Cutaway, Hollow Elements

thingiverse

This collection features pieces for constructing polyhedral shells, inspired by http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:5961. The original components took a considerable amount of time to print; however, this version reduces plastic usage and print duration. These parts have been utilized to create lampshades in conjunction with Element (http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:7857), with thinner pieces potentially providing better light diffusion. The .scad file can be modified for various polygons, hinge sizes, and cutaway depths. The models.zip contains several options, including octagon, hexagon, pentagon, square, and triangle shapes in both hollow and cutaway forms. Additionally, the zip file includes a range of hinge sizes based on the shape's size to adjust hinge strength. Benefits include reduced plastic consumption, faster print times, symmetric hinges, a variety of hinge sizes for balance between strength and ease of assembly, and exciting glow-in-the-dark ABS creations (see https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/_KLnvj61OxTo/Tbh6JxKqlkI/AAAAAAAACqc/RJWNnHgdTYo/DSCF2997.gif). Potential drawbacks involve fragile hinges (depending on printer calibration) and overly tight hinges (also dependent on printer calibration). Larger hinges may require significant force for assembly. For printing, use a heated build platform without a raft to keep the parts clean. Set the extruder temperature to 235C for the first layers and then 220C for the rest of the print, with a heated build platform temperature of 123C. Adjust the skeinforge profile for double-walled hinges with minimal infill. A well-calibrated oozebane or stepper extruder is essential to prevent stringing issues during printing. After printing, trim excess plastic stabilizing the hinges and slightly loosen the hinges by snapping two pieces together and bending them back and forth. Larger hinges can be assembled using needle-nose pliers if necessary. Some polyhedral shells may be challenging to assemble, but smaller hinged pieces might offer easier insertion. When creating lampshades with Element (http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:7857), attach the bulb socket holder last since it is more flexible and simpler to insert. Be mindful of hinge clearance, as hinges may occasionally be tight. Ensure the first layer isn't pressed too far into the build platform, as compressed layers can cause reduced clearance. These parts are designed for a tight fit and may require pliers for assembly. If necessary, removing some of the pins on the hinges can facilitate easier assembly.