Geodesic dome

prusaprinters

This geodesic dome, 8.5" / 216 mm in diameter, was made from linkage plates (t-beams) printed on a MK3S (six at a time) using PETG filament. I have supplied STL files for you to slice as you choose. Print instructionsThis geodesic dome, 8.5" / 216 mm in diameter, was made from linkage plates (t-beams) printed on a MK3S (six at a time) using PETG filament. PLA is likely to brittle to take the bending loads. Run time for six, is about 30 minutes. I have supplied STL files for you to slice as you choose. The components are held in place by stainless steel 3mm x 10mm Allen head bolts and hex nuts. These are a close fit to the printed holes. Some slide in, others need a push. Total cost, at a local fastener supply store, for 100 of each was less than eight dollars US. A nut driver bit and hex driver (shown) are helpful in assembling these rather small fasteners. Optional level one of the model was added after the spherical upper section was completed. Level one is cylindrical with no side taper. It requires 36 of the #55 t-beams and six of the 103mm t-beams which are used to stiffen up the base. You could start at the base of level one and work your way up. You would need to print 72 of the #55 t-beams. This would avoid having to take bolts out to add level one components later on. Component count is as follows: For the dome - 36 t-beams 55mm. 36 t-beams 45mm. 36 t-beams 30mm 12 t-beams 17mm 1 topplate 60 bolt & nut pairs. For level one - 36 t-beams 55mm 6 t-beams 103mm Building the dome: Start by printing 36 of the 55mm t-beams and 36 of the 45mm. The #55s form the lower outer ring and diagonals of the triangles of level 2. The #45s tie the #55 diagonals together and force them to angle inward. More #45s form the diagonals of level 3. Assemble level 2 and the start of level 3. Print 36 of the 30mm t-beams and finish level 3 and start level 4. Print 12 of the 17mm t-beams and the top plate then finish assembly of the dome. Optional llevel one - Print 36 additional #55s and attach to the lower outer band of level 2. Print 6 of the #103s and attach to the inside of the outer band of level one. These t-beams may have other uses. Feel free to make new sizes, re-mix or modify.