3x3x3 Cube Puzzle - FULLY FUNCTIONING

thingiverse

My nephews continually come to me to help solve their messed up Rubiks Cubes and 3x3x3 puzzles. I did not own one and fell out of practice with the various algorithms to solve such a puzzle. So, to remain well practiced, and to play with modelling software, I decided to design and print my own. Provided are the basic parts for creating your own puzzle. Each STL title contains the contains the number required to complete the assembly. The larger pieces were made hollow to use less plastic. All of the parts can be printed in about a day. I chose to print the Pins horizontally so the layer lines would provide the strength for the torsion requirements without fracturing. I used support blockers in Cura on the core to prevent filling the hole touching the base plate. A 3 mm twist drill can be used to clean the holes if needed. I also used supports which removed easily. A little file or sandpaper made quick work of the cleanup. To assemble, I began with the bottom layer and worked my way up. I used a rubber band to hold each layer together as I went. One drop of superglue in the core hole per pin is all it takes. I personally used one drop, then used a toothpick to ensure it spread inside the hole. Once finished, I used a paper towel to clean off the surface before inserting the axis pin. To ensure I did not glue the center cube to the core, I spread the smallest amount of synthetic grease on the mating surface to make sue any glue seepage did not take hold. I also took the liberty to add the smallest amount of synthetic grease to the shoulders of the cube parts to assist with easy rotations once assembled. Additionally, when gluing on the face plates, make sure not to glue the face to the axis pins. This will result in locking the cube so it will not rotate. Have fun,