3D PRINT STRONG locking bracelet

thingiverse

I'm creating this locking bracelet for the Engineer's Day Open House at the University of Kentucky on February 28, 2015. My version features the phrase "3D PRINT STRONG" rather than the UK logo like my lab version does. Believe me, it's strong! This tiny interlocked-3/4-circles mechanism holds its own even when printed in PLA with just 2 layers, defying expectations: look at the fish scale photo where it withstands an incredible load of 21 pounds without even coming close to unclasping. \n \n Instructions\nThis print is incredibly simple, taking just 5 minutes to spiralize on a MakerGear M2 using 0.25mm PLA - though you might experience some difficulties getting the part to stay attached to the bed. Printing with a 3-strand brim helps resolve this issue and only requires about 3g of PLA. This bracelet fits most wrists, so resizing shouldn't be needed at all. The first photo shows the "3D PRINT STRONG" version in white. The second displays both my original UK version and the newer one for comparison. In the third image, I tested a slightly flawed print of the UK version and discovered that it can still withstand massive loads. The photo depicts me testing this version on a wire rack; I used fish scales to test its limits - though be careful not to crease it. This bracelet easily handles over 21 pounds, so don't worry about unclipping your bracelet with everyday use. The trick is pushing the sides slightly inward, causing the rings to disengage smoothly.