3D Printed Movie Ghost Trap with Digital Instructions

In the last few weeks, I became inspired to 3D print a new movie-style Ghost Trap. It has been on my list for awhile to make a new one for myself. The new trap would replace my modified Spirit Trap for costuming and display. I knew I wanted to have a few key features - namely a removable cartridge and servo-controlled doors.

I surveyed available 3D print files already out there thinking I could simply build from work that had already been completed. In particular, "Countspatula" has released some excellent Ghost Trap files on Thingiverse that many builders have used. Why didn't I build with those files instead? A few reasons drove me to making my own:

• My personal requirement for a removable cartridge would have introduced the need for some significant rework of existing files.
• I print projects with an Ender 3 - which has a bed size that requires that I break down some of the larger parts - again requiring more file rework.
• I like to have complete 3D models assembled to help me understand what I'm building and how the different parts relate - Thingiverse kits usually have the parts, but you have to figure out the assembly yourself. For complex assemblies, this takes time!
• I had some unique ideas for how to control the door opening/closing mechanism using a gear system inspired by the Spirit Trap and controlled by a single servo motor introducing more modeling

With all of these considerations, it became more efficient for me to simply build up my own movie Ghost Trap version from scratch! Each part is modeled using references including Sean Bishops plans freely available on GBFans as well as imagery of various props that I sleuthed from Google images. In all, my Ghost Trap files meet my personal requirements while also building from the hard work of fans that have attempted similar exercises before me.

• The STL files are attached to this post
• Review the 3D build dashboard here (requires a WebGL2.0 browser such as Chrome)
• Visit this post for Arduino servo code and diagrams (Patrons only)

These files are available as a 1 month "early access" post to Patrons in November. The files and instructions will be made freely available to the public on December 1, 2021 - just in time for the holidays! I will also be following up with some sample Arduino-based electronics guides and code in the coming weeks as I sort it out for my build.

I am making this material and content for the 3D Printed parts available under the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License. License text is included in the attachment!

I'm still not finished with my own version of this trap - but here is the current progress. This represents the "raw" print assembled. I intend to fully "post produce" the trap with sanding, paint, and weathering to complete the work. I'll likely also be adding in "genuine" parts where applicable.