I was looking for a project to do after I finished the latest model ship (which actually is not finished but will be shortly) I was scanning the internet and found a guy like me that likes to fool around in a workshop. He makes intricate mazes and toys and other gadgets. He is also a computer guy so has the ability to make computer drawings of the components in his gadgets.
I was intrigued by one gadget which was a wooden combination lock. Basically a model that shows how a combination lock works. So I downloaded the plans (for $7) and immediately started to modify it while keeping the bsic design. I used pine and maple instead of plywood which he used and some improvements.
It only took 3 days and was fun but when I finished I realized (as he must have) that there were critical fits that needed to be precise and others that did not. I was unhappy with the sloppy action so decided to remake it using whitewood (American Poplar) for the disks and Holly for some small components.
Second version works like a charm. I will keep it for people to play with. Below are the 2 locks side by side (good one on the right) and a closeup of the disks.
As I said it was a fun project but now have to think of the next one. I am making some steps for Maureen and I have a big project for Meagan and Jorg but I think I will try a couple of more gadgets. Retirement is great.
March 18, 2011
rbellis11
Views From Paradise 
2 responses to “Wooden Combination Lock”
Janine
March 19th, 2011 at 06:44
Pretty neat! Should be fun to play with. When is the ship going to be done?
rbellis11
March 19th, 2011 at 11:31
Well the lock was truthfully more fun to build than to play with. More of a conversation piece that someone will try out figure out how the lock works and pass it on.
The ship is basically done but I want to add a small flag on the bowsprit sort as a finishing touch. I tried to paint it myself but cannot get the right texture of cloth that works at this scale. Found a company in England that has the right scale and size of flag so ordered one. When it comes it will take me a day to finish off the flag, string it and mount it. Also have to mount one of the anchors which again is a short step as I made the anchor itself years ago. There will be a full blog with pictures when that is done.