he next major component we tackled was the curved rail.

Due to its large size and the need for durability, we chose to laser-cut it from plywood instead of 3D printing it.

Dimensions:

• Outer Diameter (OD): 560 mm

• Inner Diameter (ID): 450 mm

The rail is composed of four layers, all secured together with M5 screws:

1. Two outer planks — 5 mm thickness each

2. Inner plank — 10 mm thick, this is the guide surface where the cart wheels will slide

3. External gear layer — 5 mm thick, this gear will be driven by the cart to move along the curve

   • The design of this driving system is inspired by this mechanism: 

Rail Support: Feet and Top Part

To hold the rail securely:

• We designed robust 3D-printed rail feet and top supports.
• These parts are fastened with multiple M8 bolts to ensure structural integrity.
• Since these components support the entire assembly, their design was particularly focused on strength and rigidity.

Here is the final assembly showing the curved rail, feet and top parts, stepper motor, the spherical chessboard, and the chess pieces: