3D-Printed Mechanical DVD Logo Bounces on Screen and Hits Corners for $58

An enthusiast has built a mechanical device that recreates the famous DVD player screensaver with a bouncing logo. The project, published on Makerworld by user hugo.workshop, mimics not only the movement but also the precise corner hits, making it look like a real TV with the screensaver turned on.

The build operates without a processor or soldering. It relies on two DC motors, a rack-and-pinion system, bearings, and magnets. The motors drive two arms on the back panel, which control the logo's position via magnets. The rack mechanism makes the icon change direction when it hits a wall: the horizontal track moves the vertical one left and right, while a carriage on the vertical axis handles top-to-bottom motion. Running both axes simultaneously produces diagonal movement.

Assembly requires about 1.1 kg of filament for 3D printing and roughly 35 hours of print time. Hardware costs come to around €50, equivalent to about $58. Despite these specs, the creator describes the project as beginner-friendly, as the lack of soldering and electronics simplifies the process. However, for a complete novice, the task may seem daunting, so practicing on smaller projects first is recommended.

The device is fully autonomous: once assembled, it runs on its own without external control. The demonstration video shows how accurately the logo replicates the original screensaver's behavior, including the signature corner strikes, making the project appealing to fans of the old DVD player.