Geared stepper motor engage/disengage mechanism

Another idea is to use a planetary gear set. The motor drives the sun gear. The planet carrier connects to the focus mechanism. When the ring gear is free to move, the focus mechanism is free to turn by hand. When a * keeps the ring from moving, the motor can drive the focus mechanism.

  • = a latch controlled by a servo, solenoid, or.....

Apparently 3D printing planetary gears is a thing.