Compound Forceps

thingiverse

This device functions as a pair of compound tweezers or forceps, leveraging four "live" hinges. Each hinge comprises thin flexible segments arranged into a diamond pattern to amplify mechanical leverage and gripping power. Fabricating these live hinges proves particularly challenging with a 3D-printer due to their inherent sensitivity. Fatigue life heavily relies on the precision of thickness and curvature radius in the joints. In order to achieve an acceptable service lifespan, I've successfully refined this design through four distinct iterations. When subjected to normal usage patterns, these forceps display remarkable resilience with over several hundred actuation cycles before exhibiting a hinge failure; a satisfactory benchmark for disposable tools with production times under 15 minutes. To utilize this tool effectively, follow the recommended printing orientation. A minimum of 25% infill density and 2 complete perimeters around each segment are crucial to ensuring structural integrity.