Octo-box

thingiverse

My original design of an 8-leaf double-layer iris box uses a linked mechanism, similar to those expanding sphere toys, which allows it to open to a large diameter. This type of mechanism can be used with any number of leaves and many variations can be made. The mechanism utilizes printed ridged pins and holes that clip together. I have designed many other iris boxes since then, which you can find on my design page: https://www.thingiverse.com/BrienAllison/designs. An improved version of this design is the Octo-box V2, available at https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:3665610. The box measures 80mm overall in diameter, while the container opening is around 62mm. To open it, simply push the notches in the top of the box in an anti-clockwise direction. No supports are required for any of the parts. The hinges of the mechanism use ridged pins and holes that clip together. For optimal performance, print these sections with 0.1mm layer heights. Using adjustable layer heights in your slicer will allow you to print the majority of the parts at a thicker layer height for speed. The effectiveness of the hinges may depend on your specific printer and print settings. They should not be too tight or too loose. To adjust the fit, use contour xy compensation (available in free slicers like Ideamaker) or alter your flow rate. I recommend printing at least two "top door 2" leaves and arranging them on opposite sides of the box for ease of opening. You may add more if you wish, such as four or eight leaves, as seen in the first and second printed examples.