Floating Virus

thingiverse

Don't be afraid, this particular virus is completely harmless, and there's no need to keep your distance! Some time ago, I stumbled upon a "beautiful" corona virus model by gregbejtlich here on Thingiverse. My idea was to include this model in my tensegrity collection, but of course, I had to make some changes or add new features. It's also slightly scaled up. The thread in the middle of the two half rings - besides the three threads connecting the virus and the base - builds the tension in this object, making it a perfect unit. At first glance, it might seem confusing... you have to take a closer look to understand the principle. To get printing color ideas for the tensegrity model, check out this video: https://youtu.be/baDhDU0rU0c Dimensions: Virus Ø approx. 94mm, H approx. 180mm, socket Ø 80mm Printing of the virus: I recommend printing the virus in 2 parts because it reduces the printing time considerably. There's a mark on each half of the virus for correct gluing, and these halves must lie on top of each other when assembling. However, before gluing them together, note that they also determine the alignment of the upper ring half. See photos! The creation of the "tensegrity" and the final fixing of the threads is exclusively done in the base! At the other end of the threads, only a multiple knot is required. The assembly should ideally be done with a nylon thread Ø 0.35mm, as the widths of the fixing slits in the base are designed for this. It's best to start by making the connection between the two half rings, keeping a distance of about 25mm between them. This requires some patience and may need several attempts to set the second knot correctly. Now insert the half rings, ensuring a good fit by tightening the accuracy. It might be necessary to correct the fit with a cutter knife or sandpaper! There's an arrow on the bottom of the base indicating the direction in which the lower half ring must be inserted into the base! There's also an arrow on the underside of the virus, showing the direction in which the upper half ring must be inserted into the virus! This can also be seen in the pictures. Then cut 3 threads of about 25-30 cm. Start with the 3 threads and guide them through the suction cups with the holes. It will be a bit fiddly now, and it may be that the small holes are blocked by supporting material. Normally, it's sufficient to pierce them with a sewing needle. Place the model with the bottom side facing up on the virus half, then pull the threads through the corresponding holes in the base. At first, just clamp the strings, and then you can start adjusting them. When the strings are slightly tightened, socket and virus half will be aligned horizontally, and you can secure the strings. Finally, glue the upper half of the virus to its underside. Hurray! That's it... the virus is floating! The attached pictures will surely help you with the assembly. I hope that I didn't forget anything in my description. If you have any questions, please contact me!