IMPORTANT!!! This flatpack model requires that filaments are calibrated first to ensure that parts fit correctly to avoid frustrations during assembly. A small calibration piece is provided to aid in the filament calibration. DO NOT use scaling to make holes larger as scaling would affect overall dimensions. Instead play with filament flow rates and hotend temperature to calibrate every filament that will be used for this project.

INTRODUCTION

I wanted to challenge myself and see if I can make a flatpack kit that could be more than just a puzzle and try to make it rather than just some other static display model but more of a mechanical, moving 3d puzzle that can be remotely controlled. That’s how the idea for my Flatpack Remote-controlled 1930s Vintage Car was born.

FROM CONCEPT TO CHALLENGE

I’ve always loved the elegance of 1930s vintage cars, so designing a 1/24 scale flatpack version felt like the perfect blend of nostalgia and engineering. But making it remote-controlled? That was the real challenge as I may have made small, static kit card models before, I have not done a flat pack model of this level so it's going to be a first for me.

Fitting RC components into a flatpack structure wasn’t easy. I had to carefully design each piece to ensure the car could be assembled like a 3D wooden puzzle, while still leaving room for the motor, gears, and electronics. It was not easy to balance aesthetics with functionality, while at the same time ensuring the model can be built without fasteners. I had to iterate between connectors until I settled with 3d-printed snap-on clip and clamp design. I was determined to make it work.

THE FINAL PRODUCT – MORE THAN JUST A MODEL

After refining the design, I finally had a fully functional, DIY RC car—something that’s not common in the world of kit cards. I imagine this as something a grampa or dad would 3d-print and pack it along with the RC components for the grandkid/son to assemble. And since the plates are all 170mm x 170mm, they fit a standard filament box!

The model can be reduced up to 80% scale and can still be assembled without much challenge. Printing is reduced from 14.5hrs (100% scale) down to 9.5hrs for the 80% scale. However, the scaled down version becomes a fully static display model.

This model is more than just a decorative piece; it’s an interactive experience, a project that lets makers build, customize, and actually drive their creation.

TOOLS & FASTENERS

While using nippers to cut away the parts from the sprue easier, it's not necessary. The parts can be easily twisted and pulled off the sprue. Also, since I used snap-on clips and pegs throughout the design, no hardware/fastener is needed to assemble the model except a couple of bolts if you choose to add RC components in.

Clamp Tool

One of the fun part of working on this project is I get to design a printable tool to make it easier to attach and detach clamps.

BUILD LEVELS

You can choose to build this as a static display car model with wheels that that freely roll and call it a day. However, you can make elevate the experience further by making this a fully functional RC car. For that though, you will need to add Maker Supply Cyberbrick RC kit. See links below where you can purchase the kit.

1. Cyberbrick RC kit - These components will convert this model from a static to a remote-controlled one. Click above link for more info.
2. N20 Reduction Gear Motor 1000rpm - This is a slightly more powerful motor replacing the DC motors that come with the Cyberbrick kit.
3. 4x25mm rubber bands - Attach these rubber bands to the tires to add extra traction/grip when rolling on the floor.

Here it is in action as an RC car: Youtube video

PRINT PROFILES

Profiles (.3mf files) are provided for Bambu Studio for printing with larger 256mm³ printers as well as smaller 180mm³ printers.

ASSEMBLY GUIDE

Full assembly guide is available for download (sample screenshots below).