Octo-box V2

myminifactory

This is an upgraded version of my Octo-box Iris box, featuring screws instead of 3D printed holes and pins for easier printing and assembly. The use of screws has allowed me to improve the mechanism, resulting in a smooth octagonal aperture when fully opened. To open the box, simply push the cutaway handles in a counterclockwise direction. No supports are required for the parts. I have created many unique gifts using this design, with various sizes and features as shown in the pictures. I also have additional Iris box designs on my profile page, including an improved version called the "Octo-Iris Box". The unscaled box measures 80mm overall in diameter, with a 64mm wide container opening and stands approximately 80mm tall. The part files are designed for M2x6 countersunk/flathead screws; forty screws are needed in total for one box. The parts can be scaled to use larger or smaller screws, such as M3x8 screws at 150% scale or M2x6 screws at 100% scale. Note that buying screws in bulk from a specialist supplier is more cost-effective. There are two versions of the iris parts: plain flat parts and embossed decorated versions (designated with "(dec)" at the end) used on larger examples. The "Short Container" version reduces the box height from approximately 80mm to 40mm. The "Top handle" parts allow users to open the box by gripping a pair and turning counterclockwise. The "Top door" and "Top handle" parts can be assembled as desired, although I recommend positioning them in pairs (e.g., smaller printed examples use 2, 4, and 8 handle parts). Part testing Before printing all the parts, ensure the screw joints work correctly with your print settings by printing one "top door" and one "bottom door" part. Check that screws fit tightly in the holes of the "door top" but are free to rotate in the "door base" holes and the head is flush with the bottom surface. You may need to use hole XY compensation (Ideamaker is a free slicer which does this) to get a good fit. Printing and assembly To assemble the box, start by printing 8x "Top" parts (any mix can be used but I recommend handles are positioned in pairs across the box), 8x "Bottom door", 8x "Link", and 1x "Container". Begin by screwing the non-pointed end of the links to the container. Next, take the door top (and top handle) and door bottom parts and start assembling them into the iris mechanism. Match the outer holes on the top parts to the outer holes on the base parts. The middle holes and holes on the points of the doors should also be matched together, between the top and bottom doors, in a like manner. Continue assembling the doors, ideally in the closed position and keeping the screws straight to keep the box top as neat as possible. Be sure not to overtighten the screws; otherwise opening the box will be difficult. Once assembled, the iris mechanism should be free to open and close in your hands. Next, open the iris fully and place it upside down on a flat surface then take the container assembly and place it upside down on top of the iris door mechanism. Finally, screw the other ends of the links to the final holes in the base of the iris. The "Octo-Box" should now be fully functional. Let me know if you have any questions or problems with the design.