

A classic way to drop the ball onto the next track.

Lombard Street

A San Francisco landmark for your marble. Print with supports.

The Wheel

Spins as the ball goes past. Get creative and use it to launch another ball that is stored in the wheel. Or kick a ball placed on a track above into action. Available in various sizes and blade counts. Some assembly required: wheel-<-size>- + wheel-base + lock-. Customize the look by using different colors for the parts.

The Pole

Catch a ball and vault it to the next track. Assemble pole- + pole-base + lock- Customize the look by using different colors for the parts.

The Whirlpool!

The ball goes in circles until it drops through the center. Mount level for best effect.

The Looping

This one is tricky! Mount it at the correct angle, extend the incoming ramp and the marble will successfully perform a looping.

Funnel

It's a funnel.

Auto-Launcher

Releases one marble every couple of seconds. See it on YouTube . Assemble auto-launcher + pole-base + lock-

Flipflop

The flipflop diverts the marble left or right. Assemble flipflop + flipflop-base + lock-

Tray

The tray is a great way to finish the run and to store extra marbles.

Print Settings

Printer: Anet AM8

Rafts: No

Supports: No, except for “The Wave” and “Lombard Street”

Resolution: 0.2